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Public Transport in Townsville 2026, Buses, Sunbus and Getting Around North Queensland
Townsville public transport guide 2026: how to use Townsville Sunbus services, key routes and getting around Townsville and North Queensland.
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Public Transport in Townsville 2026, Overview
Townsville's public transport network is operated by Sunbus, a TransLink-contracted bus service covering the Townsville urban area. There is no urban passenger rail service. Townsville is a car-dependent city but Sunbus provides reasonable coverage of major corridors. translink.com.au
Go Card in Townsville
The TransLink go card works on all Sunbus services in Townsville. The Queensland $50 weekly fare cap applies. Go cards are available at newsagents, convenience stores and Sunbus outlets. Contactless bank card tap accepted on all Townsville Sunbus services. translink.com.au
Sunbus Townsville Routes
Sunbus operates approximately 15 routes in Townsville. Key routes: Route 1 (Townsville CBD to Mundingburra and Aitkenvale), Route 3 (Townsville CBD to Kirwan via Stuart Drive), Route 7 (Townsville CBD to Burdell and Bohle Plains northern corridor). Main interchange: Palmer Street Bus Station, Townsville CBD. Timetable at sunbus.com.au. sunbus.com.au
City Sights Tourist Services
The Reef HQ Aquarium, Strand and Castle Hill are key Townsville attractions accessible on foot from the CBD or via Sunbus routes. Tourist information and route maps available at the Townsville Visitor Information Centre on the Strand.
Magnetic Island Ferry
The Magnetic Island passenger ferry (Sealink) departs from the Breakwater Marina in the Townsville CBD to Nelly Bay Harbour on Magnetic Island. Journey time approximately 25 minutes. Regular daily services. sealink.com.au
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