Local Shared Stories

The City is a Learnscape

Spread across Townsville is a network of educational and interpretative facilities and people utilising world-leading thematic communication methods based on cognitive psychology, which is about how the human brain works.

This includes visual, audio and sensory signage along boardwalks, viewing platforms and sites of significance. Building on Townsville’s credentials as a training hub for thematic communications, Townsville educators utilise behavioural science techniques to create engaging content that influences and inspires people to think more deeply about the places they visit. This leads to enhanced environmental stewardship and positive environmental behaviours as well as increased likelihood of sharing this knowledge with others.
Townsville City Council is committed to providing an infrastructure base that supports more sustainable and equitable choices, addresses the needs of residents and visitors, engages local business and Indigenous owned business to grow Townsville, and improves accessibility for all.

We are Reef People that Connect Through Environmental Stewardship

Learnscapes are scattered across the catchment from Creek To Coral. The network of learnscape communications - from the upper catchment down to the lower catchment and out to the Reef - educate visitors on the many ecosystem services that our diverse landscapes provide.

Rowes Bay Sustainability Centre

The Rowes Bay Sustainability Centre (Google map) is a hub of environmental education and interpretation experience built over 20 years ago and the hub of many tours and workshops to learn about sustainable living and discover the hidden secrets of Townsville’s wetlands. The Centre teaches people how to save water and energy and utilise natural resources available on site. The Rowes Bay Wetland and Boardwalk enables people to discover how wetlands are important for protecting our precious reefs and gain knowledge and appreciation of native plants and trees.

Magnetic Island Stories

Magnetic Island Community Development Association (MICDA) is a not-for-profit association that has operated on Magnetic Island for over 50 years. MICDA has conducted many innovative projects and events on Magnetic Island (Yunbenun), including Community Climate Action Projects assisting businesses to reduce costs and maintain best practices. For more information, visit MICDA's Climate Action Project page.

Zero Waste Magnetic Island is a MICDA community group that has been operating for over 5 years with many active and passionate community members. It works with Townsville City Council, Boomerang Alliance, and other stakeholders. For more information, visit the Zero Waste Magnetic Island website.

Riverway EcoActive Centre

The EcoActive Centre (Google map) is an educational hub connected to the Learnscapes network and Rowes Bay Sustainability Centre. It is an interpretative point located at Riverway Lagoon and provides scenic views across Ross River and river ecosystems. The centre is a gathering place to learn about stories of energy, waste and water from Creek To Coral, and habitats full of biodiverse life located along the Ross including wetland birds, frogs, and reptiles.

We are a Training Hub for Thematic Communications

Townsville has secured a license to deliver Thematic Interpretation educational training and learning experiences in Townsville that are accessible to all.

Sam H. Ham is a professor emeritus of communication psychology and conservation social sciences. He has delivered comprehensive training for professionals and change makers in Townsville, transforming the communications space over the past 15 years.