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About to call Townsville home, and wondering what it’s like?

Townsville has been home sweet home for YWAM Townsville for over 25 years now. We love our city, and we are excited to introduce you to her soon! 🙂 During your time in Townsville, you’ll have lots of time on the weekends to explore our city and the region. Our campus is located right in the centre of town, we are a short walk to some of the best places to visit in Townsville. Here’s our top ten favourite things to do, in no particular order 🙂

1) The Strand

The Strand is swedish for “The beach” 🙂 The pretty seaside foreshore is a ten minute walk from the campus and includes a paved walkway along the whole shorefront. It’s perfect for a walk, run, or bike ride, with a nice sea breeze. There are cafes and restaurants not far from the water, and free barbecues to use along the beach. AND there’s a free water park, technically its for kids – but hey, it’s still pretty fun for adults too 😉 The Strand is the perfect place to spend a Saturday, and is sure to be one of your fave spots during your time in Townsville.

2) Hike Castle Hill  

If you’re keen on some exercise combined with a great view, Castle Hill is number 1! Castle Hill has a great view of the city from the top. The ultimate is going up at sunrise or sunset. It takes about 20 minutes to hike up (depending on your fitness level!), with the start of the track about a five minute walk from the campus.

3) Join in for Cheap Tuesday at City Lane

There’s a cute little lane full of restaurants right near the campus. If you’re keen for a meal out, City Lane has some great options! Italian, Korean BBQ, and Japanese to name a few. If you like a good deal – the night to go down is Cheap Tuesday. Join in for $2 Tacos at the Courtyard, or two for one pizzas at Donna Bionda.

4) Live like a local at Flinders Market

Every Sunday morning Flinders Street transforms into an arts, craft and food market. Grab some friends and stroll around with a coffee in hand while checking out the stalls. Make sure you stop by one of the local farmer’s stalls for a pineapple and some mangos! You can usually catch some live music while you’re down there too – anything from a kid playing the recorder to a guy playing the didgeridoo, there’s a great community vibe at Flinders, you’ll feel like a local 🙂 Flinders Street is just a short walk from the campus.

5) Magnetic Island … or as the locals affectionately call it, Maggie.

A day trip to Magnetic Island is a must during your visit to Townsville! Maggie is a 20 minute ferry ride away from the city, and is home to the biggest Koala colony in Australia. There’s so much exploring to be done on the island with lots of beautiful beaches and bays, walking tracks, pockets of cafes and restaurants, and World War II sites. If you’re up for a really fun day, hire a moke and drive around the island like a barbie. Magnetic Island is a pretty and peaceful place where you’re bound to make some memories!

6) Take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef

It almost seems wrong to come all the way to the tropical north and not go snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef! A trip to the reef is worth saving up for, its like entering another world as soon as you put on your goggles and look beneath the surface. Adrenalin Dive do trips to the reef from Townsville every Sunday. If you’re into diving, S.S Yongala Wreck is worth checking out – it is one of the top five dive wrecks in the world.

7) Hug a koala, feed a kangaroo!  

Nothing says Australia like some cute koalas, kangaroos and wombats. During your time with us we’ll take you to Billabong Sanctuary where you can hold a wombat, feed kangaroos, hold a snake (if you’re game!) and cuddle a koala! This is the ultimate place for a classic Aussie selfie.

 

8) Coffee shops

Forget Starbucks and Tim Hortons, coffee in Australia is the best. We’ve got some pretty good coffee shops in Townsville, and all in walking distance from the campus. The number one coffee shop in Townsville is our one on campus, (I might be biassed) pop on down during your class break for a caffeinated delight.

Other coffee shops in Townsville that have great coffee: 

 

Freelance Roasting on Gregory Street – the place to go when you’re on your way to the Strand.

 

Alt Brew – the place to go when you want peace & quiet

 

That Place on Sturt – the place to go when you want to go out with friends – great breakfast spot!

 

 

9) Hang a hammock in the courtyard

If you’re feeling lazy and just want some time at “home”, a favourite amongst the DTS students is to hang up a hammock in between the trees in the campus courtyard. Take a book, put in your headphones, and stare up at the palm trees above you, perfect!

 

10) Eat gelato at the beach

In Townsville we have 320 days of sunshine a year, which means pretty much every day is great for the beach and some gelato. Head to Juliette’s down at the Strand and eat your gelato while looking out over the water in a beach chair. Yep, its summer every day around here. Soon you’ll be able to add your own personal faves to this list, how fun!

 

Townsville looks forward to welcoming you soon, and so do we!

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Discipleship Training School - Townsville Campus

Our Discipleship Training School (DTS) gives you the opportunity to set aside five and a half months of your life to grow in your faith while serving the world around you. After 13 weeks of training and discipleship at our campus in Townsville, Australia, we take you on nine weeks of cross-cultural outreach. The DTS is a life-changing experience!  

Dates
  • 13 October, 2024 - 14 March, 2025
  • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
  • 19 October, 2025 - 20 March 2026

 

10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship (Non-Current - in transition period)

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Discipleship Training School - Port Moresby Campus, Papua New Guinea

The DTS will run from our satellite campus in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The DTS will include a unique combination of discipleship, hands-on missions experience during both lectures and outreach, and the opportunity to make history as we establish a new campus in Port Moresby for generations to come.

Dates
  • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025

 

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Apply Port Moresby

Introduction to Global Health & Development

Be immersed in a powerful combination of essential basic healthcare knowledge and community development training, with a focus on preventing illness, promoting holistic wellbeing, and empowering communities to develop their strengths.

Townsville Campus

To be announced

Port Moresby Campus
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
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HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

 

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Global Health & Development Gap Year

Our Global Health & Development Gap Year calls those whose heart beats to see communities thriving - physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. The Global Health & Development Gap Year is designed for both those that have experience in the health / community development industry, and for those who are starting out on their journey of healthcare in missions.

10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship (Non-Current - in transition period)

HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

Dates

26 January - 12 December 2025

 

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Discipleship Bible School

During the course, you will have an opportunity to dig deep into the Bible, reading through all 66 books, gaining an overall perspective of God’s story. You will learn techniques for effective Bible study, and your speakers will help unlock the Bible’s fascinating content.

You will also be taught on topics. For example – you will look at Worldview and Origins as you study through Genesis, Exodus, and Job. Or you might look at Leadership and Worship as you study the life of David in 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Chronicles, and the Psalms. Each book is filled with insights to be discovered!

Dates

26 January - 27 June 2025

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Introduction to Radio & Media

Good communication is essential for strong relationships, healthy families, and communities! Our mission is to train and equip effective communicators to share good news and influence positive community growth.

CUA31020 Certificate III in Screen and Media

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All Courses

Our wide range of registered training courses are designed to help equip you for your field of passion.

We combine elements of informal, formal, and non-formal education to not only impart knowledge and skill, but also good character, important life skills, and the motivation to serve and invest into the lives of others.

Learn more about our approach to training

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Learn More (Port Moresby Campus)

Join YWAM Staff

Our volunteer staff team is a diverse mix of different nationalities, ages, skills, giftings, and backgrounds. Their dedication and passion makes what we do possible and we are always looking to expand our team!

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Pathways with YWAM

We have a range of pathways within our training and ministry that allows you to specialise in your area and grow your skillsets. From Hospitality to Global Health you can upskill yourself while impacting those around you

 

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Resources

Joining us for a Discipleship Training School (DTS) or Gap Year with us soon? We have compiled a few resources to help prepare you for the amazing journey that’s ahead!

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For Parents

Do you have a child that is interested in a YWAM DTS or Gap Year? We have created some resources for you as your child navigates their YWAM experience. 

Canvas Online Training

Login to complete your course homework here

 


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YWAM Precinct

Our recently developed YWAM Precinct located in Townsville’s CBD is the perfect hub for youth to find belonging and empowerment. A high, medium and low ropes course, brand new cafe, and multi-purpose warehouse space for seminars and other activities allows youth the opportunity to flourish through adventure based learning.

 

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Youth Ambassadors

As a Youth Ambassador you will have the opportunity to lead your peers and the wider community in helping to support the work of YWAM Medical Ships in Papua New Guinea.

 

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Work Experience

We offer the opportunity for students to complete their work experience at our city campus in Townsville. This unique opportunity gives students the ability to not only explore a future career pathway, but also get a taste of working with a local charity that is dedicated to serving the community.

 

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Schools & Youth Leaders

We know that really quality, committed youth workers, teachers and families are some of the best things young people can have in their formative years. Our hope is to make your job a little bit easier by offering adventure based learning, mentoring resources, leadership and training pathways, and service based learning opportunities for youth. 

 

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Transitional Accommodation

YWAM operates a home in Townsville for at-risk youth. YWAM receives tenant referrals from local collaborating youth support organizations.

 

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Vision & Approach

We have the hope to create a safe environment for the youth of Townsville to be, believing everyone has the right to hope for an abundant and healthy life physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. YWAM works in partnership and by invitation through Australia and Papua New Guinea.

 

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School Seminars

Our school seminar programs are designed to empower and motivate youth to live full and productive lives. Book these engaging and interactive seminars to strengthen your young people. 

 

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Youth Adventures

Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!

 

Pre-Register for Impact Summer 2024

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Impact Summer

Make an Impact during your Summer as you engage in epic adventure, learning and serving. 

Gain valuable skills through hands-on learning experiences at The Stable and the new YWAM Precinct, complete with hiropes and rock climbing wall.

 

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VET in Schools

Vocational education is one of the best ways for young people to explore their passions and get equipped. We offer several registered training programs for youth. In addition to all of the expected elements of a training program, our courses have an emphasis on building good character and the soft skills needed to be employable, while also giving students the chance to practice their skills within our organisation. 

 


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Adventure Based Learning
Adventure based learning programs are complete with a high, medium, and low ropes course, cafe, and multi-purpose youth space to run programs with a ‘learn by doing’ and ‘challenge by choice’ philosophy.
 

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Precinct Cafe

Help build healthy lives and communities in Australia and Papua New Guinea while dining at the YWAM Precinct Cafe

YWAM Precinct Cafe is a not-for-profit cafe located at 312 Walker Street in Townsville’s CBD.

 


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Dental Trailer

YWAM Medical Ships is now operating a Dental Trailer in collaboration with key stakeholders in Port Moresby with the purpose of providing dental services, training opportunities, and health education to schools in the National Capital District.

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Ship Outreaches

YWAM Medical Ships - Australia & PNG has been operating medical and training vessels in PNG since 2010.

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Our Footprint

Delivering basic services in Papua New Guinea (PNG) poses enormous challenges with 84 percent of the population living in remote, rural areas.

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Advocate

Join the YWAM Medical Ships team by becoming a Community Ambassador or Youth Ambassador in your local community.

Apply Now (Townsville Campus)
Apply Now  (Port Moresby Campus)
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Mission Build
Mission Building is a volunteer program that gives you the opportunity to experience life at our campus all while supporting our work in Australia and PNG. Join us for two weeks to three months at a time that suits you!
 
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Youth Adventures
Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!
 

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Townsville City Campus - DTS, Volunteer, Donation
Support our community service projects and youth work in North Queensland by giving a donation to the YWAM Townsville City Campus. The campus also serves as the headquarters for the YWAM Training and Medical Ship, 99.9 Live FM, all training activities, youth work, and a home-base for all of our volunteer staff and students.
  • DTS Fees
  • Volunteer Fees
  • Tax-Deductible Donations
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Donate to support the work in Papua New Guinea
Join us in the vision of building healthy lives and communities for a healthy Papua New Guinea by giving a tax deductible donation that has the power to change lives!
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Ship Outreaches, Dental Trailer Outreaches, and more!

Joining us on outreach in Papua New Guinea soon? We are looking forward to having you! Your volunteer fees can be paid online on this page

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YWAM Medical Ships - Port Moresby Campus

Payments are in Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) currency. Volunteer payments, donations, and projects in Port Moresby, PNG.

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Support Our Volunteers
All of our staff are full-time, self-funded volunteers, including our Managing Director! Each of our volunteers raise their own financial support outside of the organisation. This includes essential living expenses, outreach costs, and travel expenses.
Our staff include accountants, cooks, administrators, mariners, outreach leaders, medical personnel, trainers, housekeepers, program developers, communications officers, youth workers, and so many more! It truly does take a dedicated and diverse team to make what we do possibl

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Leave A Gift

Leaving a gift to YWAM in your will is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

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Charity Gift Shop

Join us in the vision of supporting healthy villages in Papua New Guinea by giving a tax-deductible donation that has the power to change lives!