Is there a direct train to Townsville?

Yes, the Spirit of Queensland runs directly from Brisbane to Townsville.

How long is the drive to Townsville?

It takes approximately 16 to 18 hours of driving time.

Are there flights from Brisbane to Townsville?

Yes, Qantas and Virgin Australia operate daily direct flights.

What is the best way to travel to Townsville?

Flying is the most efficient, while the train is the most comfortable.

Is the Bruce Highway safe?

It is safe but requires vigilance due to heavy freight traffic and roadworks.

Eight Mile Plains

Townsville

Train Flight

Eight Mile Plains to Townsville

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Eight Mile Plains to Townsville spans approximately 1,350 kilometers along the Bruce Highway. You can drive this route in roughly 16 hours of pure transit time, passing through major hubs like Rockhampton and Mackay. Alternatively, a flight from Brisbane Airport takes just over two hours. The Spirit of Queensland train offers a scenic rail alternative for those preferring comfort. This route traverses the heart of the Queensland coast, offering diverse landscapes from urban centers to tropical plains.

Total Distance: 1,350 km driving distance; 1,100 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Brisbane Airport is the fastest, taking 2 hours 15 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheapest for groups of three or more, costing roughly $250 in fuel.

Compare Eight Mile Plains to Townsville Routes

	Train Direct	Flight Direct
Duration	22 hours	2 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	$200 - $350	$150 - $400
Operator	Queensland Rail	Qantas
Route	Roma Street Station to Townsville Station via Spirit of Queensland.	Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Townsville Airport (TSV).
Tip	RailBed seats include all meals and lie-flat comfort.	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.

Travel Tips

Highway Safety
The Bruce Highway has many single-lane sections; always overtake with extreme caution.
Airport Access
Use the Airtrain from Eight Mile Plains via the bus-to-train connection at Altandi Station.
Hydration
Tropical heat is intense; carry at least two liters of water if driving long distances.
Booking
Use the Queensland Rail website for early bird discounts on long-distance trains.
Accommodation
Book hotels near the CBD for easy access to the ferry terminal and dining.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Stop every two hours at designated rest areas to prevent driver fatigue.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize the risk of hitting kangaroos or wallabies.
Weather
Check the Bureau of Meteorology for cyclone warnings during the summer months.
Emergency
Keep a physical road map as mobile reception is spotty in remote stretches of the Bruce Highway.