Redtrack Townsville: Inside the Famous Red Athletics Track

If you have heard locals or athletes mention "Redtrack Townsville," they are almost certainly talking about the distinctive red running track at the Townsville Sports Precinct. Nestled at the foot of Castle Hill in North Ward, this venue is one of North Queensland's premier sporting facilities and the home of the region's only World Athletics Class 2 certified athletics track.

This guide explains what the Red Track is, what you will find at the precinct, how to get there, and how to book the facilities for training, competition, or events.

What Is the Red Track in Townsville?

Redtrack Townsville: The Famous Red Track Explained - What Is the Red Track in Townsville?

Redtrack Townsville: The Famous Red Track Explained - What Is the Red Track in Townsville?.

The Red Track is the 400-metre athletics track at the Townsville Sports Precinct. Its red synthetic surface is what gives the venue its local nickname, and it is the centrepiece of a facility that has hosted school carnivals, state championships, and community athletics meets for years.

Because the track holds a World Athletics Class 2 certification, it meets strict international standards for surface quality, lane dimensions, and field event infrastructure. That makes it suitable for serious training and sanctioned competition, not just casual jogging.

Key Track and Field Features

The precinct's athletics offering goes well beyond the oval itself. Athletes and coaches can access:

A 400-metre World Athletics Class 2 certified running track
A covered grandstand with seating for around 900 spectators
Long jump and triple jump pits
Hammer throw and discus cages
A steeplechase water jump
Pole vault facilities
Two outdoor lit fields for rugby league, rugby union, and football
Three indoor multipurpose courts

This combination of track, field, and team sport infrastructure is rare in regional Queensland and is a major reason the precinct attracts events from across the state.

Where Is the Townsville Sports Precinct?

Redtrack Townsville: The Famous Red Track Explained - Where Is the Townsville Sports Precinct?

Redtrack Townsville: The Famous Red Track Explained - Where Is the Townsville Sports Precinct?.

The precinct is located at 24 Burke Street, North Ward QLD 4810, between the coastline and Castle Hill. Its position makes it easy to reach from the Townsville CBD and surrounding suburbs.

If you are visiting for a school carnival or athletics meet, the main entry is on Burke Street. The separate Sports House administrative building is at 3-9 Redpath Street, North Ward.

Contact and Booking Details

For casual use, regular hire, or event bookings, the precinct can be reached through:

Phone: (07) 4722 5389
Email: tsp@sport.qld.gov.au
Facebook: Townsville Sports Precinct

Bookings are available for the athletics track, outdoor fields, indoor courts, gym, and conference rooms. The precinct offers both casual and regular hire arrangements, so whether you need a one-off training session or a recurring club booking, it is worth contacting the team directly.

Red Track and School Sports in Townsville

The Red Track is also a fixture in the local school sports calendar. Schools such as Townsville South State School use the venue for inter-school athletics competitions after their internal carnivals.

In this context, "Red Track" refers to a competition between schools of similar size. Students who perform well at their own school's inter-house carnival are selected to represent their school at Red Track events. For many young athletes, competing on the red surface at the Townsville Sports Precinct is a memorable milestone and their first taste of a certified athletics facility.

If you are a parent or teacher, the school's sports coordinator will usually provide event dates, transport details, and selection criteria ahead of each carnival season.

Facilities Beyond the Track

Redtrack Townsville: The Famous Red Track Explained - Facilities Beyond the Track

Redtrack Townsville: The Famous Red Track Explained - Facilities Beyond the Track.

While the red track is the headline attraction, the precinct offers a broader range of facilities that make it useful for more than just athletics.

Gym

The on-site gym is air-conditioned and community-focused, with free weights, cardio equipment, and pin-loaded machines. Group fitness classes run daily and are led by qualified instructors. Membership rates and online sign-up are available through the client portal, and class bookings are essential.

Conference and Function Rooms

Three meeting rooms are available with projectors, Wi-Fi, audio equipment, seating, tables, and kitchenettes. These spaces suit sporting club meetings, coaching workshops, and community events.

Accessibility

The precinct is adapted for people with a disability, with accessible parking, sporting facilities, and amenities.

Planning Your Visit to the Red Track

If you are planning to train, compete, or spectate at the Red Track, a little preparation helps.

For athletes and coaches: Confirm track availability before you arrive. The venue hosts regular bookings and events, so casual access is not always guaranteed. Contact the precinct to check open training times or to arrange a regular hire agreement.

For spectators: The covered grandstand provides shade and seating for around 900 people, which is a relief during Townsville's warmer months. Bring water, sun protection, and check the event schedule in advance.

For event organisers: The combination of the certified track, lit fields, indoor courts, and conference rooms makes the precinct suitable for multi-sport carnivals and regional championships. Submit a booking enquiry early, as the venue's calendar fills quickly during school athletics season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the Red Track in Townsville?

The name comes from the red synthetic surface of the 400-metre athletics track at the Townsville Sports Precinct. Locals and schools commonly refer to the venue or its athletics competitions simply as "Red Track."

Can the public use the Red Track?

Casual and regular hire is available for the athletics track, but access is managed through the precinct's booking system. Contact the venue on (07) 4722 5389 to confirm availability before visiting.

What certification does the Townsville athletics track hold?

The track is World Athletics Class 2 certified, meaning it meets international standards for competition and training. The field event areas, including jumps and throws facilities, are also certified.

Where do I park at the Townsville Sports Precinct?

Parking is available on-site at 24 Burke Street, North Ward. The precinct is accessible for people with a disability, including parking and amenity access.

What sports can be played at the precinct?

Beyond athletics, the precinct supports rugby league, rugby union, football, indoor court sports, and gym-based training. The two outdoor fields are lit for evening use.

How do schools participate in Red Track events?

Schools select students after their inter-house carnivals to compete at Red Track against schools of similar size. Parents should contact their school's sports coordinator for selection criteria and event dates.

Conclusion

Redtrack Townsville is more than a local nickname. It refers to a genuine World Athletics certified facility that serves elite athletes, school competitors, community clubs, and casual gym users alike. Whether you are chasing a personal best on the red surface, organising a regional carnival, or simply curious about one of North Queensland's best sporting venues, the Townsville Sports Precinct is worth a visit.

For the most current opening hours, event schedules, and booking availability, contact the precinct directly or follow its official Facebook page.