About the S.S. Yongala:
The passenger ship, S.S. Yongala, mysteriously sank off Cape Bowling Green, south of Townsville on March 23rd, 1911. 122 people perished in what is considered one of the most tragic incidents in Australian Maritime history. It was only in 1958 that the wreck of the Yongala was discovered lying in Northern waters south of Townsville and has since become renowned as an internationally regarded diving and tourist destination.

About the Yongala Lodge:
This beautiful building was originally one of Townsville’s most prestigious private residences. Its original owner, Mr. Matthew Rooney) a noted Townsville business identity) tragically lost his life, along with his wife and daughter, in the sinking of the vessel S.S. Yongala.

Dating from 1884, this building is one of the few two storey timber residences still in existence in Townsville. Built entirely of imported Oregon pine by Matthew Rooney himself, Yongala Lodge today stands majestically with over 100 years of history. A recent Heritage Listing for the building ensures that its beauty can be enjoyed by future generations.