A pre-Christmas call-out has been issued to the city's sports and fitness groups, with registrations now open for next year's Get Active Sign-On event.
Health-focused groups of all persuasions, ranging from soccer clubs and walking groups through to pilates studios and wellness coaches, are encouraged to register early for the February 1 event.
With more than 60 exhibitors on show last year, Townsville City Council is aiming for the event to be bigger and better than ever in 2026.
Division six councillor Suzy Batkovic said the Get Active Sign-On was part of Council's commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Councillor Batkovic said the annual event, conveniently timed for February with the remainder of the year ahead, was an opportunity to showcase options for Townsville residents to be physically active and to prioritise their health.
"Townsville has an incredible outdoor lifestyle, and our various sport and fitness groups are in a great position to make the most of this," Cr Batkovic said.
"The Get Active Sign-On is an important event on our community's annual calendar – it's a one-stop shop where people of all ages can see what's available and sign on to all things sport and fitness.
"With this event, we want to make sure our community knows what's available so they can choose the best options for themselves and their families.
"The day gives sports clubs and fitness and recreation groups a great avenue to reach out to potential new members and show the community what they have to offer.
"We're calling on all potential exhibitors to get their registrations in now."
AFL Queensland participation lead Joel Newman said interest in the code was growing across North Queensland, and that all seven Townsville AFL clubs would be represented at the Get Active Sign-On for those keen to learn more.
"AFL Queensland, as well as the clubs, attend the sign-on every year and we always get a lot of interest from the parents of young kids looking for a new sport, all the way up to the seniors," he said.
"Year on year our numbers have been growing, and we expect that to continue in 2026.
"The Get Active Sign-On is a great chance for those looking to sign up to come and have a chat to us, and also to approach the specific club they are interested in.
"I'd really encourage community members to come along and see what sport and fitness can bring to their lives – in the case of AFL for me, the benefits of playing throughout my life have gone far beyond the physical.
"Sport has led me to live in various places, meet new people, make friends and genuinely be part of a community.
"From the moment you sign up in the AFL code, you feel welcomed with open arms and like you have a place to belong."
The call for exhibitors will close on January 18, and the Get Active Sign-On will be held from 9am to 1pm on Sunday, February 1.
