Townsville has quietly been growing into a bit of an eastern shoreline music hub up there in North Queensland. With its 9th annual Groovin the Moo music festival taking place this Sunday, 1 May, the city is proving it has the goods to keep talented musicians and big-name events coming back.

If you haven't booked tickets, you might want to get on that soon. Boy & Bear, British India, DZ Deathrays and Illy are all part of this year's lineup.

But if you're locked into missing out, here are some other reasons for musicians and music lovers to visit T-Ville.

Groovin the Moo gets pretty wild (Image: Groovin the Moo/Facebook)

1. Quality Aussie Acts Year-Round

Over the next couple of months Townsville will welcome The Bennies, Parkway Drive, The Cat Empire and The Beards, among other touring musicans.

The city seems to attract numerous noted Aussie acts with its jovial pub atmosphere and charismatic venues such as The Venue, Flinders Social, Kirwan Tavern and The Dalrymple Hotel.

2. It's A Muso Community

Thanks to the Townsville Community Music Centre, young and aspiring musicians in the city have a place to learn, practise and perform. But more importantly, they also have other like-minded folks with whom they can collaborate.

From choir singers and bongo drum bands, to traditional rock bands and acoustic players, the community is made up of a variety of talents that fuel creativity and success.

The Music Centre also informs everyone of upcoming concerts, open-mic afternoon sessions and other performing opportunities.

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Palm Creek Folk Festival gives lesser-known acts a chance to perform (Image: Palm Creek Folk Festival/Facebook)

3. Palm Creek Folk Festival

It's the north's answer to Byron Bay's Blues Fest. More than 100 performers and events take place over three days in Mountain View Lake Eco Park, about 40 kilometres from Townsville.

Festival goers can expect dances, workshops, concerts, buskers and jam sessions, arts and crafts, and special events such as the Mystery Masquerade.

Most people stay in the designated camping grounds and you're more than welcome to bring your own alcohol into the camp and festival grounds (can only be consumed in the seated areas of the festival proper).

Other music events on the calendar include the Townsville Cultural Festival in August and the monthly Full Moon parties on Magnetic Island.

4. Artie's Music

One of the biggest music stores in Australia, Artie's Music Townsville has been a welcome second home for many North Queensland-based musicians and travelling acts.

The family-run store keeps its shelves stocked with the latest brands including Gibson, Fender and Yamaha. You can find everything from drums and guitars to cellos and trombones within the 500-square-metre showroom.

Pop in next time you're in town!