The vision of the Maritime Museum of Townsville is to be an excellent, vibrant and innovative museum that benefits the Townsville community by collecting, conserving and extending knowledge about the region's maritime heritage, but also by showcasing the important role of the local maritime industry. This is achieved through exhibitions, school programs and school holiday activities. The museum's exhibitions are themed around World War I and II in the South-West Pacific including the Battle of the Coral Sea, the history of the Port of Townsville, the shipwreck of the coastal passenger steamer "Yongala" on 23 March 1911, now a top dive site and model ships. Also on display are fishing dinghies, rowing shells, a lifeboat and a workboat once used at the Port. The museum has various outdoor areas that can be hired for events such as weddings, birthday parties and other functions.