Capricorn Tourist Information
Capricorn Tourist Information
Rockhampton
Come and enjoythe temperate climate of Rockhampton, the capital of Central Queensland's Capricorn Region, located on the Tropic of Capricorn. For a motoring holiday, Rockhampton is an easy day's drive up the Bruce Highway from Brisbane. The airport is serviced regularly by all major airlines and excellent coach services provide a comfortable and affordable alternative. Discover Queensland Rail's new Tilt Train Service, commencing in early 1998, which will be faster than driving from Brisbane to Rockhampton.
There is something special happening around Rockhampton all year, with local and regional festivals, carnivals, rural shows and sporting events for everyone. A comprehensive list of annual festivals includes Rockhampton's Family Festival, the Bush Festival and Central Queensland University's Multicultural Fair.
Rockhampton's Botanic Gardens are a popular rendevous point where you can enjoy the relaxing sounds of the abundant wildlife that make these lush gardens their home. In contrast, Kershaw Gardens are dedicated to the preservation and display of Australian native plants, and a highlight of these gardens is the waterfall visible from the highway.
The Pilbeam Theatre is the major focus of Performing Arts in Central Queensland, presenting music, theatre and dance events from both national and international companies. The Rockhampton Art Gallery offers a diverse range of touring exhibitions throughout the year, and the Walter Reid Arts Centre provides a home for various art and cultural groups.
Mount Archer Environmental Park features a lookout with spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscape. Picnic areas, barbecue facilities and bushwalks make this area a popular spot for nature buffs. Day trip options abound in and around Rockhampton. You can take a leisurely cruise along the mighty Fitzroy River; an educational tour at the Dreamtime Cultural Centre, which showcases the Aboriginal history of Central Queensland, or enjoy a fossicking day trip to Thunder Egg Heaven at Mt. May Gemstone Tourist Park. Olsen's Capricorn Caverns, a Tourism award winner, has 16 spectacular caves to explore on their daily guided tours or, alternatively, become your own tour guide at Cammoo Caves with audio stations and a map.
If history is your passion, discover Rockhampton's many well-preserved buildings rich in architectural splendour, with many listed by the National Trust and Australian Heritage Commission. Enjoy the leisurely one hour drive as a perfect start to your day. The Archer Park Railway Station and Museum and Customs House are of particular note. A visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village is a guaranteed family fun day, where you can experience the sights, sounds and smells of an active outdoor museum. Country retreats surround Rockhampton where you can discover country hospitality and fantastic cooking on a famous cattle property.
Rockhampton has developed into an excellent holiday base from which you can discover Central Queensland. So come soon and explore our unique attractions - from the Outback to the Reef!
