Destinations

Capricorn

Taking its name from the Tropic of Capricorn, this region is home to many remarkable historic towns and natural wonders like Rockhampton and the Great Barrier Reef. Not to mention its scenic coastline from Yeppoon to Emu Park where you will find no less than 13 warm sandy isolated beaches.

Australia’s Beef Capital- Rockhampton

Rockhampton lies on the banks of the broad Fitzroy River. A historic city, built on the wealth of gold rushes and cattle empires, its heritage precincts protect Rockhampton’s grandest architecture while its collection of grand old pubs keeps the character of the city alive. Enjoy the history of Rockhampton as you walk down Quay Street, the longest National Trust Heritage Street in Australia.

Rising out of Rockhampton's north-eastern suburbs, Mt Archer National Park provides magnificent views of the city, and showcases a spectacular range of native Australian flora and fauna. Frazer Park at the summit of Mt Archer is approximately 604 meters above sea level.

Six bull statues representing the main breeds of the area are situated throughout Rockhampton in recognition of Rockhampton's Beef Capital of Australia title. Gracemere Saleyards, on the outskirts of Rockhampton, handle the largest throughput of export beef cattle in Queensland, and is the largest stud-selling venue in the Southern Hemisphere. Public are welcome.

Experience the country in the city at the Great Western Hotel, which holds weekly rodeos at the back of the pub.

Rockhampton Heritage Village is an active township museum where visitors can experience Rockhampton's rich and colourful history. You could also visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre, set in some 30 acres of natural bushland on Ancient Tribal Sites. Just 23 kilometres north of Rockhampton on Highway One is Capricorn Caverns, magnificent limestone caves.

Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are regarded as one of the best provincial gardens in Australia. Recently heritage-listed, the Rockhampton Gardens are 130 years old. Located within the Botanic Gardens, the Rockhampton Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals.

The Great Barrier Reef

One of the natural wonders of the world is just a short ferry ride from the Capricorn region mainland, once there you will be walking on sun-bleached beaches and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.

Carnarvon National Park

Carnarvon Gorge section, Carnarvon National Park - a spectacular gorge system with towering white cliffs and lush side gorges - is Queensland's central highlands' most popular attraction. Carnarvon Creek meanders through eucalypt and cabbage palm forest and attracts 170 bird species. Explore creeks, mossy gorges and cool rainforests on 21 kilometres of walking track. Head for nearby Mickey Creek and the Rock Pool or climb Boolimba Bluff. Discover Aboriginal art at Baloon Cave and the Art Gallery. Spot whiptail wallabies and fairy-wrens, and watch platypus in the creek in the early morning.

Enjoy camping in the visting area during the Queensland school holidays: Easter, June to July and September to October. Bookings are essential. Privately run accommodation is available at all times of the year.

Yeppoon

Yeppoon is the gateway to the Capricorn Coast. The township has retained its village style appeal yet offers a variety of wonderful restaurants, accommodation, shops and galleries. A charming esplanade with grassy knoll, palms and a covered picnic and play areas form a backdrop to a vista of sea, sky and islands. As well, annual events, including the Pineapple Festival held in September, enliven the town with gala activities, contests and displays. Local markets offer bargains a plenty.

The whole coastline is protected by the Great Barrier Reef and the Keppel Bay Islands. The Capricorn Coast has some of the most picturesque and safe swimming beaches in Australia.