The Regional City of Rockhampton is located in Queensland, about 40 km inland from the Capricorn Coast, about half-way between Brisbane and Cairns. Enjoy the diversity and contrast of this thriving city: coast and hinterland, arts and beef grazing, heritage and modern technology. Rockhampton or "Rocky" as the locals call it lies on the banks of the Fitzroy River, which is one of Queensland`s largest river and arguably its most scenic. The city of Rockhampton is framed by magical Mt Archer and the Berserker Ranges provide a spectacular scenic backdrop to this thriving city. Rockhampton is well known as Australia`s `Beef Capital' and a gateway wondrous attractions and adventures on land and water. The cattle are in the surrunding countryside and the tag is unfortunate as this city has a sophisticated
arts, crafts and performance community. Come and explore the city, coast, reef, river, beach and country in this wonderful region. Some of the many Popular attractions in Rockhampton include Riverbank Parklands beside the Fitzroy River; the beautiful Capricorn Coast, the coastal strip between Emu Park and Yeppoon and offshore the magical Great Keppel Island in the Great Barrier Reef, most which is National Park. The best way discover the Rockhampton heritage is to take the Heritage Route through the town which features many art deco buildings. The route takes in the grand old architecture, lovingly preserved or restored, which graces many areas of Rockhampton. The Fitzroy River provides many recreational activities including fishing, water skiing, kayaking and boating. Visit the headquarters
of the Rockhampton Historical Society at Old Borough Chambers to discover the fascinating history of the town. Rockhampton is the birth place of many performers fine artists, and musicians and there is a thriving arts community in the region. The city has a world class theatre complex, the Pilbeam Theatre and various smaller theatres. The city also has many art galleries including the Rockhampton City Art Gallery that includes works from many well-known national and international artists. The Walter Reid Art Centre focuses on crafts and local artists and is home to many weavers, actors, musicians and a variety of artists. The zoo, located in the grounds of the South Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, has chimpanzees, koalas and many other native Australian species, and a wonderful collection of birds.
Closeby is Mt Archer National Park that provides magnificent scenery, a spectacular range of native Australian flora and fauna and provides an excellent spot for bushwalking, mountain bike riding, camping and rock climbing. Mt Archer rises to about 600 m above sea level. Experience the country hospitality and culture at the Great Western Hotel, and see the weekly rodeos at the back of the pub. Local attractions include the renowned Rockhampton Heritage Village, which is an active township museum showcasing Rockhampton's rich and colourful heritage. Visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre, set in some 30 acres of natural bushland that showcases the Aboriginal heritage of the area. Another grest place to visit is the Capricorn Caverns, a magnificent set of limestone caves. Local events include: Alpha
Bullarama, Easter Sunflower Festival (Emerald), Rockhampton Eisteddfod, Winter Racing Carnival, Rockhampton Agricultural Show, World Cooeeing Contest (Cooee Bay), Rockhampton Swap, Multicultural Fair, Rockhampton Jazz Festival, Yeppoon Tropic Pine Festival, Brahman Week, Rockhampton Barra Bounty, Quarter horse Sale (Gracemere).