Australia

Head north from the Tropic of Capricorn and you will find the quaint and lovely Queensland city of Rockhampton. Resting along the Fitzroy River banks, these were once lands occupied by the Darumbal Aborigines. European settlement touched this area of Australia in 1854 when two brothers named William and Charles Archer found it while conducting a search for suitable grazing land.

The grazing industry dominates the economy of the city even in modern times. The city embraces its reputation as the Beef Capital of Queensland and proudly displays statues of the bull breeds that figure into the local economy in prominent locations about town.

A dense population of corporate and government office buildings occupies much of the business district. Many buildings were designed and erected during the pioneer era and much of that colonial architecture stands today along shaded streets lined with stately trees. There are more than thirty historic buildings listed on the town registry including the Heritage Tavern, Supreme Court building and Customs House. These structures can be seen along the walking tour that winds through the streets of town.

With an average of more than three hundred sunny days per year, Rockhampton is a popular tourist destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Mount Archer National Park features a wide variety of native plants and animals. Frazier Park occupies the summit with its breathtaking views of the city.

The Cliff Kershaw Gardens opened in 1988 and is notable as the place where the rubbish yard used to be located. Garden highlights include an imitation waterfall constructed adjacent to the highway that is dramatically lit at night. The lush plant life throughout is native to Central Queensland.

Olsens Capricorn Caves is a privately owned limestone cavern attraction that opened to public viewing in 1884 and enjoys recognition as the longest surviving tourist site in all of Queensland. The caves were discovered by an immigrant from Norway.

A visit to Rockhampton Heritage Village will transport you back in time as you experience the daily life of villagers who lived there between 1850 and 1950. Guides in period dress lead tours through the town, often in carriages drawn by horses and various vintage vehicles. Woodcutting and blacksmith demonstrations give a taste of ancient trades that were so essential to daily life. There is even an opportunity to attend class at the village schoolhouse.

The Darambal Aborigines originally occupied the land now used by the Dreamtime Cultural Center. Along the northern creek bank, the outdoor areas feature a large waterfall and native plants along with the main building. Guided tours through the Torres Strait Islander’s Complex focuses on the lifestyle and ancient beliefs shared by native people. Boomerang lessons, dance demonstrations and didgeridoo performances highlight the various activities found at the Center. Stop by the Aboriginal Traditional area to view replica rock art and gunyahs along with burial and ceremonial sites. A native plant exhibit and sandstone cave recreations are set up as self guided tours to allow you to explore at your own pace.

From historic sites to relaxing outdoor gardens tours, take advantage of all that that the gateway to the Capricorn Coast has to offer in sunny Rockhampton. There is plenty of places to stay including some wonderful Rockhampton apartments.