Rockhampton, the Beef Capital of Australia is located on the Tropic of Capricorn and is the gateway to the Coast and the Outback.

Founded in 1853, the majesty of Rockhampton's historical architecture has captured the hearts of visitors for decades. Many fine public and private buildings, including the Customs House, old Post Office, Cathedrals, banks, business houses and homes, are constant reminders of the city with an exciting background. The listing of Quay Street facing the river as an historic streetscape that is unique 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.

Beefy Rockhampton city
What would a trip to Capricorn be without visiting Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia? The cattle country spirit manifests each weekend in a rodeo ring of bull riding. "Rocky" also gives easy access to seaside Yeppoon, and the Keppel Islands.

Discover magical caves
The limestone cave systems 20 minutes north of Rockhampton lend more than a touch of magic to Capricorn. These wondrous caves are set above ground in a lofty limestone ridge and beckon exploration by candlelight. They also shelter thousands of insectivorous bats.

Stay at a cattle station!
With three million cattle grazing among the eucalypts, grazier life has become a strong aspect of the region's character. Catch the rodeos and mustering, or go even further and stay on a cattle station or host farm for a thoroughly unusual holiday.

The best mining was here!
The Tropic of Capricorn's large gemstone deposits spawned the mining towns Sapphire, Rubyvale and Anakie, in an area east of Rockhampton called the Gemfields. You can still fossick for sapphires and rubies, or enjoy the yearly Gemfest Festival fun