Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a city that lies on the tropic of Capricorn near the Queensland coast, south of Mackay and north of Bundaberg. Rockhampton is an industrial and agricultural centre of the north, and is the regional centre of Central Queensland. Rockhampton is also a large tourist destination known for its history and culture supporting such institutions as the Rockhampton Art Gallery, one of the most extensive regional galleries in Australia, the Rockhampton Heritage Village, and Dreamtime Cultural Centre.

Understand
Rockhampton was established in 1855 and is one of Queensland's oldest cities. It was named by Queensland's first Land Commissioner, Mr W. Wiseman, who was supposedly inspired by the rocks in the river flowing through the town.

In the late 1800s, several nearby gold discoveries ensured continued economic growth of the region and of Rockhampton. Subsequently, as mining, grazing, farming and meat processing industries developed in Central Queensland, Rockhampton thrived as a regional service centre.

Rockhampton was incorporated as a city in 1902, and has continued to grow slowly but steadily ever since. It has a population of 79,000 people (2018). The Rockhampton area is surprisingly busy, with considerable traffic on the roads, and a substantial suburban area. It has a feel much more of a developed city than of an outback town.

Rockhampton is almost universally called Rocky. Just about every business has some variation of Rocky in their name or their promotion.

It is also famous as the hometown of Rod Laver – one of the best tennis players in history.

By car
Rockhampton is accessible by sealed road, most notably the Bruce Highway which travels north from Brisbane, through Rockhampton and on to Cairns. It is 7-8 hours driving time along the highway from Brisbane.

Road access from Sydney, Melbourne and other areas further south and inland is shorter via an inland route. Rockhampton is the terminus of the Leichhardt Highway. Driving time from Sydney is around 16 hours (non-stop).

By train
The Tilt Train runs to Rockhampton from Brisbane once daily, six days a week, and takes 7½ hours. The Spirit of the Outback ends its journey up the coast from Brisbane here, and turns inland towards Emerald and Longreach. The Spirit of Queensland continues from Brisbane up the coast to Cairns.

By bus
Greyhound have daily services from both Brisbane and Cairns.

By car
The towns and areas around Rockhampton are all accessible by sealed roads. Most major car rental companies offer car hire in Rockhampton, either at offices in the city or at Rockhampton airport. Roads are typically uncrowded, making driving in the area enjoyable, though drivers are advised to be cautious of the many large trucks on the Bruce Highway. When travelling on back roads watch out for straying livestock.

There is actually a bit of peak hour in Rockhampton, especially on a Friday afternoon travelling over the bridges towards Yeppoon. Expect up to around 10 minutes of delay due to traffic.

By taxi
Taxis are useful for those wishing to travel to places of interest within the city, or to and from the airport. Travel time from the airport to the city centre is only 15 minutes. Rocky Cabs can be reached on the national taxi number,. The taxis also service Yeppoon although a fare there is expensive, and a bus or hire car may be a better option.

By bicycle
Rockhampton's CBD is fairly flat, and most roads are uncrowded, which is good for those wishing to cycle around the city. However, access to areas such as the hospitals requires strenuous uphill riding and so is not recommended for those of poor fitness. Those wanting to venture further a field should be warned that the combination of rural drivers, and large trucks and cars with Roo bars is not particularly bicycle-friendly. Be cautious!

By foot
Rockhampton’s flat topography and compact size mean many attractions can be visited on foot, especially those in and around the city centre.

See
Many of the attractions in Rockhampton are operated by the local council, which has a focus on tourism promotion.





Do




Eat
Rockhampton is regarded as the beef capital of Australia, so be sure to go to a steakhouse when you are here.

Drink
Rockhampton has 4 nightclubs located at the Quay Street end of William Street, and many bars scattered throughout the city. The Criterion Hotel situated at 150 Quay Street has a lively atmosphere and the bar and club is open till 3AM Friday and Saturday. The "Cri" as it's locally known is a great place for food and a few drinks in the afternoon as well. Locally known to have a ghost as well.

Sleep
There are many motels in Rockhampton, mostly on the roads into and out of town. Many offer standby rates. There is also a choice of accommodation in nearby Yeppoon, tending to have a nicer aspect, and still within easy reach of downtown Rockhampton.

Stay safe
Rockhampton is about as far south as the habitat of the salt water crocodile extends. These animals are dangerous to humans. If you are travelling north along the east coast of Australia, Rockhampton is where you have to start being aware of crocodiles. Crocodiles are seen in the Fitzroy River.

Go next
Gladstone and 1770 are both possible day trips.

Trips to the Great Barrier Reef and the Keppel Islands are available from Yeppoon, just 30 minutes drive away.

Rockhampton is a great base if you are travelling Central Queensland to the Gem Fields, Great Barrier Reef and Islands, Gladstone, The Coast, Gracemere, Mount Morgan