so u t h e r n gr e at b a r r i e r r e ef I queensland
Capricorn Coast o f f i c i a l l i f est yl e & vi s i tor guide 2018/19
Yeppoon | Emu Park | Great Keppel Island | Rosslyn Bay Byfield Rainforest | Keppel Sands | The Caves | Stanage Bay
Contents
Map
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Keppel bay islands
06
yeppoon
10
byfield
12
Cooee bay
14
Rosslyn Bay & beaches
15
emu park
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Keppel Sands & Joskeleigh
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The Caves
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Stanage Bay
19
beach guide
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fishing
22
National Parks & walking trails
24
top spots
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27
what’s on
advertisers 28
Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre Ross Creek Roundabout, Yeppoon 4703 P: 1800 675 785 E: yeppoon@capricorntourism.com.au
www.capricornholidays.com.au Disclaimer This free guide is published by Capricorn Enterprise to assist visitors in planning a holiday to the Capricorn Region of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Information is provided in good faith based on information supplied by various other parties and is subject to change without notice. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information supplied, no responsibility can be accepted for loss, damage, inconvenience, delay or injury due to negligence, errors, changes or omissions. Always check the latest information for any changes. All material contained in this publication is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted in any form without the prior written consent of Capricorn Enterprise.
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You’re always
Welcome
The Capricorn Coast and Southern Great Barrier Reef is paradise. Stretching from Stanage Bay to Keppel Sands, it is populated by a series of coastal communities ranging from fishing havens, rainforest retreats, scenic lookouts and friendly seaside villages.
Loved by locals, the Capricorn Coast offers plenty to visitors and residents alike. Restaurants, cafĂŠs and clubs cater to a range of foodie tastebuds; music festivals, farmers markets and community events bring people from far and wide. A range of accommodation with an enticing mix of laidback country hospitality and modern urban lifestyle are waiting for you to find and unwind.
Yeppoon Main Beach
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Share your experience #VisitCapricorn #SouthernGreatBarrierReef
P: 1800 675 785
Ross Creek Roundabout, Scenic Hwy, Yeppoon
Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre
For further information or to chat to a local, visit
Region Map
Capricorn Coast
Capricorn Coast Lifestyle & Visitor Guide
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Keppel Bay Islands
Great Keppel Island is only a 30 minute ferry transfer from the mainland and is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Keppel Bay.
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hen you set foot on one of the Keppel Bay Islands you will feel as though you have stepped onto an island paradise where the ‘squeaky-clean’ white sand flows between your toes and the ocean sparkles before your eyes. Whether you’re visiting Great Keppel for a lazy Sunday picnic lunch, or staying for a couple of days or more, you can’t fail to be impressed by the stunning scenery or the relaxed atmosphere of the Keppel Islands. With the protection of a fringing reef, the waters surrounding the Keppel Islands are amazingly calm, making it perfect for all types of watersports such as snorkelling, paddle boarding, water-skiing and tubing. GREAT KEPPEL ISLAND Take a jet ski tour around the island, or a leisurely kayak to one of the secluded beaches where you can snorkel amongst amazing different varieties of tropical fish, magnificent hard and soft coral and friendly turtles. It arguably has the best beaches of any Great Barrier Reef island (Long Beach was voted #14 in 101 Best Beaches in Australia) and offers safe swimming all year round. Great Keppel island is approximately 1454 hectares in size and is home to 17 pristine white-sand beaches and an interior rich with native flora, all waiting for you to explore. Ninety percent of the island is bushland and there are several bush walking tracks that disperse trekkers around the island to untouched, pristine beaches, or spectacular lookouts. These vary in range of duration and difficulty, from a leisurely stroll, to challenging hikes. Dolphins are often seen close to the
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main beaches during winter months and whales have started to become frequent visitors to the bay on their yearly migration. From tents and cabins, through to private beach houses on the water’s edge, staying on Great Keppel Island is always a relaxing escape. The scenic Bar & Bistro is home to uncomplicated menus reflecting the relaxed atmosphere of Great Keppel. FERRIES, DAY CRUISES & SAILING Ferries depart every day to Great Keppel Island. A number of charters, full day cruises, whale watching (seasonal), sailing adventures, and extended tour options are also available from Keppel Bay Marina and Rosslyn Bay Harbour. The climate and location are a perfect mix for sailing adventures. PUMPKIN ISLAND Pumpkin Island is a hidden gem in the Keppel group of islands. Located just a 30 minute boat transfer from Keppel Bay Marina, this tiny island – just six hectares in total – offers you eco-friendly self-catering units that are powered by the wind and the sun! Book a stay in one of their beach front cottages or rent the entire private island for up to 34 guests, and live like a millionaire at a fraction of the cost. CAMPING IN MARINE PARKS Camping is allowed in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park, including North Keppel Island, Humpy Island, Middle Island, Miall Island, Conical Island, Divided Island and Pelican Island. Visitors must bring their own drinking water and campers require a permit. Permits can be purchased online or from a local Visitor Information Centre.
Keppel Bay Islands
Great Keppel Island
Camping, Middle Island
Long Beach, Great Keppel Island
Capricorn Coast Lifestyle & Visitor Guide Pumpkin Island
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KEPPEL BAY ISLANDS
Freedom Fast Cats JOHN HOWES DRIVE, ROSSLYN BAY P: 07 4933 6888 W: www.freedomfastcats.com.au DAY CRUISES - ISLAND TRANSFERS - SNORKELLING Discover Great Keppel Island and the Southern Great Barrier Reef with Freedom Fast Cats. Join our friendly local crew to see the best of the island’s stunning secluded coves, pristine white sandy beaches and unspoilt coral reef habitats, abundant with spectacular marine life. Offering island day visits, accommodation transfers, reef encounters and more. We have a range of cruise options including snorkelling, boom-netting, glass bottom boat and catered lunch tours. Daily cruises departing from Rosslyn Bay will have you relaxing and exploring the island and reef within 30 minutes of leaving the mainland. Guaranteed to be a highlight of your visit to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Follow us on Instagram @freedomfastcats @max_allen_jnr, @pacific_pixels, @avaughan007 • Island Transfers • Snorkelling • Boom-netting • Glass Bottom Boat Tours • Lunch Cruises • Whale Watching (seasonal) • Operates 7 days • Bookings Essential
Funtastic Cruises KEPPEL BAY MARINA - RED PIER P: 0438 909 502 W: www.funtasticcruises.com DAY CRUISE - SUNSET CRUISE - OVERNIGHT CRUISE Sail the Keppel Islands on your 17m Catamaran with Funtastic Cruises. Our yacht provides you with total comfort. Swim or snorkel, paddle board or glass bottom kayak the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Throw in a line, do some Whale watching or just relax on the deck. Our fully inclusive trips incorporate all activities, drinks and food. You can take a day trip, watch the sunset on board our Sunset Cruise or stay the night with our Overnight Cruises. Join us for a wonderful time aboard you’ll never forget. 8
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KEPPEL BAY ISLANDS
Great Keppel Island Hideaway THE SPIT, GREAT KEPPEL ISLAND P: 07 4939 2050 W: www.greatkeppelislandhideaway.com.au Great Keppel Island Hideaway welcomes guests to share in our barefoot island paradise, an affordable Island resort only 30 minutes ferry from Yeppoon. Our Hideaway offers a variety of relaxed island accommodation to suit every traveller, this includes: • Beachfront Cabins • Island Cabins • Garden Rooms • 2 houses • Family Rooms (shared amenities) Our resort boasts a fully licensed restaurant and bar overlooking the Southern Great Barrier Reef and one of Great Keppel’s seventeen pristine white sandy beaches. With a range of free activities for our in house guests, there is plenty to do for all age groups. Enjoy stunning scenic bush walks to secluded island picnic spots, snorkelling in the turquoise waters with turtles and dolphins, or simply relax sipping cocktails in the bistro. Great Keppel Island Hideaway will create those magical moments you will remember always. Getting Here: Ferries depart the mainland daily to Great Keppel Island with Keppel Konnections.
Keppel Konnections DEPARTING KEPPEL BAY MARINA P: 0484 241 505 W: www.keppelkonnections.com.au Discover the untouched natural beauty of Great Keppel Island with Keppel Konnections ferry service. This daily service is a short 30 min transfer with morning and afternoon departures available. Konnections offers a seamless opportunity to package your transfers with island accommodation, or simply enjoy a day trip. Experience the underwater sensations of the Southern Great Barrier Reef by adding optional extras such as guided jet ski & snorkel trips, or lunch and a lazy paddle board. Visiting July – October? Join our whale watching tour and enjoy our majestic humpbacks. Capricorn Coast Lifestyle & Visitor Guide
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Yeppoon
Yeppoon is the heart of the Capricorn Coast and access point to the Southern Great Barrier Reef
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he largest link in this chain of coastal communities, Yeppoon is the holiday accommodation hub, service centre and cultural scene for the Capricorn Coast area. Meander down Yeppoon’s main street or stroll the esplanade to browse beach-chic boutiques and surf stores and keep an eye out for one of the many new street art murals adorning local walls.
Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary
The Capricorn Coast also delivers with ease when it comes to sourcing a fine feed. Tantalise the tastebuds with a selection of local flavours when dining out, with specialty produce like premium, export quality beef, seafood, tropical produce often on the menu and there is a wide range of restaurants, cafĂŠs and clubs catering to a range of tastes and budgets.
Keppel Kracken
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Yeppoon Lagoon
The Yeppoon Foreshore is the focal point of many community events throughout the year, hosting the annual Great Australia Day Beach Party, The Village Festival’s live music and street festival, Yeppoon Triathlon plus regular yoga and fitness activities on the grassy lawns. There is a paved walking track starting from the Lagoon that heads along the main beach to Farnborough Beach, with several picnic shelters, electric BBQs and kids’ playground alongside the sandy beach. Yeppoon Main Beach is patrolled throughout peak times and offers a safe swimming spot for visitors and locals alike. The adjoining Farnborough Beach is dog friendly, dog owners can stretch their legs alongside their pooches (check council restrictions for dogs on a leash). Families are well catered for in Yeppoon, with the foreshore also boasting the fantastic ’Keppel Kraken’ zero-depth water park, open daily with lots of fun and free activities for the kids on those hot sunny days. A short walk south down Anzac Parade will take you to Appleton Park, a fully fenced and shaded children’s playground that offers almost endless activities for the kids, including an all abilities playground, sandpit and mini bike track, plus BBQs, tables and public toilets to make it an ideal family outing. Just next to the park is the Yeppoon skate park, where
the bigger kids will happily spend hours scooting around. The new lagoon pool at the southern end of Yeppoon Main Beach, along with the children’s play area and dining areas, was completed in May 2018. Yeppoon has a strong reputation as a producer of tropical and exotic fruits (mangoes, pineapples, lychees) and is home to some of the largest producing pineapple farms in the State. The annual Yeppoon Lions Tropical Pinefest, held every October, is a celebration of the region’s history as a pineapple producing area. Pick up a pineapple and other fresh produce and supplies at one on the local markets (see page 27 for market days).
Opening Hours Yeppoon Lagoon Winter (1 May - 31 Aug) 8.00am - 6.00pm Summer (1 Sep - 30 Apr) 6.00am – 9.00pm Keppel Kraken Winter (1 Jun - 30 Sep) 9.00am - 6.00pm Summer (1 Oct - 31 May) 9.00am - 8.00pm Keppel Kraken closed Tuesdays for maintenance (except in school holidays) *N.B. Opening times may change without notice
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Byfield
Water Park Creek
Just 25 minutes north from Yeppoon, you can discover the lush rainforest of Byfield and spectacular scenery of the surrounding parks and forests.
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he Byfield National Park and State Forest abounds with wonderful scenery, rolling sand dunes, beaches, rainforest-edged creeks and rugged mountains. Byfield is rich with diversity and forms one of the largest unspoiled eco-systems on the east coast of Australia and is the exclusive home of the rare Byfield Fern.
Five Rocks Beach Walking Trail
The small village of Byfield is a haven for craft and nature lovers. It has an attractive cafe, small school and numerous attractions and accommodation houses. The area is also home to the locally renowned Ferns Hideaway Resort. Nestled in the rainforest, this resort has a rustic charm and will appeal to all ages. Also not to be missed is the world-class rainforest gallery, Nob Creek Pottery, a must-see attraction when visiting Byfield. In the surrounding state forest you’ll find picturesque water holes and picnic spots where you can paddle a canoe or take a dip in the freshwater creeks. Stony Creek and Water Park Creek are popular spots for day-trippers, with several bush walking tracks and camping is also available. Red Rock (dog friendly) Camp ground offers the best caravan access with individual fire pits and tables at each site.
Three Rivers Beach, Five Rocks
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Only accessible by 4WD, Five Rocks is a favourite weekend getaway for locals and visitors alike. Located in Byfield Conservation Park, visitors will discover one of the largest parabolic sand dunes in Australia. These beaches boast a good surf break, and there are plenty of bays and creeks to throw in a line. Camping grounds also provide basic facilities and permits are required to camp in the National Park & State Forest (fees apply, no dogs).
Upper Stony Creek Picnic Area
Ferns Hideaway Resort Secluded rainforest resort with rustic log cabins, grassed camping/ caravan area and camp lounge. Canoe on our rainforest creek or relax by the pool. Open 7 days a week. Restaurant is open for lunch Fri, Sat and Sun, and dinner Sat night. Live entertainment on Sat and Sun. 67 CAHILLS ROAD, BYFIELD P: 0408 351 235 W: www.fernshideawayresort.com.au
Nob Creek Pottery An award winning rustic rainforest gallery with one of Queensland’s largest collections of pottery, glass, jewellery, paintings, silk, and bathroom hand basins. Meet the potters, see the workshop and kilns. Accommodation available. Group tours available by appointment. 216 ARNOLDS ROAD, BYFIELD P: 07 4935 1161 M: 0428 192 601 W: www.nobcreekpottery.com.au
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Wreck Point Scenic Lookout
Cooee Bay
Cooee Bay is just south of the Yeppoon CBD and offers some of the most envious residential beach-front locations anywhere on the coast.
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ooee Bay, for the most part, is a sleepy community. It offers a pretty little beach popular for swimming and stand up paddleboarders. The beach is just 500 metres long and best for swimming at high tide (it has some rocky platforms at low tide). Cooee Bay is also home to one of the Capricorn Coast’s newest scenic lookouts. Wreck Point Scenic Lookout on Matthew Flinders Drive is an undisputed “must see”. The lookout depicts a ship’s deck and boasts almost 360 degree views of the coastline and Keppel Bay. In July 2018, Stage 2 of the lookout was completed, and now offers a meandering nature trail, featuring sandstone steps to a viewing platform positioned immediately above a spectacular rocky point drop-off. A ‘shipwreck’ artwork is a central focus to the walking trail, which features an interpretive panel that tells the story of the Selina, the ship that was wrecked and found here in 1848, and after which Wreck Point was named.
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Bluff Point Walking Circuit
Rosslyn Bay
& Beaches
Rosslyn Bay Harbour is situated 7 km south of Yeppoon on the Scenic Highway to Emu Park and is the departure point for transfers to Great Keppel Island and surrounding islands.
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osslyn Bay is also home to Keppel Bay Marina and Rosslyn Bay Harbour. A must-do, whilst visiting the marina, is to take a stroll around the docks and marvel at the luxurious boats moored in the 500 floating marina berths. The marina also has a multi-award winning licensed restaurant where you can enjoy a meal overlooking the water. Located on the deck of Keppel Bay Marina, The Waterline Restaurant offers stunning views and mouth-watering local beef, seafood and produce. Rosslyn Bay is a man-made harbour and is a popular local fishing spot. The harbour has a public jetty, boat ramps, Yacht Club, Coast Guard and service station. Nearby Double Head in the Capricorn Coast National Park, is an ancient volcanic plug formed over 70 million years ago and boasts fantastic geological formations. There is a quality bush walk to the summit where you will see stunning panoramic views of the Keppel Islands.
Before departing Rosslyn Bay, stop off at the Fisherman’s Co-op and sample some locally caught reef fish, prawns, bugs and mud crabs. ENDLESS BEACHES The coastal drive between Yeppoon and Emu Park also offers numerous long stretches of beach and secluded bays including Lammermoor, Kemp, Mulambin and Kinka Beaches. At the southern end of Kemp Beach is Bluff Walking Track, a 2.3 km circuit that offers panoramic views of the coastline. You can climb the 600 m track to Turtle Lookout where you can enjoy the spectacle of turtles swimming in the crystal clear waters below. The Causeway Lake is nestled between Kinka and Mulambin Beaches and is the perfect place for a picnic lunch. It is a very shallow and expansive lake which is popular for kayaking, fishing, family friendly watersports and also offers great photo opportunities at sunset. There is a kiosk and caravan park at the Lake. Capricorn Coast Lifestyle & Visitor Guide
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Emu Park
Just a scenic 20 km drive along the coast from Yeppoon, Emu Park is a peaceful coastal village.
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nce an exclusive beach resort at the turn of the 20th century, Emu Park is an idyllic seaside village with plenty of character. Emu Park is home to the famous Singing Ship sculpture. Set against a spectacular coastal vista, the majestic monument commemorates the area’s legacy of the historical explorations of Captain James Cook. A gentle sea breeze produces a musical sound through fluted pipes that will be long remembered. Just below the Singing Ship is a viewing deck and boardwalk that makes up part of the new Centenary of ANZAC Memorial Walk. The boardwalk hugs the coastline and features information on the First World War’s many major battles. At the lower end of the walk are several commemorative art installations and a gatehouse that honours locals who fought in WW1. Bell Park, located in the town’s centre, is a peaceful oasis perfect for enjoying a picnic or a kick of the footy. The park is home to several iconic events each year like ‘Oktoberfest’ and the ‘Festival of the Wind’, as well as monthly markets. Emu Park Main Beach is a calm beach with a surrounding grassy picnic area and large undercover playground. The beach is patrolled during peak times. If you have a boat or just like to wet a line, nearby Coorooman Creek is a popular local fishing spot with a quality boat ramp and pontoon. From Emu Park, the ‘Scenic Tourist Drive’ (Scenic Hwy) heads back to Rockhampton, passing the turn-off to Koorana Crocodile Farm on the way. Koorana was the first commercial crocodile farm in Queensland. Here you can tour the farm, hold a baby croc or tour guests can dine in the croc restaurant.
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The ‘Gatehouse’ ANZAC War Memorial
Keppel Sands & Joskeleigh
Keppel Sands has an idyllic villagestyle appeal that has changed very little in comparison to many other coastal destinations.
S Keppel Sands
ituated approximately 40 km from Yeppoon, Keppel Sands is separated from Zilzie and Emu Park by the mouth of Coorooman Creek which in turn makes it a popular fishing and crabbing location. A popular holiday spot for families, Keppel Sands boasts a pub, caravan park, motel, local store, two boat ramps, a lovely picnic area by the beach and is home to the annual Krabtastic event on Easter Sunday. Nearby is the unique community of Joskeleigh which has a captivating past. Joskeleigh has strong links with the South Sea Islanders who were brought to Queensland in the nineteenth century. A great spot to learn more about the history is the small Joskeleigh South Pacific Museum. It highlights the role played by the Kanakas, brought out by the ‘blackbirders’ to work the sugar cane fields as indentured labour. The museum is run by volunteers and is believed to be the only museum of its kind in Queensland. To visit the museum, please call ahead on 07 4934 4854 to make a booking. How to get there: Access to Keppel Sands and Joskeleigh is by sealed road, the turn-off onto Keppel Sands Road is approximately 27 km from Rockhampton or 18 km from Emu Park. Keppel Sands also has an all-tide boat ramp at Coorooman Creek, and a tidal ramp at Pumpkin Creek. The Coast Guard is located at South Head with access via Pumpkin Creek.
The Singing Ship
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The Caves Located just 23 km north of Rockhampton, The Caves township is home to some of the most spectacular caves in Queensland.
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he Township of The Caves is a friendly community and like all country towns has a great pub with loads of character. There is also a general store, service station, and primary school. The area is named after the many limestone caves that are scattered throughout the area. The most famous of these cave systems is the award winning Capricorn Caves, which are believed to be the state’s oldest tourist attraction and display incredible above-ground limestone caves formed from an ancient coral reef over 400 million years ago. The whole family will enjoy the guided walking tours (departing every hour), wild caving adventures and geo tours. There is also a caravan park and fully self-contained cabins on site. The nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park is home to eighty per cent of Australia’s breeding population of female bentwing bats. From December to February ranger-guided tours are offered to see this spectacular nightly emergence of over 100,000 bats from their roost at feeding time (fees apply). This is one of the few places in the world where you can witness the incredible spectacle. The Archer Brothers, who settled in the Rockhampton area in the 1850s, named Mount Etna after the volcano in Sicily.
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Capicorn Caves
Stanage Bay Nestled on the coast, 2 hours drive north of Rockhampton, the fishing village of Stanage Bay really is a place to escape.
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asily accessible from the Bruce Highway, the unsealed drive to Stanage Bay takes you through diverse countryside, eucalypt forests, creeks begging to be picnicked by and swum in, cattle stations with cows wandering casually over the track, and wetlands with enough birds to keep the keenest twitcher happy. Stanage Bay was Captain Cook’s second landing in Queensland. He named the water ways here Thirsty Sound, because when he came to shore in search of fresh water none could be found, thus the name remains today.
Mount Etna Caves National Park
Stanage has three suburbs, which have been affectionately renamed by the locals Alligator Point (Beverly Hills) - great views and beach access, rentals, boat hire, tyre repair, day charter fishing trips; Alligator Bay (Happy Valley) - pretty beach and rentals; Plumtree (Paradise) - boat ramp, coastguard, rentals, beach, creeks, tackle shop, boat storage, store, pub, fuel, post outlet, public phone, public toilets, camping (BYO water). How to get there: From Rockhampton, drive along the Bruce Highway for 75 km, then turn right onto the Stanage Bay road just past Kunwarara. Drive another 100 km along this mostly unsealed road, which is accessible by 2WD except during very wet weather (check before you go). Limited mobile phone coverage is now available across the township of Stanage Bay. The local Plumtree Store can provide a range of accommodation options for visitors to the area. For more information contact them on (07) 4937 3169.
Stanage Bay
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Beach Guide
Beach Guide
The Capricorn Coast boasts many breathtaking, tranquil beaches offering good swimming and fishing opportunities. Main Beach Yeppoon is 1.3 km of swimming beach suitable for all ages and abilities. The beach has excellent access ramps, toilets, electric BBQs and picnic facilities. It is also the focal point for many coastal events, like ‘Tropical Pinefest’ and the annual ‘Australia Day’ celebrations. Dogs are not allowed.
Farnborough Beach is just north of Yeppoon and is 17 km long and part of ‘The Big Dune Surfing Reserve’. The beach offers a good beach break. Dogs are allowed off leash from Bangalee boat ramp south to Barwells Creek with access via Hinz Avenue.
Lammermoor Beach is 2.5 km long and
Emu Park Main Beach is a quiet beach with calm waters. The beach has shady picnic facilities, playground and is close to shops. Dogs are not allowed.
Fishermans Beach is 2 km long and curves almost north facing. Fishermans Beach is the focus of boat fishing, however, there are plenty of rocks and rock platforms to fish from at high tide. There is also a sealed boat ramp and fishing wharf.
Keppel Sands Main Beach is 1.3 km long
and faces east. The beach is backed by the small Keppel Sands settlement. Swimming and fishing is best at high tide.
backed by casuarina-covered foredunes, with a small tidal creek at the southern end. Swimming is best at high tide.
Kemp Beach is a wide sandy beach with a rocky outcrop called ‘The Bluff’, which has excellent walking tracks and lookouts where you can often spot turtles and dolphins in the waters below. Kemp Beach has BBQs, picnic tables and toilets. Dogs are permitted at designated times.
Mulambin Beach is 2 km long. Mulambin
Beach is cradled between Bluff Point at the northern end and Pinnacle Point to the south, both of which are part of the Capricorn Coast National Park. There is access at the northern end for launching boats off the beach at high tide.
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Dogs Off Leash If you are travelling with your four legged friend, the Capricorn Coast is a great place to visit! Dogs are permitted off leash on all beaches before 8 am and after 4 pm unless signposted (all other times dogs must be on a leash). Day time off leash beaches are Farnborough Beach, Yeppoon (from Bangalee boat ramp south to Barwells Creek with access via Hinz Avenue and Fishermans Beach) and Emu Park (from the beach access 150 metres north of Bell Park to Tanby Point with access via Hill Street). This excludes public holidays and weekends. Dogs are not permitted on any beach adjacent to Byfield National Park.
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Mulambin Beach, looking towards Kinka Beach & the mouth of the Causeway Lake
Fishing The Capricorn Coast offers a variety of choices from freshwater lakes to estuarine, reef and ocean fishing. Why not try your luck fishing “out wide” with a local charter? local Spots Coorooman Creek, Zilzie Estuary fishing (whiting, grunter, flathead, mud crabs). Ramp access and pontoon. Causeway Lake, Kinka Beach Estuary fishing (sheltered, best on tidal run-through). Ramp access. Ross Creek, Yeppoon Estuary fishing (high tide run). Ramp access. Double Head/The Bluff, Rosslyn Bay Rock ocean fishing (mackerel, bream, cod, etc). Ramp access. Five Rocks, Byfield National Park Rock ocean fishing (high tide, mackerel, etc). Corio Bay, Yeppoon Estuary fishing (best on flood tide, boat access only). Keppel Bay/Deep Sea Fishing Charters depart from Keppel Bay Marina and Rosslyn Bay. For more information about fishing in the area, contact one of the local Visitor Information Centres. Barramundi season runs from February 2 – October 31. Please note that fishing rules apply throughout Queensland to help sustain natural fish species numbers. For more information on fishing regulations, call the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Queensland on 13 25 23 or visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au. 22
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Popular species in the Capricorn Coast region SPECIES
SIZE LIMIT (CM)
POSSESSION LIMIT
Barramundi
58 min 120 max
5
Barred Javelin (Spotted Grunter)
40 min
10
Bream
25 min
Combined limit of 30 in total of pikey and yellowfin bream and tarwhine
Summer/sand, goldline and northern whiting
23 min
Combined limit of 30 in total of these whiting species
Winter/trumpeter whiting
No limit
50
All flathead (except dusky)
30 min
Combined limit of 5 in total of these species
Dusky flathead
40 min 75 max
5
Doggy Mackerel
50 min
10
Spanish Mackerel
75 min
3
Golden Trevally & Giant Trevally
No Limit
Combined limit of 20 in total of these species
Please note: Size and possession limits apply to coral reef fish species. In addition to individual possession limits for each coral reef fin fish species, they have a combined maximum possession limit of 20. (*Disclaimer: Species content supplied by the Department of Agriculture & Fisheries QLD and correct at time of printing)
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National Parks & walking trails
Capricorn Coast national park The Capricorn Coast National Park has several walks along the coast showcasing the native bushland and stunning scenic views across the Keppel Islands. Fan Rock and Rosslyn Bay Lookouts Grade: Moderate Access: Via John Howes Drive Distance: 700 m return Time: 40 minutes Details: At Double Head, this steep sealed track takes you through shady vine thickets and sunny grasslands and features two scenic lookouts—Fan Rock and Rosslyn Bay. Enjoy views to the Keppel Bay islands and other volcanic plugs south along the coast from Fan Rock and spectacular views north to Yeppoon and the Byfield Ranges from Rosslyn Bay Lookout. Bluff Point Circuit Grade: Moderate Access: Scenic Highway, southern end of Kemp Beach picnic area Distance: 2.3 km return Time: 1.5 hours At Bluff Point, enjoy panoramic views of the Capricorn coastline and the Keppel Bay islands on the 2.3 km circuit track. Take a steep 600 m climb to Turtle Lookout to admire 24
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the flooded hill tops of the Keppel Bay islands and spot turtles swimming in the water beneath you. Continue a short distance to Ritamada Outlook for views along the coast and return the way you came or continue along the track through open grasslands with views of the hinterland, and dense dry rainforest to complete the 2.3 km circuit.
byfield state forest For a change of scenery, venture about 30 min drive north of Yeppoon. Byfield State Forest offers a number of day walks, which are great options for the warmer months, especially when they end at a cool watering hole! All three camping areas in the state forest have adjoining day-use areas with picnic tables and toilets. Upper Stony and Water Park Creek have automatic BBQs, while Red Rock has wood BBQs —you must bring your own clean, milled timber for firewood. Stony Creek Circuit Grade: Moderate Access: Upper Stony Picnic/Camping Area Distance: 3.4 km return from Upper Stony day-use area or camping area. Time: Allow about 4 hours Wander beside picturesque Stony Creek through eucalypt forest and mature exotic pines with heath understorey. Enjoy a quick dip in Stony Creek at Freemans Crossing to cool off.
Bluff Point Walking Circuit
Bowenia Rainforest Circuit Grade: Easy Access: Water Park Creek Day Use area Distance: 1.2 km return Time: Allow about 30 min Catch glimpses of Water Park Creek through small openings in tall turpentine forest and enjoy the cool rainforest that features the ancient fern-like cycad, Bowenia serrulata (Byfield fern).
yeppoon CBD Pineapple Rail Trail Grade: Easy Access: Braithwaite Street, Yeppoon (off the roundabout) Distance: 4.5km (one way) Time: Allow 1 hour A trail the whole family can enjoy jogging, walking or on the bikes. The track is bitumen and passes through urban and picturesque bushland setting. The railway line was constructed in 1901 and was closed in 2006 when pineapples were shifted to road transport. For more information on walks, talk to the friendly volunteers at the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre or visit www.npsr.qld.gov.au. Pineapple Rail Trail
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Top Spots
for families
The best things in your kids’ lives really are free when exploring the Capricorn Coast!
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Yeppoon Lagoon & Keppel Kracken Where: Anzac Parade, Yeppoon Esplanade Free fun does not get any better than this! Bursting jets of water, sparkling infinity pool and glorious views of Keppel Bay will please any family member. Not to mention there’s also a skate park and playground.
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Emu Park Main Beach & Playground Where: Emu Park Main Beach Beautiful patrolled beach for year round swimming, there is also a large undercover playground overlooking the beach, perfect for parents who prefer an ocean view whilst pushing their little ones on the swings!
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Snorkel the Reef Where: Great Keppel & Pumpkin Islands If you happen to find yourself on Great Keppel or Pumpkin Islands, then pack your snorkel gear. There is fantastic fringing reef accessible right from the beach. If you didn’t pack your gear, don’t worry as many of the accommodation providers on the islands offer complimentary gear for their guests.
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Drive Farnborough Beach Where: Access via Hinz Ave, Bangalee For families with an all-wheel-drive, make your way to Farnborough Beach for some easy beach driving. Farnborough is popular for fishing and surfing and is a long flat beach with loads of space for kids to run. Drive to the end and find yourself at Corio Bay (N.B. check tide times first, no facilities on beach).
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Upper Stony Picnic Area Where: Byfield Road, Byfield State Forest Families love ‘Stony’! Pack a BBQ lunch and enjoy a cook-up on the edge of this beautiful freshwater swimming spot. Take a dip, explore the rapids, or venture on a bush walk. www.capricornholidays.com.au
Keppel Kracken
What’s On
Here you’ll find our feature events, but you can find even more at capricornholidays.com.au/events. 1 September 2018 St Brendan’s College Central Isuzu Rodeo 139 Adelaide Park Rd, YEPPOON 7 - 9 September 2018 Emu Park Fishing Classic The Pine Beach Hotel, Granville St, Emu Park 12 - 14 October 2018 Yeppoon Lions Tropical Pinefest Anzac Parade, YEPPOON 27 October 2018 Emu Park Lions Oktoberfest Bell Park, EMU PARK 2 - 4 November 2018 Opera in the Caves Capricorn Caves, THE CAVES
Markets Yeppoon Community Markets Every Saturday morning 6am – 10am Morris St, Yeppoon Showgrounds Figtree Creek Markets Every 1st Sunday of the month. 9am – 12noon Next to the Visitor Information Centre, Yeppoon Emu Park Picnic Markets Every 3rd Sunday of the month. 8am – 12 noon Bell Park, Emu Park Causeway Lake Markets Every 4th Sunday of the month 9am – 1pm Causeway Lake
26 January 2019 The Great Australia Day Beach Party Anzac Parade, YEPPOON 14 April 2019 Festival of the Wind Bell Park, EMU PARK 24 - 26 May 2019 Opera in the Caves Capricorn Caves, THE CAVES 20 April 2019 Krabtastic Festival KEPPEL SANDS 27 - 28 July 2019 Yeppoon Triathlon Anzac Parade, YEPPOON 2-5 August 2019 Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race Keppel Bay Marina, ROSSLYN BAY 10 - 11 August 2019 CQUniversity Village Festival Anzac Parade, YEPPOON (*Disclaimer: EventCapricorn dates were correct at time printing) Coast Lifestyle & of Visitor Guide
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whERE TO GO
Capricorn Caves OLSENS CAVES ROAD, THE CAVES P: 07 4934 2883 W: www.capricorncaves.com.au Discover an ancient Australian landscape where caves honeycomb a limestone ridge. Nature based experiences depart daily ranging from wheelchair accessible Cathedral Cave Tours, adventure caving explorations or take a walk back in time on the new fossil tour. Spend the night in tranquility, this bush retreat features a caravan park, and secluded two bedroom fully self-contained cabins. Open 7 days. 9.00am to 5.00pm.
Koorana Crocodile Farm 65 SAVAGES ROAD, COOWONGA P: 07 4934 4749 W: www.koorana.com.au LEARN - TASTE - EXPERIENCE Koorana is QLD’s oldest commecial crocodile farm and home to around 5,000 crocodiles. • Guided Tours get you up-close to these living dinosaurs • Tours operate at 10.30am & 1.00pm - 7 days a week • Have your photo taken holding a small crocodile (free) • Croc Bistro - Tour guests only (costs apply) 12 - 1pm daily • Gift Shop - Crocodile skin products available • See baby crocs hatching (March - May) • Learn about the fascinating behaviour of crocodiles
Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary Cuddle a Koala, hold a Snake or Parrot, and hand feed Kangaroos! Over 300 animals to see. Animal show at 1pm daily. BBQ area and Pool. Bring a picnic or have a BBQ. Open 7 days. 10am - 3pm. We are only 15 min drive north from Yeppoon Main Beach. WOODBURY ROAD, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 7590 W: www.cooberriepark.com.au
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Saleyards Distillery Home of Capricorn Spiced & Billy Goat’s Gin. Gold Medal winner at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Open Tues - Sun from 10am. Distillery tours & food is available. Crafty Fox artisan beers brewed on site and available on tap. 52 GLADSTONE ROAD, ROCKHAMPTON P: 0422 400 464 W: www.saleyardsdistillery.com
WHERE TO GO
The Spinnaker 38 ANZAC PARADE, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 9585 W: www.kbsc.com.au FAMILY RESTAURANT - OCEAN VIEWS - BUFFET Opposite the beach on Anzac Parade in Yeppoon’s town centre and offering beautiful views from the deck, The Spinnaker is a perfect spot for lunch, dinner or just a relaxing time out. Featuring a big screen TV perfect for sports and entertainment, a kids’ play room and outside play gym, family restaurant and large gaming lounge - it’s the club for everyone. The Spinnaker offers an excellent range of specials for lunch and dinner, along with a delicious buffet option. With regular raffles, promotions and giveaways plus school holiday activities for the kids and a free courtesy bus that gets you to and from your accommodation, you’ll be delighted you came. Call 07 4939 9585 for bookings and enquiries.
VUE Wine Bar & Restaurant Beachfront restaurant with stunning views. Yeppoon’s best dining experience. Always using the freshest ingredients. Gourmet Traveller 1 Glass Award Winners for Wine List 2018. Open 7 days a week for LUNCH & DINNER. BREAKFAST - Friday, Saturday & Sunday. 32 ANZAC PARADE, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 8034 W: www.vuewinebar.com
Crave Surf Industries Need the latest in Surf and Streetwear for your Capricorn Coast holiday? Crave stocks all the latest fashions for the entire family. Sizes 0 through to 3XL. So whether you’re in need of new sunnies, footwear, swimwear, or a cute dress for cocktails by the beach, we have you covered. Open 7 days. SHOP 19/20, YEPPOON CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE P: 07 4939 8182 W: www.facebook.com/cravesurf I #cravesurf
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whERE TO GO
Footlights Theatre Restaurant 123 ROCKHAMPTON ROAD, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 2399 W: www.footlights.com.au Footlights Theatre Restaurant offers the finest in entertainment, food and atmosphere to all Capricorn Coast guests. Offering a lunch or dinner show. • Top Class Comedy Variety Show • The Finest in Entertainment, Food and Atmosphere • Delicious Three Course Dinner • Generous Group Concessions and Seniors Discount • Fully Licensed Restaurant Guaranteed great night out! Bookings essential.
Krackers Bar & Grill 20 BOWLS STREET, YEPPOON P: 07 4925 0942 W: www.kbsc.com.au Krackers Bar & Grill is a spacious and quiet neighbourhood bowls club with a friendly bar open daily from 10am. The bistro is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Sunday and offers $10 lunch specials, nightly specials and an a la carte menu. Organise a fun and casual barefoot bowls game with your friends or join in the regular bowls activities. Our courtesy bus is available to collect you from your accommodation and take you back again when you’re ready. With a private gaming lounge, raffles and exciting promotions, Krackers has something for everyone! • Courtesy Bus • Friendly Bowls Club • $10 Lunch Specials • Private Gaming Lounge • Bar open from 10am daily
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WHERE TO GO
Artwork on the Capricorn Coast
TURTLE HUNTERS Doug Hatfield & Edwards Clarke Yeppoon Town Centre Car Park Facade
ANZAC MEMORIAL Bill Gannon Emu Park Foreshore
LION FISH Out There Co. Interior of Yeppoon Town Centre Car Park
SNUBFIN DOLPHIN Amber Countryman Yeppoon Foreshore
COLOURFUL COCKATOOS Rosie Woods Pattison Street, Emu Park
TURTLE LOOKOUT Simon Mclean Kemp Beach
GROUCHO MARX Out There Co. Yeppoon Library
SEA SCULPTURES Natureworks The Keppel Kraken
For a full list of public art and placemaking features on the Capricorn Coast, pick up your FREE Visitor Guide to the Yeppoon Foreshore AVAILABLE AT VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE & LOCAL BUSINESSES Capricorn Coast Lifestyle & Visitor Guide
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whERE TO GO Guided Fishing Down Under
Pumpkin Island The ultimate getaway for couples, families or groups. Offering ecofriendly beach front accommodation for up to 34 guests in 7 selfcatering units powered by wind and sun. Fish, snorkel, kayak, paddle board, harvest oysters, wander secluded beaches or just laze in a hammock.
Come sportfishing for Barramundi and Threadfin in the estuaries and delta of the vast Fitzroy system, or explore the Keppel Islands and Capricorn Coast, while targeting a range of pelagic and reef species. We offer half and full days guiding, for a maximum of 3 people. Contact John to discuss your charter. CAPRICORN COAST & ROCKHAMPTON P: Contact John on 0418 187 618 W: www.guidedfishingdownunder.com
BOAT TRANSFERS FROM KEPPEL BAY MARINA P: 07 4939 4413 W: www.pumpkinisland.com.au
Freedom Fast Cats JOHN HOWES DRIVE, ROSSLYN BAY P: 07 4933 6888 W: www.freedomfastcats.com Discover Great Keppel Island and the Southern Great Barrier Reef with Freedom Fast Cats. Offering island day visits, accommodation transfers, reef encounters and more. We have a range of cruise options including snorkelling, boom-netting, glass bottom boat and catered lunch tours. Departing daily from Rosslyn Bay, enjoy a short 30 minute ride onboard our comfortable, licensed ferry offering a viewing deck and friendly knowledgeable crew. Operates 7 days.
Henderson Park Farm Retreat 88 CH BARRETTS ROAD, BARMOYA P: 0409 631 451 W: www.hendersonpark.com.au Henderson Park is a working cattle property under 30 minutes drive from both Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast. Self-contained Cabin and Lodge accommodation are nestled on the banks of a beautiful creek and offer a secluded and relaxing ambience for Couples, Families, Weddings, Functions, Corporate Events and Training. Activities include canoeing, bushwalking, birdwatching, educational tours. Wheelchair accessible. Pet friendly. Come and visit our little piece of paradise! 32
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where to stay
Echelon Apartments
Salt Apartments Located opposite Main Beach in the heart of Yeppoon’s CBD. 4.5 star, 2 and 3 bedroom selfcontained apartments. Ideal choice for families and couples to relax. Large balconies, rooftop pool and BBQ area. Walking distance to cafes, restaurants and playgrounds.
18-22 ANZAC PARADE, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 0900 W: www.echelonyeppoon.com.au
Beaches on Lammermoor
4.5 star apartments situated on Yeppoon’s Main Beach. Offering fifty 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments with unsurpassed ocean views, and 2 resort pools. Walking distance to cafes, restaurants, Keppel Kracken and Yeppoon Lagoon. 32-34 ANZAC PARADE, YEPPOON P: 07 4925 2200 W: www.saltyeppoon.com.au
Villa Mar Colina
Ideally located opposite Lammermoor Beach, with panoramic views of the Keppel Islands. Enjoy the Lagoon pool and BBQ area or stroll to the beach. Luxurious 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, security undercover parking, minutes drive away from Yeppoon or Rosslyn Bay. 96-98 SCENIC HIGHWAY, YEPPOON P: 07 4913 8300 W: www.beachesonlammermoor.com.au
Sail Inn
We offer 15 beautifully appointed Mediterranean style, fully self contained one, two and three bedroom villas, with your own private garage.
34 ADELAIDE STREET, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 3177 W: www.villamarcolina.com.au
Rosslyn Bay Resort Located in the heart of Yeppoon’s CBD. Easy walking distance to restaurants, shops and the beach. Accommodating singles to large families. All basics covered plus Foxtel and free Wi-Fi. TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2018.
19 JAMES STREET, YEPPOON P: 07 4939 1130 W: www.sailinn.com.au
Villa Mar Colina boasts stunning views across Keppel Bay, lush tropical gardens and infinity pool.
Located in the heart of Rosslyn Bay, opposite the beach, walking distance to Keppel Island Ferry Services and The Waterline Restaurant. Amazing sea views from most of our studio rooms, spa bungalows and 2 bedroom apartments. Pool, bar, and restaurant on-site. Free Wi-Fi. VIN E JONES MEMORIAL DRIVE, ROSSLYN BAY P: 07 4933 6333 W: www.rosslynbayresort.com.au
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where to stay NRMA Capricorn Yeppoon Holiday Park
Fisherman’s Beach Holiday Park Fisherman’s Beach Holiday Park is a member of Top Parks, situated on the beach and walking distance to Emu Park town centre. Boasting sea breezes and direct beach access, it’s the perfect base to explore Emu Park, the Capricorn Coast and the Keppel Bay Islands.
Just 15 minutes south of Yeppoon, you’re all set for family fun in the tropics. Our facilities include a pool, waterslide, outdoor cinema and camp kitchen, with accommodation ranging from cabins to caravan and camp sites.
WILDIN WAY, MULAMBIN P: 07 4933 6144 E: capricornyeppoon@nrmaparksandresorts.com.au
67 PATTISON STREET, EMU PARK P: 07 4847 6002 W: www.fishermansbeachhp.com.au
Discovery Parks Coolwaters Yeppoon 760 SCENIC HIGHWAY, KINKA BEACH P: 1800 266 556 W: www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/coolwaters Set on 60ha of tropical bushland, Discovery Parks Coolwaters, Yeppoon is your next scenic escape on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. The park is a destination within itself, with plenty on offer for guests of all ages. Spoil your family with a five-slide waterpark, large resort pool, bouncing pillows, tennis court, BMX track, walking trails and direct waterfront access to the Causeway Lake perfect for boating, fishing and water sports. With 30 comfortable cabins and over 140 sites, there is an option for all needs and budgets. Choose from Deluxe poolside cabins for the comforts of home to powered and unpowered sites for the genuine camping experience. Our park is directly across the road from Kinka Beach, which is perfect for sunset strolls or beach fun with the family. Make memories that last a lifetime among the palm trees at Discovery Parks - Coolwaters, Yeppoon.
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SUNSET sails SMILES KEPPEL BAY SAILING CLUB
• Beach Club Cafe located right on the beach open 7 days 5.30am to 3.30pm • Clubhouse restaurant and bar open 7 days from 10am • Deck seating with spectacular views • Courtesy bus • Lunch and dinner specials • Live entertainment • Casual sailing experiences • Learn to sail courses
KBSC.COM.AU ANZAC PARADE YEPPOON
4939 9500
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waterline the
restaurant
proudly serving
THE BEST local BEEF & SEAFOOD
open from 7am 7days evening dining Wed-Sun 4933 6244