Queensland's Capricorn & Southern Great Barrier Reef

Queensland’s

Capricorn & Southern Great Barrier Reef

Capricorn

Rockhampton City & Mount Morgan Capricorn Coast – Yeppoon I Emu Park I Zilzie I Byfield Rainforest I Great Keppel Island I Stanage Bay Central Highlands & Sapphire Gemfields – Rubyvale I Anakie I Sapphire I Emerald I Lake Maraboon Carnarvon Gorge I Springsure I Rolleston I Capella I Blackwater

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Welcome to Capricorn ................................................. 4

Hooked-up ......................................................................20

Southern Great Barrier Reef ....................................6

Green with Envy ............................................................ 21

Beautiful by Nature .......................................................8

Accommodation & Attractions ............................ 23

Dining & Nightlife .........................................................10

Other Services ..............................................................26

Shopping & Fashion ...................................................10

Major Events Calendar 2011 - 2012 ...................28

Family Fun ........................................................................ 12

Getting Here & Getting Around............................30

Culture & Heritage Awaits.........................................14

Self Drive Touring Routes ...................................... 32

Uncover a Sapphire .................................................... 16

Maps .................................................................................... 34

As of February 2012, Capricorn will be available on your smart phone!

PEFC (Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification) International accreditation system for recognising sustainable forestry management practices.

Photo credit: Thank you to Tourism Queensland, Mercure Capricorn Resort, Keppel Bay Marina, Keppel Media, John Augusteyn (CapScapes), Casey Imaging, Rockhampton Regional Council and the many contributors and advertisers who supplied editorial material and photographs for this publication.

Disclaimer: This free guide is published by Capricorn Enterprise to assist visitors in planning a holiday to the Capricorn Region of Central Queensland. 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 for 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.

The symbols used throughout this guide are reproduced with the permission of the Environmental Protection Agency. Copyright of the symbols belongs to the State of Queensland.

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Welcome to

Capricorn To help conjure up a sense of what you’ll encounter in Capricorn, imagine this... Rio de Janeiro to the east, Mauritius to the west, all lying across the Tropic of Capricorn, where the climate is tropical. The contrast of sunbathing on secluded beaches to scrambling through underground caves or exploring grounds where our ancestors once roamed. The perfect place to unwind and let go, connect with nature, and each other.

Central Queensland’s Capricorn region begins approximately 630km north of the capital city of Brisbane and covers an area of 115,000 square kilometres, stretching from the Southern Great Barrier Reef and the Capricorn Coast in the east, through the major city of Rockhampton and further west to Emerald, the Sapphire Gemfields and spectacular Carnarvon Gorge.

Several touring routes and major highways connect the Capricorn region with Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne in the south and Cairns in the north, whilst the aptly named Capricorn Highway is the major western highway linking Rockhampton with Longreach in Queensland’s Outback.

All major Australian airlines fly into Rockhampton Airport, with regular direct flights from Brisbane, Townsville and Sydney plus regular services to other regional centres.

Queensland Rail operates regular high-speed train services between Brisbane and Rockhampton and regular services continue on from Rockhampton to Longreach in the west and Cairns to the north.

ROCKHAMPTON The Tropic of Capricorn Spire Visitor Information Centre Gladstone Road, Rockhampton Freecall: 1800 676 701

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS Central Highlands Visitor Information Centre Clermont Street, Emerald Phone: 07 4982 4142

Customs House Visitor Information Centre Quay Street, Rockhampton Freecall: 1800 805 865

Duaringa Visitor Information Centre Mackenzie Park, Duaringa Phone: 07 4935 7077

Rockhampton Heritage Village Visitor Information Centre Bruce Highway, North Rockhampton Phone: 07 4936 8688

Springsure Information Centre Gregory Highway, Springsure Phone: 07 4984 1961

CAPRICORN COAST Yeppoon Visitor Information Centre Ross Creek Roundabout Freecall: 1800 675 785

Alpha Visitor Information Centre Shakespeare Street, Alpha Phone: 07 4985 1050

information centres

Talk to a local!

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Mount Morgan Mount Morgan Railway Museum Visitor Information Centre Railway Parade, Mount Morgan Phone: 07 4938 2312 This symbol indicates the Visitor Information Centre is accredited for the provision of quality, independent visitor information services.

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Carnarvon Gorge

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Southern Great Barrier Reef The Capricorn region has one of the most spectacular bay of islands in Queensland. Keppel Bay is made up of some 20 islands — after a short 30 minute ferry transfer from the mainland through Freedom Fast Cats, you will be snorkelling and exploring one of the most spectacular sections of the Great Barrier Reef.

The Keppel Bay Islands Keppel Bay is studded with islands and stretches from Curtis Island to Corio Bay. The picturesque Capricorn Coast, with its townships of Yeppoon, Emu Park and Keppel Sands, fronts the bay. The two largest islands, Great Keppel (1454ha) and North Keppel (627ha), are surrounded by 16 smaller islands.

Whether you're visiting Great Keppel Island for a lazy picnic lunch, or staying for a couple of weeks, you can't fail to be impressed by the scenery and the relaxed atmosphere on the island. Pumpkin Island is another island on Queensland’s must see list. This eco-friendly retreat is home to just five self-catering cottages powered by wind and sun, overlooking a pristine beachfront.

Step straight onto the fringing reef surrounding the island and snorkel through clear waters – with pristine coral this close now everyone can enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. The waters surrounding the Keppels are amazingly calm, making it perfect for all types of water sports such as snorkelling, sea kayaking, water-skiing and tubing.

Accommodation on Great Keppel Island ranges from tents and cabins to private beach houses. Camping is allowed in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park of North Keppel Island, Humpy Island, Miall Island, Middle Island, Divided Island and Pelican Island.

Island Cruises & Charters In Capricorn you can experience the joys of island cruising within an hour of leaving port, without the hustle and bustle of some other more frequented coastal cruising grounds.

Ferries depart most days to Great Keppel Island from Pier One, Rosslyn Bay. A number of charters, and full day cruises, sailing adventures, and extended tour options are also available from Keppel Bay Marina.

Scuba & Snorkel Daily scuba diving and snorkelling services operate from both the mainland and Great Keppel Island, to the pristine reefs of the Keppels, part of Australia's Great Barrier Reef. The Keppels are surrounded by shallow fringing reefs and vast, abundant marine life, which can be accessed quickly and easily aboard all dive vessels. Divers can experience more than 40 dive locations, and see hundreds of different varieties of tropical fish, hard and soft coral, friendly turtles, sea snakes, dolphins, and giant manta rays.

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Keppel Bay Islands

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Beautiful

by Nature

Whether you are looking for adventure or seeking quieter pleasures, the Capricorn region is a natural paradise of vast national parks, spectacular sandstone gorges and tropical islands lying within reach of the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef.

Millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion have created some of the most dramatic sandstone gorges you will find anywhere in Australia, their deep rock crevices concealing ancient Aboriginal art.

Byfield State Forest and National Park can only be described as an oasis and one of the Capricorn Coast’s best kept secrets.

Picturesque recreation areas surrounded by rainforest-edged creeks, rugged mountains, pine plantations and ancient cycads are highlights during a visit to Byfield. The National Park has outstanding coastal scenery, massive sand dunes, rugged granite pinnacles and remote coastal camping opportunities.

All tracks through the park are sand or unsealed therefore best suited for 4x4 driving.

Arcadia Valley

When travelling further west from Rockhampton along the Capricorn Highway it’s hard to miss the spectacular Blackdown Tableland. Blackdown Tableland National Park rises abruptly above the surrounding dry plains, and protects spectacular sandstone scenery with gorges and waterfalls at the northeastern edge of the Central Queensland sandstone belt.

A holiday to the Capricorn region would not be complete without a visit to spectacular Carnarvon Gorge. The gorge is an oasis in the semi-arid heart of Queensland. Here, in the gorge section of Carnarvon National Park, towering white sandstone cliffs form a spectacular steep-sided gorge with narrow, vibrantly-coloured and lush side gorges. The gorge is a bushwalker’s paradise as the main track criss-crosses Carnarvon Creek as it winds through the gorge.

Byfield State Forest

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For a real outback experience and a great opportunity to meet some fair dinkum Aussies, join in daily life on a working cattle station. By day learn to muster on horseback, and by night enjoy dinner from a camp oven while stories are shared under the stars. Discover real adventure and genuine country experiences.

Carnarvon Gorge

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Dining & Nightlife With the best of both coast and country, it’s no wonder that Capricorn’s cuisine is as diverse as the region it comes from.

Sure, Rockhampton is the Beef Capital of Australia and offers premium export quality produce, but beef is not the only thing on the menu in Capricorn.

Crocodile is another trademark food of the region! Sourced from the local Koorana Crocodile Farm, visitors can enjoy a croc steak or even a crocodile pie.

The Rockhampton Riverbank Precinct along historic Quay Street boasts numerous restaurants catering for all budgets.

Enjoy hip wine and cocktail bars, sophisticated riverside dining, and funky gastro-pubs and hip clubs.

Spend a lazy Saturday morning shopping for sun-ripened mangoes, pineapples or lychees at the local Capricorn Coast markets or visit a local seafood shop and indulge in a Queensland mud crab or a kilo of prawns to enjoy by the sea.

Great Western Hotel

Shopping & Fashion Stop off at the region’s major shopping complex Stockland Rockhampton and revive yourself with some retail therapy whilst browsing through over 170 specialty stores. The East Street Mall in Rockhampton and the CBD of Yeppoon are well known for their various local boutiques, stocking some great Australian designers.

East Street Mall, Rockhampton

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Motel 98 Bistro

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Family Fun Mt Hay Gemstone Park

Take the family swimming, fishing or camping. Give your children a glimpse of Australian native animals in their natural surroundings.

Why not let them hold a baby crocodile, fossick for precious gemstones, explore ancient Aboriginal art sites and enjoy the friendliness of rural country towns.

A short drive north of Rockhampton is the Capricorn Caves. The Caves offer a variety of tour options so why not try the ‘Family Caving Adventure’. Bats are more likely to be seen on this tour as they prefer the quieter, darker caves.

Enjoy the cool seclusion of a rainforest village at Byfield. Hire a canoe and paddle along the freshwater creek where the rainforest spills to the water’s edge. Here you’ll find excellent picnic areas perfect for a family BBQ and beautiful freshwater swimming holes that will keep the kids occupied for hours. Discover pottery galleries. Take home a wonderful local souvenir or try your own hand at the potter’s wheel.

Great Keppel Island

Depart with the family on a day cruise around the Keppel Bay Islands with Freedom Fast Cats. Enjoy a Glass Bottom Boat tour for coral viewing and fish feeding. Make sure you experience a ride in the boomnet before completing your cruise – lie in the net while cruising the magnificent island bays, it’s just like a spa, but in the ocean.

Pocket Check List

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Family Adventure Caving

Snorkel & Island Day Cruise

Cuddle a Koala

Fossick for Thundereggs or Sapphires

Hire a Paddle Board or Kayak

Tour a Crocodile Farm

Swim in a Rainforest Creek

Spot a Platypus at Carnarvon Gorge

Milk a Cow

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Experience the wonders of being close to today’s link to dinosaurs with a public tour of the Koorana Crocodile Farm. The farm also offers spotlight dinner tours, education tours, crocodile leather products for sale, and a fully licensed restaurant with crocodile meat dishes.

Experience adventure outback style and learn how to muster cattle, crack a whip and ride a motorbike on a real Australian cattle station. You might even convince the kids to trade washing the dishes for milking a cow!

Hire a tinny and take the kids fishing for redclaw in Lake Maraboon near Emerald. Lake Maraboon is three times the size of Sydney Harbour and is a perfect place to teach the whole family to fish.

Buzz around the Capricorn Coast on a cool 50cc Daytona Scooter or soak up the sun in a soft top Jeep Wrangler, with Mad Duck Leisure Rentals. Whether you want to relax and soak up the view or if a more adventurous paddle is what you’re into, the kids will love their range of kayaks, surfboards, beach games and activities.

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Rockhampton Botanic Gardens

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Rockhampton Art Gallery

Culture & Heritage Awaits Heritage and Cultural attractions are in abundance throughout the region. Rockhampton was established in 1855 and boasts some of Queensland’s most spectacular architecture. Quay Street in Rockhampton, is the longest heritage listed street in Australia, while a number of cultural sites and a strong agricultural history are on show across the Central Highlands.

At the Rockhampton Heritage Village and Information Centre you will step back in time. This friendly township museum showcases the rich, colourful history of the Rockhampton district from 1850 – 1950. Wonderful displays of restored buildings, vehicles, machinery, doll and clock collections, plus friendly farm animals, all set in beautiful gardens.

If it’s the arts you’re interested in, you will be impressed by the Rockhampton Art Gallery. It houses an extensive permanent collection of works by Australian and Queensland artists, featuring iconic Australian painters Sidney Nolan, Russell Drysdale and Arthur Boyd.

The Pilbeam Theatre in Rockhampton is the centre for the performing arts in the region. A variety of productions are staged at the venue including music, drama, dance and comedy.

Take a guided tour of the Dreamtime Cultural Centre and learn more about Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history. Experience Didgeridoo playing, Djarn Djarn Dancers, Boomerang throwing and much more.

Blackdown Tableland National Rockhampton Heritage Village Park

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Rockhampton Historic Precinct

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Uncover a Sapphire Make the discovery of a lifetime when you go fossicking for gems at the largest sapphire fields in the Southern Hemisphere, which include the towns of Rubyvale, Anakie, Willows Gemfields and Sapphire.

Dig at one of the nominated fossicking areas, or take it easy and buy a bucket of wash where all the digging has been done for you. All you have to do is sieve and sort for the hidden treasure. If you get gem-fever, you can even buy a bag of wash to take home with you!

Take a trip down under and explore the underground mine and find out how sapphires are formed and experience what life is like as a gem prospector. Learn how to identify the different types of sapphires and pick up some fossicking tips from the experts.

If luck is not on your side when looking for sapphires, stop at one of the gem galleries and showrooms and browse through the range of stunning gems available to purchase.

Also take a drive to see the tin humpies and billy boulder houses scattered across the moon-like landscape and stop at a local gemfields pub to chat to some of the area’s eccentric locals. Whatever you do, don’t underestimate the infectious desire to uncover a precious gem – you may be here much longer than you think!

For more information, refer to advertising on page 27.

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Sapphires are not always blue. They can be colourless, grey, yellow, gold, pale pink, orange, green, violet, brown or parti-coloured.

Fast Fact Sapphire Fossicking

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Hooked-up Most fishermen would agree that nothing comes close to the thrill of reeling in your own catch, and in the Capricorn region there are plenty of opportunities for you to do just this.

Whether you enjoy saltwater or freshwater fishing, the opportunities to wet a line do not get much better than those in Central Queensland.

Experienced fishermen will love the variety of locations on offer and for the first-timers…well, there are even charters that will bait your hook!

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Green with Envy The Capricorn region is home to some of Queensland’s most stunning golf courses. Exploding with native flora and fauna, a stroll down the fairway is not complete without passing a lazy kangaroo sprawled under a majestic gum tree.

Courses include: 2 World Class Courses at Mercure Capricorn Resort, Rockhampton Golf Club in the heart of the city, and the world’s first synthetic course at Zilzie Bay, just to name a few.

Imagine a place where an endless beach stretches further than the eye, spectacular sub-tropical islands to the east and ancient volcanic ranges to the west?

There’s no need to imagine.

The place is Mercure Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon. *Votre programme de fidélité

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The Rockhampton Region things to do places to see

Botanic Gardens Archer Park Heritage Village An active township museum where visitors can experience the rich and colourful history of the Rockhampton District.

The museum features the only operational Purrey Steam Tram in the world. The life-like mannequins will take you back to the World War II era.

Regarded as among the best in regional Australia the Botanic Gardens is the ideal setting to meet with friends while enjoying a meal under the shady

The Zoo Rockhampton Zoo, situated within the Botanic Gardens is home to over 50 species of Australian native and exotic animals.

A must see for the entire family.

Mount Morgan Mount Morgan, integral to our Region’s history is home to at least nine heritage listed buildings and Jurassic era dinosaur footprints!

Art Gallery Riverside Park Caravan Parks Enjoy a stay at our shaded beachside caravan parks at ‘Beachside’, Yeppoon, ‘Bell Park’, Emu Park and ‘Bill Kingel’, Keppel Sands.

Take a deserved break and wander along the picturesque banks of Rockhampton’s Riverside Park along the Fitzroy River and historic Quay Street.

Don’t miss the Rockhampton Art Gallery to see one of Australia’s best Regional Collections and some of our most talented local artists.

Yeppoon Beaches Soak up the tranquility of one of Yeppoon’s many beaches, then treat yourself to a bite to eat from one of the many alfresco cafes.

Mt Archer Take a drive to Mt Archer and breathe in the After a picnic, why not take a stroll around the summit.

THE ROCKHAMPTON REGION 22

To see “what’s on” check the EVENT CALENDAR on the website www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au | 1300 22 55 77 www.capricornholidays.com.au | 1800 676 701 www.capricornholidays.com.au | Bookings 1800 676 701

Accommodation & Attractions 

ARCADIA VALLEY ESCAPE

BEACHES ON LAMMERMOOR APARTMENTS

BEST WESTERN CATTLE CITY MOTOR INN

Arcadia Valley Escape is a Farm Stay set in the beautiful Arcadia Valley on a 17000 acre cattle property. Enjoy the privacy of your own self contained house with plenty to see and do.

22 serv apts from $195 pn. Located opposite Lammermoor Beach and boasting the Largest 1 bedroom, 2 & 3 bedroom 2 bathroom Apartments on the Capricorn Coast. All contain modern décor with fully equipped kitchen, indoor laundry, secure parking, Internet and Lift access. Our large Resort Pool surrounded by green zones captures the relaxed tropical feel of Yeppoon and the surrounding islands.

Arcadia Valley Road, Injune 4454 P: 0427 267 197 E: info@arcadiavalleyescape.com www.arcadiavalleyescape.com

96 Scenic Hwy, Lammermoor Beach P: 07 4913 8300 E: info@beachesonlammermoor.com.au www.beachesonlammermoor.com.au

139 Gladstone Road, Rockhampton 4700 P: 07 4927 7811 F: 07 4922 5448 E: cattlecity@bestwestern.com.au www.cattlecity.bestwestern.com.au

CENTRAL PARK MOTEL

HENDERSON PARK FARM RETREAT

MYELLA FARM STAY

Central Park Motel – where the welcome is genuine.

We look forward to making your stay enjoyable in comfortable 4-star accommodation. Spacious, bright, airy rooms. Restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pool.

A little piece of paradise. Working cattle property 30 minutes north of Rockhampton. Luxurious selfcontained cabins and 4 ensuited rooms in Hedlow Lodge – accommodation and function venue.

Complimentary breakfast supplied first morning.

Canoeing, bushwalking, other activities.

Located on the south side of Rockhampton, about 5 minutes from the city centre. We offer 34 rooms with Austar cable TV/broadband Internet access. Our fully licensed “Blue Heeler” Restaurant and Cocktail Bar features an a la carte contemporary Australian menu. Additional amenities include a tropical pool area and fully equipped gym.

OUTBACK LIFESTYLE! Myella is a genuine cattle farm offering a friendly and personal experience. Horse and motorbike riding. 4WD tours. Great home cooking.

Clean accommodation. Tourism award winner.

Join in or relax. 1 ½ hrs from Rockhampton.

224 Murray Street, Rockhampton 4700 P: 07 4927 2333 F: 07 4927 3237 E: cenpark@bigpond.com www.centralparkmotel.com.au

88 C.H Barretts Rd, Barmoya via Rockhampton 4702 P: 07 4934 2794 E: info@hendersonpark.com.au www.hendersonpark.com.au

Rannes Road, Baralaba 4702 P: 07 4998 1290 F: 07 4998 1104 E: myella@bigpond.com www.myella.com

VILLA MAR COLINA

DREAMTIME CULTURAL CENTRE

TMC TOURS

Luxury 4 ½ star Mediterranean hillside villas overlooking Keppel Bay and Islands. 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and luxury penthouse.

Self contained with stunning views and just minutes walk to the beach and central Yeppoon.

Set amongst 30 acres of natural bushland, on Ancient Tribal Sites, Dreamtime is Australia’s largest Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Open Mon–Fri 10:00am – 3:30pm. Guided tours from 10:30am.

Artefacts shop. Conference facilities.

HERITAGE GOLD MINE & DINO PRINTS

34–36 Adelaide Street, Yeppoon 4703 P: 07 4939 3177 F: 07 4939 3332 E: villamarcolina@bigpond.com www.villamarcolina.com.au

Bruce Highway, North Rockhampton 4701 P: 07 4936 1655 F: 07 4936 1671 E: dtime1@iinet.net.au www.dreamtimecentre.com.au

BOOKINGS – P: 07 4938 1823 M: 0409 815 033 E: tmctours@iprimus.com.au www.tmctours.com.au

Historic Mount Morgan, just 40 kms from Rockhampton, Central Queensland. TMC Guided Tours – a journey in time. Experience Australia’s gold mining heritage and marvel at the many Jurassic dinosaur prints uncovered in the ancient fireclay caverns on the mine site.

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Beachfront ACCOMMODATION

@ ECHELON

– Luxury Boutique Apartments & Penthouses – Fully self contained in the heart of Yeppoon – Beach front with ocean views – Rooftop recreation & swimming pool area – Retail arcade & restaurants onsite 18-22 Anzac Parade, Yeppoon Qld 4703

P: 07 4939 0900

www.echelonyeppoon.com.au

BIG4 CAPRICORN PALMS HOLIDAY VILLAGE n n n n n n n n n n

300 metres from the Beach 2 klms from Rosslyn Bay Harbour 4 styles of Accommodation Large Serviced Van Sites Manicured Gardens and Peaceful Surrounds Resort Style Pool and Playground Outdoor Theatre and Jumping Pillow Camp Kitchen Internet Access Immaculate Amenities

Wildin Way Mulambin, YEPPOON QLD 4703 Freecall: 1800 068 703 F: 07 4933 6266 E: stay@big4capricornpalms.com.au www.big4capricornpalms.com.au

GREAT WESTERN HOTEL n n n n n n

4 bars Award winning steak house Gaming room Wednesday and Friday night real life bull riding Concerts Weddings, conferences and special occasions

39 Stanley Street, Rockhampton QLD 4700 P: (07) 4922 3888 F: (07) 4922 1778 E: manager@greatwesternhotel.com.au www.greatwesternhotel.com.au

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CRICOS Provider Codes: Qld 00219C, NSW 01315F, Vic 01624D CO13221

Other Services

CQUniversity: quality education for the Central Queensland community and beyond.

With 10 campuses located along the length of Australia’s east coast, including five located throughout Central Queensland (Bundaberg, Gladstone, Mackay, Noosa and Rockhampton) CQUniversity Australia is well placed to meet the growing education needs of the Capricorn region.

Our students have the choice of studying on-campus or by distance education. We offer great Central Queensland lifestyle, abundant work opportunities and improved career prospects gained by updating or obtaining a qualification.

We work closely with local business, industry and education partners to ensure our degrees are relevant, up to date and produce work ready graduates.

For more information on how CQUniversity can help you Be What You Want to Be, contact us today!

Be WHAT YOU WANT TO Be www.cquni.edu.au 13CQUni 13 27 86 BRISBANE

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Jasons free Queensland Travel Guide is available in area airports, information centres, select accommodation and online at jasons.com.au.

Plan your Capricorn Coast & Rockhampton holiday at 26

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DISTANCE EDUCATION

FREE GUIDE

Queensland

Travel Guide

2012

Visit our website to book

online 20/09/11 9:34 AM

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G

emfest—Festival of Gems

www.gemfest.com.au

Central Queensland Sapphire Gemfields

Celebrating our 25th Anniversary Gemfest Festival of Gems showcases Australian & International gemstones to around 7000 people over four fun filled days. Visitors come from far and wide to share the excitement, enjoy the Gemfields and marvel at the gems on display and for sale. The festival enjoys a high profile in the industry as one of Australia's best Gem Shows and in this, our 25th Anniversary year, promises to be another huge success. Help us celebrate our 25th Anniversary spectacular festival and visit us at the Central Queensland Sapphire Gemfields. Stay a while, fossick, explore and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Sapphire Gemfields.

Gemfest Festival of Gems will be held between 9th—12th August 2012 at Allen King Memorial Park, Anakie, with lots of other activities and entertainment in the surrounding townships of Sapphire, Rubyvale and The Willows.

Phone 07 4985 4375

NEW ROYAL HOTEL RUBYVALE New ownership Meals ~ Pokies ~ Bottleshop ~ Austar ~ Courtesy Coach Spacious log cabins set in native garden with • Air Conditioning • Flat screen TV with Austar • Microwave Keilambete Road, Rubyvale 4702 P: 07 4985 4754 www.rubyvalehotel.com.au

Email: info@gemfest.com.au

RUBYVALE GEM GALLERY The most outstanding collection of sapphires and designer jewellery. An Oasis in the heart of Rubyvale!

• Gem Gallery • Café • Holiday Apartments • Established 1988 3 Main St, Rubyvale 4702 P: (07) 4985 4388 E: rubyvalegemgallery@bigpond.com www.rubyvalegemgallery.com

P.O. Box 353 Sapphire QLD

PAT’S GEMS TOURIST FOSSICKING PARK Pat offers the complete service!

Jewellery & gemstones, gem cutting, gem setting, souvenirs, accommodation, open 7 days.

The Scrub Blush Cafe licensed cafe/restaurant is guaranteed to satisfy.

1056 Rubyvale Road, Sapphire 4702 P: 07 4985 4544 F: 07 4985 4544 E: patsgems@bigpond.com

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Major Events Calendar 2011 – 2012 An Event for every occasion // The Capricorn region plays host to an array of diverse events and activities throughout the year. The enjoyable year round climate, stunning environment and relaxed pace of life, reflecting the best of coast, city and country, makes Capricorn an ideal event location. For more information visit www.capricornevents.com.au

December – January Summer Solstice Light Spectacle 1 December 2011 – 10 January 2012 Capricorn Caves Experience the amazing Summer Solstice at the Capricorn Caves. Viewed from these unique caves this natural phenomenon is sure to amaze all visitors. Best seen on the 11am tour. www.capricorncaves.com.au

The Great Australia Day Beach Party 26 January 2012 Yeppoon Main Beach The Great Australia Day Beach Party is one of the biggest and best family fun days ever staged on the Capricorn Coast. It’s the biggest and most popular ‘family fun’ day of its kind in the region and has been consistently ranked as the third largest Australia Day event in the State.

exposition attracts more than 75,000 local, interstate and international visitors who come to see for themselves how innovation, collaboration, inspiration and celebration collide for one great week every three years in Rockhampton. www.beefaustralia.com.au

June Rockhampton Cup Race Day 23 June 2012 Callaghan Park, Rockhampton Frock up and come and enjoy the exciting feature race meet for the club, Rockhampton Cup Race Day. This meeting features the AUD$100,000 Rockhampton Cup to be run over 1,600 metres. www.callaghanpark.com.au

July Paradise Lagoons Campdraft 19 – 22 July 2012

February – April Crocodile Hatching Mid February 2012 - Mid May 2012 Koorana Crocodile Farm Drop in to the Koorana Crocodile Farm to see the hatching of baby crocs. The hatching season runs from February through to May. www.koorana.com.au

Capella Camel Races 21 April 2012

Paradise Lagoons Paradise Lagoons Campdraft is Australia’s richest campdraft, with AUD$280,000 in prize money and trophies. The event is held at the purpose designed and constructed Paradise Lagoons Val & Tom Acton MBE Memorial Complex just outside Rockhampton. www.campdraft.com

Pat O’Driscoll Real Estate and Tropical Auto Group Pro-am Golf Classic 26 – 29 July 2012

Capella Saddle up for the ride of your life at the annual Capella Camel Races. The event sees amateur competitors compete throughout the day for the grand final prize of AUD$1000, trophy and sheer thrill of racing a camel in the famous Australian Outback.

Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon In its 20th year, the tournament is sure to be another great week of golf with an array of functions and great prizes on offer. The Classic is an exclusive opportunity to play four rounds with some of the country’s past, present and future superstars. www.capricornresort.com.au

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August

Golden Mount Festival 5 – 7 May 2012

Gemfest Festival of Gems 9 - 12 August 2012

Mount Morgan This is a historic event that has been running since 1977. This festival is held over three days during the May Day long weekend and is a celebration of the Mount Morgan Community and its rich history.

Beef Australia 7 – 12 May 2012

Anakie Showgrounds Gemfest Festival of Gems will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2012. This event features the beautiful sapphires of Central Queensland as well as gems and jewels from the rest of Australia and the world. www.gemfest.com.au

Rockhampton Showgrounds Australia’s National Beef Exposition is one of the world’s great beef cattle events. The

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Club Marine Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race 3 – 6 August 2012 Keppel Bay Marina Now in its 6th year, the Club Marine Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race continues to grow. B2K is the signature offshore yachting event for the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. www.keppelbaymarina.com.au

The Village Festival 17 – 19 August 2012 Yeppoon Pony Club The Festival is a kaleidoscope of contemporary culture with something for everyone featuring music, performing arts, visual arts, cultural arts, children’s activities, street theatre, workshops, food, stalls and onsite camping. www.thevillagefestival.org.au

Capricorn Resort Ironman 70.3 19 August 2012 Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon This is the leading destination Ironman 70.3 Triathlon in Australia. In 2012 the event will attract up to 1000 competitors plus their families and supporters as visitors to Yeppoon. Competitors and friends come from around Australia, and around the world, to compete over a sensational triathlon course and in a great venue. www.ironmanyeppoon.com

October Emerald 100 Races 7 October 2012 Pioneer Park, Emerald The Melbourne Cup may be the race that stops a nation but the Emerald 100 is the race that gets the Central Highlands partying.

Pioneer Park will be a sea of colour in October when an estimated crowd of thousands converge to witness a great day’s racing and participate in festivities on offer. www.emeraldjockeyclub.com.au

Yeppoon Lions Tropical Pinefest 13 – 14 October 2012 Yeppoon Main Beach This annual festival showcases the spirit of Central Queensland and attracts interest from the local and broader regional community. Events include the Grand Street Parade, beach activities and fireworks display to name a few. www.lions.yeppoon.com/pinefest.htm

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Getting Here & Getting Around

By air The Rockhampton Airport is exceptionally well serviced with multiple flights to and from Brisbane daily, direct flights from Townsville and Sydney, and connections on to other ports around Australia and internationally. Airlines that fly into Rockhampton include QantasLink, and Virgin Australia.

By coach and bus Greyhound Australia operates from the central bus terminal in Rockhampton with multiple services connecting Rockhampton with Brisbane and Cairns daily. Services are also available to Emerald and Longreach. Youngs Coaches, Sunbus, Rothery’s Coaches and Dowies Coaches are the major providers of bus services and tours across the region.

By rail Queensland Rail’s Traveltrain operates train services daily to Rockhampton from Brisbane and Cairns and extend west to Longreach. High speed ‘tilt-train’ services run four times per week between Brisbane and Cairns. ‘The Sunlander’ and ‘Spirit of the Outback’ trains also run via Rockhampton to the Tropical North and Outback, offering an experience that is more than just a train journey.

By Road Major highways link the region with all parts of Queensland and the Southern States, these include: n Great Inland Way n Leichhardt Highway n Australia’s Country Way n Capricorn Highway n Pacific Coast Touring Route (Bruce Highway) Taxi & car hire Car hire is available from several local and national operators and taxis are available in local destinations. Capricorn’s car hire partner, Budget Rent a car, provides visitors with a range of specials whilst they are in the region.

RAV4

Engineered for Active Lifestyles

DOES YOUR CAR KEEP UP WITH THE PACE OF YOUR HOLIDAY? FIND ONE THAT CAN AT TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS:

www.iwm.com.au

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ROCKHAMPTON 127 Denison Street 07 4924 5200

YEPPOON Cnr Park & John Streets 07 4939 3922

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All roads lead to Capricorn

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BYFIELD NP

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ALLIGATOR CREEK STATE FOREST

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LAKE LEARMOUTH STATE FOREST

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Capricorn Coast & Islands (Departing from Rockhampton) Duration: From 0 – 3 Nights Rockhampton From Rockhampton take a short 20 minute drive north to the friendly township of The Caves.

Capricorn Caves Visit the award-winning Capricorn Caves just north of Rockhampton and take a journey through Queensland’s largest privately owned caves. Follow the Scenic Highway on to the Capricorn Coast.

Self Drive Touring Routes

Yeppoon (45 minutes) The gateway to the Capricorn Coast, Yeppoon is a magical beachside community, well known for its delicious seafood. Take time to explore the coastline and the safe swimming beaches.

Don’t miss a sailing charter or day cruise to the Keppel Bay Islands and visit the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Accommodation options are available on Great Keppel Island and Pumpkin Island.

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Emu Park (15 minutes) Along the Scenic Highway lie 13 of Queensland's most beautiful beaches. Take the coastal walk at Kemp Beach for magnificent views across the sparkling ocean to the Keppel Islands. Emu Park is also home to the Singing Ship, a soaring white sculpture on the headland, designed as a monument to Captain Cook.

Koorana Crocodile Farm (15 minutes) As you make your way back to Rockhampton from Emu Park, be sure to visit the Koorana Crocodile Farm. The excitement of seeing a crocodile feeding is something you won't match anywhere. From February to Easter you may also see baby crocs hatch! A perfect spot for lunch – croc burgers are the house specialty! Evening dining and spotlight tours are also available for groups.

MORE TIME! Venture 30 minutes north of Yeppoon and immerse yourself in the Byfield Rainforest. Enjoy world class pottery galleries, rainforest retreats and canoe adventures.

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SAPPHIRE GEMFIELDS

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The Caves Ridgelands

Yeppoon Emu Park

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Rubyvale Sapphire Emerald

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ROCKHAMPTON Dingo

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Duaringa

Mt Morgan

Gladstone

BLACKDOWN TABLELANDS NP

Rolleston

Port Alma

Bauhinia

Agnes Water Biloela Thangool

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CARNARVON NP

Rockhampton’s geo history (Departing from Rockhampton) Duration: From 0 – 3 Nights Rockhampton From Rockhampton head west along the Capricorn Highway and take a short detour to the historic township of Mount Morgan.

Mount Morgan (35 minutes) Discover the rich gold mining heritage of Mount Morgan, site of one of the world’s most important gold discoveries! Here you have the chance to view 200 million year old Jurassic dinosaur footprints up close on the ceiling of old mining caves with TMC Guided Tours.

Mount Hay (20 minutes from Mount Morgan or Rockhampton) Find a great memento a little further along the highway at Mount Hay Gemstone Park. A result of volcanic activity millions of years ago, Mount Hay is home to the famous “Thunderegg”.

A hands-on fossicking experience will give you the chance to not only find these unique stones but also have them cut and polished to take with you as your own souvenir.

Miriam Vale

Monto PALMGROVE NP

Mt Larcom

Yeppoon Emu Park

GOODEDULLA NP

Blackdown Springsure

Gracemere

Dululu Wowan

Blackwater

LAKE MARABOON

ROCKHAMPTON

Westwood

Marlborough

Middlemount

Byfield

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Bundaberg Gin Gin

EXPEDITION NP

Outback & Sapphire Gemfields Loop (Departing from Rockhampton) Duration: From 1 – 4 Nights Rockhampton From Rockhampton, follow the Capricorn Highway west towards Emerald. This drive boasts stunning scenery and easy access to Blackdown Tableland National Park.

Blackdown Tableland National Park (2 hours) Located just outside of Blackwater, Blackdown Tableland is a popular overnight destination for travellers with campervans and tents. The National Park has stunning bushwalks, swimming holes, and Aboriginal artwork.

Sapphire Gemfields (3.5 hours from Rockhampton) The Sapphire Gemfields located just west of Emerald are literally a hidden treasure.

This is a true Outback experience within a short drive of the east coast. With a variety of accommodation options and some award-winning jewellery galleries rivalling those of Sydney and the Gold Coast, this area boasts the richest and largest sapphire fields in the Southern Hemisphere. Here you can enjoy tours of small underground sapphire mines and even try your hand in one of the local fossicking parks. For a more ‘hands-on’ experience join a full day tag-a-long tour. Everyone who visits the Gemfields is sure to leave with a souvenir sapphire!

Sapphire Gemfields – Mackay (4.5 hours) From the Sapphire Gemfields, continue your journey north following the Peak Downs Highway. Enjoy stunning views of Peak Range and be sure to take a break in the country town of Capella before continuing your journey on to Mackay.

MORE TIME! Venture 3.5 hours south of the Sapphire Gemfields to unforgettable Carnarvon Gorge – its grandeur will leave you breathless. Carnarvon is famous for its deep sandstone gorge, spectacular cliffs, moss gardens and a variety of fauna and flora.

The ancient Aboriginal rock paintings, including the most extensive examples of stencilling in Queensland, are at least 19,000 years old. Ensure you leave yourself ample time to enjoy this special part of Australia. Deluxe cabins and camping facilities are available.

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