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Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum — Image credit: Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum

The Mount Morgan Railway Museum is a 'must do' on the Mount Morgan Golden List of things to do and see. Step back in time and experience how life and travel used to be. Through audio-visual displays and 3D presentation, experience travel of the past and feel what it was like aboard the old 'rack' system, hauling trains up the steep inclines of the Razorback in the 1800s. Get a sense of the history of rail in Queensland and even see the railway equipment at the former station including rolling stock, goods shed and heritage listed water tank for steam engines. The Mount Morgan Rail Museum is a pleasant 38 kilometres from Rockhampton so come and experience the history!

Mount Morgan QLD

0.1 km away

Mount Morgan Historical Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mount Morgan Historical Museum

The Mount Morgan Historical Museum houses a unique collection of early mining equipment from the famous Mount Morgan Gold Mine. Many household objects were also used during the town's heyday, dating back to the late nineteenth century. The Mount Morgan Gold Mine was one of the world's richest gold mines and significantly contributed significantly to Queensland's and Australia's economies. The museum also contains over 600 historic photographs that depict the development of the mine and the town. The photographs illustrate the lives of the miners at work and the community's social, religious, cultural and educational aspects. There is much to see and experience in this fascinating museum. Gifts and souvenirs are also available.

Mount Morgan QLD

0.7 km away

Relax and unwind at Mount Morgan's beautiful No.7 Dam — Image credit: Rockhampton Regional Council

Natural Attractions

Mount Morgan No. 7 Dam

Chill out at the No. 7 Dam (otherwise known as The Big Dam) located in Mount Morgan. With picturesque natural views, the dam offers a tranquil place for a get together. Enjoy a picnic, use the free barbecues and let the kids run wild in the shaded playground. The dam also provides unique fishing opportunities including red claw and kayak fishing.

Mount Morgan QLD

1.1 km away

Explore Mount Morgan's charm — Image credit: Rockhampton Regional Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Mount Morgan

Come and re-live the past as you explore the hinterlands of Mount Morgan. Be sure to bring your camera, there are many lookouts and photo opportunities throughout the township and surrounds. Stop for a bite to eat in the charming Mount Morgan Central Business District. Walk the length of Morgan Street and get a taste of the mining, rail and community history. There's so much rich history to embrace in this delightful mountain town. Learn more about Mount Morgan in Explore Rockhampton's self-guided audio tours app, available for download from the Apple app or Google Play store.

Mount Morgan QLD

1.1 km away

Enjoy amazing views of Mount Morgan from Frank Golding Lookout — Image credit: Rockhampton Regional Council

Natural Attractions

Frank Golding Lookout Mount Morgan

The Frank Golding Lookout is located at the top of East Street in Mount Morgan. Sponsored by the Mount Morgan Rotary Committee, this lookout is named after a former Rotarian and Historian of Mount Morgan - Mr Frank Golding. It's the highest lookout point in the town and offers terrific views of and ideal photo opportunities.

Mount Morgan QLD

1.4 km away

Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park

Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park, 36 kilometres west of Rockhampton on the Capricorn Highway, is an internationally known destination for thunderegg fossicking. Thundereggs or 'volcanic birthstones' are crystalline formations that occur when gas bubbles in molten lava solidify on cooling. Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park is also a well-known destination for purchasing semi-precious Australian gemstone products cut and polished in the Mount Hay factory. Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park is also the home of 'Aradon Fine Pewter', where a large range of Australiana gift lines and souvenirs are produced and marketed nationally. Visitors to the park can browse the gift shop and rock garden or go fossicking (tools and assistance provided). Admission to the park is free (includes a picnic area and barbecues), and there are camping and caravan sites as well as a kiosk. Fees apply to fossicking and camping, and enclosed footwear is required.

Wycarbah QLD

21 km away

Gracemere Exhibition Complex

Landmarks and Buildings

Gracemere Exhibition Complex

The Gracemere Saleyards, located eight kilometres west of Rockhampton, began operations in 1953.The saleyards hosts the world's largest stud sale (Brahman Week) and Australia's biggest horse sale (National Quarter Horse Sale). Extensive upgrading of facilities totalling 7.5 million dollars began in 2003, ensuring that the saleyards remain one of Central Queensland's foremost attractions. Visitors can expect an inside view of livestock sales in the comfort of the upgraded selling ring, comfortably sitting up to 1,000 people. Stud sales are conducted primarily in the spring, September through to November, and many Australian and Australasian records are held both in relation to prices and the number of stock sold.

Gracemere QLD

22 km away

Meet our resident crocodiles — Image credit: Explore Rockhampton

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Rockhampton Zoo

Home to more than 30 different species of native and exotic animals, Rockhampton Zoo is set on 10 acres within the stunning Rockhampton Botanic Gardens. Come and meet mischievous mob of meerkats, the beautiful chimpanzee family, or stop by the Australian Wetlands zone to marvel over their giant saltwater crocodile. Overload on cuteness as the otters play like children in the water, or take on a unique and memorable animal encounter - Rockhampton Zoo has something for everyone! Give yourself a couple of hours to meet the animals, then take a relaxing walk around Rockhampton's Botanic Gardens and the Murray Lagoon - all free and all in the same location! Rockhampton Zoo is owned and operated by Rockhampton Regional Council. Search for Rockhampton Zoo on Facebook for the latest updates.

Rockhampton QLD

29 km away

Family enjoys the beautiful surrounds of Rockhampton Botanic Gardens — Image credit: Rockhampton Regional Council

Parks and Gardens

Rockhampton Botanic Gardens

The heritage-listed Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are amongst the oldest public gardens in Queensland. If you are looking for a bite to eat, the Gardens Tearooms are nestled under the 150-year-old Banyan Figs and offer a range of meals and refreshments as well as catering options for special events. The Japanese Gardens provide tranquillity and peace, while the Cenotaph honours our Australian soldiers. Also located within the gardens is the Rockhampton Zoo which is open daily and home to more than 30 species of native and exotic animals. Learn more about the Botanic Gardens in Explore Rockhampton's self-guided audio tours app, available for download from the Apple app or Google Play store.

The Range QLD

29 km away

Visit the Spire, a symbol of the Tropic of Capricorn. — Image credit: Rockhampton Regional Council

Landmarks and Buildings

The Tropic of Capricorn Spire

The Tropic of Capricorn is a line that represents the southernmost position of the sun on its annual journey where the sun can be directly overhead. Rockhampton lies just north of the Tropic of Capricorn. Visit their Spire, a marker that acts as a sundial, one of the only locations in the world that allows you to observe how the earth moves around the sun and 'see' the extent of difference in length of shadows at mid-winter and mid-summer. While your visiting the Spire, drop into the Explore Rockhampton Visitor Information Centre, offering a one-stop-shop for travel information including maps, brochures, itineraries as well as a range of souvenirs and gift ware available . Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable local volunteers, the centre provides advice on the attractions and experiences and other essential information in the Rockhampton region and surrounds.

Allenstown QLD

29 km away

Great Western Hotel

Entertainment Venues

Great Western Hotel

Established in 1862, Rockhampton’s iconic Great Western Hotel has a rich history not only as an iconic Hotel and award winning Steakhouse, but also an entertainment venue. The Great Western is renowned for bringing thrilling events such as rodeos, professional bull riding and and headline music acts to Central Queensland. The hotel caters to an estimated 250,000 patrons each year. It is on many people’s bucket list to visit so they can experience the atmosphere of both the hotel itself and the Rodeo and Music Arena. The hotel and the arena have featured in many mainstream tourism television programs both in Australia and overseas. The Great Western Hotel’s menu lends itself to the 'Beef Capital' status and has won many awards for 'best steak' in CQ. In addition, their low n slow cooked meats and classic Aussie pub menu will not disappoint. Book your table today and enjoy the best beef on a plate and the best bull riding in the country.

Rockhampton City QLD

31 km away

Rockhampton Regional Library

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Rockhampton Regional Library History Centre

Historical and contemporary materials relating to the local area are maintained at the local History Centre located at the Central Queensland collection of the Rockhampton Regional Library. The History Centre at the Rockhampton Regional Library provides a range of research materials for local and family history including: - indexes to births, deaths, marriages and our cemeteries - pioneer, shipping and immigration records - online databases - a family and local history book collection. The History Centre Archives Collection includes: - printed materials, audio/video cassettes and oral histories - maps, plans and photographs - records of families, business firms, sporting and other community groups. - rates - cemetery. Their friendly staff will assist you with accessing materials, research tips, or using equipment, or can research for you for a fee.

Rockhampton QLD

31 km away

Bull statue selfie — Image credit: Explore Rockhampton

Landmarks and Buildings

Rockhampton Bull Statues

After your arrival in Rockhampton, it won't take you long to see that the city has strong country roots and prides itself on being the Beef Capital of Australia! Six bull statues representing the main breeds of the area are situated throughout Rockhampton. In addition to the six official bulls, keep your eyes peeled for other life-size bulls decorating premises around Rocky. These quirky statues are part of the triennial Beef Australia Expo, which has become an iconic event for the Australian beef industry and a major event for the State of Queensland. Bull 1 - The Brahman Bull was erected in 2000 at the roundabout on the southern entrance to the city. Bull 2 - The Santa Gertrudis Bull, in Frank Ford Park was erected in 1985. Bull 3 - The Droughtmaster Bull, at the entrance to the airport was erected in 1994. Bull 4 - The Braford Bull, located on the Bruce Highway was erected in 1978. Bull 5 - The Romangnola Bull, located in O'Shannesy Park, was erected in 1997 to commemorate the Italian Beef Cattle World Congress. Bull 6 - The Brahman Bull, located in the median strip near the Red Hill Homemaker Centre was erected in 1978 and represents the breed most suitable to this climate.

Rockhampton QLD

32 km away

Walter Reid Cultural Centre

Entertainment Venues

Walter Reid Cultural Centre

The Walter Reid Cultural Centre (WRCC) is Rockhampton's premier community arts and cultural hub, located in the heart of the city. Home to a diverse network of artists, makers, performers and creative groups, WRCC is where visual arts, craft, music, theatre, design and community culture come together. Whether you're looking to explore a new creative outlet, attend an event, or connect with local artists, the Walter Reid offers something for everyone. Walter Reid is home to a diverse mix of local organisations where you can learn creative new skills and join established community groups including: Capricornia Potters Group – ceramics, wheel throwing and clay workshops Capricornia Printmakers Inc.– demonstrations and original works CQ Contemporary Artists – contemporary exhibitions and workshops Fibre Arts Inc. – weaving, spinning and textile arts Patch Happy Circle Inc – patchwork, sewing, knitting and crochet Rockhampton Embroiderers' Guild – embroidery and needlework Rockhampton Lapidary Club – jewellery-making and stonework Rockhampton Little Theatre – live theatre productions and backstage opportunities Rockhampton Photography Club – photography learning and collaboration Rockhampton Rail Modellers Association – immersive model train displays Rockhampton Youth Orchestra & Unisong Choir – live music and performance training Royal Queensland Art Society Rockhampton Branch – exhibitions, workshops and social groups Each group offers unique opportunities to learn, create and connect. The Walter Reid Cultural Centre is owned by Rockhampton Regional Council.

Rockhampton QLD

32 km away

Customs House is an icon among Rockhampotn's Heritage Strip — Image credit: Rockhampton Regional Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Rockhampton Heritage Building Trail

Rockhampton is known for it's elegant buildings, which stem from the city's rich merchant, maritime and gold-rush heritage. Quay Street is your destination to soak up Rockhampton's history and heritage. Starting at the wharves that were the gateway into Rockhampton, and continuing through most of the early Central Business District, this trail is filled with rich and enchanting history that runs almost two kilometres. Rockhampton's Heritage Building Trail is one of Australia's most historically significant heritage strips and is Queensland's longest National Trust heritage-listed street. Learn more about Rockhampton's heritage buildings in Explore Rockhampton's self-guided audio tours app, available for download from the Apple app or Google Play store.

Rockhampton City QLD

32 km away

Archer Park Rail Museum — Image credit: Archer Park Rail Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Archer Park Rail Museum

Archer Park Rail Museum contains many exhibitions associated with railways and the Rockhampton Council Tramways from 1899. Rollingstock, including the Purrey Steam Tram, and rail memorabilia have been collected from a variety of sources including private collectors, former rail workers, the "Friends of Archer Park", and Queensland Rail. A revolutionary digital soundscape system of sound effects and commentary enhances the experience as you wind your way through the authentic exhibitions. Purrey Steam Tram rides are available on Sundays. The Tram does not run between the end of November until the beginning of February. Archer Park Rail Museum is located on the infamous Denison Street (where the main rail runs down the centre of the street) in Rockhampton, between Archer and Cambridge Streets. This wonderful station is sure to have items of interest for many different age groups and truly is a rail lovers delight.

Rockhampton City QLD

32 km away

Rockhampton Post Office — Image credit: Classical Stone Australia

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Rockhampton Post Office

Rockhampton Post Office is a heritage-listed former post office at 80 East Street, Rockhampton. Built in 1895, it is a good example of Classic Revival Architecture. This grand two-storeyed brick post office with sandstone facing was erected for the Queensland Post and Telegraph Department for £14,368. The interior has been modified to suit modern requirements and the two street frontages remain as originally constructed. The building holds significance as it reflects the rise of Rockhampton as the major commercial centre of central Queensland during the late nineteenth century. In the 1880s, Rockhampton benefited economically from the mining of gold at Mount Morgan. The immense wealth generated from the gold mines created a period of buoyancy in Rockhampton which produced many prestigious buildings. Key features of the building are the magnificent colonnades on both levels. There's even a central clock tower that has watched over 100 years of history pass by it. Rockhampton is full of magnificent locations, which remind visitors of the town's history. Let the Rockhampton Post Office remind you of that history and take you back to the days of the gold rush.

Rockhampton City QLD

32 km away

RMOA — Image credit: Explore Rockhampton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Rockhampton Museum of Art (RMOA)

Located on Darumbal Country, in the heart of the Rockhampton Riverside Precinct, is Rockhampton Museum of Art. (RMOA) The Rockhampton Museum of Art collection is regarded as one of the finest in regional Australia and is of national significance. It is the only regional Gallery in Queensland to hold a representative collection of mid-twentieth century Australian art, the works of the 'greats' of Australian modernist painters. Through its collection holdings of historic paintings, objects and photographs, the museum interprets the history and heritage of Rockhampton, Queensland and Australia. Rockhampton Museum of Art presents an ever changing array of exhibitions and programs spanning international exhibitions, lifelong learning experiences, curated projects, touring exhibitions, display opportunities for artists living and working in the region, as well as interactive and immersive experiences. Sitting on the threshold of the Fitzroy River (Tunuba), Rockhampton Museum Of Art is regional Queensland's largest and most exciting art space. With six exhibition spaces is something for all visitors.

Rockhampton QLD

32 km away

Central Queensland Military Museum — Image credit: Central Queensland Military Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

CQ Military and Artefacts Museum

The Central Queensland Military Museum houses artefacts from the military history of Rockhampton and surrounding districts from the Boer War to the present day. It includes American Army uniforms from World War II and a room devoted entirely to Rockhampton history. The collection includes Women at War display, Personal diaries, war photographs, Light horse memorabilia, Badges and Medals, and Personal collections from Vietnam Veterans. All of the items are donated by the local community. Tour groups and schools are welcome to come along and are catered for on request. Step back in time at the CQ Military and Artefacts Museum. So come along with your family and friends and explore the past at this very well-presented museum.

Rockhampton QLD

32 km away

Customs House — Image credit: HeyKiera & Explore Rockhampton

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Customs House

Rockhampton’s Customs House is an example of the Classic Revival period architecture, which was all the rage in Rockhampton around the turn of the century. Built between 1898 and 1901 and constructed of Stanwell sandstone, the building features a giant copper dome and an elaborate semi-circular portico with a Corinthian colonnade. Customs House is a powerful reminder of the significant role Rockhampton played as the major central coast port around that time. Located on Quay Street alongside Rockhampton's newly revitalised Riverside Precinct, Customs House is a popular photographic location for locals and visitors alike whist exploring the Central Business District Heritage Walk. Learn more about Customs House in Explore Rockhampton's self-guided audio tours app, available for download from the Apple app or Google Play store.

Rockhampton QLD

32 km away

Horse Riding

Agritourism

Alkoomi Adventure Farmstay

Alkoomi Adventure Farmstay offers everyone the chance to live and participate the real day-to-day adventures encountered on an Aussie Farm. With activities for every age, you are guaranteed to leave with a lifetime of unforgettable memories from your time on the farm. Experience an authentic working cattle farm just 30 minutes from Rockhampton, in the Beef Capital of Australia. Alkoomi Adventure Farmstay offer good old fashioned country hospitality in a quiet and peaceful setting where you can choose to do as much or as little as you like. Take a relaxing dip in the dam, a sunset chuckwagon ride, tell tales by the campfire and join the family for the afternoon animal feeding - a real taste of farm life! For the adventure seekers, you can hire a motorbike or UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle), go horse riding, or even ride a miniature pony, swim in the dam, take a bush walk exploring the farm with its 360` Views.

Marmor QLD

32 km away

Rockhampton Riverside Precinct — Image credit: Explore Rockhampton, Rockhampton Regional Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Rockhampton Riverside Precinct

Rockhampton's Riverside Precinct, situated in the heart of the city, offers the best views of the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) and is an iconic example of modern, integrated urban design that sits alongside the city's strip of heritage-listed buildings. Stroll along the heritage soaked sandstone boulevard on Quay Street and across the lower bank boardwalk surrounded by lush plantings, public artworks, and a picturesque boat dotted vista. Take in the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) views and the mountain ranges that lay to the north of Rockhampton from the Boathouse Restaurant. While you're there, order a bite to eat, your drink of choice and sit on the deck overlooking the river. Hot tip - this is one of Rockhampton's most Instagrammable places! With the family? Take your kids to the precinct's playground and perch up with a coffee while watching (or joining) them play, then cool off amongst Rod Laver Plaza's pop-up water jets. The Riverside Precinct sits adjacent to the city's main business district, so when you're ready to keep exploring, make your way to East Street, where you'll find cafes, boutique shopping, bars, pubs and restaurants amongst the tree-lined avenue. Learn more about the riverside precinct in Explore Rockhampton's self-guided audio tours app, available for download from the Apple app or Google Play store.

Rockhampton City QLD

32 km away

Rockhampton Regional Council Community Musical - Rocky Horror Picture Show

Entertainment Venues

Pilbeam Theatre

The Pilbeam Theatre is where unforgettable live entertainment comes to life on stage. Located in the Rockhampton CBD, the venue welcomes audiences to experience world-class performances, celebrated artists, touring productions and outstanding local talent, all under one roof. From the moment visitors arrive, they are immersed in the excitement of live performance. Grand musicals, captivating drama, comedy, concerts, dance and family entertainment create an ever-changing calendar of events. Every visit offers something different, whether discovering a favourite performer, enjoying a memorable night out with friends or introducing the next generation to the magic of theatre. More than a performance venue, the Pilbeam is a cultural gathering place where stories are shared, artists are celebrated and lasting memories are made. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere, professional service and the thrill that comes from experiencing live entertainment in a premier regional theatre.

Rockhampton City QLD

32 km away

iPlay Rockhampton

Amusement and Theme Parks

iPlay Rockhampton

Rocky Bowl is your go-to family-friendly entertainment centre and dining spot in Rockhampton. With eight lanes of AMF bowling, along with the most enjoyable mini-golf, laser tag and arcade games, there's something for everyone to have a blast. Perfect for various celebrations, including kids' birthdays, flagship birthdays, sports presentations, corporate functions, and school excursions, Rocky Bowl caters to all. Whether one is seeking a casual play day, planning a party, organizing a school excursion, or eager for a fun team challenge, Rocky Bowl is open seven days a week, ready to provide an unforgettable experience. Come and play!

Berserker QLD

33 km away

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