Explore the host city of Beef Australia
GET BEEFY IN THE BEEF CAPITAL
Beef Australia may be the largest beef exposition in the country, but if you take the time to explore the event’s host city you’ll find there’s a lot more on offer than boots and bulls.
From trophy barramundi to be caught in the heart of town, 4WD’ing, world-class mountain bike trails, full-bull adventures, treetop boardwalks, breweries, bars and eateries all over town, exploring all that Rockhampton has to offer is a must while you're in town.
Download the 'Explore Rockhampton' app from the Apple app store or Google Play store and tour the Rockhampton region at your own pace. Once you've done that, check out the official 'Beef Australia Bucket List' below to tick off while you’re in town, including some great full bull adventures.
1. Full bull adventures
A visit to the Beef Capital for Beef Australia isn’t complete unless you tick off the following beefy experiences.
- Snap a bull selfie at Frank Forde Park and take a drive to see all of Rockhampton’s bull statues on the “Where’s the Beef” bull statue tour.
- Visit one of Australia’s major cattle selling centres at Central Queensland Livestock Exchange (CQLX). Just a 15 minute drive from town, this is where Queensland’s beef breeders come to buy and sell cattle.
- Sit down and feast on a juicy rump steak at some of the best steakhouses in town, as voted by the locals.
- Have some extra time on your hands? Extend your stay and visit one of Central Queensland’s farm stays. All of them are real, family-run cattle properties offering an authentic country experience of life on the land.
2. MEET THE MEERKATS
A visit to Rockhampton Zoo is a must if you’re bringing the kids. From our cheeky mob of meerkats to our family of seven chimpanzees, your kids will have a whale of a time exploring over 31 native and exotic animals. Looking for something a little bit extra special? Book a meerkat experience!
3. VISIT A TREETOP BOARDWALK
Feel the fresh mountain air on your face with a visit to Nurim Circuit in Mount Archer National Park. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer, the 500 metre flat boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River. Take in the views and check out the interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture. The boardwalk is particularly popular with locals and tourists alike wanting to catch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets so don't forget your camera!
4. ENJOY A COLD ONE WITH THE MATES
With almost a pub on every corner there’s no shortage of cold beers in Rockhampton. We’ve put together our top picks of pubs (and a local micro-brewery) that are either a short walk from the event precinct, or centrally located in the CBD and Riverside Precinct.
Rockhampton CBD
If you’re looking for a cold brew in a historic country pub then ‘the Cri’ (as the locals call it) is the place to be. Featuring an internal beer garden, the Heritage Hotel is also a good option for traditional pub grub. Fancy yourself a beer connoisseur? Head over to Headricks Lane micro-brewery and taste locally crafted beer with a side of tapas.
Beef Australia event precinct
There’s two pubs within walking distance to the Beef Australia event that will become your local while in town. Rocky Sports Club has a restaurant, bar and gaming facilities available promising a great night out with the mates. For traditional pub-grub, head along to The Lionleigh. Both are family friendly, so if the kids are in tow you’re sorted.
You can find a full list of pubs, bars, and restaurants on our website that are just a short drive away from your accommodation in town.
5. GET YOUR DAILY CAFFEINE FIX
Whether your coffee is served from a shipping container, on the deck with panoramic views of the Fitzroy River, or in a fancy pottery coffee mug, Rockhampton has some of the best brews in Queensland. To help you find your daily grind before getting into everything beef, we’ve put together a list of some of Rockhampton’s best boutique brews as voted by the locals.
6. CRUISE THE FITZROY
Sit back, relax and experience the city from a different perspective with River Cruises CQ. The 90 minute sunset cruise is a must do after a big day at Beef Australia and includes complimentary nibbles with drinks available for purchase.
7. DO A SPOT OF SHOPPING
Treat yourself with a spot of shopping across Rockhampton's country clothing and boutique shops. For country clothing, head to George's, Heilbrons, Mavericks and Stockman's Corner. For boutique and high end department stores, head to Willow & Ivy, H+Co Emporium, Katie B, Stewarts and Stockland.
For a full list of top things to do while you’re in town for Beef Australia 2021, read up on all of Rockhampton’s travel inspiration here.
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Written by Explore Rockhampton
@explorerockhampton
