If raw automotive power revs you up.
If the smell and screaming sounds of burning rubber fuel your excitement.
If mullet hair-raising motor mania action pushes your eagerness into overdrive, then you better be hightailing it to one of the biggest events on Rockhampton's calendar: Rare Spares Rockynats 04
Plus incredible off-track entertainment including Mulletfest, Matt Hall Racing, Drive-In Movie and Aussie rock legends Choirboys to send you sideways!
Coinciding with the Easter long weekend (29 - 31 March, 2024), makes it the perfect opportunity to extend your stay and experience a range of other action-packed adventures in the Rockhampton region.
Don’t know where to start? Don't blow a gasket! We've put together some of the best experiences Rockhampton has that the avid adrenaline junky and revhead will be hard pressed to refuse.
NB: Some of these activities require early bookings prior to arrival.
Rockhampton Museum of Art
220 Quay St, Rockhampton QLD 4700
Featuring an ever-changing array of exhibitions to inspire and amaze, Rockhampton Museum of Art is the largest gallery in regional Queensland. Located on Rockhampton’s iconic Quay Street, Rockhampton Museum of Art is free to visit and open 9am to 4pm daily. Take a journey through the eye-catching exhibitions, programs and workshops and visit the gift shop afterwards.
Current Exhibitions
MAXIMUM MADNESS: Art Inspired by Mad Max | 16 March until 30 June, 2024 | Free Entry
George Miller’s genre-defining Mad Max film series has grown from a tense, low budget Ozsploitation cult hit into a sprawling post apocalypse action opera, redefining science fiction along the way. A complex and compelling mashup of biker, S/M, gearhead, Queer and beefcake cultures and their associated aesthetics, Mad Max has become a cosplay favourite, and has become massively influential in cultural terms, being ripped off, satirised and idolised by sources as varied as The Simpsons, Phil Collins, video games and pro wrestling.
Stephen Bird: Industrial Sabotage | Now until 25 August, 2024 | Free Entry
Stephen Bird is a UK-born painter and ceramicist whose artworks take aim at the class divide of British pottery. While the world-famous ceramics factories of England (think Royal Doulton, Spoke and Wedgewood) are synonymous with fine collectibles, Bird looks to the pre-Industrial Revolution records of workers creating one-off pieces of experimentation and self-expression at the end of their workday. Likewise, Bird’s wares, which he terms ‘industrial sabotage,’ surprise and shock with their violent, bawdy, funny and even grotesque subject matter; offering much more than an ornamental surface.
Fernando do Campo: Capricornian Minotaurs and Where to Find Them | 16 March until 23 June, 2024 | Free Entry
Argentina-born artist Fernando do Campo reflects on his formative years spent in Rockhampton with this deep dive into the social history of beef and agriculture. Archives and private collections of photographs, paintings, prize ribbons and union banners, displayed alongside do Campo’s own artworks, narrate the affectionate and complex knotted histories that emerge between humans and cattle in this proclaimed ‘Beef Capital of Australia’.
Collection Focus: Capricornia Printmakers | Now until 25 August, 2024 | Free Entry
Over one inspiring year, local artist collective Capricornia Printmakers embarked on a transformative journey of selecting and responding to artworks from the Rockhampton Museum of Art Collection including works by Eduardo Paolozzi, Max Lovell, Peter Blake, and Lesbia Thorpe. This served as both mentor and muse, prompting each printmaker to create their unique blend of tradition whilst also pushing boundaries by embracing new materials, techniques, and technologies; expanding the possibilities of printmaking and creating an innovative artistic dialogue with the Collection and their artist peers.
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The Fitzroy River (Tunuba) - Home of the Barramundi
Fishing the Fitzroy
For a reel awesome adventure, try your hand at catching a trophy-size barramundi in the Fitzroy River (Tunuba). There are plenty of prime fishing opportunities for those looking to wet a line from a boat or from one of our many fishing platforms. Even if you didn't pack the fishing gear with you, have no fear. Rockhampton has a range of fishing charters that set you up with everything you need to be able to check in and boat out in no time. No matter who you are, how you want to fish, or what you want to catch, the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) is ready to welcome you.
No boat? No worries! Book a Charter or hire a boat
For the fishing enthusiast looking for a guided experience out on the water, charters are available.
Guided Fishing DownUnder offers a range of fishing charter options for those looking for a great day out on the water. Rockhampton local Nathan Johnston specialises in exclusive fishing experiences for up to three people focusing on the Fitzroy River and Capricorn Coast. Target species in the Fitzroy’s’ expansive delta include the iconic wild saltwater Barramundi and King Threadfin using lure and live bait techniques.
Hooked provides fishing adventures for fishing enthusiasts for all experience levels (novice to professional). Their fishing charters offer full or half-day trips with tackle, live bait and refreshments supplied. Your local fishing guide on board your trip will also share their expertise and knowledge during your adventure.
Reel Fishing CQ offers Barramundi Charters which include all fishing equipment, lunch, refreshments and fish caught during the trip. For the angler with a boating licence but no boat, Boat Hire CQ also have a 4.5 metre Polycraft Drifter featuring 60hp Yamaha outboard, motor guide 80lb electric motor and Hummingbird Helix 9 GPS side scan sounder that can take up to 4 people out on the water. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mates and get set for a memorable fishing trip in the Fitzroy.
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Kick back and relax on a River Cruise
Kick back and take a cruise
For a quick and enjoyable way to capture all the Rockynats action on both sides of the river, River Cruises CQ is offering a free water taxi service across the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) for Rockynats entrants and VIP's (Platinum Passes, Sponsors, Entrants and their buddys). The service will run between the 4x4 Zone in the CBD and the Burnouts Precinct on the northern side of the river.
Please note: Operating hours are dictated by tide times.
River Cruises
Outside of the racing fever, one way to relax after an intense couple of days is to book yourself a River Cruise. Kick back with a cold one and experience the city from a different perspective with your mates while the sun sets on the banks on the historical buildings of Quay Street. We recommend the 90-minute sunset cruise, which includes complimentary nibbles, drinks available for purchase plus breathtaking views of Rockhampton’s historic buildings along Quay Street and wildlife along the banks of the river.
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Take your car out on the ultimate location shoot
Stunning location shoots with your car
Every good-looking car deserves an equally good-looking photo shoot during Rockynats. We've listed a few of our favourite locations to capture some prime pics of your pride and joy below:
Our mob can't wait to meet yours at Rockhampton Zoo. Image by Explore Shaw.
Rockhampton Zoo
With more than 30 species of native and exotic animals including cheeky chimpanzees, mischievous meerkats and adorable otters, Rockhampton Zoo is a must-see during your stay in Rockhampton. Stroll through the leafy pathways and enjoy Zookeeper talks throughout the day. Want to learn more about our amazing animals that call Rockhampton Zoo home? Download our FREE Explore Rockhampton Self-Guided Tour app.
Animal Encounters
For an experience like no other, book an animal encounter. Enjoy the merry mob of meerkats crawling all over you as you receive a private keeper talk, feed our friendly and otterly adorable otters or put your nerves to the test with a snake encounter - if you dare! Don't forget to bring a camera to capture your memorable experience.
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Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Rockhampton's Botanic Gardens.
Stroll Rockhampton's Heritage-Listed Botanic Gardens
100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, Qld, 4700
Next door to Rockhampton Zoo is the Heritage Listed Botanic Gardens. Sprawled across 33-hectares the gardens feature tranquil Japanese Gardens and expansive Murray Lagoon, where you can spot turtles an an array of beautiful bird life. Kick back and relax with a coffee and a mouth-watering meal from the Gardens Tearooms Cafe and bask in the beauty of the 150-year-old Banyan Fig Trees that create a crochet-like canopy over the cafe surrounds.
Explore the Botanic Gardens
Frank Ford Park makes for the prime location to photograph our bull statues safely
Snap a selfie with an iconic bull statue
It’s not a trip to Rockhampton without snapping a selfie with one of our iconic bull statues in the city – after all you’re in the Beef Capital of Australia! You’ll spot them dotted around Rockhampton, usually on the median strips of the major roads. However, you can easily and safely walk up to the one at Frank Ford Park, which is only a few minutes’ drive away from the Rockhampton Zoo and Botanic Gardens.
Make tracks to one of our mouth-watering foodie destinations.
Fuel your appetite
Feeling peckish between all the auto-mania action? We've got you! Here's where you can feed your hunger while you enjoy the trackside entertainment over the long weekend.
Make tracks on one of our many Mountain Bike Trails
Ride Rocky's MTB Trails
Ditch the four wheels for two and bring on a different kind of adrenaline-pumping fun on Rockhampton’s Mountain Biking Trails. Our trails are open all year round and are ideal for the active adventurer to escape the city limits and enjoy some outdoor fun. Even if you’re not equipped with your own bike, bike hire is available from Giant Rockhampton who will ensure you’re all set to make tracks.
First Turkey Mountain Bike Park | 9km from the Rockhampton CBD
Situated on the side of Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park, First Turkey offers more than 30 different trails fit for all skill levels. The park is open most days of the year, except after heavy rainfall in the region. First Turkey has a range of trails from Gravity Enduro and Cross Country trails through diverse terrain, meaning you can easily pick the ride to suit your level of experience.
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You'll find everything you need for your car, truck or motorcycle.
Shop all things auto with ease
Don't be surprised if all the drifting, drag racing, show and shines, burnouts and cruising has you feeling motor-vated and inspired to class up your classic or give your machine a bit of a makeover. You will be spoiled for choice in terms of the number of auto shops around Rockhampton. Whether you're in need the mood to shop spare parts, auto accessories, detailing, car washes, repairs, maintenance, tyres or electronics, check out these supporting Rockynats businesses to satisfy your shopping needs.
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Rev up your rockabilly look!
Beef City Belle
Rare Spare Rockynats 03 isn't just about motors and machines. There's a world of Rockabilly and garage glamour that is also deeply seeded in the realm. Returning to Rockynats for it's third year, is the Rockabilly-Nats Pinup Competition. Everyone deserves to look their best! Whether you're looking for a special accent piece to top off your fashion statement, or wanting to upgrade your wardrobe, a visit to Atomic Beauty is a must for all cool cats and kittens.
Put your car to the ultimate test
Dyno-mite!
You've talked the torque, now it's time to put your mean machine to the ultimate test? Get in early and book yourself a spot in the Insane Performance Dyno Competition. The dynamometer, better known as a "dyno", is a device for simultaneously measuring the torque and rotational speed (RPM) of an engine, motor or other rotating prime mover so that its instantaneous power may be calculated, and usually displayed by the dynamometer itself as kilowatts (kW) or brake horsepower (bhp).
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Take flight with a Heli Adventure
Take a Heli-Adventure
Looking to see Rockhampton from a different perspective? Take a joyride with Helifish CQ across the region and seek your thrills from above! Helifish CQ has a range of aerial adventures to choose from. Their tours cover a wide distance throughout the region from the mighty Fitzroy River to coastlines - possibilities are endless with their fully customised flight paths and packages.
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See it Live at the Pilbeam Theatre
Pilbeam Theatre
From national and international touring acts to local theatrical and musical productions the Pilbeam Theatre is Central Queensland’s performing arts centre.
What's on
GREASE -The Musical (Sing-A-Long) | Sunday 24 March
From the producers of Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia and Into the Woods comes GREASE - The Musical in March 2024. Featuring great songs such as Greased Lightnin', Summer Nights, We go Together, You’re the One That I Want and more. GREASE the musical premiered on Broadway in 1972 and played for 3388 performances becoming the longest running musical at the time. It was made into a movie starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta in 1978, breaking box office records in the USA, UK and Australia. This Special Performance encourages the audience to get involved and SING - A - LONG!
Queensland Ballet on Tour | Wednesday 27 March
Join us at the Pilbeam Theatre, as Queensland Ballet presents four glittering works from the vault in a balletic feast for the senses. From an emotive story of love to a collage of tutus and Tchaikovsky music, to one of the most celebrated excerpts in the ballet world, this production features rich stories that will captivate lovers of music and dance.
Robertson Brothers TV Variety Show 2024 | Saturday 30 March
Geoff and Ben Robertson are back as your charming and cheeky hosts for this nostalgic night of entertainment as they pay tribute to the musical giants of the 1960’s – The Beach Boys, The Monkees, Johnny Farnham, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Hollies, The Bee Gees, Frankie Valli, The Everly Brothers, Neil Sedaka and The Seekers.
Spellbound | Saturday 6 April
Get ready for a spectacular night of Magic and Grand Illusion with one of Australia’s leading Illusionists, Anthony Street. The Star and producer of the stage phenomenon, Celtic Illusion will be touring his Grand Illusion show in 2024. Witness levitations, impossible vanishes, mentalism and a death-defying escape as Anthony pushes the boundaries of reality and distorts your senses.
See it live
Coast the winding roads of Mount Morgan Range
Hit the road - driving day trips
If you're in town for a few days, why not experience one of the many great drives in and around Rockhampton to discover the hidden gems of our region.
Mount Archer (Nurim)
Breath-taking views, peaceful walking tracks, kids adventure playground and cool and tranquil temperatures, Mount Archer (Nurim) has it all when it comes to delivering natures very best in beauty. Once you're at the top, pull into Fraser Park and make your way on foot to the 500m elevated boardwalk, Nurim Circuit. Soak up the spectacular views as the sun sets over the city of Rockhampton - don’t forget your camera!
Mount Morgan
Cruise along a winding scenic strip of road that takes you up into the Rockhampton regional hinterland. The Mount Morgan Range, via the Burnett Highway, is an enjoyable section of road with eye-catching lookouts, mountainous views and at the very end, the charming mining town of Mount Morgan. Delve into the township's rich gold mining history and relive its fascinating past with a range of impressive attractions on show including:
Capricorn Coast & Emu Park
For a leisurely drive rewarded by stunning ocean views and seaside towns, set a course for the Capricorn Coast. Starting your journey in Rockhampton, head to the coastal town of Yeppoon via Yeppoon Road. After a pit stop strolling down James Street, head towards Emu Park via the Scenic Highway. The drive is lined with several pristine beaches to stop and enjoy along the way so take your time. Emu Park is a quaint seaside town, making for a perfect lunch stop before stretching your legs along the seaside ANZAC Memorial Walk and Australia’s Singing Ship.
Immerse yourself into the majestic wonder
Capricorn Caves
Delve into the ancient chambers of Rockhampton’s oldest playground – the Capricorn Caves. The Capricorn Caves offers a range of tours from the easy going and mesmerising Cathedral Cave Tour to something more challenging like the Explorer and Adventurer Tours, which takes you to deeper and more remote sections of the Caves, where your headlamp is your only source of light.
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Written by Explore Rockhampton
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