Rockhampton's best winter experiences
Published on 31 May 2023
Warm up this winter Rocky style!
More than 300 days of sunshine each year and unseasonably warm winter temperatures, makes the Rockhampton Region one of the best destinations to visit during the cooler months.
Forget hibernating and consider migrating to the Beef Capital of Australia this winter where you can spend your days, relaxing, unwinding and experiencing everything our gorgeous region has to offer.
From festivals to concerts, race days to spectacular hiking trails, mountain biking tracks to river cruises, inspirational exhibitions to historical adventures, there's plenty to fill your days and nights during your stay.
This winter, we invite you to make the most of your visit to Rockhampton by taking on some of our great experiences our region has to offer.
Explore Rockhampton and share your visit with us by tagging @ExploreRockhampton and #ExploreRockhampton.
Wow your dinner guests with a heart-warming, beefy recipe.
Cook up a beefy storm at home
There's nothing quite like the taste of a hearty, home-cooked meal on a cool winter's day. Straight 'outta' the Beef Capital, comes an inspirational culinary cooking series that will make your tastsebuds dance and your stomach sing with joy. The Best of Beef Series showcases some of the region’s best beef dishes that you can create and experience in the comfort of your own home. This series features one-to-two minute videos, introducing you to some of Rockhampton's chefs, providing you with a behind-the-scenes tour of their kitchen and giving you tips on serving up a delicious bit of beef.
Let's get cooking
Gear up for an adrenaline pumping, fashion filled, drool worthy, culturally immersive and revving good time in Rockhampton this winter.
Rockhampton is alive with events this Winter!
From festivals to concerts, race days and rodeos, Rockhampton's Winter time stages some of the region's greatest events of the year. In fact, many of these major events are hosted along the banks of the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) in the heart of Rockhampton's Riverside Precinct and throughout the CBD. Visitors are blessed with having the luxury of relaxing in 4.5 star accommodation with stunning views to Mount Archer National Park, all while within walking distance to event and dining precincts. We've listed several drawcard events this winter below. To discover the full list of events, visit our 2023 Major Event Calendar or follow the My Rockhampton Facebook page for current events.
What's on THIS Winter
June
July
August
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From a Burdekin Studio: Works by Cutler Footway, Rockhampton Museum of Art.
Be inspired at 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 (RMOA) is the largest gallery in regional Queensland. Located on Rockhampton’s iconic Quay Street, the museum is free to visit and open daily from 9am to 4pm. Take a journey through the eye-catching exhibitions, programs and workshops and browse the gift shop downstairs. RMOA’s collection is regarded as one of the finest in regional Australia and is the only regional gallery in Queensland to hold a representative collection mid-twentieth century Australian art.
Winter Exhibitions
Man of Letters: Derek Lamb and The Officina Athelstane | Now - 25 June, 2023
The Officina Athelstane, led by internationally recognised printmaker Derek Lamb, is a private press workshop based in Rockhampton’s Walter Reid Cultural Centre since 2011. Lamb’s impress practice is devoted to traditional, pre-digital letterpress techniques, created from vintage machines and founded in historical research. Lamb’s fine press editions are held by the National Library of Australia; Oxford and Cambridge University Libraries; the National Library of Ireland; and several state libraries and universities across Australia.
From a Burdekin Studio: Works by Cutler Footway | Now - 2 July, 2023
This major survey exhibition of Burdekin-born artist Cutler Footway - also known as the former art critic Bruce James - offers a vision of the body filtered through a variety of genres, all created from the modest studio in Ayr. In Footway's work, flesh seeps beyond itself to find expression in landscape, still life, portraiture, figural subjects and life drawing, all of which answer the carnal call of the body. Curated by Emily Wakeling.
Easton Dunne: Welcome to Paradise | 20 May - 23 July, 2023
Central Queensland-based artist Easton Dunne's breakthrough works on paper and sculptural installations express the unique experiences, frustrations and joys of living Queer in regional Australia. Symbols, colours, shapes and turns of phrase that will be familiar to many people who live rurally and regionally are deconstructed and put together again in quick-witted and Queer-coded contexts.
Collection Focus: Paper Planes | 10 June - 17 September, 2023
‘Paper Planes’ brings together a selection of works on paper from Rockhampton Museum of Art Collection to explore several different but related themes. With multiple approaches to form, mark making, abstraction and representation, the 36 artists of ‘Paper Planes’ explore the graphic sensibility as an expanded response to the world, visually shaping, analysing and commentating through the contained, world-in-miniature of the picture plane.
Red Rag Press: Women's Work | 1 July - 8 October, 2023
Utilising North Queensland’s decommissioned letterpress printing equipment, Red Rag Press is for writers, poets, and printmakers. Lead by Townsville artist Sheree Kinlyside, the press facilitates connections with collaborators near and far. ‘Women’s Work’ showcases the press’s finest editions from over two decades, many now found in major institutions in Australia and the world.
Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion | 28 July - 22 October 2023
Featuring the work of First Nations artists and designers from the inner city to remote desert art centres, ‘Piinpi’ highlights the strength and diversity of the rapidly expanding Indigenous fashion and textile industry. See creations by Australia’s leading creatives in a design movement fast becoming an international fashion phenomenon.
JamFactory ICON Jessica Loughlin: of light (selected works) | 19 August - 5 November, 2023
A studio glass artist for over twenty years, Jessica Loughlin creates ethereal kiln formed glass works that explore her fascination with the beauty of emptiness and her extensive research into light and space. Known for her understated aesthetic, Loughlin takes her artistic cues from the vastness of the Australian landscape and is particularly drawn to the inherent quietness and stillness of the land. This display features a curated selection of works from the major touring exhibition.
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Get your cuteness overload at Rockhampton Zoo.
Our cheeky mob at Rockhampton Zoo are keen to meet you!
100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, QLD, 4700
While some animals will hibernate during the winter months, the animals that call Rockhampton Zoo home are always eager to meet visitors. With more than 30 species of native and exotic animals, Rockhampton Zoo is a must to tick off your bucket list during your stay. From cheeky chimpanzees, adorable otters, mischievous meerkats, dingoes, wedged-tail eagle and more, you can enjoy learning all about the animals with zookeeper talks held throughout the day. Alternatively you can Meet the Crew at Rockhampton Zoo and discover more about our amazing animals from the comfort of your apartment by downloading our FREE Explore Rockhampton Self-Guided Tour app.
Animal Encounters & Experiences
For something truly unique and memorable, book an animal encounter or experience.
Meerkat Encounter The cheeky meerkat mob at Rockhampton Zoo is waiting to have an encounter with you. Your encounter will include a feeding session that's guaranteed to have meerkats climbing all over you, as well as a private keeper talk.
Otter Encounter Are you someone who's otterly obsessed? Come and meet Tomio and Misumi, our cheeky otters! Your encounter will have you getting to know these cute little critters through the mesh, feeding them afternoon tea while having a private keeper talk to learn more about these playful creatures.
Junior Zookeeper Experience Held during Queensland School Holidays, for ages 8 to 15 years, the Junior Zookeeper Experience takes you to parts of the zoo usually only inhabited by Zoo staff and the wonderful animals. Junior Zookeepers will get the chance to make enrichment item, feed selected animals, help clean the enclosures and maybe even hold a reptile while asking the Zookeeper Guide lots of questions.
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Get lots amidst nature's beauty at Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.
Visit Rockhampton's Heritage-Listed Botanic Gardens
100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, Qld, 4700
Next door to the Zoo is the breath-taking Rockhampton Botanic Gardens - one of the oldest and most established public gardens in Queensland. These gardens sprawl across 33-hectares and feature a stunning arrangement of beautifully landscaped greenery, winding pathways, tranquil Japanese Gardens and expansive Murray Lagoon, where you can spot turtles! Relax and unwind with a bite to eat from the Garden Tearooms under the giant canopy of the 150-year-old Banyan Figs. Rockhampton's Botanic Gardens is a picture perfect place to explore for nature lovers.
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See it live at the Pilbeam Theatre.
Catch a show at the Pilbeam Theatre
Victoria Parade &, Cambridge St, Rockhampton QLD 4700
From national and international touring acts to local theatrical and musical productions, the Pilbeam Theatre is Central Queensland’s performing arts centre. Book a show and be entertained during your stay in the region. The winter calendar features a wide range of performances for all ages.
What's on this Winter
June
July
August
Find out more
Nothing brings people closer together than food.
Bask in Rocky's best Barbecue spots
Nothing beats the great outdoors during Rockhampton's winter. Make a day of it with a barbecue picnic at one of the region's beautiful locations. Whether you’re after a scenic river view or a tranquil garden setting, the Rockhampton Region has it all. Discover how you can host the ultimate barbecue picnic experience in Rockhampton, from the buying the best produce from our local butchers, farmers markets and bakeries to seeking out the popular picnic locations in our region!
Rocky's Top BBQ Spots
Sail away as you enjoy the sun set over the city of Rockhampton.
Kick back with a cold one on a river cruise
Departing from 80 Reaney St, The Common QLD 4701
Picture yourself gently rocking upon the river waters of the mighty Fitzroy (Tunuba) as you enjoy a refreshing drink and watch the sun set over the horizon. River Cruises set an incredibly relaxing tone for those who wish to enjoy the riches of Rockhampton from a different perspective. The popular 90-minute sunset cruise, which includes complimentary nibbles and drinks available for purchase, offers breathtaking views of the city - you might even be lucky enough to spot some of the amazing wildlife along the banks including crocodiles!
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Tantalise your tastebuds with a winter warmer.
Satisfy your hunger with a seasonal winter dish
Foodies are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out in Rockhampton. The change of weather can bring on a new seasonal menu to try. While you are always guaranteed a great sizzling steak to sink your teeth into, Rockhampton also delivers a wide range of international cuisine, quirky cafes, restaurants with aesthetically stunning views and pubs topped off with loads of character. Why not try some of our suggestions the locals regularly enjoy.
Feeling hungry?
The views from Nurim Circuit and the greater Mount Archer National Park are outer worldly.
Walk the tree tops of mount archer national park (nurim)
Pilbeam Drive, Mount Archer, QLD, 4701
If fresh mountain air and spectacular views make you weak at the knees, then Mount Archer (Nurim) is a must experience in winter. Wander through the trees along Nurim Circuit elevated treetop boardwalk, sit back and relax with a picnic in the amphitheatre or take a stroll along the many bush walking trails. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer, the 500 metre flat treetop boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba). Soak up 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!
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Rockhampton Heritage Village.
Step back in time with one of our many historical adventures
From frontier town to bustling river port and gold rush city, Rockhampton’s colonial past and its fortunes are preserved in sandstone, wrought iron and topped off with a magnificent copper dome. Like the Fitzroy (Tunuba), these fortunes have ebbed and flowed over the years and today delivers a town full of heritage and history. You can spend hours on end, and even days, discovering the region's colourful past. We've listed some of the region's great historical experiences below for you to explore.
All aboard! Archer Park Railway Museum | 51-87 Denison St, Rockhampton QLD 4700
Take a ride upon one of a fully restored one-of-a-kind Purrey Steam Tram and discover the wonders of Rockhampton’s rail history. Constructed in 1899, the architecturally impressive Archer Park was the central railway station for Rockhampton until the mid-1920s. Today, Archer Park Rail Museum is one of Rockhampton’s iconic historic locations you will surely love! The museum is open Monday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm and Sunday 9am to 1pm.
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Rockhampton Heritage Village - A blast from the past! | Boundary Rd, Parkhurst QLD 4702
Authentically capturing a generous slice of an earlier generation's way of life, the Rockhampton Heritage Village is a wonderful place to enjoy. Experience life before electricity with a tour through the many homesteads, vintage cars, tractors, fire engines, horse drawn vehicles and wagons on display. Watch how a 1950's print press works and visit the Blacksmith Shop and take in the traditional skills from a bygone era. You even have the unique chance to try a range of transport options including horses and ponies, a horse and cart, vintage double-decker bus, vintage fire engine and several other vintage vehicles, plus meet some adorable farm animals. The Village is set on 11.4 hectares of bush land and incorporates a charming township from yesteryear with original and recreated homesteads, buildings and businesses and is open from 10am - 4pm daily (excluding public holidays).
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Time Safaris Rockhampton - Bushrangers, bank heists and mayhem, oh my!
From historic stories of female bushrangers, bank heists, floods and World War II efforts to twisted tales of murder and mayhem, Time Safaris Rockhampton Tours is the history lesson you wish you had at school! Join an experienced tour guide and along Rockhampton's scenic Riverside Precinct and travel back in time and learn about the history of Queensland's historic buildings, the ghosts that haunted Quay Street, the city's first recorded murder and the Rockhampton gold heist that created Sherlock Holmes and modern forensics!
Book a tour
CQ Military Museum - Explore Rockhampton's war history | 40 Archer Street, Rockhampton QLD 4700
Preserving the military history of Central Queensland, visit the Central Queensland Military and Artefacts Museum, the only military museum in the region. Browse through their extensive collection ranging from the 1900s through to present day
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Mount Morgan - A rich past and small town charm! | Mount Morgan QLD, 4714
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:
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Make tracks this winter on our MTB Trails.
Mountain Bike Trails
First Turkey MTB Park | 249 German Street, Norman Gardens QLD 4701
Rockhampton’s Mountain Biking Trail is open all year round, but the winter months is when the tracks truly come alive! Situated on the side of Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park, First Turkey offers more than 30 different trails fit for all skill levels. First Turkey has a range of trails from Gravity Enduro and Cross Country trails through diverse terrain, meaning you can easily pick the perfect ride for your level to explore and enjoy. Even if you aren’t equipped with your own bike, bike hire is available from Giant Rockhampton who will ensure you're set with the right gear to hit the trails.
Enjoy the outdoors with a Farm Stay.
Experience an authentic farm stay
A farm stay experience is the perfect place to switch off, relax and immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy the fresh air, open spaces and the smell of the bush. Rockhampton is home to several farm stays, all within a 90 minute drive from the city. For the activity seeker, some of our farm stays let you feed the farm animals, ride a horse or you can even try your hand at quad bike riding across the property.
Alkoomi Adventure Farm | 45.8km from Rockhampton CBD
Alkoomi Adventure Farm is a family run cattle property that also offers visitors a true Australian outback experience. There’s plenty to see and do at this authentic farm stay, whether it be exploring the property by foot and photographing its breathtaking 360° views, heading out on a leisurely horse ride, cooling down in their freshwater dams, or taking an adrenaline packed motorbike or quad bike ride. Once the sun sets, sit around the campfire and watch the stars while sharing stories of your day.
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Hedlow Retreat | 30.7km from Rockhampton CBD
Hedlow Retreat is set amongst 14 hectares of lush hinterland scenery, perfectly placed on the banks of Hedlow Creek just 25 minutes drive from Rockhampton. With its spectacular backdrop of towering volcanic plugs and expansive grounds, it’s a visual feast for the senses. Indulge in a self-contained cabin and take part in farm activities, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet at this stunning location.
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Myella Farm Stay | 125km from Rockhampton CBD
Escape to the country at Myella a 1040 hectare cattle farm. Myella Farm Stay offers farm drive tours and many real life experiences like cow milking, animal feeding, horse riding, whip cracking and lasso lessons. Relax knowing that although the activities are fun, safety is our priority. Connect with nature, go bush walking or bring your bicycle and explore. At the end of the day sit by the campfire and unwind. Visit for a ½ day tour or stay overnight in the original homestead, comfortable en-suite room or use the campgrounds and swimming pool. Self-cater or enjoy home cooked meals where many ingredients are from the paddock to your plate. Myella is located 90 minutes from Rockhampton, the only dirt is 600m into the homestead; otherwise it’s all sealed roads to the front gate.
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Take flight with a heli-adventure.
The skies the limit
Rocky's clear winter skies make it perfect for experiencing the Region from a great height? Seek your thrills from above with a joyride helicopter adventure. Rockhampton has a range of aerial experiences. Tours cover a wide distance throughout the region from the mighty Fitzroy River to coastlines. The possibilities are endless with fully customised flight paths and packages available.
Shop the latest styles from Rockhampton's retailers and boutiques.
Shop till you drop - winter fashion
Looking to grow your winter collection with some new threads and accessories? Rockhampton's retail scene is a kaleidoscope of boutique shops, great retail giants and alternative styles. Nestled among the quirky cafes, Rockhampton's shady tree-lined East Street is a great spot to get your boutique shopping fix. Venture a little further out of the CBD to William Street and Wandal and you'll be even more surprised. Grab a coffee from one of the cafes and spend a morning or afternoon wandering through these fantastic shops, all while admiring the heritage architecture along the way. For major retailers l, the latest in winter fashion, home and lifestyle can also be found at major shopping centres including Stockland Rockhampton, City Centre Plaza and Allenstown Square.
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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 a bull statue – after all you’re in the Beef Capital of Australia! You’ll spot them dotted around the city, usually on the median strips on 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 from the Rockhampton Zoo and Botanic Gardens.
Explore a 400 million year old cave.
Venture through the Capricorn Caves
30 Olsens Caves Rd, The Caves QLD 4702
A short drive north of Rockhampton will take you to the ancient chambers of Rockhampton’s oldest playground – the Capricorn Caves. The Capricorn Caves offers a range of daily tours from the mesmerising Cathedral Cave Tour to something more challenging like the Explorer and Adventurer Tours. As an Advanced Eco-Tourism attraction Capricorn Caves is a home to an abundance of native wildlife and endangered species which you can discover on tour. Experienced local guides deliver the captivating stories of this ancient Australian landscape on small-scale interpretive tours
Book a tour
Written by Explore Rockhampton
#ExploreRockhampton
@explorerockhampton
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