Rockhampton

What is it like to live and work in Rockhampton?

Rockhampton is a charming historical city with a fun, adventurous side. Founded in 1853, the city's majestic architecture has drawn tourists and migrants alike to immerse themselves in days gone by while also enjoying all of the modern delights the region has to offer. You can step back in time by visiting the Rockhampton Heritage Village (an active township museum), or by visiting a number of heritage listed buildings, banks and cathedrals and quaint, historic houses.
The city is also known as the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef and with over 300 days of sunshine each year, lends itself perfectly to a range of outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy a riverfront parkland attraction known as the Riverbank Parklands as well as the Capricorn Coast and Great Keppel Island, a beautiful neighbouring island consisting mostly of national park.
Rockhampton also has a vibrant pub and night-club scene and you can even enjoy a touch of the country in the city at the Great Western Hotel, where they hold weekly rodeos. The city experiences a humid, subtropical climate but is too far south for the monsoonal rainy season.

The verdict: A tempting blend of historical charm and the opportunity for an active outdoor lifestyle make Rockhampton a popular choice as a place to live and work. If it's sun, warmth and an adventurous coastal vibe you are after then this city could be worth a look.

What are the prominent industries?

Grazing is one of the main industries in the area, with Gracemere Saleyards on the outskirts of the city handling the largest number of export beef cattle anywhere in Queensland. It is also the largest stud selling venue in the Southern Hemisphere. Tourism is the fastest growing sector in the city, with Rockhampton located a convenient driving distance from Brisbane and providing a launching pad for the Capricorn Coast and Great Keppel Island.

What is the area famous for?

? Rockhampton is positioned just north of the Tropic of Capricorn and a sculpture marking the latitude has been moved into town so that it is more accessible to tourists.
? The region hosts many festivals including the annual Multicultural Festival and CQU Open Day, where the university puts on hundreds of displays and market stalls.
? Due to its prominent cattle and beef industry, Rockhampton is known as The Beef Capital of Australia.

Population Info:

Up until 2008, Rockhampton City, Livingstone Shire and Fitzroy Shire were separate municipal areas. Now that the three have been amalgamated, the total estimated urban population of Rockhampton is around 80,500 people.

Some key landmarks in the area:

? The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, established in 1869, are home to some excellent specimens of ferns, cycads and palms. Some are over 100 years old!
? Since its opening in 1978 the Pilbeam theatre has been the main centre of entertainment and performing arts in the city, hosting numerous national and international comedy, music, sporting and trade shows.
? Mt Archer National Park, rising out of the north-eastern suburbs, offers spectacular views of the city from its summit, 604m above sea level.