Plan Book Travel Australia

Straddling the Tropic of Capricorn, the Capricorn Region is an inviting combination of stunning beaches, rivers, subtropical reef islands and coastal rainforests. Inland, natural wonders include rugged volcanic outcrops, deep Outback gorges, estuarine mudflats, scenic headlands and wooded hills and vast cattle stations; the region is dotted with historic townships with elegant buildings that hint at the wealth of former times.

Rich in history, relics provide evidence that the region was once the site of a goldrush. The area flourished in the past and still does due to abundant natural resources' from gold, coal and copper mines to vast cattle and grain properties.

In the west of the region, fascinating sandstone gorges like Blackdown Tableland and the magnificent Carnarvon Gorge preserve unique ecosystems and are wonderful places to explore. Try your luck fossicking for rubies, sapphires and emeralds in the Sapphire Gemfields.

The region's interesting Aboriginal history is another drawcard for visitors: there are bora rings, museums and artefacts of the Darumbal people, whose territory once stretched from inland Mount Morgan to the Keppel group of islands. The Capricorn Region's diverse landscapes offer some of the world's best fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, bushwalking, caving, camping and sightseeing experiences.

Dreamtime Cultural Centre: This large and diverse centre, 7km north of Rockhampton, is located on an important ancient site where Aboriginal people once gathered for tribal meetings. The museum aims to promote understanding of 40 000 years of Aboriginal history. Tours are available and include demonstrations of boomerang throwing and didgeridoo playing.