Let’s face it, with mountains, cattle properties, tropical islands and everything in-between, there’s nowhere quite like Central QLD. At RACQ CapRescue we get to see a lot of the Rockhampton region, so, naturally, debate rages in the hanger, office and cockpit about the best things to do in Rocky when we have some free time. Here are our contenders for the top three. What do you reckon? Did your favourite make the list? Let us know what you think and whether we missed the ‘must-do’ things in Rocky.
What’s better than marveling at over 60 species of native and exotic animals like chimpanzees, saltwater crocodiles, kangaroos, otters and a spectacular collection of colourful birds? How about marveling at all that, for free? Yep – that’s right, this world-class venue is free.
We highly recommend the educational ‘Keeper talks’ in the afternoons, where you can learn from the experts about how they care for the animals and what the animals like to eat. You can plan your trip here: https://www.rockhamptonzoo.com.au/Home.
Once you’re finished, take a short stroll to the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise. If you fancy a little peace and tranquility, spend some time in the Japanese Gardens. Or if you want to honour our Australian servicemen and women, you can pay your respects at the cenotaph. There’s plenty to see and do, so we reckon your best bet is to pack a picnic and set up near the kids playground. If you’re more of a food and coffee lover, be sure to check out the Gardens Tearoom.
The Bruce Highway is one long road. Anyone who’s driven it will tell you there’s some good places to stop, but nowhere quite like the beautiful Kershaw Gardens that stretch for an entire kilometre and provide a stunning view for anyone driving past. But why be content to just look at it? Do yourself a favour and stop to take it all in.
These gardens provide an attractive, peaceful setting with spacious parklands, walking tracks, play areas for the kids and a magnificent waterfall. Seriously, is there anywhere else this pretty, anywhere else along the Bruce? Take it from us, there isn’t!
There’s also a newly redeveloped playground with all-abilities features like a harness for the 30 metre double flying fox (for twice the fun), an omnispinner, a bird’s nest swing and fantastic sensory experiences. Pack a picnic or use the free BBQ’s to cook up a storm.
This stunning mountain is part of the Darumbal tribe Raki-warra clan’s traditional country. Walkers and nature lovers are spoiled for choice, with the option of either the short 500m Nurim circuit or the 1.4km return Grasstree Lookout track.
Both tracks boast some seriously impressive views, so you can’t make a wrong choice. If you’re feeling really adventurous you can tackle the 14km Zambia Walk, which is located at the summit.
Allow for up to 5 hours for this one and don’t forget your water and means of communication – at RACQ CapRescue we love visiting spots like this, but we prefer to do it on our days off, not on a rescue mission!
We sat down with one of our closest partners, RACQ, to learn more about who they are and why they support our mission.
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Rescue Crewman, Garth Snaidero, tells us all about his position at RACQ CapRescue and what brought him to Central QLD.