 The Capricorn Region
Central Queensland’s Capricorn region begins approximately 630 km north of the capital city of Brisbane and covers an area of 115,000 square kilometres, stretching from the Southern Great Barrier Reef and the Capricorn Coast in the east, through to the major city of Rockhampton and further west to Emerald, the Sapphire Gemfields and spectacular Carnarvon Gorge.
The Capricorn region is named after the parallel latitude called the Tropic of Capricorn. The Tropic of Capricorn is approximately 23.5 degrees south of the equator and marks the split between the ‘Tropics’, a region of consistently warm climate, and the ‘Southern Temperate Zone’. The Tropic of Capricorn also runs through South America, Namibia in southern Africa, Madagascar, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean just south of Tonga.
The Capricorn Region is a jumping off point to one of the natural wonders of the world – the magnificent Southern Great Barrier Reef. Just a short ferry ride from the mainland and you will be walking on sun bleached beaches and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.
How do I get there?
Several touring routes and major highways connect the Capricorn Region with Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne in the south and Cairns in the north, whilst the aptly named Capricorn Highway is the major western highway joining Rockhampton with Longreach in Queensland’s outback.
All major Australian airlines fly into Rockhampton Airport, with regular direct flights from Brisbane, Townsville, Sydney and Melbourne plus regular services to other region centres.
Queensland Rail operates regular high-speed train services between Brisbane and Rockhampton and regular services continue on from Rockhampton to Longreach in the west and Cairns in the north.
When to go?
The Capricorn Region is located on the Tropic of Capricorn and is therefore classified as having a subtropical climate. Typical daytime temperature ranges are between 22 and 32 degrees Celsius in the summer, and 9 to 23 degrees Celsius in the winter. The region has a distinct wet and dry season, with the wet stretching from December to March and the dry from June to September
Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast…
Month Jan Feb Mar April May June July
Max 31.9 31.0 30.5 28.7 25.9 23.5 23.1
Min 22.0 22.1 20.7 17.8 14.2 10.8 9.4
Month August Sept Oct Nov Dec
Max 24.7 27.3 29.6 31.2 32.1
Min 10.6 13.5 16.9 19.4 21.1
Emerald and the Sapphire Gemfields…
Month Jan Feb Mar April May June July
Max 35.0 33.7 33.2 30.0 26.3 23.7 23.4
Min 22.3 22.3 20.4 17.2 13.4 10.2 8.8
Month August Sept Oct Nov Dec
Max 25.1 29.0 31.5 33.2 34.4
Min 10.2 13.6 17.4 19.5 21.5
Where to stay
When considering the Capricorn Region as a whole, there are caravan parks for extended stays, and backpacker hostels for those travelling on a budget. Hotel lodging choices range from 3 – 4 1/2 star accommodation. There are also many styled accommodation opportunities throughout Capricorn and travellers can plan holidays that are centered on relaxing and enjoy luxuries. So whether it be a farmstay, rainforest retreat, or modern CBD apartment, Capricorn has accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. For more information visit www.capricornholidays.com.au
Food & Drink
With the best of both coast and country, it’s no wonder that Capricorn’s cuisine is as diverse as the region it comes from. Sure, Rockhampton is known as the Beef Capital of Australia but beef is not the only thing on the menu in Capricorn.
Crocodile is another trademark food of the region! Sourced from the local Koorana Crocodile Farm, visitors can enjoy a croc steak or even a crocodile pie.
Spend a lazy Saturday morning shopping for sun-ripened mangoes, pineapples or lychees at the local Capricorn Coast markets or visit a local seafood shop and indulge in a Queensland Mud Crab or a kilo of prawns to enjoy by the sea.
As you drive along Capricorn’s scenic coast-line be sure to keep your eye out for a roadside hobby-farm stall. Stumbling across one of these stalls is always a treat, as you’ll find the freshest, tastiest and not to mention the cheapest produce the local region has to offer.
Feeling thirsty? In Capricorn you’re never far from a cold beverage at one of the regions charming old pubs. The regions pubs have a colourful history and are never short of a quirky character to tell you a yarn. If you like the nightlife at dusk you’ll find a variety of hip bars and clubs in Rockhampton City.
 Shopping
The Capricorn Region boasts a variety of shopping options and seven day trading in Rockhampton and Yeppoon. Rockhampton’s major shopping centre, Stockland Rockhampton, is the largest shopping centre between the Sunshine Coast and Cairns. Emerald and Yeppoon are also well equipped with supermarkets and specialty stores.
Also, don’t miss the regional markets. Market days are held all across the Capricorn Region with many local arts and craft stalls, and fresh produce.
Airport
The newly redeveloped Rockhampton Airport is exceptionally well serviced with multiple flights to and from Brisbane daily, direct flights from Townsville, Sydney and Melbourne and connections on to other ports around Australia and internationally. Airlines that fly into Rockhampton include Qantaslink, Virgin Blue and Tiger Airways.
Transfers from Airport
From the Rockhampton Airport you can hire a car - all major car hire companies operate from the Airport Terminal. Alternatively you can hop on a shuttle service bound for Rockhampton or the Capricorn Coast, and taxis are also available.
Getting Around for Families
There are a variety of transport options for families. The best way to see the region is often by car, but all major towns are serviced by taxis and buses and the ‘Spirit of the Outback’ train operates from Rockhampton to Emerald. A regular ferry service operates from Yeppoon to Great Keppel Island and boat charters are available from Keppel Bay Marina.
What to wear
Light clothing is usually best suited for the Capricorn Region. In the winter months it is best to pack some warmer clothing especially if you’re travelling to the Central Highlands. Remember to be sun smart and be sure to pack good walking shoes if you're fond of National Parks, and your swimmers if you’re planning a trip to the coast or islands. | 
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