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It's easy to overlook the charms of the Capricorn Coast in central Queensland, given that even the most well-researched tourist couldn't identify where it is. One of the absolute charms of this region is, in fact, its low tourism profile. Visitors will find that crowds don't exist, tables at the best restaurants don't need to be booked weeks ahead, and it's easy to find a beach untroubled by others' footprints.
So where exactly is the Capricorn Coast? The name comes from its latitude, straddling as it does the Tropic of Capricorn at 23.5 degrees South of the Equator. This line of latitude marks the split between the consistently warm climate of the Tropics and the Southern Temperate Zone. Essentially, it's the area surrounding Rockhampton, or more particularly for water babies, Yeppoon and the majestic cruising grounds on the central coast of Qld. It encompasses the Keppel Islands, the jewel in the crown of the region, but also nearby is the Bunker Group (Lady Musgrave Island) Pearl Bay, Island Head Creek and Port Clinton.
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Where to Berth Your Boat?
Boaties are well catered for, with the Keppel Bay Marina one of the best available on the Qld coast. For a start they actually welcome boating visitors throughout the year and also know how to look after boaties needs once they're docked. Popular boaties bbq's are a regular highlight, with Marina Management inviting all berth holders to join them on the lawn beneath the pandanus palms. The last one attracted over 200 invited guests.
The best way to explore the coast once your vessel is docked is with a hire car and Budget has great rates (starting from $45 per day at time of writing Nov08). They have depots at Rockhampton Airport as well as the Capricorn Resort north of Yeppoon. They will deliver by prior arrangement to Keppel Bay Marina Link to Budget site, you'll just need to drop the driver back to the resort. |
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Which is a great opportunity to explore the coast north of Yeppoon. In fact, if you want to leave your vessel for a day or two, why not spend the night at beachfront Capricorn Resort? Particularly if you have children to entertain, you'll find plenty of good clean, safe fun here that won't break the cruising kitty and will keep the kids busy enough during the day to ensure they're completely worn out come bedtime. Dinner at Tsuruya Japanese Restaurant is highly recommended, though the wine list prices get a little ahead of themselves.
Hinterland Exploring
Just north of the resort, accessed by a coast-hugging dirt road that terminates at Corio Bay, is the Byfield National Park, a popular sport for 4WD owning beach fishermen. Further west, and into the lush hinterland is the alternative community of Byfield. Don't drive too fast through here though, or you'll miss it. While the town itself merely consists of a General Store, primary school and a community hall, the delights of this region are hidden amidst the eucalypts and rain forest. Home of the rare Byfield Fern, you'll find plenty of walking trails meandering through the forest. |
.jpg "Ferns Hideaway Capricorn Coast") |
| John Martin, who runs Ferns Hideaway, is a well-known musician in the area. If he's not busy settling guests into the bush cabins, or telling yarns around a campfire, you'll find him behind the guitar and microphone at the intimate in-house restaurant. Day guests are welcome to dine here and use the pool and spa or paddle a canoe on Waterpark Creek.
While you're in the area, make sure you visit Nob Creek Pottery for highly acclaimed pottery, art and gifts in a glorious rainforest gallery. Steve Bishopric and Sue McBurnie produce fine pottery in the traditional style, utilising an enormous oriental style kiln. |
.jpg "Koorana Crocodile Farm Capricorn Coast")
Up Close and Personal with Crocodiles
If it's unique gifts you're looking for, you'd be hard pressed to bypass the stunning crocodile skin purses at Koorana Crocodile Farm. About 30 mins drive southwest of Yeppoon, Koorana was the first crocodile farm set-up in Qld and boasts over 3000 on the farm. Do the guided tour and watch the seemingly quiet ponds erupt with gnashing jaws and swishing tails as the crocs emerge from their seeming lethargy. Frightening creatures they are, the guided tour endeavours to paint a positive picture of these misunderstood reptiles. It's fascinating observing the trust that the guide displays as he turns his back on a 1000kg reptile to thank us for visiting the farm. The café here serves, not surprisingly, croc meat in many different guises, and is well worth giving the taste buds a little tickle. Crocodile can be tough textured meat: try the crocodile pie, which has the meat minced in a curry sauce. You'll also have the opportunity to handle a young croc: handling one of these delicate creatures, it's easy to understand John Lever's passion for conservation and preservation.
Fascinating Transport History
Preserving history is also the focus of John & Lynette Millroy. Stepping into the immaculately presented shed at the Horse & Carriage, which I must confess, didn't overly enthuse me until I met John and encountered his enthusiasm, the evidence of his passion for times past is clearly on show. He has an astonishing wealth of knowledge of everyday colonial Australian life, coupled with the skill of a craftsman to bring historical pieces to life. He proudly takes visitors through the era of true horsepower, with over 50 carriages on display, including one previously owned by Dame Nellie Melba. |
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.jpg "Champions Brock Experience Capricorn Coast")
Just a horse whisper across the road from the Horse & Carriage, you'll find more transport history on display, though with a faster, funkier theme. Award winning Champions Brock Experience began as a private collection collated by Peter Champion, a long time friend of Peter Brock. Opened to the public in 2007 and designed in collaboration with the late Peter Brock, it is the largest collection of Peter Brock race and road cars, plus memorabilia in the country. Make sure you visit coincides with the daily sound and light show to enjoy the full experience of this motor racing legend who Bathhurst an astounding nine times.
The ethos from Brock's life is clear throughout the collection. Believe in your passion. Live Life. Enjoy Life.
It's hard not to take heed of that advice. The Capricorn Coast has proved to be a delightful surprise, with the passion of its local people the absolute highlight of visiting a region untarnished by mass tourism. |
| Checklist |
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Capricorn Holidays |
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Where to Stay |
Rates at the Capricorn Resort start from just $125 per room per night (twin share). Berth your vessel at Keppel Bay Marina |
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When to Go |
As they say in Queensland, perfect one day, beautiful the next! Visit at any time of the year |
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Getting Around |
Hire a Budget Hire Car to explore the delights of the Capricorn Coast |
| We Adore |
Friendly locals who delight in sharing their unique attractions with visitors |
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We Abhor |
Paying premium prices for standard wine in restaurants | |
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| Updated December 2008 |
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