Just north of the Tropic of Capricorn and about 40km from the coast lies the City of Rockhampton. European settlement occurred for the grazing, the discovery of gold in 1859 gave it a push on elevating it to the city of “sin, sweat and sorrow” according to Anthony Trollope. Some of the fine Victorian buildings still survive, the population now stands at close to 79,000 and the general look of the place is more tired old lady than red light district.
It stands on the Fitzroy River which floods occasionally and the city is also subject to cyclones. Possibly the earthquake of 1918 was the most exciting thing that happened here, but give it its due, the weather is quite nice in winter.
Our planned itinerary would have taken us further north but flooding has closed a few roads. The traffic Queensland map looks like this today.
This is a shakedown tour for the van, we have to be back in Caloundra for a service in a week. So time to turn. Presently we are at Kinka Beach which has been quite productive for bird watching between the showers.
The highlight was Kinka Wetland. This is about 1km off Kinka Beach Road via Young Avenue. Despite its name the alleged avenue is an unmade track currently subject to many puddles. The surface is nice and solid despite all the rain, no problem with traction but having 4WD in reserve was a source of great comfort. Kinka Beach and the Causeway Lake are also worth a look.
bobmcgee 