"Rockhampton: Beef Capital of Australia" Rockhampton by cafank

...but beef cattle have been the lifeblood of this inland city the city's wealth is largely based on the cattle industry. Rockhampton, affectionally known as "Rocky", has always been known as the 'Beef Capital of Australia".

Around Rockhampton, more than three million cattle roam among the gum trees, and at local pubs, steak sandwiches and barbecued snags are a local speciality.

Rockhampton is located on the Tropic of Capricorn and is a gateway to both the Coast and the Outback. It's an ideal stopoff to see some true Australian cattle country, experience some outback living and then head to the coast and visit a Great Barrier Reef Island.

Koala at the zoo

I wasn't sure if I would enjoy my first visit to Rockhampton after a gap of about 30 years. I had read a lot of reviews saying that it is a rather boring place - and for young ones it may well be so.

For those of us a few years older - I think you will find as much enjoyment as I did (I have been back 3 times over the past 6 weeks and will go again shortly). There is also a lot to see and do for families and many activites and sights are free of charge.

I loved the parks and gardens, it was lovely getting so close to koalas at the zoo and I really enjoyed my morning at the cattle auctions.

There are so many places of interest within a short drive away - and you really do need a car in this area.

Me at the Heritage Village

In the centre of town, the famous Great Western Hotel which has bull riding in its own backyard bullring. If you have never seen this check it out, riders from all over Australia have competitions and rodeos almost every weekend.

The heritage village is great. I was lucky enough to be driven around the village. Great place for kids too, lots to see and do and interactive.

• Pros:Lots to see and do, friendly locals
• Cons:You do need transport to really see this area
• In a nutshell:More than just cattle and beef