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Date: November 2007
Location: Central Queensland Australia
Leaving behind the high heels, self-confessed city girl Stacey Morton took time to discover a relaxed seaside holiday on the Central
Queensland coast.
Flying in over the rugged countryside and Fitzroy River, the thriving city of Rockhampton seems to appear out of nowhere. Then it’s a
short 30 minute, picturesque drive to Yeppoon, the gateway town of the Capricorn Coast, a charming town boasting a seaside village
atmosphere with the bonus of all the ‘mod cons’.
Travel a further 10 minutes and you’ll stumble across the hidden oasis of Rydges Capricorn Resort. This newly-renovated resort is
complete with its own 20km stretch of unspoiled beach frontage.
While the resort is famous for its two world-class golf courses, it was horse riding that intrigued me so I saddled up and headed to the
beach for a trail ride.
We hadn’t even left the stable yard before Jill, the jovial guide, pointed out a graveyard-like memorial which she told us was in
honour of trail-riders before us who hadn’t made it back. Thankfully, after a giggle, she admitted it was actually to celebrate the
opening of the resort some 20 years ago.
Galloping along the beach and out into the ocean was an experience that I will never forget. Once back at the resort, I dived in and
under the in-pool waterfall allowing the water to gently massage my back and neck. In such a short time, I had left behind the city
hassles and felt totally relaxed.
After a delicious dinner at the Rydges’ Tsuruya Japanese Restaurant, and great night’s sleep, we headed off early toward Gladstone Airport
ready for the short 45 minute flight to Lady Elliot Island and a day of snorkelling fun on the Great
Barrier Reef.
I’m not sure which was more impressive - Lady Elliot Island from the air, underwater or at ground level. From above, the water is shades of
blue I’ve never seen before, broken up by the artistic patterns of the Great Barrier Reef.
Underwater it’s the fish that grab your attention, every colour of the rainbow, a mix-match of patterns and colours resembling a bright dance
troupe performing especially for you.
And then from the land, it takes only 40 minutes to walk around the whole island - and here’s a tip – 10 minutes in either direction
guarantees complete seclusion. This is the perfect spot to laze under a tree and bury your nose in a good book, or simply spend the
time gazing out of over the magnificent sights of the coral reefs.
For those lucky enough to stay, Lady Elliot Island offers various types of accommodation from Island Suites to tent cabins.
This coral cay was formed more than 3,000 years ago and is home to around 55 species of bird, nesting sea turtles and vibrant coral
formations and marine life. It’s a playground for snorkellers and scuba divers, from novice to expert, as there are trained diving
professionals on hand to guide you through this natural wonderland.
Flying back into Gladstone you can’t help but be in awe of the industrial giants lining the shore. These huge constructions seem to grow
up out of nowhere as you come into land.
Gladstone may be known as the Port City to the World, but there’s so much more to it.
The region is well known for its industry, and there are daily tours of the major industrial operators available. There are several
prominent lookouts with spectacular views including an overview of the world’s largest alumina plant. You can also explore the waterfront
including the marina and historic Barney Beach or enjoy the greenery of the botanic gardens.
Cruising around Spinnaker Park and the marina it’s not hard to imagine the excitement of the crowds that gather as the yachts pull into
sight on the final leg of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race every Easter.
Irene, owner of the local restaurant Kapers, believes ‘the way to a person’s heart is through the door of a good restaurant’ - and what
a restaurant she has.
It’s like walking into your family kitchen. We’re greeted at the door and shown to our table complete with a personalised balloon welcome
message. One by one the tables are filled and, as well as running the kitchen, Irene continues to greet everyone personally. Her flair
and skills are also evident in her culinary delights. Don’t leave without trying the Port and Peppercorn Pate!
Saying goodbye to Gladstone we headed south along the Bruce Highway, taking in the sights of rolling hills and the rugged Many Peaks Range.
After a scenic two-and-a-half hour drive, the hills were replaced by cane crops bordering the road.
Driving through Bundaberg the first thing you’ll notice is the town is bustling, thriving on cane and rum production. The delightful main
street is lined with ornate facades of historical buildings holding stories of days gone by.
From Bundaberg, it’s a 13km drive to the peaceful and relaxed surroundings of Bargara. Right on the coast, this is the perfect spot to
throw in a line or to attempt to surf, and that’s just what I did. There were plenty of thrills and spills but by the end of the session
Bargara Surf School teacher Michelle had me standing up, even if was for a split second.
After working up an appetite in the surf, we were off to Kacy’s for dinner and with a menu over 10 pages there was something for everyone.
This beautifully-remodelled Balinese-style restaurant by the sea definitively set the scene for a seafood banquet to be remembered.
Getting there
Driving from Brisbane, it takes four hours to Bundaberg, six to Gladstone and seven to Rockhampton.
Flying
To Rockhampton (Yeppoon). Qantaslink, Virgin Blue and Jetstar all offer direct daily flights from Brisbane to Rockhampton with connections
from all major Australian cities. Virgin Blue also offer direct flights from Sydney to Rockhampton three times a week.
To Gladstone and Lady Elliot Island. Qantaslink has daily flights direct from Brisbane to Gladstone Airport. Qantas also offers connections
from other Australian capital cities. Sea Air provide flights to Lady Elliot Island and Agnes Water.
To Bundaberg (Bargara). Qantaslink flies direct to Bundaberg from Brisbane daily. Qantas, Virgin Blue and Jetstar can connect from any major
Australian city.
Take the Tilt Train to Rockhampton, Gladstone or Bundaberg enjoying the journey in complete comfort or catch a comfortable Greyhound-Australia coach.
Visit
www.qantas.com.au
www.jetstar.com.au
www.virginblue.com.au
www.traveltrain.com.au
www.greyhound.com.au
Staying and playing there
www.centralqueensland.com.au
www.bundabergregion.info
www.gladstoneholidays.info
www.carpricorntourism.com.au
Ideas
www.queenslandholidays.com.au
www.driveqld.com.au
- By Stacey Morton
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