Here’s five of the best events and activities to do in Rockhampton and Yeppoon
Out of ideas for Australia Day? Don’t stress – from tropical island gigs to waterslides and fireworks, we’ve got you covered.
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Central Queenslanders are gearing up for one of the biggest community celebrations of the year.
With Australia Day falling over a long weekend this year, there’s no reason not to get out and enjoy some hot weather and cold beer.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best Australia Day events in Rockhampton and Yeppoon for 2025.
Great Australia Day Beach Party at Yeppoon Main Beach
This event is an epic opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Capricorn Coast and everything we love about this country.
The event will be headlined by Australian Idol runner-up Trent Richardson – but the fun doesn’t stop there.
The day will see multiple live bands performing, as well as market stalls, games, competitions and firework.
There are all sorts of humorous and eccentric events including a flea circus, kookaburra calling competition and a comedy hypnosis show.
The event is free for participants of all ages.
Australia Day in the Big Shed at Rockhampton Showgrounds
Rockhampton is hosting its own massive Australia Day event too, with plenty of family-friendly fun for everybody to enjoy.
You can watch live performances on the Kookaburra Stage by a great line-up of local and emerging country music stars, such as:
– Gemma Kirby
– Brad Butcher
– Lewis McKee
– Rachael Dee
– Kate Mahood
– Blake Benecke
It’s a family friendly event, and kids are sure to enjoy free rides, backyard games and other outdoor entertainment.
The event will also play host to a variety of food market stalls, along with a licensed bar area where you can quench your thirst.
There’s even an airconditioned zone for anybody trying to keep themselves out of the heat.
Just like the Yeppoon event, this is completely free.
Australia Day Long Weekend at Great Keppel Island
If you’re looking to get out into the great outdoors on Australia Day, why not head over to the famous Keppel Island?
GKI Hideaway’s Australia Day Long Weekend event is sure to be memorable, with great food, drinks and entertainment set against the backdrop of pristine white sand and enticing blue water.
The party starts on the 25th, with Pipi’s Beach Club hosting a Hottest 100 celebration from 10.00am to 7.00pm.
Enjoy cocktails and fancy beers right on the beach and dance the day away to the best tunes of the year.
If you get hungry later on, you’re in luck – come along to the BBQ by the Beach and get into some works burgers, snags, prawn buckets and lamb chops.
On the 26th, there will be live music all day – Scott Foden will be playing from 11.30am until 3.00pm, followed by Dawn & The Sax from 6.00pm until late.
During the day you can also enjoy the Australia Day BBQ Buffet for only $40 per person!
Ferry services will run later than usual to accommodate for the weekend’s festivities, departing Fisherman’s Beach at 7.30pm.
Australia Day Pool Party at Northside Pool
If $5 waterslide access and putt-putt are up your alley, head down to 42nd Battalion Memorial Pool (also known as Northside Pool.)
There’s plenty to do, with an 18 par minigolf course, three 10-metre tall waterslides, an eight-lane 50-metre swimming pool and a wading pool.
Visitors on Australia Day are welcome to bring along their own picnics and gazebos, or to purchase any hot food, snacks, cold drinks or ice-cream from the kiosks.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this event is alcohol-free and glass-free — any eskies will be checked by staff at the door.
Australia Day Long Weekend at Lionleigh Hotel
If heading to the pub on Australia Day is more your style, the Lionleigh has you sorted.
On January 25 they will be hosting themed food and drinks, offering prizes and giveaways and even free pool games.
They’re also offering a free sausage sizzle from 2.00pm until 4.00pm, along with live music from Damien Broome from 5.00pm to 9.00pm.
On the 26th, Amy’s Limelight Karaoke will be at the Lionleigh busting out Aussie hits from midday until 6.00pm.
Feeling dusty on the 27th?
Don’t worry!
On this day, kids can eat free for lunch and for dinner.
Let them go wild in the new indoor play while you get some well-earned rest in the aircon.
You can even win a Long Weekend Hamper – every meal you buy enters you into the draw, and the winner will be announced on Monday night after dinner service.
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