BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, tranquil bushland and city bustle. Have one or have them all on a holiday in the Capricorn region.

Discover some of inland Queensland’s vast diversity, ranging from nature’s beauties to gemfields to mining towns. Then head back towards the coast for a taste of city sophistication followed by some time out at the beach. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on seeing this part of the world.

Gather information before you go by contacting the Capricorn Tourism and Development Organisation (in Rockhampton), then set out for your Capricorn adventure.

Explore the stunning beauty of Carnarvon Gorge National Park, where you will find great walks and an extensive aboriginal art gallery. Visit Emerald and wander its botanic gardens or just gaze at the Van Gogh-style painting which sits on an easel three storeys high. Catch a red claw in Lake Maraboon. Then head out to experience gem fever at one of the richest sapphire fields in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a mine tour, sieve for your own gems at the fossicking parks or buy something really special at a jewellery store.

Visit Capella and learn some of its history - and maybe see some horse sports, then return to Emerald. From here, travel east to discover the wild beauty of Blackdown Tableland with its imposing sandstone escarpment and aboriginal history.

Also visit beautiful public gardens in Blackwater and Duaringa.

Just 30 minutes from Rockhampton is Mount Morgan, which has a rich and fascinating history from the days when gold was king. Visit the historical railway station and information centre or take a stroll through the Mount Morgan Historical Museum before returning to the Bruce Highway at Rockhampton, stopping at Mt Hay Gemstone Tourist park at Wycarbah on the way.

Once in Rockhampton, browse around the city shops and visit everything from the Gracemere cattle yards to art galleries. Then top off your holiday with a beach stay on the Capricorn Coast. Who said you couldn’t have it all?

Pictures on this page: The beach, natural beauty at Blackdown Tablelands and a taste of the city in Rockhampton.

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