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Getting Around Rockhampton

Getting Around Rockhampton

Queensland, Australia

Public Transportation

Rockhampton's public transport system consists solely of bus services operated by Sunbus, part of TransLink Queensland. No metro, tram, or train services exist within the city. The bus network connects major residential areas with the Central Business District (CBD), shopping centers, and other facilities.

The Rockhampton City Centre serves as a central hub for many bus routes, especially stops near the Riverside Precinct and along East Street. Buses also service large shopping centers, which act as secondary hubs. Detailed route maps and timetables are found on the TransLink Queensland website or at major bus stops and the Rockhampton Visitor Information Centre.

Fares & Accessibility

  • Fares: Purchase single paper tickets directly from the driver onboard using cash. Rockhampton is not part of the Go Card network.
  • Zone-based fares: Inform the driver of your destination to calculate the fare.
  • Hours: Buses generally operate early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM). Services reduce on weekends and public holidays.
  • Accessibility: Sunbus operates accessible buses with ramps and designated space for wheelchairs.

Plan Your Journey

Use the TransLink website or app to check routes and timetables in advance.

Cash Ready

Have exact cash ready for your bus fare when boarding to speed up the process.

Flag Down Bus

Signal to the driver as the bus approaches your stop that you intend to board.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis
  • Licensed taxis are identifiable by their "Taxi" roof sign.
  • Hail a taxi in the CBD or find them at designated ranks (airport, shopping centers).
  • Book via the 13cabs app or call Yellow Cab Rockhampton directly.
Ride-Sharing
  • Uber is widely available; book and pay through the Uber app.
  • DiDi may also operate; check the app for availability.
  • Verify driver and vehicle details with the app before entering for safety.

Typical Fares & Payment

Metered Fares

Taxi fares are metered, with a flagfall plus distance and time charges.

Surcharges

May apply for late-night travel, public holidays, or booking fees.

Payment Methods

Most taxis accept cash, EFTPOS (debit), and major credit cards.

Transparent Pricing

Ride-sharing apps offer transparent pricing for convenience.

Rental Options

Car rental offers flexibility for exploring Rockhampton and its surrounding areas.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: Valid driving licence (English or accompanied by IDP/translation) and a credit card for deposit. Minimum age is generally 21.
  • Major Companies: Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, Europcar, Enterprise operate in Rockhampton (airport and city locations).
  • Booking: Book in advance, especially during peak season or for specific vehicle types.
  • Pickup: Airport desks and some city locations.

Driving & Parking

  • Driving Laws: Drive on the left. Speed limits strictly enforced (50 km/h urban, 100-110 km/h highway). Seatbelts mandatory. No mobile phone use while driving. Strict drink driving laws.
  • Road Conditions: Major roads are good. Rural roads may be unsealed; adjust driving for conditions.
  • Parking: Metered street parking in CBD (pay-and-display). Paid parking stations available. Free parking further from city center or at attractions. Read signs carefully.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Less common; may require specific license endorsements. Limited availability.

Walking & Cycling

  • Pedestrian-friendly areas: Riverside Precinct for strolls, CBD for heritage exploration. Botanic Gardens & Zoo and Kershaw Gardens feature excellent walking paths.
  • Walking tours: Self-guided historical tours of the CBD (maps from Visitor Information Centre). Guided tours may be available from local operators.
  • Bicycle rentals: No major city-wide sharing programs. Some local bicycle shops may offer rentals.
  • Bicycle infrastructure: Dedicated cycle paths exist along the river and connecting parks.
  • Cycling safety: Cyclists must obey all road rules. Wearing a Helmet is mandatory in Queensland.
  • No-go areas: No specific unsafe areas. Exercise caution on busy roads or poorly lit areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No hop-on-hop-off services. Local operators offer day tours to attractions like Capricorn Caves or Mount Archer, or transfers to Great Keppel Island ferries.

Water Transport

No regular boat taxi services on the Fitzroy River. Some private operators offer scenic river cruises. Ferries to Great Keppel Island depart from Rosslyn Bay Harbour.

Unique Transport

Rockhampton does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.