Criterion - Rockhampton

On the road reasonably early today and headed south on the Bruce Highway with our destination Rockhampton. The contrast in the landscape as we leave the tropical north east and get nearer to Rockhampton, which sits on the Tropic of Capricorn, is remarkable. The rainforests have been replaced by miles upon miles of sugar cane in fields so big they have their own railway network to take the cane to the processing factories where it is turned into molasses.

Gradually, the countryside flattens out with eucalyptus trees appearing everywhere and the flat plains filled with cattle grazing on deep rich grasses. Apart from a quick pit stop at Flaggy Rock for a sausage roll and cup of coffee (they seem to be big here on their sausage rolls and beef pies!) we pressed on and arrived in Rockhampton mid-afternoon. We had taken the scenic coastal route to Yeppoon to check it out, but decided we preferred the city centre as it seemed to capture some of Australia's history. It was difficult getting a room, but by good luck we managed to get into the Criterion Hotel on the Fitzroy River front. The hotel goes back to 1869 and is steeped in history. Even the Queen stayed here at some point!

Our room, No 7, is full of character and still has an open fireplace, carved mantel piece and red brick chimney. A wrought iron bed, wooden floorboards and a fifteen foot high ceiling with gaudy cornice might help set the scene. Anyway, its really great and was complemented by a fine meal in their steak restaurant, topped off with a fine bottle of Aussie Shiraz! All sounds very grand, but its actually the cheapest place we have stayed at ( I am, after all, a miserable Scot when it comes to spending money!)

I had a few blips today, but settled on this shot of the Criterion, as its "an iconic symbol in the history of hotels in Australia", and we just happen to be staying here!

Back-blipping as the Cri (as its affectionately known in Oz) had no internet facilities. Have now managed to get wi-fi for the next three days, so hopefully normal service will be resumed!