Yeppoon Qld 4703 (Pop 11 000)

Yeppoon is an attractive Capricorn region coastal resort 657 km n-w of Brisbane. It sits picturesquely on Keppel Bay and also acts as a commuter town for nearby Rockhampton. European settlement began in 1865 with some timber, cattle and pineapple growing. Yeppoon's long pristine beaches and proximity to Great Keppel Island ensure its continued popularity. Yeppoon markets Sat am. Tropical Pinefest (Sept).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
The Esplanade overlooks the bay and parkland and has many cafes, specialty stores and galleries.

Nearby:
Great Keppel Island (7 km south - ferry access) over 15 beautiful beaches offering all manner of water activities as well as walks to explore the island’s interior. Byfield NP and Byfield Conservation Park (32 km north) span 15 000 ha of outstanding scenery with massive sand dunes, rugged granite outcrops and many endangered plants and animals. All tracks in the park are sand or unsealed, so are only suitable for experienced 4 wheel drivers. Sandy Point wetland is popular for fishing and boating with camping available at three sites. Cooberrie Park (15 km north) pretty flora & fauna reserve. Keppel Sands (38 km s-w) popular for both fishing and crabbing and featuring the Joskeleigh South Sea Island Museum. Byfield State Forest (34 km north) home to the rare Byfield fern and Byfield grevillea. The forest also features rugged mountains, rainforests and pine plantations.

Accommodation:
Yeppoon has half a dozen motels, a couple of hotels,  holiday apartments and 3 caravan parks. Visitor Information Centre: Scenic Hwy. Tel (07) 4939 4888 or 1800 675 785.