Emu Park

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Emu Park enjoys a pleasant climate and a get away from the hectic lifestyle often experienced in the larger towns and cities. The coastline here is arguably one of the most beautiful areas of the Queensland coast, if not the world. Emu Park, home of the famous Singing Ship Monument, is found on the Capricorn Coast, some 44klms east of the City of Rockhampton, is 19 klms south of the township of Yeppoon, and overlooks the islands of Keppel Bay, including the world famous Great Keppel Island.

The Capricorn Coast is still a relatively unspoilt part of the Queensland Coast, with some beautiful scenery and uncrowded beaches, even sometimes one all to yourself! The Capricorn Coast has a perfect climate, year round. Generally one can expect hot summers, but not unbearable; and mild sunny winters when the nights get cool, but not freezing. Clear days with blue skies are the norm!

The first European to visit this attractive spot was Captain James Cook who sailed past the area between 25 May and 27 May 1770. He experienced some difficulty with the shallowness of the water. During this time he named Great Keppel Island and Keppel Bay (after Admiral August Keppel) and Cape Capricorn.

Today Emu Park is usually visited by travellers passing through on the circular scenic route from Rockhampton to Yeppoon.

The Singing Ship
The great attraction of the area, apart from the swimming, fishing and lazing about, is the remarkable Singing Ship musical sculpture in Kele Park on the headland, south of the main beach. It is dedicated to James Cook who named Keppel Bay on 27 May 1770. The Singing Ship sculpture really works. It sings almost constantly because of the on-shore breezes. The effect, particularly on a clear day when the white ship gleams in the sun, is quite stunning.

Emu Park Historical Museum
The Emu Park Museum is located at 17 Hill St and is open weekdays from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., Saturdays from 9.00 a.m. to midday and Sundays from 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m., tel: (07) 4939 6080.