ROCKHAMPTON, a seaport on the east coast of Queens land, Australia, situated on both banks of the Fitzroy river at the head of ocean navigation 35-40 m. from the sea. The Fitzroy and its tributaries (Dawson, Mackenzie, etc. ; max. length 520 m.) drain a basin of 50,000 sq.m. of great diversity and economic value. The hinterland of Rockhampton thus includes extensive high-class pastoral areas extending at least as far west as Long reach (428 m. by rail) ; rich agricultural and dairying lands which include the Dawson river irrigation area (total projected area: 200,000 ac.; 30,000 [1926-27] available), besides large mineral resources including coal-fields (e.g., Blair Athol mines). Around Rockhampton itself is a fertile agricultural area pro ducing tropical fruits, maize, and dairy products. The climate is hot and humid but not unhealthy (ay. ann. temps.: 82-62 F; ay. ann. rainfall 110 in. falling within some 44 days of the summer). The town, pop. (1933), 29,373, is well designed, has wide streets, many substantial buildings (including two cathe drals), and possesses good water, gas, electricity and tram services besides fine public parks and gardens. The harbour (wharfage 2,000 ft. with 8-2o ft. alongside) has been improved at con
siderable expense, and is kept open for vessels of 18-20 ft. draught by dredging. Difficulties are the shifting sand and mud banks due to severe floods which are liable to occur during summer. Rockhampton is the base of a branching inland railway system which taps the widely separated Longreach (428 m.), Welford 1n.), Blair Athol (240 Springsure (206 m.), and other centres, and which is being continually extended and developed. Along the coast the Great Northern line links Rockhampton with other coastal towns, with Brisbane, with various seaside resorts (Emu Park, Yeppoon), and the ports of Gladstone (c. 8o m.) and nearer by Port Alma, to which ocean vessels often resort. Railway repairing works and other industries are carried on in the town and near by is one of the largest meat-preserving and freezing works in Australia. The total trade amounted (1925-26) to £1,860,000 (1926-27: overseas trade alone: £760,000), and the total shipping to 274,000 tons (1926-27: overseas and interstate alone, 17,000 tons). In respect of the value of its trade Rock hampton is the second port of Queensland.