Major projects, jobs and investment put Central Queensland’s future economy in focus 

Last Friday, nearly 200 business and industry representatives came together at the Jabiru Events Centre in Yeppoon for the 2026 Major Projects and Industry Forum, hosted by Capricorn Enterprise. The Forum provided a valuable snapshot of the investment, infrastructure, housing, energy, resources and manufacturing projects shaping Central Queensland, while highlighting the opportunities emerging for local businesses and communities.

2032 Rowing in Rockhampton endorsed by World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide  

World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide have endorsed the Fitzroy River flatwater course following a comprehensive and independent technical assessment, marking an important milestone in planning for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games venue.

Queensland Tourism Awards finalists

There is plenty to celebrate across the Capricorn Coast region, with four outstanding local tourism businesses, experiences and campaigns named as finalists in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards. Congratulations to Keppel Dive & Water Sports and Great Keppel Island Hideaway on earning their place among Queensland's tourism leaders.

Capricorn Caves new Karst Walk

Capricorn Enterprise’s Alyssah and Eloise joined the first public tour of Capricorn Caves’ brand-new Karst Walk.

With ziplining, careful steps through rugged limestone terrain and plenty of adventure along the way, the new experience gives visitors a completely different perspective of the incredible karst landscape surrounding Capricorn Caves.

Visitor Information Centre volunteers visit Reef Distillers new Tasting Room

Fourteen Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre Volunteer Ambassadors recently sampled the new tasting experience at Reef Distillers - discovering local inspired spirits, regional ingredients and plenty of fun and flavour along the way.

AI in Action - free courses

Wondering how AI could actually make your working day easier? The Queensland Tourism Industry Council's free AI in Action: Tourism courses cut through the noise and show you practical ways to use AI, whether you run a tourism business or work in the industry.

Applications open for Beef Australia’s Paddock competition

Beef Australia is calling for applications from start-up businesses, commercial ventures, and researchers commercialising agricultural innovations to apply for its Pitch in the Paddock competition.

Funding Open: Skilling Queenslanders for Work

Next funding round now Open for the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. Funding available under three programs - Community, Traineeships and Get Set for Work. Close Thursday October 22nd. 

CSQ New Funding Now Available

CSQ programs provide funding to;

* Apprentice Employer Incentives

* Supporting Women in Construction Grant Program.

Rockhampton Ring Road reaches major construction milestones

Rockhampton Ring Road construction is accelerating, with foundation piling now underway for the new Fitzroy River bridge between Pink Lily and Parkhurst.   

Card surcharging ban

From 1 October 2026, businesses will no longer be able to apply surcharges to eftpos, Mastercard, Visa and American Express payments. If your business currently applies card surcharges, you may need to update your payment systems, pricing and customer information before the change begins.

Almost $80 million in grants up for grabs for Queensland manufacturers 

Second round of the Queensland Government’s $79.1 million Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program now open to eligible businesses. 
Grants of up to $1.5 million in matched funding available with half earmarked for regional manufacturers.

Australia’s biggest second-hand treasure hunt returns this November

Livingstone Shire (Capricorn Coast) Council invites residents to join Australia’s biggest Garage Sale Trail to be held this November. For 16 years, Australia’s biggest festival of second-hand stuff has delighted bargain hunters and savvy declutterers alike and this year, Council is hosting its own Garage Sale Trail event on Sunday 8th November as part of the waste education and behaviour change campaign.

The Salty Lime Co - Sunday 27 Oct

Only 4 days left to grab your tickets for our Sunday Session at The Salty Lime Co! Bring a picnic rug, blow-up couch, camp chair or whatever keeps you comfy, find your spot on the lawn and settle in for an afternoon of live music, good food, cold drinks and relaxed Sunday vibes.

The Quizzical Mr Jeff - Saturday 3 Oct

Experience a playful mix of circus, magic and comedy as Mr Jeff brings hoops, illusions and incredible physical feats to life — with a spectacular giant balloon finale! Suitable for ages 5+.

Rockhampton Oktoberfest - 10 Oct

Rockhampton Oktoberfest is on 10 October - bringing the beer, the food, the atmosphere and the party, with tickets for just $25.
Round up your mates, grab your tickets and get ready for a proper Oktoberfest night without the hefty price tag.