Pop Culture peeps, Assemble for CapriCon

Published on 24 July 2023

Comics, collectables and pop-culture OH MY!

Attention comic book fans, cosplayers and all other pop-culture fanatics, it's time to get your geek on!

Capricon Pop Culture Convention, regional Queensland's largest one-day pop culture convention, is almost here. 

Get ready for a wide array of pop culture including comics, collectables, cosplay, anime, medieval, gaming, art, steampunk, furries and so much more!

This year's event is the biggest yet with combat archery craze - Dodgebow, the voice of Scooby Doo - Neil Fanning, Wolf Creek’s John Jarratt, comedian and host of ABC’s TV Show ‘Gamer’, Harry Jun, plus a medieval village, Lightsaber Academy and all things, comics, anime, gaming and more for the young and the young at heart.

Tickets are now available for CapriCon Pop Culture Convention, so make sure you grab them online, ready for the action-packed day ahead!

What's on at Capricon?

With so much packed into CapriCon Pop Culture Convention's program, it might be tricky to experience it all. So we've broken it down into simple categories for you to enjoy.

Cosplay

Creativity and passion come together in one of the coolest ways possible: Cosplay! CapriCon invites you to come dressed as your favourite character! Cosplay (the quick way to say costume play) is an art form that allows you to immerse yourself in the persona of your favourite character by dressing up and acting out the story. Choose any fictional character, or make up your own. Embracing diversity and inclusivity, the cosplay community is a vibrant and accepting space. Join us on an enchanting journey of self-expression and connection. Experience an enchanting journey of self-expression and connection through this fun-loving art form. There will be meetups, photo zones, competitions and even a repair zone for costumes that need touching up.

Gaming

It's GAME ON at CapriCon with a variety of gaming activities on offer at this year's event. From Dungeons & Dragons to Dodgebow, Virtual Reality to Tabletop games, kick back with your mates and enjoy the friendly competition! Plus, for the video gamers, comedian Harry Jun, host of ABC's Gamer YouTube Channel will be dropping in to CapriCon. This will be your opportunity to pick Harry's brain about all things gaming!

Creators

Are you ready to be inspired? Whether you love superheroes, fantasy universes, comedy cartoons or anime, CapriCon Pop Culture Convention gives you the chance to hear from world-renowned artists and creators, take part in workshops to hone your skills and meet new friends with similar interest. The special guest line up includes:

• Neil Fanning
• Harry Jun
• John Jarratt
• Dodgebow
• Scot Wiilson | Indigiverse
• Katie Houghton-Ward | Indigiverse
• |-Artemis-|
• Jusz Cosplay
• Skyehighstudios
• Breathless_Ness
• Zerebin
• Memoirs of a Bearded Cosplayer
• Sea.Shell Cosplay
• Bexylum Art
• Dean Rankine
• Tim McEwen
• Mark Raats
• Freek Productions
• Creature Creations and Costumes
• Wrestling Allegiance Rockhampton
• Songs of Obiwan Saber Academy
• Daniel Wales
• Phil Hore
• A.L. Tippett
• Warren Duxbury | Agro
• Mercenaries of Western Europe
• Capricornia Dance Exchange
• Virtual World
• Fitzroy River College of Arms

Medieval

Combining historical recreation with pop-culture fantasy, Medieval at CapriCon brings a whole new level of excitement to the event. Immerse yourself in the all-day Medieval Village where you can explore merchants tables selling various wares and food. Harness your archer skills and defeat your opponents in the epic battles of Dodgebow. Delve into the realm of fantasy with the imaginative tabletop role playing game of Dungeons & Dragons or participate in some Medieval Dancing!

Furries

CapriCon will be buzzing with all things furry in 2023. We welcome fursuiters and furry fans alike. Must-see furry events include panels featuring our guest fursuiter, SkyeHigh from FurDU and Cosplay for Competition with Creature Creations and Costumes and Zerebin. You can also pick up some hints and tips in CapriCon’s workshops for creating dif-fur-rent costumes, as well as hearing from authors and illustrators - did you see what we did there?

Be in the know!

To find out the full program of events, download the free Rockhampton Events app (from the App Store or Google Play) and select 'CapriCon Rockhampton' to plan your visit.

During your stay in Rockhampton, we also invite you to make the most of your visit by taking on some of the region's great experiences our region has to offer.

Explore Rockhampton and share your visit with us by tagging @ExploreRockhampton and #ExploreRockhampton.

Be inspired at Rockhampton Museum of Art

220 Quay St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

Featuring an ever-changing array of exhibitions to inspire and amaze, Rockhampton Museum of Art (RMOA) is the largest gallery in regional Queensland. Located on Rockhampton’s iconic Quay Street, the museum is free to visit and open daily from 9am to 4pm. Take a journey through the eye-catching exhibitions, programs and workshops and browse the gift shop downstairs. RMOA’s collection is regarded as one of the finest in regional Australia and is the only regional gallery in Queensland to hold a representative collection mid-twentieth century Australian art.

Current Exhibitions

Collection Focus: Paper Planes | 10 June - 17 September, 2023

‘Paper Planes’ brings together a selection of works on paper from Rockhampton Museum of Art Collection to explore several different but related themes. With multiple approaches to form, mark making, abstraction and representation, the 36 artists of ‘Paper Planes’ explore the graphic sensibility as an expanded response to the world, visually shaping, analysing and commentating through the contained, world-in-miniature of the picture plane. 

Red Rag Press: Women's Work | Now - 8 October, 2023

Utilising North Queensland’s decommissioned letterpress printing equipment, Red Rag Press is for writers, poets, and printmakers. Lead by Townsville artist Sheree Kinlyside, the press facilitates connections with collaborators near and far. ‘Women’s Work’ showcases the press’s finest editions from over two decades, many now found in major institutions in Australia and the world.

Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion | 28 July - 22 October, 2023

Featuring the work of First Nations artists and designers from the inner city to remote desert art centres, ‘Piinpi’ highlights the strength and diversity of the rapidly expanding Indigenous fashion and textile industry. See creations by Australia’s leading creatives in a design movement fast becoming an international fashion phenomenon.

I, Object | 5 August - 2 October, 2023

‘I, Object’ considers the many complex relationships Indigenous artists continue to have with objects – from the histories informing their creation to the social and cultural consequences of their collection. The exhibition features contemporary painting, sculpture, and installation by leading Queensland artists Vernon Ah Kee, Tony Albert, Michael Boiyool Anning, Fiona Foley, Danie Mellor, Christian Thompson, Warraba Weatherall and others alongside historical shields, boomerangs and clubs.

JamFactory ICON Jessica Loughlin: of light (selected works) | 19 August - 5 November, 2023

A studio glass artist for over twenty years, Jessica Loughlin creates ethereal kiln formed glass works that explore her fascination with the beauty of emptiness and her extensive research into light and space. Known for her understated aesthetic, Loughlin takes her artistic cues from the vastness of the Australian landscape and is particularly drawn to the inherent quietness and stillness of the land. This display features a curated selection of works from the major touring exhibition.

Find out more

See it live at the Pilbeam Theatre

Victoria Parade &, Cambridge St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

From national and international touring acts to local theatrical and musical productions, the Pilbeam Theatre is Central Queensland’s performing arts centre. Book a show and be entertained during your stay in the region. The spring calendar features a wide range of performances for all ages.

What's on during CapriCon

In the Spotlight - Featuring 42nd St Youth Edition | 6pm, Saturday, 2 September, 2023

The students of The Rockhampton Grammar School Dance and Musical Theatre Academy present their 2023 production In the Spotlight featuring 42nd Street Youth Edition. Join us for a night of dazzling dance routines and breathtaking musical performances as our talented students take to the stage and showcase their incredible skills. From tap-dancing to jazz, and everything in between, our performers will transport you to a world of glitz and glamour, where the spotlight is always shining bright. With stunning costumes, impressive sets, and a cast of talented young stars, this production is guaranteed to leave you feeling entertained and inspired. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of In The Spotlight! Get your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable evening of song, dance, and theatrical excellence.

Book Tickets

CapRescue Spring Picnic on the Lawn

Grab your friends and enjoy an afternoon of relaxation and enjoyment for their annual Spring Picnic Fundraiser. The picnic will include live music and entertainment, a fashion parade, lucky door prise, market stalls and optional workshops. Tickets are $80 and includes and individual grazing box (savoury and sweet) and a welcome drink (non-alcoholic cocktail). Guests are invited to bring their own picnic blankets to sit on.

When: Sunday, 27 August, 2023

Where: St Aubins, 73 Canoona Road, West Rockhampton.

Time: 2.30pm - 5pm

Find out more

Mount Morgan Wattle Day Festival

Enjoy a fun family day out in Mount Morgan for the annual Mount Morgan Wattle Day Festival. The day will include live entertainment from the Brittany Elise Band, Denvah and other local performers, market stalls, food vans, free amusement rides, face painting, balloon twisting and creative workshops and demonstrations.

When: Saturday, 2 September, 2023

Where: Mount Morgan Tourist Information Centre and Rail Museum, 1 Railway Parade, Mount Morgan.

Time: The fun kicks off at 9.30am

Find out more

Our cheeky mob at Rockhampton Zoo are keen to meet you!

100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, QLD, 4700

With more than 30 species of native and exotic animals, Rockhampton Zoo is a must to tick off your bucket list during your stay. From cheeky chimpanzees, adorable otters, mischievous meerkats, dingoes, wedged-tail eagle and more, you can enjoy learning all about the animals with zookeeper talks held throughout the day. Alternatively you can Meet the Crew at Rockhampton Zoo and discover more about our amazing animals from the comfort of your apartment by downloading our FREE Explore Rockhampton Self-Guided Tour app.

Animal Encounters

For something truly unique and memorable, why not book an animal encounter?

Meerkat Encounter The cheeky meerkat mob at Rockhampton Zoo is waiting to have an encounter with you. Your encounter will include a feeding session that's guaranteed to have meerkats climbing all over you, as well as a private keeper talk.

Otter Encounter Are you someone who's otter-ly obsessed? Come and meet Tomio and Misumi, our cheeky otters! Your encounter will have you getting to know these cute little critters through the mesh, feeding them afternoon tea while having a private keeper talk to learn more about these playful creatures.

Snake Encounter Are you brave enough to enter the snake's den? Meet one of our adorable Pythons and maybe even hold one, while learning all about their quirky natures and why they are an important part of our natural environment.

Find out more

Visit Rockhampton's Heritage-Listed Botanic Gardens

100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, Qld, 4700

Next door to the Zoo is the breath-taking Rockhampton Botanic Gardens - one of the oldest and most established public gardens in Queensland. These gardens sprawl across 33-hectares and feature a stunning arrangement of beautifully landscaped greenery, exciting new playground, winding pathways, tranquil Japanese Gardens and expansive Murray Lagoon, where you can spot turtles! Relax and unwind with a bite to eat from the Garden Tearooms under the giant canopy of the 150-year-old Banyan Figs. Rockhampton's Botanic Gardens is a picture-perfect place to explore for nature lovers. Take the free Self-Guided Tour of the Botanic Gardens and discover more.

Find out more

Too hot to handle! Check out Rocky's best barbecue spots

Nothing beats the great outdoors and now is the perfect weather to take advantage of it. Make a day of it with a barbecue picnic at one of the region's beautiful locations. Whether you’re after a scenic river view or a tranquil garden setting, the Rockhampton Region has it all. Discover how you can host the ultimate barbecue picnic experience in Rockhampton, from buying the best produce from our local butchers, farmers markets and bakeries, to seeking out the prime picnic locations in our region!

Rocky's Top Barbecue Spots

Kick back with a coldie on a relaxing river cruise

Departing from 80 Reaney St, The Common QLD 4701

Picture yourself gently rocking upon the waters of the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba) as you enjoy a refreshing drink and watch the sun set over the horizon. River Cruises set an incredibly relaxing tone for those who wish to enjoy the riches of Rockhampton from a different perspective. The popular 90-minute sunset cruise, which includes complimentary nibbles and drinks available for purchase, offers breathtaking views of the city - you might even be lucky enough to spot some of the amazing wildlife along the banks, including crocodiles!

Find out more

Satisfy your hunger - dine out!

Foodies are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options in Rockhampton. While you are always guaranteed a great sizzling steak to sink your teeth into, there is also a wide range of international cuisine, quirky cafes, restaurants with aesthetically stunning views and pubs topped off with loads of character. A massive day at the Rockhampton River Festival can bring on a huge appetite. So, why not try some of our suggestions our locals regularly enjoy.

Feeling hungry?

STROLL the tree tops of mount archer national park (nurim)

Pilbeam Drive, Mount Archer, QLD, 4701

If fresh mountain air and spectacular views make you weak at the knees, then Mount Archer (Nurim) is a must see. Wander through the trees along Nurim Circuit elevated treetop boardwalk, sit back and relax with a picnic in the amphitheatre or take a stroll along the many bush walking trails. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer, the 500 metre flat treetop boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba). Soak up the views and check out the interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture. The boardwalk is particularly popular with locals and tourists alike wanting to catch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, so don't forget your camera!

Find out more

Step back in time with one of our many historical adventures

From frontier town to bustling river port and gold rush city, Rockhampton’s colonial past and its fortunes are preserved in sandstone, wrought iron and topped off with a magnificent copper dome. Like the Fitzroy (Tunuba), these fortunes have ebbed and flowed over the years and today delivers a region full of heritage and history. You can spend hours on end, and even days, discovering the region's colourful past. We've listed some of the best historical experiences for you to explore.

All aboard! Archer Park Railway Museum | 51-87 Denison St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

Take a ride upon one of a fully restored one-of-a-kind Purrey Steam Tram and discover the wonders of Rockhampton’s rail history. Constructed in 1899, the architecturally impressive Archer Park was the central railway station for Rockhampton until the mid-1920s. Today, Archer Park Rail Museum is one of Rockhampton’s iconic historic locations you will surely love! The museum is open Monday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm and Sunday 9am to 1pm.

Find out more

Rockhampton Heritage Village - A blast from the past! | Boundary Rd, Parkhurst QLD 4702

Authentically capturing a generous slice of an earlier generation's way of life, the Rockhampton Heritage Village is a wonderful place to enjoy. Experience life before electricity with a tour through the many homesteads, vintage cars, tractors, fire engines, horse drawn vehicles and wagons on display. Watch how a 1950's print press works and visit the Blacksmith Shop and take in the traditional skills from a bygone era. You even have the unique chance to try a range of transport options including horses and ponies, a horse and cart, vintage double-decker bus, vintage fire engine and several other vintage vehicles, plus meet some adorable farm animals. The Village is set on 11.4 hectares of bush land and incorporates a charming township from yesteryear with original and recreated homesteads, buildings and businesses and is open from 10am - 4pm daily (excluding public holidays).

Find out more

Time Safaris Rockhampton - Bushrangers, bank heists and mayhem, oh my! 

From historic stories of female bushrangers, bank heists, floods and World War II efforts to twisted tales of murder and mayhem, Time Safaris Rockhampton Tours is the history lesson you won't soon forget. Join an experienced tour guide and along Rockhampton's scenic Riverside Precinct and travel back in time and learn about the history of Queensland's historic buildings, the ghosts that haunted Quay Street, the city's first recorded murder and the Rockhampton gold heist that created Sherlock Holmes and modern forensics!

Book a tour

CQ Military Museum - Explore Rockhampton's war history | 40 Archer Street, Rockhampton QLD 4700

Preserving the military history of Central Queensland, visit the Central Queensland Military and Artefacts Museum, the only military museum in the region. Browse through their extensive collection ranging from the 1900s through to present day.

Find out more

Mount Morgan - A rich past and small town charm! | Mount Morgan QLD, 4714

Cruise along a winding scenic strip of road that takes you up into the Rockhampton regional hinterland. The Mount Morgan Range, via the Burnett Highway, is an enjoyable section of road with eye-catching lookouts, mountainous views and at the very end, the charming mining town of Mount Morgan. Delve into the township's rich gold mining history and relive its fascinating past with a range of impressive attractions on show. While you are there, be sure to:

• Drop into the Mount Morgan Railway Museum, which also houses the town's Information Centre
• Take a trip to the Mount Morgan Historical Museum and learn about the town's rich history
• Pack a picnic or barbecue and unwind by the banks of the Mount Morgan No.7 Dam
• Capture breath-taking views of the Mount Morgan Range Lookout
• Snap an insta-worthy picture on the Private Victor Stanley Jones Suspension Bridge
• Tuck into a delicious pie or pastry at the popular Mount Morgan Hot Bread Shop and head to the Arthur Timms Lookout for remarkable views of Mount Morgan Mine

Find out more

Mountain Bike Trails

First Turkey MTB Park | 249 German Street, Norman Gardens QLD 4701

Rockhampton’s Mountain Biking Trail is open all year round! Situated on the side of Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park, First Turkey offers more than 30 different trails fit for all skill levels. First Turkey has a range of trails from Gravity Enduro and Cross Country through diverse terrain, meaning you can easily pick the perfect ride for your level to explore and enjoy. Even if you aren’t equipped with your own bike, bike hire is available from Giant Rockhampton who will ensure you're set with the right gear ready to make tracks.

Experience an authentic farm stay

Put down the phone, switch off, relax and immerse yourself in an authentic farm stay experience. Enjoy the fresh air, open spaces and the smell of the bush. Rockhampton is home to several farm stays, all within a 90 minute drive from the city. For the activity seeker, some of our farm stays let you feed the farm animals, ride a horse or even try your hand at quad bike riding across the property.

Alkoomi Adventure Farm | 45.8km from Rockhampton CBD

Alkoomi Adventure Farm is a family run cattle property that also offers visitors a true Australian outback experience. There’s plenty to see and do at this authentic farm stay, whether it be exploring the property by foot and photographing its breathtaking 360° views, heading out on a leisurely horse ride, cooling down in their freshwater dams, or taking an adrenaline packed motorbike or quad bike ride. Once the sun sets, sit around the campfire and watch the stars while sharing stories of your day.

Find out more

Hedlow Retreat | 30.7km from Rockhampton CBD

Hedlow Retreat is set amongst 14 hectares of lush hinterland scenery, perfectly placed on the banks of Hedlow Creek just 25 minutes drive from Rockhampton. With its spectacular backdrop of towering volcanic plugs and expansive grounds, it’s a visual feast for the senses. Indulge in a self-contained cabin and take part in farm activities, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet at this stunning location.

Find out more

Myella Farm Stay | 125km from Rockhampton CBD

Escape to the country at Myella a 1040 hectare cattle farm. Myella Farm Stay offers farm drive tours and many real life experiences like cow milking, animal feeding, horse riding, whip cracking and lasso lessons. Relax knowing that although the activities are fun, safety is our priority. Connect with nature, go bush walking or bring your bicycle and explore. At the end of the day sit by the campfire and unwind. Visit for a ½ day tour or stay overnight in the original homestead, comfortable en-suite room or use the campgrounds and swimming pool. Self-cater or enjoy home cooked meals where many ingredients are from the paddock to your plate. Myella is located 90 minutes from Rockhampton, the only dirt is 600m into the homestead; otherwise it’s all sealed roads to the front gate.

Find out more

The skies the limit

Rocky's 300 days of sunshine makes it perfect for experiencing the Region from the sky. Seek your thrills from above with a joyride helicopter adventure. Rockhampton has a range of aerial experiences. Tours cover a wide distance throughout the region from the mighty Fitzroy River to coastlines. The possibilities are endless with fully customised flight paths and packages available.

• Helifish CQ
• ROAM Aviation
• Sterling Helicopters
• Rockcopters

Shop till you droP

Rockhampton's retail scene is a kaleidoscope of boutique shops, great retail giants and alternative styles. Nestled among Rockhampton's shady tree-lined East Street, is the perfect place to get your boutique shopping fix. Venture a little further out of the CBD to William Street and Wandal and you'll be even more surprised. Grab a coffee from one of the cafes and spend a morning or afternoon wandering through these fantastic shops, all while admiring the heritage architecture along the way. For a major retail fix, our major shopping centres Stockland Rockhampton, City Centre Plaza and Allenstown Square are loaded with goods to suit every shopper!

Find out more

Snap a selfie with an iconic bull statue

It’s not a trip to Rockhampton without snapping a selfie with a bull statue – after all you’re in the Beef Capital of Australia! You’ll spot them dotted around the city, usually on the median strips on the major roads. However, you can easily and safely walk up to the one at Frank Ford Park, which is only a few minutes’ drive from the Rockhampton Zoo and Botanic Gardens.

Visit the Capricorn Caves

30 Olsens Caves Rd, The Caves QLD 4702

A short drive north of Rockhampton will take you to the ancient chambers of Rockhampton’s oldest playground – the Capricorn Caves. The Capricorn Caves offers a range of daily tours from the mesmerising Cathedral Cave Tour to something more challenging like the Explorer and Adventurer Tours. As an Advanced Eco-Tourism attraction Capricorn Caves is a home to an abundance of native wildlife and endangered species which you can discover on tour. Experienced local guides deliver the captivating stories of this ancient Australian landscape on small-scale interpretive tours

Book a tour

 

Written by Explore Rockhampton #ExploreRockhampton @explorerockhampton