Rockhampton with Kids: My Favourite Local Spots as a Mum and Photographer

As a Rockhampton family photographer, I spend my days capturing the kind of love that lives in everyday moments. But school holidays? That’s when I get to be fully in them with my own kids — just a mum, soaking up the chaos, the cuddles, and the memories we’re making together. My two aren't in school yet, but we get very involved with all the great school holiday pop ups that come around in Rockhampton every holidays.

Here’s a peek into our week — and a few of the places that remind me just how special family life in Rockhampton really is.

🐐 A Petting Zoo Surprise at the Great Western Hotel

We kicked off the holidays with kids eat free night at The Great Western Hotel. I'm usually not a huge fan of going to things like that, but it was Wednesday, I had no dinner planned, and I know they have good steak, so off we went. I thought we were just heading out for an easy dinner — but they had a petting zoo set up, and my kids were absolutely thrilled. Feeding goats, patting fluffy guinea pigs, giggling non-stop... it was one of those unexpected evenings that ends with full hearts and sticky hands.

We got home late (of course), but no one minded. It was showers, snuggles, and straight into bed. The kind of night that doesn’t seem big until years later, when you find a photo or a memory that brings it all back.

🚜 Old-School Fun at the Rockhampton Heritage Village

The next morning we headed to Rockhampton Heritage Village for their special school holiday event — and it was so fun! I had not been here before but we had such a fun time, so much to explore that we will have to go back.

Vintage car rides. A ride on the old double-decker bus. Feeding farm animals. Wandering through the little museums and peeking into Rockhampton’s past. The kids were wild for the fire trucks at the heritage fire station — climbing, pretending, and ringing the bells.

It felt like time slowed down a bit. No rushing, just old-fashioned fun and room to breathe. These are the days they’ll remember.

🐒 A Fresh New Look at the Rockhampton Zoo

We spent a morning at the Rockhampton Zoo, and I have to say — they’ve done an incredible job with the recent upgrades for their 100th anniversary. Everything feels refreshed, vibrant, and welcoming. The kids loved spotting the animals, and I loved seeing their wonder unfold with every enclosure.

And yes — the new toilet block? It’s a thing. If you know, you know 😅

We ended the day watching the sunset in the Botanic Gardens, and it was stunning. As a photographer, naturally I get very excited by a pretty sunset. The sky lit up in colour, birds wheeled overhead, very picturesque. One of those moments you don’t plan for.

☕ Croissants, Babycinos, and Our Little Ritual at Kinfolk

Of course, no week is complete without our regular coffee stop at Kinfolk Café. Their almond croissants are the kind of thing you dream about — flaky, buttery, perfect — and the kids get their babycinos (with extra marshmallows, obviously).

It’s our little tradition. Just us, sitting together, sugar dusting their cheeks, me sipping coffee and soaking it in. These are the pauses I wish I could bottle. Or photograph. Every time I am in that coffee store I imagine photographing a family on their weekend coffee date with the light coming through the umbrellas or the windows at the front. I love the retro vibe they have and can't not think of capturing it.

Why I’m Sharing This — and What It Has to Do with Photography

You might wonder why a Rockhampton photographer is writing about zoos, fire trucks and babycinos. But the truth is, these stories are the heart of my work.

Because when I photograph your family, I’m not just capturing how you look — I’m capturing how it feels to be part of your world. The quiet comfort. The everyday magic. The way your child leans into you when they’re tired, or how they light up when they’re free to run wild.

These holidays reminded me again just how fleeting and full this season is. And how important it is to hold onto it — with both hands.

Check out how I run my family sessions here, or have a peak at some of my work

Thinking of Booking a Family Session?

If you’re searching for a Rockhampton family photographer who sees beyond the surface — who’ll gently guide you through a relaxed, heart-filled session that reflects your real life — I’d love to work with you.

📸 Let’s chat and plan your session →

And if you’re a local parent like me, just trying to soak up the messy, beautiful days — keep going. You’re doing better than you know.