Gracemere is located nine kilometres west of Rockhampton, the Beef Capital of Australia. The town is home to the largest saleyards in the Southern Hemisphere and is the heart of the Capricorn cattle industry. Experience the dust and drama as thousands of cattle, horse and other livestock are rounded into the saleyards to go under the auctioneer’s hammer each week. Sales are held most week days, with the major cattle and bull sales held every Friday. After the sales, be sure to stop by the Gracemere Hotel – this pub has all the charm of a classic Aussie pub with a modern twist. The Archer Brothers, early pioneers of Rockhampton, opened up the Gracemere region in April 1853 and established their home at the settlement of Gracemere. The area was named in honour of Tow Archer’s wife, Grace. Paradise Lagoons is a privately owned cattle property and is the location for Australia’s richest campdraft. The property is located 16 kilometres from Rockhampton (near Gracemere), and the nation’s best campdrafters flock to compete here annually. 20 minutes west of Gracemere on the Capricorn Highway is Mt Hay Gemstone park. Fossick for thunder-eggs or gemstones and browse their quality pewter products.