Central Highlands (Queensland)
|
Central Queensland Queensland |
|
|---|---|
The Regions of Queensland
|
|
| Population | 233,931 (2011 census) |
| LGA(s) | |
| State electorate(s) | |
| Federal Division(s) | Capricornia |
Central Queensland is an ambiguous geographical division of Queensland (a state in Australia) that centres on the eastern coast, around the Tropic of Capricorn. Its major regional centre is Rockhampton. The region extends from the Capricorn Coast west to the Central Highlands at Emerald, north to the Mackay Regional Council southern boundary, and south to Gladstone. The region is also known as Capricornia. It is one of Australia's main coal exporting regions.
At the 2011 Australian Census the region recorded a total population from the six local government areas of 233,931.
Economically, Central Queensland is an important centre of primary industries, particularly for food and fibre production. Central Queensland includes the Bowen Basin which is rich in high quality coking coal, the Port of Gladstone produces 40% of the state's export earnings, the Fitzroy River is the second-largest river system in Australia and commands significant water resources such as Fairbairn Dam. Gladstone has a significant aluminium smelter.
Rockhampton is claimed to be the beef capital of Australia, a title which is disputed by Casino in New South Wales. Beef production in the region is centered on Brigalow and speargrass land types. There are three abattoirs in the region.
Central Queensland is one of the world's leading producers and exporters of black coal.Ludwig Leichhardt was the first European to discover coal deposits in the region in 1845. In the 2011-2012 financial year the region produced 40% of the state's total coal production.
...
Wikipedia