R&H Suburb Profile GRACEMERE

Gracemere is a town in the Fitzroy Shire in Central Queensland, about 9km west of the city of Rockhampton. The town has a population of 10,170 (ABS 2003 estimate). Because of the town’s proximity to Rockhampton, Gracemere has become a dormitory town, with many residents commuting to work in the city.

Gracemere has a relatively low level of industry than compared to Rockhampton. Grazing, particularly of beef cattle, has long been the significant industry of the area. The Gracemere Saleyards, on the western side of town, is the largest cattle sales facility in the Southern Hemisphere, and recently underwent a multi-million dollar upgrade.

Gracemere is rapidly expanding, with several housing estates under construction. The increase in vehicles has resulted in a proposal for a new western bypass for Rockhampton, to send vehicles to the northern suburbs, avoiding inner city congestion and delay.

A new shopping centre is under construction near the centre of town. Two anchor stores Woolworths Group Supermarket and a Big W discount department store will be included in the development, alongside 30 specialty stores. The town has a handful of restaurants, cafes and takeaway shops.

Gracemere has three primary schools (St Paul’s Gracemere, Gracemere State School and Waraburra State School). High school students travel by free bus to Rockhampton.

Most residents either use private vehicle or buses. The bus service operates hourly between the town centre and South Gracemere.

Gracemere is served by hospitals in Rockhampton.