Rockynats returns for the 4th year, bringing over $6M economic boost
Published on 12 March 2024
Businesses across Central Queensland are revving up for the fourth instalment of the Rare Spares Rockynats event over the Easter long weekend from 29-31 March 2024.
The event is highly anticipated to be bigger and better. More than 57,000 people are expected to attend the event taking place in the heart of Rockhampton, welcoming the return of high-octane events that have contributed to its growing stature over the past three years.
Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events Manager Zac Garven said businesses and communities are prepped and ready for the high-octane action as excitement grows.
“Rockhampton is rapidly growing into a hub for high-quality events in Central Queensland, and as the largest car and bike festival in Queensland, we can expect over $6 million in economic impact,” Mr Garven said.
“We’ve already had more than 1,600 car and bike entrants, a 15% growth compared to 2023, and will be opening two new food hubs in the CBD precinct, to complement our existing iconic hospitality scene, due to the high number of attendees expected this year.
“With an 8% increase in retail and food vendors across the entire event this gives businesses a chance to make the most of the busy three days,” he said.
The three days will feature a jam-packed program for car enthusiasts, boasting a hugely stacked off-track entertainment schedule right from street drags and 4x4 shows for the adrenaline junkies, to live music and family-friendly competitions like the RockabillyNats and Mulletfest.
More than that, the event is key to the growth and success of local businesses such as Empire Apartment Hotel, a popular destination for interstate attendees due to its prime location and fantastic service.
General Manager of The Empire Apartment Hotel, Alyssa Tate, said thanks to Rockynats, Easter long weekend became the busiest time of the year for them.
“Our hotel is the prime location for the event. Many of our rooms are located on the doorstep of Drifting Precinct which means it’s an extremely popular choice for attendees,” Ms Tate said.
“We are already at 95% booking capacity and with more people choosing to stay in the area longer, it means other local businesses in the areas will be thriving with the increased foot traffic.”
Limited tickets for the event are still on sale, with discounted tickets available up until 28 March with Platinum and General Admission tickets still on offer. Tickets start from $23*, with free tickets for kids under the age of 13.
For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.rockynats.com.au/Tickets. Follow www.facebook.com.au/rockynatsfestival and www.instagram.com/rockynats for key event announcements.