Great food, great staff, the best accommodation, live entertainment and the best pub atmosphere. Started a great tradition in 1867 and it continues today.
The Criterion Hotel is an iconic symbol in the history of Hotels in Australia. Its famous cousin the 'Breaky Creek' Brisbane was built in the same year 1889 with very similar architecture, the Criterion having one extra floor. Following the Canoona gold rush of the 1850's the embryo of the Criterion Hotel, Palmers store was situated on the banks of the Fitzroy River opposite the present Criterion.
1856 saw the construction of the Bush Inn 'where The Criterion now stands' by Robert Parker of Gayndah. The eldest daughter of Parker, Dorinda Anne married George Silus Curtis a promising real estate agent, auctioneer and aspiring politician. Dorinda Anne was inspired to erect a 'public house of splendor and class' and after several journeys overseas The Criterion Hotel was constructed in 1889, the tender price reading 'just a little over ten thousand pounds'.
Since construction in 1889 'The Cri' has been a family operation, originally the Parker-Curtis families, The Smith family 1922 to 1982, Balkin, Gill, Tourish and from 1991 the Turnbull family. The Turnbull family are proud to have been owners since 1991 and are continually seeking new avenues to ensure the longevity of this Australian Icon. Four generations of the Turnbull family currently reside at 'The Cri'.
The Criterion Hotel Rockhampton is renowned for its famous Steak House Family Restaurant and affordable Rockhampton Accommodation. Come and visit us and find out why the locals and travellers alike rave about The Criterion Hotel Motel Rockhampton.
Comments (2)
Owner's name
hey CQ Steve - the owner is Leigh, not Richard. You're right about the rest of it though.
Criterion Hotel
Home of the Mighty Boars Rugby Union Team, this pub has great old-fashioned service. The owner Richard can be seen at the bar on occasion dispensing wisdom. The steaks are among the best in Rocky and that's saying something since it's the Beef Capital of Australia. The "Press Room" has copies of newsclippings from the past 100 years plastered as wallpaper and very interesting to read whilst having the quiet ale.
Great site, keep it going!!