The Criterion Hotel / Motel

The Criterion Hotel Motel Rockhampton is an iconic symbol in the history of Hotels in Australia. Specializing in Accommodation, Steak, Beer, Food & Entertainment. Its famous cousin the ‘Breakky 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 1850s the embryo of the Criterion Hotel, Palmer's store was situated on the banks of the Fitzroy River opposite the 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’.

With such a colorful beginning the Criterion was destined for great times and has played host to Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the English Cricket team, Rockhampton's own Rod Laver, Lew Hoad, Ken Rosewall and during World War2.