In the southern suburbs of the buzzing metropolitan capital that is Brisbane, Rocklea is a hidden pocket of charm and personality just waiting to be discovered. Having quietly shifted from a primarily industrial and commercial area to a growing residential hub over the last few years, Rocklea has gone largely unnoticed among more pronounced surrounding suburbs. In fact, you could say that this lack of reputation is what makes Rocklea the perfect hidden gem. You’ll find a warm and friendly community vibe, excellent shopping opportunities and sprawling parklands to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting Brisbane and seeking out unique and authentic local experience, or staying locally in the southern suburbs, read on as we uncover all that Rocklea and surrounds has to offer.
Explore Rocklea like a Local
The industrial reputation of Rocklea isn’t the whole story of this southside suburb - there is so much more than the markets to discover in Rocklea. Locals keep their secrets close to their chests, but with a little persistence you’ll see why many have a soft spot for this pocket of the city. Being away from the main tourist draw cards of the inner city, Rocklea is spread out, so having a rental car will allow you to truly explore Rocklea like a local. You won’t need to go far either - Rocklea is brimming with charm, attractions and unique experiences to be had, if you know where to look. Make your way to Hertz Rocklea downtown, located centrally within the suburb to secure a set of wheels for your time here. Next up, recharge with a coffee and delicious breakfast from Sundays cafe. Serving up high quality, specialty coffee and breakfast fare that wouldn’t seem out of place in a buzzing inner city foodie spot, Sundays, in a way, is the perfect analogy for Rocklea as a suburb - a hidden gem, and a pleasant surprise that will delight and enchant you.
Take a short drive around to the north of the suburb to discover one of Brisbane’s most underrated gems - the sprawling parklands of Oxley Common, which occupy almost half of Rocklea. Wrapping around the shores of Oxley Creek, the common is a gateway to an expanse of green space on a scale found nowhere else in the city - a fascinating and serene patch of bird-inhabited wetlands and pastoral fields in the middle of Brisbane. Oxley Common encompasses a number of areas to explore, from sheep-covered pastoral fields to wetlands that are home to a wide range of birdlife. There are a number of well-paved trails to trek here too; take your pick between the 4.6 kilometre Secret Forest Walk that winds through luscious vegetation, or try the 3.5 kilometre Pelican Island Walk, where you might be lucky enough to spot some Great Egrets or Jabiru. Dusk or dawn are the best times to see the most wildlife, but these are very pleasant walks at any time of day.
Markets and Hidden Treasures
If you’re a lover of markets, then you’ve come to the right place. Brisbane Markets, in the north of Rocklea, is Brisbane’s largest and most popular market venue that runs two different markets throughout the week. Saturday’s Fresh Market is a noisy, energetic and colourful affair - you’ll find stallholders peddling fresh produce bound for Brisbane’s retailers, so you know it’s going to be some of the best and freshest produce around. You’ll also find a variety of food stalls selling street food from around the globe. The Sunday Discovery Market is where you’ll find an extraordinary collection of new and second-hand items up for sale. Whether it’s clothing, home décor, antiques, plants or anything else you’re looking for, you’ll lose track of time as you wander down the paved walkways between rows of treasures. The vibe of Sunday’s markets is a lot more casual, and you’ll find a selection of specialty coffee and hot food vendors on site - it’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning.
If you’re more into antiquing and seeking out vintage treasures then you’ll be sure to find gold at Relove Inc, just a short drive away in the neighbouring suburb of Oxley. With its eclectic mix of pre-loved goods and antiques on show across two storeys, you’ll be sure to find something to your liking here. From furniture and homewares to vintage fashion and timeless accessories, you’ll be sure to walk away with something truly unique.
However you decide to do Rocklea, you’ll be sure to find something special in this underrated and undiscovered pocket of Brisbane. Your Hertz rental car is your ticket to discovering the suburb like a local, and getting around with ease.
