In this Situation had 9 fathoms at the distance of 4 Miles from the Main land, which is here low and Sandy next the Sea, except the points which are moderately high and rocky; in land the Country is hilly, and affords but a very indifferent prospect.* (* Between Bustard Bay and Cape Capricorn is Port Curtis, in which stands the small town of Gladstone.

Cape Capricorn is the eastern point of Curtis Island, and to the northward is Keppel Bay, into which falls the Fitzroy River.

Up the latter, 35 miles from the sea, is Rockhampton, the second largest town of Queensland.

All this coast is encumbered with shoals, outside of which Cook had so far prudently kept.

To seaward begins the long chain of islands and reefs known as the Great Australian Barrier, which stretches up to Torres Straits.