Roy and Eileen Coker Memorial Walk

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The Roy and Eileen Coker Memorial Walk which starts along Fitzroy River, Rockhampton (just beside the World War II Memorial Pool complex), is a popular walking area named after two active members of the community who were passionate about preserving the area's natural beauty.


Before the river revitalisation project took place in Rockhampton there was a community hall, a park and a playground named in Coker's honour. Coker Community Hall, Coker Park and the Coker Playground were situated on the southern riverbank between Sir Raymond Huish Drive and the Alexander Rail Bridge. Coker Community Hall was demolished around 2007. Coker Park and the Coker Playground were subsequently demolished in late 2013 as part of redevelopment works at the World War II Memorial Pool complex. This effectively removed the physical/visible community recognition that had earlier been extended to Roy and Eileen Coker. This walk was established to retain their memorial.


Born in Rockhampton on 5 May 1913, Arthur “Roy’ Coker was a local to Rockhampton from the start. His father had emigrated to Australia from England, and Roy was one of eleven children. Eileen Coker was born in Rockhampton on 26 January 1921 and was one of six children.

Roy and Eileen married in Rockhampton on 17 November 1938. Roy did service in WW2, and he served in the 13 Battalion, Volunteer Defence Corps (Queensland), while Eileen raised their children. It was when the couple retired that they dedicated their lives to helping the less privileged in the community. In 1987, Roy and Eileen received National recognition for their community work with them both being awarded the Order of Australia, General Division for service to the community, as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for that year. This was followed by State recognition with them both receiving the Premier’s Award. Roy died on 19 December 2004, aged 91, and Eileen died on 19 June 1999, aged 78.

The walk offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and suits people of all ages and fitness levels. The walk's natural scenery and well-maintained trails make it a worthwhile destination for all.


You can do many things while walking along the Roy and Eileen Coker Memorial Walk. You can stop by Red Poppy Cafe next to the World War II Memorial Pool complex and have a bite. There is a playground and off-leash dog park nearby. There is also John Leak Monument next to Des Ryan Pier - another interesting place to stop by along the way.

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