The Criterion 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'

George Silus Curtis MLA was well known for his separatist feelings and was the leader of the push for separation of South and North Queensland with Rockhampton being the capital of North Queensland. Whilst writing for the Brisbane Journal 'The Boomerang' Henry Lawson, Australia's legendary poet, wrote a poem in relation to the separationists:
'Now the people of Rockhampton while their land was being camped on by the God of revolution and the angle of despair. Held a meeting, never heeding how the country lay a bleeding And they talked about seceding just as if they didn't care So they rave for federation while they howl for separation Did you ever see a nation, such a state of things reveal'

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, Rockhamptons own Rod Laver, Lew Hoad, Ken Rosewall and during World War II was the headquarters of General Eichelberger US Army and the planning Headquarters for the Battle of the Coral Sea and the Pacific often visited by General Douglas MacArthur and many
more international identities.

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'.