Splendid beaches, a safe deepwater port, one of the great island wildernesses in the world, a haven for fisherfolk and mud-crabbers - all underpinned by one of the largest alumina smelting operations on the globe... that’s Gladstone.
But, if you want to retrace the steps which led to Gladstone’s emergence as a major central-Queensland city, visit the Port Curtis Historic Village in the Calliope River Reserve, 26km west of the city. Served by its own railway station and church, the village also features the statue of the Dinkum Aussie Ringer, and the Clyde Hotel, which began as the Ten Mile Pub in 1871 and was moved to the complex in 1990.
Despite its size and vitality, Gladstone retains its signature serenity as a harbour city basking in a balmy, sub-tropical climate that enhances the call of the great outdoors. It is a town blessed with easy access to idyllic islands, seductive waterways and stunning beaches offering year-round boating, fishing, swimming and surfing.
Festivals - 10 day Harbour Festival (Easter)
Things to do
Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum - Bramston Street
Tondoon Botanic Gardens - with only native species
Auckland Hill Lookout - for views of the harbour
Visitor Information Centre - Bryan Jordan Drive
In the area
Gladstone Power Station - tours available and booking essential
Port Curtis Historical Village - at Caliope River
Lake Awoonga - recreational area near the dam
Tannum Sands & Boyne Island - linked by a bridge with beautiful beaches and water based sports. Also has a Aluminium Smelter on Boyne Island
Australia - plan it, book it
