Gladstone is a harbour city which has captured the
enthusiasm of its citizens and the attention of the world. From a
'sleepy hollow' township a quarter of a century ago, this dynamic,
modern city basks in a sub-tropical climate with islands, waterways and
beaches on the doorstep offering year-round boating, fishing, swimming
and surfing.
The Gladstone Region lies only 500km from Brisbane and
offers visitors close access to The Great Barrier Reef. The clear
aquamarine waters and underwater miracle of the reef provide one of the
best fishing and scuba diving locations in the world. A variety of
accommodation and a camping experience are available.
The port of Gladstone is impressive - even by world
standards. Strategically located as a natural distribution point for the
world-wide shipment of the considerable resources of Central Queensland,
this busy port is already the largest multicargo port in Australia. The adjacent Gladstone
Marina has been constructed to international standard as an anchorage for
up to 200 pleasure craft and as the departure terminal for visits to The
Great Barrier Reef.
The Gladstone Marina is also the departure point for
Curtis Ferry Services. If lucky, visitors can catch
a glimpse of the harbour's resident dolphins. Gladstone
Marina an ideal family recreational facility - family
barbecue facilities, restaurant and boardwalks are set on well maintained
lawns and gardens. The sound shell and
surrounding lawn provide a picture-perfect setting to showcase
entertainment - from the fully staged shows of the Harbour Festival to
concerts performed by school children.