Attractions
Gladstone is well known for it's emphasis on marine activities, boasting one of the highest boat ownerships of any community in Australia. The Gladstone Marina is a modern complex for yachting and boating activity. Several prominent lookouts offer spectacular views including the Auckland Hill Lookout and the panoramic Roundhill lookouts at west Gladstone. You can explore the waterfront including the marina and Spinnaker Park, Auckland Hill and Barney Beach, enjoy the greenery of the Botanic Gardens and the Winery just a short walk next door, or visit an exhibition at the Art Gallery. Spinnaker Park & The Marina Created by the Gladstone Port Authority, Spinnaker Park is a recreation area with paths excellent for walking, riding bikes or rollerblading; a small beach perfect for a dip on a warm day while enjoying a Barbeque lunch; an environmental park filled with plants and trees indigenous to the area; and an educational trail. Just down the road is the world class Gladstone Marina. Landscaped foreshores with barbeque and picnic shelters make the marina a beautiful day out. Wander along the walking paths to the mouth of Auckland Creek, and if you are lucky enough, watch the dolphins play on the incoming tide. Tondoon Botanic Gardens On the southern outskirts of Gladstone is one of Australia's few totally native gardens, specializing in plants of the Port Curtis Region and North Queensland. Entry is free. The 83 hectare gardens feature a lake with landscaped surroundings and the Mt Biondello bush Walk. Colourful birdlife, wallabies, turtles and butterflies add to the display of flora. Picnic areas and barbeques are available, together with a visitor centre and a cafe with a wide viewing deck. Free, guided tours are available weekdays by prior arrangement. Gecko Valley Winery Central Queensland's largely dry summers aided by cooling sea breezes provide ideal conditions for wine-grape growing. Gecko Valley's award-winning wines, alfresco lunches, art gallery and magnificent setting make for a memorable experience. Visit Central Queensland's premier Vineyard and taste the flavour of the region. Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum The Gladstone Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most finest in provincial Queensland, residing in the heritage-listed Town Hall, built as an employment project in 1934. Where council meetings and events such as debutante balls and boxing matches were once held, the gallery now features an ongoing program of visiting and local collections of Australian art, Port Curtis history and craft. With entry, you can't afford to miss the original Gladstone Bag and associated memorabilia relating to the city's namesake, Sir William Gladstone. Maritime Museum The Maritime Museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts, memorabilia and photos recalling those pioneering days of Gladstone. It is located in Francis Ward Drive. Please ask at out Visitor Information Centres for opening times and directions to the Museum. |
