Visi tor Guide

North West Island gladstoneregion.info @GladstoneRegion WELCOME A destination where iconic beaches meet an ancient reef within reach. Where you can explore pure national parks and experience TO THE authentic country farm stays. Where there’s an abundance of unforgettable experiences and an adventure to suit every traveller.

Sunset at 1770

The Gladstone Region begins To the south, the natural surrounds of the approximately 450 kilometres north Discovery Coast will entice you to explore of . As the gateway to the the burgeoning township of , Southern , the the white secluded beaches of Agnes Gladstone Region contains some Water and the birthplace of Queensland incredible natural wonders including in the Town of 1770. From here, you Heron Island, , North can also spend a day experiencing the West Island, Wilson Island, Curtis Island breathtaking reef adventures of Lady and Lady Musgrave Island. Musgrave Island and Lagoon.

At the centre of the region is the city of The Gladstone Region isn’t all about Gladstone. Known for being the ‘engine the coast and islands though! To the room of Queensland’, this dynamic southwest you will find the spectacular regional city is full of unexpected Boyne Valley and Sandstone surprises. Surrounding Gladstone are Wilderness. This area abounds with the townships of Calliope, , opportunities for intrepid travellers to Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. This explore the spectacular hinterlands or part of the region is home to many enjoy a genuine farm stay experience. fishing hotspots including one of ’s premier freshwater fishing It’s all waiting for you here in the locations, . Gladstone Region – where great begins! Snorkelling at Heron Island Resort Turtle at Heron Island Fishing at

2 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 3 THE HEART Bucket List Did you know? Watch turtle hatchlings erupt Camp on top of Lady​ Musgrave The Southern Great Barrier Reef is home to eight from their nest and wiggle their Island’s 400 acres of living reef OF THE iconic sea creatures for you to encounter! While way to the water at Heron Island. with the seabirds and turtles as your only neighbours. you’re out on the reef, keep an eye out for: Take a day trip to Lady Musgrave Island and discover Snap a turtle selfie in the crystal 1. Whales | 2. Manta Rays SOUTHERN 3. Turtles | 4. Potato Cod | 5. Sharks its unique inner lagoon – it’s clear waters of the Southern like swimming in a Great Barrier Reef. 6. Giant Clams | 7. Maori Wrasse giant aquarium! 8. Clown Fish aka “Nemo” Join a week-long liveaboard GREAT BARRIER Dive your way around the 20 fishing charter on the Southern spectacular dive sites Great Barrier Reef. As the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, the Gladstone surrounding Heron Island and have an up-close encounter Camp like a local on North West Region is home to what’s considered one of the top dive and REEF with your favourite marine life. Island, one of the largest coral snorkelling sites in the world. Dotted with impressive coral cays cays in the region. and reefs that are only a stone’s throw away from the coast, you’ll Be a castaway in comfort on be swimming, snorkelling, diving or fishing on the reef in no time. Wilson Island, an adult-only private hideaway. Snorkelling off Heron Island

HERON WILSON LADY MUSGRAVE QUOIN, FACING & NORTH ISLAND ISLAND ISLAND CURTIS ISLANDS WEST

Heron Island offers a unique experience This natural coral cay is both part of the Lady Musgrave Island is the only coral Travel just five kilometres from the ISLAND where you can truly immerse yourself Great Barrier Reef and surrounded by it. island on the Great Barrier Reef with a Gladstone coastline and you will find in the beauty of nature. Among the Its pristine waters host an unimaginable navigable lagoon. Over eight nautical Quoin Island. This island is home to the This hidden gem of the music of seabirds, tracks of turtles and variety of marine life – in fact some miles in circumference, this unique cay region’s only private turtle rehabilitation Southern Great Barrier clouds of multi-coloured fish, the feeling of the best snorkelling on the Great truly has it all – reef, island, beautifully centre, and features a fully refurbished Reef welcomes self- that you’re a guest of nature itself is Barrier Reef is right off the beach at coloured corals, marine life, retreat which is available to book sufficient campers to enjoy inescapable. Surrounded by 24 square Wilson Island. Covering just 5.24 flora, fauna, and of exclusively for private events including an untouched paradise. As kilometres of reef, the island is home acres, Wilson Island is the course, turtles. Day corporate functions, conferences, the second largest coral cay to a resident population of over 5,000 ultimate island castaway trips to the island educational visits and weddings. in the Great Barrier Reef, the green and loggerhead turtles – with experience, offering provide visitors island offers opportunities for many more returning each year during seclusion in a setting of the chance to If self-sufficient camping is more your bushwalking, nature study, reef breeding season. There is one resort unrivalled natural beauty experience the style, nearby Facing Island offers visitors walking, diving and snorkelling. #southerngreatbarrierreef on the island, Heron Island Resort, and playing host to just warm tropical a choice of 35 unpowered sites where Fishing is also quite popular which offers several standards of 18 guests at any one waters of Lady your only worry is where you’re going to on the island, but visitors are accommodation designed time. Enjoy a one-of- Musgrave Island wet a line the next day. requested to limit their fishing and THREE WAYS to suit all tastes a-kind getaway in – perfect any to abide by authorised fishing zones. TO STAY & PLAY and budgets. tents. With just time of year for Next door, Curtis Island offers stunning Your remote island adventure is only a nine sites available diving, swimming and unspoilt beaches, intimate north- permit away from reality. Access: Guests you will wake up in the snorkelling. For those facing bays, sparkling ocean, the Great of Heron Island morning to the sounds of who wish to stay a little longer, Barrier Reef and wetlands as well as an Access: The island is accessible by Resort can the ocean from the comfort camping is also permitted on the outback-style cattle station. private boat. Alternatively the barge access the island of your king size bed. island, however a permit is required and service offers regular island transfers. via boat transfer, National Park restrictions do apply. Access: All three islands are accessible Barge transfers depart from the 1. Reef island which regularly Access: Access to Wilson by private boat. A barge service is also Gladstone Marina and deliver you departs from the Island is via Heron Island Access: Day trips depart regularly from available to access Curtis and Facing right to your beach campsite on North camping Gladstone Marina. which is a 40-minute boat ride the Town of 1770, the closest access Islands. Quoin Island Resort can arrange West Island. 2. Island resorts Alternatively begin away. Transfer times between point to Lady Musgrave Island. Access a ferry service for guests of the resort. your holiday with a scenic Heron and Wilson Islands are subject is also available via for a day helicopter flight between Gladstone to tide and weather conditions and may tour. Camping is also available through To find out more information about these islands Airport and Heron Island. vary accordingly. National Parks. and other islands in the region, visit gladstoneregion.info 3. Day trips from the mainland 4 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 5 Agnes Water AGNES WATER & THE TOWN OF 1770 Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 are relaxed seaside communities linked by kilometres of picturesque coastline and the deep blue waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Paperbark Forest

Famously known for its rich history as the birthplace of Queensland, the Town of 1770 was named after Lieutenant James Cook and his crew from the ‘Endeavour’ who came ashore on the 24th of May 1770.

The climate in this region is best described as perfect, #visitagnes1770 with more than 280 days of sunshine each year. Imagine swimming in crystal clear waters, unwinding on your own deserted beach, sailing, bushwalking and kayaking or kite surfing beside dolphins playing. This is the essence of Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 – untouched, exclusive and pure.

THINGS TO DO Agnes Water

Top 101. Go snorkelling at Lady Musgrave Island

2. Learn to surf at Agnes Water THE IS THE closestTown access of 1770 point 3. Take in the famous 1770 Sunset TO DISCOVER LADY MUSGRAVE ISLAND 4. Hire a kayak and explore the waterways AND LAGOON

5. Hop aboard the iconic pink amphibious LARC THE is Townone of of only 1770 AGNES WATER IS RATED ONE OF 6. Explore the Paperbark four places Forest Boardwalk t he most affordable places in Australia 7. Go swimming at Agnes Water’s on the East Coast of Australia where you can to learn to patrolled beach WATCH THE SUN SURF! 8. Explore one of the many RISE AND SET picturesque walking trails OVER THE OCEAN

9. Go 4WD’ing through Deepwater or Agnes Water IS HOME TO 10. Cast your fishing line into Round Hill QUEENSLAND’S Creek or Baffle Creek MOST NORTHERN SURF BEACH

6 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 7 Nowhere will you find a more eclectic example of genuine Queensland qualities than Gladstone. It’s the state’s engine room; an industrial powerhouse of global significance that is well and truly at the forefront of the resources industry. But Gladstone is full of unexpected surprises.

This dynamic city offers a range of entertainment including the Regional Art Gallery & Museum, a wide Goondoon Street variety of restaurants and bars, and local history to boot with countless colonial buildings throughout the CBD. The Tondoon Botanic Gardens are also one of only a few in Australia with all native plant species, #gladstoneregion attracting more than 100,000 people annually.

At the heart of Gladstone’s city centre is an impressive natural deep-water harbour. Each year this harbour plays host to the annual Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, marked by the Gladstone Harbour Festival.

The Gladstone Marina pays homage to the city’s nautical history at the Maritime Museum and its surrounding East Shores Precinct and Marina Parklands, which continue to attract people to the city from around the globe. It’s also here at the Marina, that local ferry services offer direct passage to tropical islands waiting patiently off the coast.

MUST DO’S Tondoon Botanic Gardens Enjoy the panoramic views at Auckland Point or Round Hill Lookout

Cool off in the splash zone or relax in the parklands at East Shores Marina Precinct

Take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Tondoon Botanic Gardens

Snorkel or dive at one of the many accessible islands off the coast of Gladstone

Take up the challenge and climb Gladstone’s prominent landmark, Mount Larcom

Indulge in fresh seafood at the local Gladstone Fish Market

Gladstone Ports Corporation's 8 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 9 East Shores Parklands Gladstone Marina BOYNE ISLAND LAKE AWOONGA Whether you’re looking for a place to splash, fish or relax, Lake Awoonga is a & TANNUM SANDS nature lover’s paradise. The lake is stocked with Barra, Saratoga and Sea Mullet and has earned a reputation as one of the best impounded freshwater fishing Only a short drive south from Gladstone are the spots in Australia. Not a keen angler? Then slip into the cool waters for a relaxing picturesque coastal communities of Boyne Island and dip, leisurely kayak or try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding. Or why not Tannum Sands. These ‘twin’ communities embody a pull on some walking shoes and explore the lake’s naturally sculpted landscape, relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on superb beaches, teeming with a wondrous array of plants, animals and birds. There are also BBQ riverside walkways, parklands and recreational activities. areas waiting at the ready, so pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view.

Fishing Facts

Enthusiastic anglers come to Lake Awoonga to catch the famed Barramundi, over two million of which have been released into the lake. The largest catch to date weighed in at a hefty Lake Awoonga 36.5kg! Approximately 300,000 fish are released each year including 200,000 Barramundi, 100,000 Mullet and some Mangrove Jack.

Tannum Sands’ Main Beach

MUST DO’S

Get active on over 15 kilometres of pathway known as ‘The Turtle Way’, that winds along the coastline

Enjoy a day of sun, sand and salt at Tannum Sands’ patrolled surf beach

Cast a line in the Boyne River and try Don’ t Miss! your luck catching a BIG Barra Each year the Gladstone Region plays Visit the local Beach Arts Music (BAM) Markets held on the host to Australia’s biggest family first Saturday of every month from March to December fishing competition, The Boyne Tannum Hookup. This popular event sees fishing Get away for a weekend and go camping at enthusiasts travelling from far and wide to join in on the action. Lilley’s Beach (permit required)

Boyne Tannum Hookup Lake Awoonga

10 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 11 If you’re looking to get off the usual MIRIAM VALE touring route, enjoy some authentic country hospitality and learn about the The rustic Queenslanders lining the hard work and determination of early sleepy streets of Miriam Vale are a settlers. Their descendants will happily welcome sight for long-haul travellers share a yarn with you over a cool drink at and mark the gateway to the twin towns one of the general stores. and clear waters of the Discovery Coast. The Boyne Valley Historical Society Miriam Vale is known far and wide Cottage, located in the heart of , for some of the best crab sandwiches provides interesting and informative anywhere in Australia and has been personalised tours for those interested serving them up for more than three in reliving the history of the area. When decades. Although if you need further driving through the valley, why not stop proof, simply sneak a peek at the big, and unwind at picnic spots at Futter red crab perched proudly on the service Creek or camp beside Lake Awoonga. station roof!

Just one street back from the highway is the green heart of town, where the heritage-listed fig tree stands silent guard over the popular parklands, an obligatory stop for the children (and GLADSTONE the children-at-heart). CALLIOPE

While the gold rush days have SURROUNDS Mount Larcom passed, you can step back in time and relive Calliope’s history at the Calliope River Historical Village, located a few minutes north of Calliope on the . Home to an array of relocated and restored buildings #gladstoneregion from around the region, the Historical Village is a splendid location to take a break when travelling north or south along the Bruce Highway. MOUNT The Historical Village is open seven LARCOM days a week for tours, drinks and Miriam Vale playground snacks. However, it really comes Found just north of Calliope, along alive on selected Sundays for the the Bruce Highway, is the township of country markets. Mount Larcom – a popular highway stop for travellers. Stretch your legs under the shady trees in the picnic area and why not enjoy a homemade pie from one of BOYNE VALLEY the local takeaway outlets.

The mighty Boyne Valley is made up For those who are up to the challenge, of four small communities (, climb to the summit of Mount Larcom, Ubobo, Builyan and Many Peaks) which Gladstone Region’s most prominent have withstood the test of time. The natural landmark and be rewarded by the scenic valley was put on the map by uninterrupted 360-degree view of rural gold and copper in the late 1800s, but lands and the Gladstone Harbour. On a is now better known for its timber and clear day, you will see reef islands to the agricultural industries. east and to the north. Boyne Valley Calliope River Historical Village

12 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 13 THE GLADSTONE REGION BY ROAD BY AIR The Gladstone Region starts approximately 450 kilometres north is conveniently located in the centre of the region. of Brisbane, with several key access points off Queensland’s Jump aboard one of the many daily QantasLink and Virgin Airlines major coastal touring route, the Bruce Highway. flights for a quick 50 minute trip between Gladstone and Brisbane. BY TRAIN BY BUS Queensland Rail Travel operates regular services to the Gladstone Greyhound Australia’s services call in to various coastal and NATIONAL PARKS Region. The is the perfect way to travel, stopping at country spots throughout the Gladstone Region. Daily services to The Gladstone Region is home to a number of spectacular national parks. Gladstone and Miriam Vale. Sit back, enjoy the scenery and grab a Gladstone stop at the BP Service Station on Dawson Road. In particular, , Kroombit Tops National Park and bite to eat along the way. Transfers available from Miriam Vale to Eurimbula National Park are favourites for both locals and visitors alike. Agnes Water and the Town of 1770. BY CRUISE One of the newest ways to visit the Gladstone Region is aboard Cruise Ships. So if you’re looking for a taste of what’s on offer in Gladstone, check out the P&O Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Dream Cruises websites for cruise DEEPWATER NATIONAL PARK departure ports and dates.

The captivating scenery of freshwater wetlands, high sand dunes and open forest will entice you to begin an adventure through Deepwater National Park. Throw a line in the peaceful surrounds of Deepwater Creek or walk along unpatrolled, vehicle-free beaches. Find rare birds in their natural habitat and witness marine turtles hatching between January and April. Explore the rock pools at Wreck Rock and picnic or camp at the shady campsite behind the dunes. For a true bush experience, pitch a tent at Middle Rock, camping permits are essential and a 4WD is recommended. KROOMBIT TOPS STATE FOREST AND NATIONAL PARK Featuring both wet and dry rainforest, the mighty sandstone cliffs, grand gorges, gentle creeks and waterfalls make up the stunning backdrop of Kroombit Tops. Drive the 4WD loop and walk 700m (return) to the World War II’s B-54 Liberator bomber ‘Beautiful Betsy’ that lay undiscovered in the wild bushland for more than 50 years. Camp overnight at one of the various self-sufficient campsites or experience the comforts of a nearby outback farm stay. The 13 kilometre, self-guided drive to the lookout is suitable for conventional

vehicles, however a 4WD is required for other roads. Roads are not Kroombit Tops National Park sealed and become impassable in wet weather. EURIMBULA NATIONAL PARK DiscoverTo find out moremore: Eurimbula’s sandy beaches, paperbark information about National swamps, eucalypt forest, mangroves Parks throughout the and rainforest areas provide many Gladstone Region, visit opportunities for visitors to get back to gladstoneregion.info VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES nature. Try beach fishing or at high tide, explore the untouched estuaries by boat Visit an accredited Visitor Information Centre where you’ll find comprehensive travel information or canoe. Camp by the ocean at Bustard to help you prepare for a great holiday in the Gladstone Region. Call in for your complimentary Beach or Middle Creek campsites, maps and brochures, seek local knowledge and advice on the area, plus book all your both campgrounds are equipped with accommodation, tours activities and transport needs! composting toilets and Bustard Beach also has sheltered picnic facilities. AGNES WATER VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE GLADSTONE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Limited water, camping requires a permit 71 Springs Road 72 Bryan Jordan Drive Eurimbula National Park and a 4WD is required. +61 07 4902 1533 +61 07 4972 9000 [email protected] [email protected] 14 Gladstone Region Visitor Guide 15 #gladstoneregion #visitagnes1770 20 THINGS #southerngreatbarrierreef TO DO IN THE GLADSTONE REGION

Try your skills at kayak surfing with 1770 Liquid Wander through the impressive Tondoon Botanic 01 Adventures – keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles 11 Gardens and stop in for a cuppa at the local café. and other friendly wildlife. Enjoy some exercise or simply relax in the parklands 12 of East Shores Precinct or the Gladstone Marina. Glamping you say? Spend a night (or three) at 02 Agnes Water Beach Holidays for the ultimate Have dinner with a view under the magical fig tree glamping experience. 13 at Spinnaker Park. Trust us, it looks like something out of a fairy-tale book. Hop aboard the iconic pink amphibious vehicle 03 with 1770 LARC! Tours and visit Queensland’s only Be entertained and informed as you discover the operating Lighthouse. 14 Gladstone Region on board a tour with Gladstone Region Tours. Jump in your 4WD, pack the swag and discover the 04 magic of Deepwater and Eurimbula National Parks. Watch turtle hatchlings erupt from their nest and wiggle their way to the water at Heron Island in Experience the Great Barrier Reef with a day trip 15 turtle season. 05 to Lady Musgrave Island on board 1770reef Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours. Depart the Marina with Curtis Ferry Services and spend the day at one of the islands that wait off the Make lasting memories on a guided tour or explore 16 Gladstone coastline. 06 at your own leisure with Kanga Tours and Scooter - EBike Hire. Visit Wilson Island... An adult-only private hideaway on the Great Barrier Reef to experience Get active on over 15 kilometres of pathway, known 17  the tranquil life of a castaway in style. 07 as the ‘Turtleway Bikeway’, which winds along the Tannum Sands coastline. Try your luck at catching the famed Barramundi, Mullet or Mangrove Jack at Lake Awoonga. Get away for a weekend and go camping at Lilley’s 18 08 Beach (permit required). Grab your hiking gear, climb Mount Larcom and be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of Take a trip out to Kroombit Tops National Park and 19 the Gladstone Region. 09 visit the remains of a World War II Liberator Bomber aircraft ‘Beautiful Betsy’. Step back in time and relive the history of Calliope at the Historical Village. Pack the esky, fishing rod and go on an adventure 20 10 to Boynedale Bush Camp...there’s even the possibility of spotting a platypus! For more inspiration, visit gladstoneregion.info

@GladstoneRegion