Originally named Port Curtis by Matthew Flinders in 1802, Gladstone is sheltered by two large Islands - Curtis and Facing, and was given its name in 1853 to honour the British statesman, Sir William Gladstone. The region grew rapidly with the establishment of a meat works and gold rushes in the west. In the 1960s Gladstone underwent major industrial expansion, which continues today.

The Gladstone Region has a population of over 55 000. The region’s principal city, Gladstone, is Queensland's premier port city and boasts several of Australia' s most significant industries in a region of thriving trade, commerce and investment. Major industries include the world’s largest alumina refinery, Australia’s largest aluminium smelter, thriving fishing and growing tourism operations.

Gladstone LMAC region

Gladstone Local Marine Advisory Committee (LMAC) is based in Gladstone and is concerned with the coastal and inland area extending from Curtis Island in the north and Rocky Point in the south. This includes the city of Gladstone and the coastal towns of Boyne Island, Tannum Sands, Agnes Water and Town of 1770.

Representation

Members of the Gladstone LMAC represent a diversity of interest groups including: research, catchment management group, commercial and recreational fishing interests, Gladstone Port Authority, diving interests, and local councils. Government officers from the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management, Queensland Boating and Fisheries and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority  are also represented on the committee. Members originate from Gladstone, Miriam Vale, Calliope and Bororen.

Current issues

• Proposals for construction of LNG plants in Gladstone harbour
  
• State Development placement of industrial areas
• Re-building links with local government after amalgamation of councils
• Adopt-A-Creek Project
• Ongoing expansion of Gladstone harbour industrial facilities

Achievements

• Solid relationships with industrial developers to the region
• Provides direct assistance to the Reef Guardian Schools program
• Provides direct support to regional research
• Provides direct support to GBRMPA at regional shows and events

More information

For further information on Local Marine Advisory Committees, please contact:

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
Southern Regional Office
PO Box 301
ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4700

Tel: (07) 4921 4055
Fax: (07) 4921 4034

Email: southern.region@gbrmpa.gov.au