Since 1881
Gladstone Gaol — A Timeline Through History
1879
Construction begins. Local stone and materials are used to build a new gaol for South Australia’s Mid North.
June 1881
The gates open. Gladstone Gaol begins operating, with accommodation for male and female prisoners.
8 August 1881
First female prisoners arrive. Women join the gaol’s early prison population.
1939
A wartime role begins. The gaol is handed over to the military for use as an internment camp.
1942–1943
Military detention. The site serves as a military detention barracks before falling into disuse.
1943–1953
A decade of silence. The former gaol stands largely unused.
June 1953
A focus on rehabilitation. The gaol reopens as a corrective training institution for selected young men aged 18–25, teaching practical trades and skills.
December 1975
The prison closes. Outdated facilities bring almost a century of prison history to an end.
1978
Visitors step inside. Gladstone Gaol reopens as a heritage attraction offering historical tours.
1979
The gaol becomes a film set. Its buildings provide the setting for the Australian prison drama Stir.
14 February 1985
Heritage recognition. Gladstone Gaol is entered in the South Australian Heritage Register as a State Heritage Place. maps.sa.gov.au
2022
The gates close to visitors. A period of closure follows, with government repairs and maintenance supporting the site’s future.
2026
A new chapter begins. LGT Enterprises is announced as the new operator, with plans for historical tours, ghost tours, accommodation and a café, developed in consultation with the community and heritage partners.