Gladstone Gaol

The Gladstone Gaol is a heritage listed building, located in Ward Street at the northern end of town.

It was built between 1879-81 at a cost of £21,640. The slate was quarried at Mintaro and was transported by bullock drays.

The Gaol was originally used for ‘inebriates and debtors’. From the time of its opening until the 1920′s it never housed more than 86 prisoners.

It has always been a gaol for both men and women. During World War II it was used as an internment camp for Italians and Germans. It remained unused between 1943 and 1953, when it became a corrective training complex for 18-25-year-old offenders. There were only 26 escapes in the gaol’s 100 year history.

Following extensions in 1955, the complex increased to 125 cells.

It was eventually closed down in 1975 and opened to visitors in 1978.  Now you can wander through ‘B & C’ wings to see where scenes were shot for the film ‘Stir’, and the gaol is a ‘must see’ for travellers and visitors to the Southern Flinders Ranges.

Tours can be a leisurely D.I.Y. tour,  guided tour, or make an appointment for night ghost tour.

Accommodation is available in the cells.  Bring your own bedding for budget style, stay in our affordable style with made up beds in the cells or bed and breakfast style with fully prepared accommodation including a continental breakfast. 

Catering for functions and conferences and special interest groups is available. 

Enjoy a light meal or devonshire tea at the Gaol Café.

Gladstone Gaol  & Tourist Complex 
       Open:   Wednesday,  Friday,  Saturday  &  Sunday     from      11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

                Address:    Ward Street,   Gladstone  SA  5473
                Phone:        (08) 8662 2200  or A/H  8662 2618
                Mobile:       0429 799 926
                Fax:             (08) 8662 2240
                Email:         hollandteunis@gmail.com.au