Heritage revival: Night tours unlock new chapter for Gladstone Gaol

The State Government has undertaken a range of repairs and maintenance, which has seen the site opened for the first time since 2022 with LGT Enterprises appointed as operator earlier this year.

LGT’s Gladstone Gaol Ghosts, Crime and Paranormal Encounters experience includes stories of unexplained sightings, strange sounds and lingering presences that have been reported at the Mid North site for decades.

The gaol operated as a medium-security prison between 1881 and 1975, and as a military detention barracks during World War II.

The gaol permanently closed in 1975 but, in 1978, was reopened offering historic tours to visitors. The gaol closed again in 2022.

Future plans for the site include accommodation, a café and additional visitor experiences.

The State Government invested in repairs and maintenance works to help reactivate the site, including roofing, stormwater and building restoration works, supported by a $100,000 Government Owned Heritage Fund grant.

Heritage tourism contributes about $1.5 billion to the state’s economy each year and Gladstone Gaol is one of more than 2,350 State Heritage Places in South Australia.

To book a night tour, visit: https://www.lanternghosttours.com/

Quotes attributable to Naomi Kaye, LGT Enterprises 

Gladstone Gaol has all the ingredients for an unforgettable after-dark experience, combining authentic history, true crime stories and reported paranormal encounters.

Visitors will explore locations including the morgue, chapel and cell blocks while hearing stories that have been passed down through generations.

Our aim is to create an immersive experience that respects the gaol's heritage while sharing the stories, mysteries and human experiences that make this place so compelling.