Gladstone Athletics Club, formerly known as the Gladstone Amateur Athletics Club, has been a prominent sports club in Gladstone since its establishment in 1956. In 1980, the club was officially incorporated and changed its name to Gladstone Athletics Club. Over the years, it has become affiliated with Little Athletics Queensland and Queensland Athletics, allowing the club to offer a modified athletic programme for children aged 4 and above, as well as mature age competitors and individuals with disabilities.
The club boasts a strong and steady membership base, making it one of the largest little athletics clubs in the Central Coast Region of Queensland. Its home ground is not only utilised for the club's activities but also hosts various school athletic carnivals, Port Curtis Interschool Carnivals, and the annual Combined Events Carnival open to all Queensland athletic clubs.
One notable moment in the club's history is when the Olympic torch passed through Gladstone in 1956 for the Melbourne Olympics. A 16-year-old local, Trevor Bohan, had the opportunity to carry the torch, which prompted the formation of the region's first athletics club. Since then, the Gladstone Athletics Club has played a significant role in the development of athletic talents in the community.
The club is led by a dedicated team of individuals who serve as the committee members. Currently, Shane Gibson serves as the President, while Daniel Walton holds the position of Vice President. The Secretary position is vacant and awaiting appointment. Maree McKneil assumes the role of Treasurer, while Melanie Bayntun manages communications.
The committee also includes Jane Corke and Samantha Wakely as Registrars, Kerryn Harris as Results Officer, Mick Silvester as Chief Grounds Officer, and Henry Doyle as Coaching Coordinator. Jodie Logan serves as the Tiny Tots Coordinator, and Jo Gibson is a general member of the club.
Registration with Gladstone Athletics Club for the 2023/2024 season requires payment of fees, which vary depending on the age group and membership type. For instance, Tiny Tots pay $100, U6-U17 athletes pay $170, and there is an additional $50 family levy that may be refunded at the end of the season if volunteer requirements are met. The club recommends registering via ResultsHQ or the Queensland Athletics website. Tiny Tots aged 5 and up can join, while adult athletes aged 2005 and older pay a membership fee of $232.
On the first day of participation, members are advised to bring sun-safe clothing, such as a polo shirt with a collar, shorts, a hat, sunscreen, closed-in shoes, and a water bottle. Training sessions are held on Wednesdays from 3:45 pm to 5 pm, following the school term schedule unless otherwise specified. Local competition days take place on Saturday mornings from 8:15 am, adhering to the school term calendar (except for January when competition starts earlier).
Gladstone Athletics Club values the support of its sponsors and the wider community in promoting fun, family, and fitness in a sporting environment. For more information and important updates, members and interested individuals can visit the club's social media pages, reach out to the club's contacts, or explore useful links like Little Athletics Queensland and Queensland Athletics websites.