Our airport is one of Central Queensland’s most important pieces of infrastructure. It is our gateway to industry, tourism and an essential part of our transport network, connecting to passengers to destinations on their journeys all around Australia and the world.
We aim to deliver a world-class regional airport experience and foster the growth of aviation for the benefit of the Gladstone Region.
We’re committed to continually improving everyones airport experience by pursuing and responding to feedback, using the latest technology and delivering resourcefulness to increase the overall airport experience.
GAC will operate and develop Gladstone Airport to enable safe and secure travel connections that facilitate economic and social growth of the region.
It is committed to both quality and innovation in the services and facilities it provides.
It is also committed to improving its efficiency and developing its people, systems and technology, while maintaining a strong environment, health and safety culture and making a sustainable contribution to the betterment of the community it serves.
At Gladstone Airport, we strive to be leaders in regional aviation, delivering top-quality service and seamless travel experiences. We’re committed to innovation, sustainability, and supporting our local community by creating opportunities and connecting people to the world. Gladstone Airport is where journeys begin and possibilities take flight.
GAC is committed to:
Adrienne was appointed to the Board of Directors of Gladstone Airport Corporation on 20 September 2016.
Adrienne has an extensive background in corporate and government strategy, as well as working in high-risk and dynamic environments. Along with her husband, she currently owns a number of businesses in Gladstone and has previously worked in state and national roles within organisations such as Accenture, Westpac Banking Corporation and Leighton Contractors.
Adrienne is a passionate advocate and contributor to both Gladstone and Queensland.
Her current roles include Non-Executive Director of Gladstone Ports Corporation; Chairman, Safety Governance Foundation; President, Gladstone Hockey Association; Member of The Public Transport Fares Advisory Panel, Qld; Member of The Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Central Qld Committee; Committee Member of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Gladstone and Ambassador for the Women in Business Awards of Australia.
Adrienne is a former Telstra Businesswoman of the Year and was also awarded The Centenary Medal in 2003 for distinguished service and achievement in business and commerce.
Kieran is a specialist advisor who works at the intersection of strategy, capital and sustainability, helping boards, directors and executives to manage risk and realise opportunities in highly-dynamic and heavily-regulated environments.
Prior to founding Lower Capital, he led the operation and international expansion of Avalon Airport and worked with the United Nations, where on a short-term contract, he provided strategic advice on aviation infrastructure development in conflict and post-conflict states.
With decades of experience in aviation across the public and private sectors, Kieran has deep and unique insight into the impacts, opportunities and value airports generate from environmental, social and economic perspectives. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil), a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration from Melbourne Business School, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Kieran joined the GAC board in 2023.
Dayna is a legal, risk and governance senior leader and advisor with deep experience supporting organisations and their boards to navigate complex and highly regulated industries.
With 14 years’ experience within the Virgin Australia Group she served as the Chief Legal and Risk Officer including throughout the turbulent period of the pandemic during which Virgin Australia entered voluntary administration, conducted a rapid sale process and re-emerged under the ownership of private equity group Bain Capital. She is currently supporting a focus on risk culture within the higher education sector as General Counsel for Griffith University as well as being a member of the Sustainability Committee, Health Safety and Wellbeing Committee and Cyber Security Committee.
Her career started as a corporate lawyer in global law firm Allens Linklaters however her executive and non-executive roles have encompassed integrity, corporate governance, privacy, sustainability, risk and resilience, workplace relations, insurance, internal audit, people and culture, business strategy and government affairs across a number of sectors.
Dayna holds a Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Laws, Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice and is admitted to practice by the Qld Supreme Court and High Court of Australia. She has also completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course. Dayna joined the GAC board in 2022 and is also a member of the GAC Risk and Compliance Committee and Nominations, Remuneration and HR Committee.
Anthony is the managing director of Multitrade Building Hire and Multitrade, holding these positions for over 17 years. His primary focus has been on working in the heavy industrial sites of the Central Queensland region, where he has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering a positive organisational culture and prioritising workplace health and safety. Additionally, Anthony serves as a non-executive director for several other small businesses and actively contributes to various sporting committees within the Gladstone community.
A native of Gladstone, Anthony began his career by completing a trade in Plumbing and Drainage. He furthered his training to obtain a Certificate 4 in building and construction, subsequently becoming a licensed builder in Queensland. Anthony’s passion for the general aviation industry is evident, as he holds a PPL (Private Pilot License) and has operated an aircraft for over 5 years. This experience has provided him with valuable insights into the benefits of aviation for small businesses and a deep understanding of airport operations and opportunities.
Anthony has completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course and has joined the board of the Gladstone Airport Corporation in 2023.
Councillor Glenn Churchill has been an active resident of the greater Gladstone Region and Central Queensland for well over 30 years. He has gained extensive experience, knowledge, education, and wisdom in 20 years in Local Government as a Mayor and Councillor.
Together with his wife Sue and family, Cr Churchill has served the business, sporting, NFP (not-for-profit) charity, tourism and communities of our region through many different avenues in public life.
He has been a long-time Chairman of the Gladstone Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), Diamond Life member of the Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association (QPCYWA) and spent seven years appointed GAPDL CEO, and State Tourism CEOs forum advocating for our Region and an additional seven years as an honorary Board Member.
Cr Churchill is current Chair for five years of our Gladstone Regional Arts Development Fund Board (RADF), appointed Chair of Disaster Recovery Committee (Infrastructure), active member of the Saiki Sister City Committee International Friendship, Gladstone Safe Night Precinct, past Chair of our Region’s Planning and Development Committee, past Director of the Gladstone Airport Corporation Board. Over his time in Local Govt was elected by CQ LGs representing all Central Qld Local Governments on the LGAQ State Executive.
Cr Churchill is also a Life Member and volunteer of various other local community-based charity and not-for profit organisations. He previously protected the community for 27 years as a Queensland Police Officer and is currently elected Honorary President of the Gladstone Region Queensland Retired Police Association. He strongly believes and advocates in giving back to the community as a volunteer. Is a qualified teaching / performing percussionist with the International Percussion Society, Gladstone Thistle Pipes and Drums and active local performing arts with group SAND and providing tutelage / mentoring to the next generation.
Cr Churchill strongly believes in working together in harmony to help foster a culture of civic pride in the region and its communities, valuing the contribution of our various industries, community groups, rural producers, recognising the very vital work Council does every day with support, innovation, connection and diversity for the benefit of region and communities.
Boards, Committees, Groups
Rick Hansen was a former Councillor for the Gladstone City Council and the Gladstone Regional Council. He was appointed as a Director of Gladstone Airport Corporation on 5 April 2016 and sits on the GAC Finance and Audit Committee and the GAC Risk and Compliance Committee.
Rick has been involved in the community extensively having worked in major industry for over 20 years, owned and managed a small business for over 20 years and represented the community in Council for the past 18 years. He is still heavily involved with community work and holds positions on a number of boards in the Gladstone region.
Tina was appointed to the Board of Directors of Gladstone Airport Corporation on 1 July 2017. She chairs the Finance and Audit Committee and is a member of the Nominations and Remuneration Committee.
As a Director of UHY Haines Norton CQ Pty Ltd and Coaching for Results (Qld) Pty Ltd, Tina is passionate about empowering people and organisations to achieve their goals, objectives and financial success. Tina has over 30 years’ experience in the finance industry as a Chartered Accountant, Financial Planner and Business Advisor.
Tina is a Non-Executive Director of the Central Queensland Hospital and Health Board and is the Chair of the Finance and Performance Committee and holds positions on two other Committees.
An active member of our local community, Tina holds various voluntary roles in not-for-profit organisations, including her current role as the first female board member, Non-Executive Director, Deputy Chair and Company Secretary of Gladstone Area Group Apprentices Limited. Tina is also the Chair of the EQIP Business, Industry and Tourism Skills Centre Advisory Committee and is a Non-Executive Director of Clava Pty Ltd trading as Yaralla Sports Club.
Tina holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) with Distinction and Diploma of Financial Planning. She has completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course and is a Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders.
Since joining the Gladstone Airport team in July 2019, Mark has brought a wealth of experience from the Australian airline and aviation industry. With a strong passion for enhancing customer service and driving innovation, Mark plays a pivotal role in helping Gladstone Airport provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for all travellers.
Mark’s expertise lies in transforming challenges into opportunities. He has a proven track record of turning underperforming operations into thriving enterprises, thanks to his focus on team building, productivity, and process improvement. What sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe work environment, emphasising a 'just culture' that empowers employees and prioritises their well-being.
Known for his strategic leadership, Mark is skilled at identifying opportunities for improvement and delivering results-driven solutions. Whether it’s enhancing service delivery, integrating advanced technologies, or optimising resources and cost efficiencies, he consistently drives positive change while keeping the needs of passengers and staff at the forefront.
Mark’s exceptional communication and negotiation skills make him a dynamic leader, fostering collaboration across teams and ensuring everyone works towards Gladstone Airport’s vision. His ability to motivate and inspire has not only elevated the airport’s services but also strengthened its impact on the Gladstone community.
Adaptable, persuasive, and dedicated to innovation, Mark continues to lead the Gladstone Airport team with a forward-thinking approach, ensuring the airport remains the gateway of choice to the Gladstone region.
Ben Thorburn took on the role of General Manager of Operations at Gladstone Airport in July 2023, bringing a wealth of experience and a uniquely diverse skill set shaped by his career in horticulture and aviation. Renowned for his technical expertise and analytical approach, Ben thrives in managing complex information, making well-informed decisions, and remaining composed under pressure.
Ben’s professional background spans over a decade in wholesale horticulture, where he excelled in production management and workplace health and safety. He then transitioned to aviation, spending 14 years as a helicopter pilot supporting the offshore oil and gas, maritime, and tourism sectors. These roles have equipped him with operational and safety-focused expertise, as well as the ability to engage effectively with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures.
At Gladstone Airport, Ben is committed to driving operational excellence and contributing to the success of the team. His focus on growth and innovation complements his passion for ensuring a safe, efficient, and customer-centric airport experience. With an adaptable and forward-thinking attitude, Ben is instrumental in maintaining Gladstone Airport’s status as a critical gateway to the region.
Results-oriented and dedicated, Ben takes pride in enhancing Gladstone Airport’s reputation within the community and beyond, strengthening its role as a vital asset to the Gladstone region.
With over 30 years of financial expertise, Shelly Stormonth serves as the General Manager of Finance at Gladstone Airport, bringing unparalleled experience and a strategic approach to her role. Shelly is responsible for managing expenditure while overseeing the development of the organisation's annual budgets, forecasts, and growth plans. Her ability to identify cost efficiencies and foster a high-performing, collaborative team ensures the financial stability of Gladstone Airport while supporting its long-term vision.
Shelly is passionate about ensuring the corporate and operational aspects of the business work seamlessly together to achieve organisational goals. A steadfast advocate for governance, she plays a pivotal role in driving the corporate vision. She embraces a holistic and inclusive approach to her work, renowned for her ability to articulate and simplify complex financial matters in a transparent manner.
Her strong communication skills allow her to engage effectively with all levels, from Shareholders and the Board of Directors to the CEO, Management, and staff. Shelly provides insightful corporate analysis and ensures financial strategies align with the broader vision of Gladstone Airport.
Dedicated to continuous improvement, Shelly is actively enhancing her expertise through the Chartered Accountants (CA) Program and ongoing professional development. Her leadership in finance, change management, and innovation not only positions Gladstone Airport for success but also strengthens its role as a critical gateway to the region.
With two decades of experience in airport operations, project delivery, compliance and management, Peter has served in key leadership roles such as CEO, General Manager of Operations, and Compliance and Regulatory Manager across various Australian airports. In his current role as Project and Planning Manager at Gladstone Airport, he is responsible for leading the execution of the Airport corporations major capital projects and implementing a structured and strategic approach to asset and capital planning.
Shaunagh has been a dedicated member of the Gladstone Airport team since 2018, bringing a wealth of experience in operations and finance to her current role. As the Executive Assistant to the CEO and Board Secretary, she plays a key role in supporting the Executive Leadership Team and GAC Board with professionalism and efficiency. A true Gladstone local, born and raised, Shaunagh takes pride in serving her community and enjoys interacting with the public while contributing to the success of the airport and its leadership.
Gladstone Airport, situated in Queensland, Australia, has developed over the decades into a vital hub for regional transport and industry. Its origins date back to 1952, when Thiess Bros constructed an airstrip on land owned by Janson. This marked the beginning of aviation services in the Gladstone region. What began as a modest airstrip has since grown into an essential piece of infrastructure, supporting the community and the burgeoning industries of Gladstone.
The airstrip created in 1952 was a simple yet significant development, connecting the Gladstone region with the rest of the country. With aviation expanding rapidly across Australia in this period, the airstrip allowed the town to benefit from growing regional and national connectivity. It became a practical tool for local travel and initial industrial transportation, particularly as Gladstone started its transformation into an industrial hub.
By the late 1950s and into the 1960s, increased demand for passenger travel and freight transport called for essential upgrades to the airstrip. These improvements ensured that the basic facility kept pace with the needs of a region on the brink of major industrial growth.
The 1970s ushered in an era of dramatic change for Gladstone, as it underwent an industrial boom supported by the establishment of infrastructure such as power stations, aluminium smelting plants, and port operations. This rapid expansion brought with it the need for a more developed airport. During this time, Gladstone Airport saw substantial investment in its infrastructure, including lengthening its runway and constructing basic terminal facilities to support growing passenger numbers.
The airport’s strategic location and accessibility proved critical for the mobilisation of workers who commuted to the area, as well as for industries transporting equipment and machinery essential for large-scale operations.
The 1980s and 1990s marked a new phase in Gladstone Airport’s evolution, driven by the rise of commercial aviation. Airlines began introducing regular services to connect Gladstone directly with Brisbane and other significant cities. This period saw the airport emerge not just as an industrial asset but also as a means of enabling broader travel for business and leisure.
To accommodate the growing number of passengers, the airport expanded its terminal facilities, offering improved seating, modern amenities, and better operational technology. Airlines such as QantasLink became key players in fostering convenient and consistent air services, solidifying the airport’s importance in the lifestyle and economy of the community.
The turn of the century brought about major modernisation efforts at Gladstone Airport. The Queensland Government and local authorities collaborated to secure funding for significant renovations, which included extending the runway to allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft. This was a crucial development for supporting both passenger growth and the transport of cargo linked to heavy industry.
The 2000s also saw the airport terminal revamped with a focus on contemporary design. Security systems were modernised, air-conditioned lounges introduced, and an advanced baggage-handling system installed. These efforts aimed to streamline passenger processes and improve comfort, cementing the airport’s ability to handle an increasing volume of both regional and fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) traffic.
From the 2010s onward, Gladstone Airport has firmly established itself as a key part of Queensland's transport infrastructure. It continues to be a gateway for workers employed in industries including LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) production, mining, and aluminium smelting. Additionally, the airport has become a departure point for tourists exploring the Great Barrier Reef and nearby attractions.
Recent years have introduced a focus on sustainability. Environmental concerns have prompted the adoption of eco-friendly operations, including the consideration of renewable energy sources and environmentally conscious technology for airfield lighting.
Today, Gladstone Airport is managed by the Gladstone Regional Council. Despite being a regional airport, it contributes extensively to the area’s economy and community by connecting residents to major Australian cities, facilitating essential business travel, and supporting tourism ventures.
Looking ahead, Gladstone Airport is likely to focus on further advancements in technology and sustainability. Initiatives may include improving the overall passenger experience, integrating more environmentally responsible practices, and continuing to support industrial growth in the region.
From its origins as a simple airstrip cleared by Thiess Bros in 1952, Gladstone Airport has evolved into a vital piece of infrastructure for Queensland. Its history is one of transformation, reflecting the ingenuity and resilience of both the Gladstone community and the industries that sustain it. It remains a powerful symbol of connectivity, trade, and progress for the region.
