MOUNT GAMBIER is is the second most populated city in South Australia with an estimated urban population of 28,684. The city is located on the slopes of Mount Gambier (volcano) in the south east of the state, about 450 km south-east of the capital Adelaide and just 17 km from the Victorian border, it is the most important settlement in the Limestone Coast region and the seat of government for both the City of Mount Gambier and the District Council of Grant. The city is well known for its geographical features, particularly its volcanic and limestone features, most notably its Blue Lake, parks and gardens, caves and sinkholes. The peak of the dormant volcano was the first place in South Australia named by European explorers. It was sighted in 1800 by Lieutenant James Grant from the survey brig, HMS Lady Nelson, and named for Lord James Gambier, Admiral of the Fleet. The peak is marked by Centenary Tower, built in 1901 to commemorate the first sighting, and at 192 m above sea level the landmark is the city’s highest point.