A large bulk carrier has run aground off Gladstone in central Queensland, prompting recovery operations and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The vessel, named Cape Falcon, was attempting to anchor on Friday afternoon when it grounded approximately six nautical miles east of the Port of Gladstone.

The ship is sailing under the Liberian flag and is approximately 292 metres long and 45 metres wide. Despite its size, authorities have reported no injuries, hull breaches or pollution associated with the incident.

Recovery efforts have already taken place, but initial attempts to refloat the vessel were unsuccessful. Two separate operations were conducted, including one involving six boats and another involving 10 boats. Neither operation was able to move the ship from its current position.

The vessel will remain aground while further advice is sought about the safest method of removing it. Specialist salvage options are being considered as authorities assess the situation and determine the next steps.

Although the grounded ship is not blocking the main shipping channel, the incident has affected operations at the Port of Gladstone. Authorities are continuing to monitor the vessel and coordinate the response while recovery plans are developed.

A formal investigation has also been launched by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau. Investigators are expected to attend the vessel when it is appropriate and safe to do so.

As part of the investigation, relevant information will be preserved and examined. This includes data from the ship's voyage data recorder, ship-tracking information, weather conditions and records relating to the vessel's crew, operator and maintenance.

The investigation will examine what happened as the vessel attempted to anchor and determine the circumstances that resulted in the grounding.

Maritime authorities are continuing to manage the incident while salvage specialists consider how the vessel can be safely moved.

There have been no reported injuries connected with the grounding, and authorities have also reported no hull breach or pollution. This means the immediate response is focused on safely recovering the vessel and preventing further disruption to maritime operations.

The Port of Gladstone is an important Queensland shipping facility, handling significant commercial vessel movements. The incident therefore has the potential to affect port activity while recovery operations continue, although the main shipping channel remains open.

Further details are expected as investigators gather evidence and salvage specialists determine the most suitable recovery method.

For now, the Cape Falcon remains aground offshore from Gladstone while authorities work on a safe recovery plan.