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F R AP
M
PL RE•
E S
X
E
••E •
THE
RED
CENTRE
VISITOR GUIDE
Red Bank Gorge – West MacDonnell Ranges
www.exploreoz.com.au
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
A
TO DARWIN: 965km A
0 100 200 km
Roadhouse
B EV BARKLY HWY B
Barkly
THREEWAYS 186
COOBER PEDY TO
25
TENNANT CREEK
C C
EV
TENNANT CREEK 114
Police
125
Road - Sealed Wutunugurra
D Road - Unsealed EV 117 D
Track (4WD) Iytwelepenty
Red Centre Way DEVILS MARBLES HOTEL
18 - Davenport
Binns Track WYCLIFFE WELL 125 Ranges
E Outback Way Imangara National E
HWY
Explorer’s Way BINNS Park
105
Accomodation 72 TRACK
EXPLORERS
WAY EV 110
F Caravan Park BARROW CREEK F
EV
RT
Ampilatwatja
AY
Camping
UA
89
RAILW
ST
General Store
Police
Arlparra
G TA
NA TI-TREE 224 G
MI 61
Meals Dulcie
Range
Fuel AILERON EV National
H H
HWY Park
70
Electric Vehicle Tilmouth Well
EV Charge Point
Gemtree PLENTY
Tjoritja Atitjere OUTBACK
RO
147
Police 134 113 (Harts Range) WAY
AD
Police
West MacDonnell 187
J J
Medical Facility National Park Ormiston
Gorge
EV 111 Ruby Gap
Nature Park
Glen Helen Lodge Serpentine Standley ALICE SPRINGS
NAM Gorge Chasm
WEST MACDONNELL RANGES ATJIR
LOOP A E Police
K DR K
DRIV
IE
EN
155 165 A EAST MACDONNELL RANGES
Kings Hermannsburg LARAPI N T
RE
92 80 Santa Teresa
ME
Watarrka Canyon Finke Gorge Rainbow (Ltyentye Purte)
Nat. Park Valley
National LUR
ITJA Henbury
L Park 100 Meteorites STUARTS WELL ROADHOUSE BINNS L
198 TRACK
RED CENTRE N o r t h e rn
WAY 67 EV 108
EV Chamber's Te r r i t o ry
OLD
RD
M Yulara SETER H
LAS W Y ERLDUNDA Pillar M
GHA
A
247 OUTBACK
N
Uluru
AUSTRALI
194
Uluru- WAY 75 Finke
140
N Kata Tjuta N
National EV KULGERA 146
Park
Pukatja Mount Dare
P (Ernabella) EV So u t h Hotel P
CENTRAL
Police
247
180 Au st r a li a Witjira
National
Q Kaltjiti Park Q
(Fregon)
RAIL
Police
205
WAY
MARLA
NADATTA
MOBILE Mintabie OOD
R R
ST
81 Oodnadatta
NETWORK
UA
Painted 50 T
EV
RT
RA
COVERAGE CADNEY PARK 120
Desert CK
S Coverage is limited from S
the outskirts of most HWY 142
outback towns. Download 153
Tallaringa
T all maps, guides, fact Conservation
EV Police
T
sheets, audio guides while ANNE Park
HWY
you have mobile coverage. BEADELL COOBER PEDY
U
Look for Wi-Fi hotspots U
located in more remote EXPLORERS
tourist sites. WAY
V
TO PORT AUGUSTA: 542km V
Ba se m a p a nd da t a © C ust om Ma ppi ng Se r vi c e s, 2 0 2 2 . www.c ust om m a ppi ng se r vi c e s.c om.au
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
2 Explore The Red Centre Dining, Cafes & Takeaway www.exploreoz.com.au 3
PL RE•
EX
CONTENTS ••
THE
RED
•
EXPLORERS WAY
CENTRE
ALICE SPRINGS ������������������������������������������������������������������������ 32 - 91 THE STUART TRACIE
HIGHWAY HALL 0438 873 809
P
•
VISITOR
Accommodation�������������������������������������������������������������������������� 52 - 55 GUIDE marketing@absoluteme.com.au
Art, Culture & Museums �������������������������������������������������������������� 71 - 73
COOBER PEDY TO TENNANT CREEK - 1177 KM •
Allow approx. 9+PO
daysBox 5030
- Add Alice
time to Springs NT 0870
appreciate
Attractions �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 40 – 47
Dining, Cafes & Takeaway ������������������������������������������������������������ 74 – 80 attractions to see, adventures to explore, stops •
Dining Directory Quick Guide ������������������������������������������������������ 78 – 79
Events���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 50 - 51
Business Name56 –CADNEY
History Walk ������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 57
in roadhouses, and rest days.
HOMESTEAD
n
Mountain Bike Trails ��������������������������������������������������������������������48 – 49
Address
Seniors Discount Offers �������������������������������������������������������������������� 85
Coober Pedy n
Shopping & Services�������������������������������������������������������������������� 81 - 85
Phone
Suggested Itinerary �������������������������������������������������������������������������� 0864 8670 7994ADELAIDE TO COOBER PEDY
Vehicle Hire & Auto Services��������������������������������������������������������
Email 86 - 91
cadney@bigpond.com
COOBER PEDY ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 2 - 15 846 km 1 - 4 DAYS Coober Pedy 6-day itinerary on Page 8
Events������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 9 Starting in Adelaide, South Australia call into some of Australia’s
Heritage Trail��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13 favourite natural icons. Explore Coober Pedy through to the Northern
We offer a Seniors Discount:
Suggested Itinerary ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8 n n YESonto UluruNO
Territory Kata Tjuta, Watarrka / Kings Canyon, the
MAPS *(fold out maps) MacDonnell Ranges and Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles and onto Darwin.
Our Seniors Discount
*Alice Springs CBD/Town ������������������������������������������������������������ Centre offer is ...
*Alice Springs – South of The Gap ������������������������������������������������ Centre
Your love of adventure will see you follow the route of the 1862 explorer
Barkly Region ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 113 John McDouall Stuart, to whom the Stuart Highway was named.
REPEAT Current Editorial (if applicable)
Binns Track ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������107 n n
YES NO
Coober Pedy Town ������������������������������������������������������������������������14 - 15
Coober Pedy to Tennant Creek ������������������������������������������������������������ 3
East MacDonnell Ranges������������������������������������������������������������104 - 105
Northern Territory���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 122
*Regional – Central Australia Fold out ������������������������������������������ Centre
South East Alice Springs�������������������������������������������������������������������� 29
Tennant Creek ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 118 - 119
West MacDonnell Ranges (Red Centre Way)����������������������������������94 - 101 Painted Desert
Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park ���������������������������������������������������������� 25
Yulara Resort������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 23 COOBER PEDY TO ULURU
Yeperenye Walking Trail ��������������������������������������������������������������������102 734 km 1 - 2 DAYS More details on Pages 16–25
SELF DRIVES Leaving Coober Pedy, you are heading north towards the Northern
Binns Track ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������107
Explorers Way ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 5 Territory border and onto the Stuart/Lasseter’s Highways to Uluru
Outback Way ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������120 Kata Tjuta National Park, passing Mt Conner often confusing visitors
Red Centre Way ��������������������������������������������������������������������������94 - 101 of an early sighting of another famous red icon!
TENNANT CREEK�������������������������������������������������������������������� 112 - 119
tinyurl.com/UluruWalksFactSheetLink
Events���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 117
Suggested Itinerary �������������������������������������������������������������������������� 115
ULURU KATA TJUTA ������������������������������������������������������������������ 19 - 25 ULURU TO WATARRKA/KINGS CANYON
WATARRKA/KINGS CANYON ����������������������������������������������������26 - 27 300 km 1 DAY More details on Page 26–27
DISTANCE GRID / GREAT CENTRAL AUSTRALIAN DRIVES ���� 122 - 123 Heading from Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, drive along the Lasseter
Highway to the Luritja Highway turnoff. Drive through desert oak
country and arrive at the stunning Watarrka / Kings Canyon with
walking trails, huge sandstone walls and breathtaking views.
tinyurl.com/WatarrkaFactSheetLink
‘If we
(08) 8953 2240 d
you d on’t have CADNEY HOMESTEAD
desertdwellers.com.au on’t n
eed it
it
!’ With grassy camping sites, Caravan Park and Motel
accommodation options this is a great base for a few nights
@desertdwellersNT to explore nearby, the Painted Desert. Great pub meals &
takeaways and great coffee to start your day!
P:08 8670 7994
E: cadney@bigpond.com
21 Wilkinson St, Alice Springs
4 Explore The Red Centre CONTENTS www.exploreoz.com.au EXPLORERS WAY 5
COOBER PEDY
OPAL CAPITAL
GET OUTBACK... GET UNDERGROUND
Get to Coober Pedy for a truly unique
experience where the colours of the
outback are as stunning as the gems found
underground. Allow time to really explore this
region, it won’t disappoint!
Watarrka / Kings Canyon
WATARRKA/KINGS CANYON WELCOME TO COOBER PEDY
TO ALICE SPRINGS* *Permit required We want you to enjoy our unique surroundings – filled with colour, the
474 km 1 - 2 DAYS More details on Page 94 perennial hope of discovery and the chance of great riches. Founded by
After your day/s in this region you have the choice of following the human perseverance and indomitable personalities, Coober Pedy has outlived
Red Centre Way and along the Mereenie Loop road, providing you have its wild-west history to share its multicultural community with all visitors.
a 4WD vehicle, or the sealed Luritja and Lasseter Highways that will
Situated between Adelaide and Alice Springs on the Stuart Highway, the
bring you back to the Stuart Highway and north to Alice Springs.
remote town of Coober Pedy is world renowned for opal mining, steeped
Allow extra times/days for Henbury Meteorite Conservation Park,
in mineral wealth and local history.
Stuarts Well Roadhouse and Rainbow Valley stop overs.
tinyurl.com/HenburyMeteoriteFactSheetLink
tinyurl.com/RainbowValleyFactSheetLink
WEST MACDONNELL RANGES EAT drink ENJOY THE VIEW
AND GLEN HELEN
103 KM ONE WAY 1+ DAY More details on Pages 94-100
Part of the Red Centre Way, this easy day trip from Alice Springs
takes you along a sealed road to walking trails, stunning Chasms, and
gorgeous gorges! Enjoy the waterholes with a swim, and enjoy some
of the unique spots like the Ochre Pits, Ellery Big Hole and Ormiston
Gorge. Plan extra days if you wish to enjoy camping adventures.
tinyurl.com/WestMacsFactSheetLink
Enjoy the best of South Australian food and wine
ALICE SPRINGS TO TENNANT CREEK in our remarkable cafe and bar
510 km 1+ DAY More details on Page 106–107
North of Alice Springs you travel through many points of interest
both with historical and natural beauty, from Connors Well to Native 360º circle vision cinematic
Gap to the incredible Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles, important to the
Warumungu people. These massive boulders are continually cracking EXPERIENCE
and changing and are strewn across a wide and shallow valley.
tinyurl.com/NativeGapFactSheetLink An Outback Cinematic Journey
tinyurl.com/KarluKarluFactSheetLink
not to missed
The Explorers Way continues from Tennant Creek to Darwin for BIG Winch 360º and BIG Winch 360º Cafe Bar
another 989 km. The changing landscapes are all beautiful, so take Lot 10 Italian Club Hill Road, Coober Pedy, South Australia.
your time to really explore. P 0417 902 224 I E manager@bigwinch360.com.au
When crossing from Queensland into the Northern Territory you need to BIG WINCH 360° Perching over Coober Pedy and offering
put your clocks back ½ hour. Neither place has daylight saving. spectacular views, this renowned attraction is a popular place
South Australia and the Northern Territory usually share the same time, for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy SA food & wine in the Café & Bar
except from October to March, SA is one hour ahead. while getting that memorable sunset shot that lasts a lifetime.
If crossing from Western Australia into the Northern Territory add 1 ½ hours. Eat, drink and enjoy the view!
6 Explore The Red Centre EXPLORERS WAY www.exploreoz.com.au COOBER PEDY 7
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� Dingo Fence - Moon Plain
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greyish OR
Phone Numbers
Precious Opal.
NEW
colour. EDITORIAL
Considered the lowest grade of the
PO Box 5030 Alice Springs NT -0870
� Kanku/The Breakaways HOW FAST HOW LONG -
MUCH! CK CONFECTIONAIRE CRYSTAL OPAL
HOW Name
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BLACK OPAL
ons@opalinn.com.au
DAY 3 OPAL CAPITAL 130 km per hour – CHANGES OR NEW
Predominantly EDITORIAL
Lightning Ridge in NSW. The body
We offer a Seniors Discount: n YES colouring
n NOis a smoky to very dark grey, to black.
TheIF APPLICABLE
� Tour of Mine - Museums save 20 mins + $850 +
(guided or self guided) darker, the higher the value.
Our points Discount offer is ...
Seniors
nt: �n YES n
Multicultural NOoptions
Dining BOULDER OPAL
is ... DAY 4,5,6 DAY TRIPS Found in the inland QLD Fields. Layers of Opal are
� The Mail Run n YES
REPEAT Current Editorial (if applicable) naturally formedn in narrow
NO cavities in ironstone –
� Painted Desert often giving the opal an uneven surface, or a mix
� William Creek of opal and ironstone on the surface.
f applicable) n YES n NO
CK CONFECTIONAIRE This is the gem you can certainly find in Coober Pedy!
Opal was first discovered in 1915, withAllan influx
youroftasty
prospectors ANNUAL
from bakery specials
favourite plus AsianEVENTS
inspired meals2022 and good
around the world with community still including 40 nationalities you APRIL C oober Pedy Gem Trade Show
will find today. Aussie breakfasts. Enjoy a coffee and the friendly service that the locals make
(April 16 & 17)
cooberpedy.com/coober-pedy-gem-trade-show
the most of.
At least 20 different retailers display the incredible beauty and variety MAY The Great Kanku-Breakaways Marathon & Fun Run (May 21)
of opal found locally. Museums & tours throughout the area feature www.greatkanku-breakawaysmarathon.com.au
both the mining history and the modern methods used.
JUNE Coober Pedy Opal Festival (June 18)
View underground churches, sculpted from the beautiful sandstone, www.opalfestival.com.au
picturesque landscapes and horizons as far as the eye can see. Where
better to escape the heat and dust than staying underground, where For more events, up to date information and changes please contact:
the temperature is naturally cool and the peaceful ambience ensures a Visitor Information Centre Ph: 08 8672 4617
good night’s sleep. It’s a tourism experience you can’t have anywhere or download the Visitor Guide at www.cooberpedy.com
else in the world – you will want to stay more than one night. https://tinyurl.com/CooberPedyVisitorGuideLink
DESERT CAVE HOTEL CK CONFECTIONAIRE This is the gem you can certainly find in
Coober Pedy! All your tasty favourite bakery specials plus Asian
Coober Pedy’s premium venue offers assorted underground
and above rooms for singles to family rooms with ensuites. inspired meals and good Aussie breakfasts. Enjoy a coffee and the
Swimming Pool, Free Wifi. Tours available on request. friendly service that the locals make the most of.
Café – Restaurant – Bar – Gaming room
Make sure you find this hidden gem!
A: 1 Hutchison St, Coober Pedy SA 5723
P: 08 8952 8686
E: reserve@desertcave.com.au
www.desertcave.com.au
CK Confectionaire
CK Confectionaire
OPAL INN ❧ TASTY MEALS FROM THE PHILIPPINES
Stay at this friendly Hotel/Motel/Caravan Park for a secure, ❧ YOUR FAVOURITE BAKERY TREATS
convenient base to explore Coober Pedy for a few days. Everything ❧ BEST COFFEE IN TOWN ❧ GREAT SERVICE
you need to ensure you have a comfortable stay on the main street
with dining, Bottle Shop and gaming options at your doorstep. OPEN Mon–Fri 7.00am – 4.00pm
Sat 8.30am – 3.00pm
A: 1 Hutchison St, Coober Pedy SA 5723 Check for Summer season hours
P: 08 8672 5054
E: reservations@opalinn.com.au 6 Wright Rd, Coober Pedy SA 5723
www.opalinn.com.au 0418 246 073
8 Explore The Red Centre COOBER PEDY www.exploreoz.com.au COOBER PEDY 9
PL RE•
•• EX •
AP
THE
RED
CENTRE TRACIE HALL 0438 873 809
Please
• Nam
VISITOR GUIDE marketing@absoluteme.com.au • Pho
PO Box 5030 Alice Springs NT 0870 • Spe
Business Name JOHNS PIZZA BAR AND RESTAURANT
nO
Address Hutchison Street Coober Pedy n CH
se
Umoona Opal Mine & Museum Phone 08 8672 5561 The Breakaways
Email johnspizza@bigpond.com CHAN
UMOONA OPAL MINE & MUSEUM provides an award-winning THE BREAKAWAYS
tourist attraction in Coober Pedy, South Australia - the opal capital Only 32 kms north of Coober Pedy, the turn off to the Kanku -
of the world. The largest underground complex in town,
We offer UmoonaDiscount:
a Seniors n YESBreakawaysn NOConservation Park takes you along a formed dirt road
Opal Mine provides the complete tourism package with a unique and to the registered and owned Aboriginal heritage site. They consist
informative experience for visitors of all Our
ages.Seniors
Located onDiscount
Coober offer is ... of colourful low hills that have ‘broken away’ from the Stuart Range,
Pedy’s main road, Umoona is 850 kilometres north of Adelaide and hence their name The Breakaways. There are 2 lookout points to enjoy,
680 kilometres south of Alice Springs, making it ideally situated for highlighting the large open spaces and colourful hills, once a vast
outback tour stopovers. Indeed, for manyREPEAT
thousands Current Editorial
of tourists each (if applicable) n YES n NO
inland sea.
year, Umoona Mine and Museum is the focus of their stay in Coober
Pedy. Umoona is a member of the Jewellers Association of Australia, With fascinating formations such as Papa Kutjara in the east, many
JOHNS PIZZA BAR AND RESTAURANT
the Opal Association of Australia, and the South Australian Tourism parts of this region
Come haveinbeen
forused by TV and
a steak advertising,
a coldblockbuster
Commission (SATC). films; including Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, Ground Zero, and
beer; or choose from our rangemore of pastas, with aKombat.
recently Mortal nice bottle of red from our
ANCIENT HISTORY selection of great Australian wines; or try one of our piping-hot pizzas with an
This is a photographer’s delight at any time of day and especially at
Around 150 million years ago the area thatice cold
is now glass
Coober of Coke;
Pedy’s opal or simplysunset.
comeThe in70
for
kman
roundespresso
trip, takingcoffee
you eastand
alongathe
slice
hills,of
includes the
fields, was an inland sea. Over millennia, the seaof
one water
ourreceded, and cakes.
delicious famous 2m high Dog Fence – a 5,300 km wire barrier stretching along 3
with the lowering of the underground water, silica solutions trapped states, protecting the sheep country in the south from the native dingo.
in the cavities and faults in the underground, became the opals found
Permits are required – Purchase from the Visitor information Centre
here today.
or Underground Bookstore. $10 per vehicle or $8 concession.
ABORIGINAL HISTORY
Over tens of thousands of years, the Indigenous people of the region,
the Anangu, called Antakirinya, Matu-Yankunytjatjara, Arabana or
Kokatha walked this desert environment. They were nomadic hunter
gatherers, travelling in search of food and water supplies and for their JOHNS PIZZA BAR Come in for a steak and a cold beer; or choose
important traditional ceremonies. The present-day name of Coober from our range of pastas, with a nice bottle of red from our selection
Pedy is named ‘Umoona’ in their language, meaning ‘long life’. This is of great Australian wines; or try one of our piping-hot pizzas with an
also the name used for a common tree in the region, the mulga tree. ice cold glass of Coke; or simply come in for an espresso coffee and a
slice of one of our delicious cakes.
RECENT HISTORY
MU LT I AWA R D WI N N I N G…
The first European explorer to visit the area was John McDouall Stuart
in 1858. It wasn’t until 1915 that opal was first discovered by 14 year
old Will Hutchison, while with his father’s gold prospecting party. Until
J Johns pizza bar and Restaurant
1920 this was called Stuart Range Opal Field, when a new name was Open 7 Days 10.00am - 9.00pm
decided on, so a post office could be established. Stuart Range was
Licensed beer and wine
deemed unsuitable as it was too similar to Stewart Range also in South
Serving pizza, pasta, seafood, grills,
Australia. The new name was established by the Progress Committee,
burgers and more
made up of local miners and Coober Pedy was chosen. The name is an
Dine in or take away
Aboriginal term – Kupa Piti, meaning ‘white man in a hole’ derived from
Anangu words. 08 8672 5561
johnspizza@bigpond.com
Shafts were dug originally by hand with basic tools like pick and shovel,
www.jpbr.com.au
hand windlass and bucket.
10 Explore The Red Centre COOBER PEDY www.exploreoz.com.au COOBER PEDY 11
COOBER PEDY
HERITAGE TRAIL
TRY YOUR LUCK! The Coober Pedy Historical Society maintains and preserves a
FREE NOODLING collection of over 4,000 documents & photos which are recognised as
being of national significance. Volunteers of this organization are to be
Noodling is the process which you can search through mounds of commended. Interpretive signs along most sites helps you explore the
mullock for pieces of opal, often missed by miners. Locals have Cooer Pedy Heritage Trail. See Map page 14/15
made a living out of it and it is popular with visitors.
1 OLD CEMETERY first burial in 1921
Search around town and most stores have small noodling pits for 2 OLD TIMERS MINE & DUGOUT*
you to try your luck! You may find a special gem or even a small An original 1916 hand-dug mine
keepsake of your time in Coober Pedy. 3 OLD WATER TANK & WATER RESERVE
1922 important story
The OLD TIMERS MINE is a unique experience the whole family will 4 JEWELLER’S SHOP OPAL FIELD Fossicking and history
enjoy. Take the self-guided tour at your own pace and time and explore
an underground opal mine from 1916.
5 OLD POLICE LOCKUP, OLD DUGOUT AND UMOONA
ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY Coober Pedy’s first buildings
Wear a hard hat and see the natural seams of opal and fossils, as you 6 MEDICAL SERVICES HISTORY from early days
wander through one of the first working mines. Enjoy the museum full 7 GEORGE BURFOD’S DUGOUT
of the history of Coober Pedy and the hard times of early mining and (a private dwelling) State Heritage listed
living. Discover the original underground home from the 1960’s, with 8 COOBER PEDY CHURCHES Heritage listed underground
rooms set just as they were in those bygone days.
9 UNDERGROUND POST OFFICE & OLD DUGOUTS
With a huge range of assorted opals on show, from colourful uncut on Post Office Hill – First of its kind
stones to pieces made into stunning jewellery, you will find something 10 THE BIG FLAT OPAL First mined in 1915
to match your taste and budget. 11 COOBER PEDY AREA SCHOOL beginning in 1960
With souvenirs for memory keep-sakes, The Old Timers Mine is a 12 JOHN MCDOUALL STUART MONUMENT
must-do in Coober Pedy. First European explorer
13
WILL HUTCHISON MONUMENT The first opal found in 1915
Visitors must have permission before entering Umoona Community
*Entry fee applies
12 Explore The Red Centre COOBER PEDY www.exploreoz.com.au COOBER PEDY 13
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Base map and data © Custom Mapping Services, 2022
MAP KANKU-BREAKAWAYS
A O
M P w w w. c u s t o m m a p p i n g s e r v i c e s . c o m . a u A
CONSERVATION PARK 7km
T
IN
U CUS
COOBER PEDY
DOG FENCE 13km
G SERV
.A
B B
I
M C
ES
.CO
TO
TOWN MAP
MC
AT
C C
HI L
KU
T 0 250 500 m
NO
L
H
RD
HOSPITAL
D D
ST
ST
Main Roads
1 Big Winch............ .......... K6
RD
Other Roads
E E
RD
Bike Path
2 CK Confectionaire .......... N4
Police
3 Desert Cave Hotel .......... M5 Police
F Fuel F
4 Johns Pizza Bar ... .......... M5
N
RD
HUTCHISO
B
C ATACOM Electric Vehicle
EV
PE
E
PD THE P A NTER S 5 Old Timers Mine .. .......... K7 Charge Point
KEM
D D
G
I RD Umoona Meals G
JU Community 6 Opal Inn .............. .......... N5
RD
CHUC
KY ST Supermarket
7 Outback Bar & Grill ......... P5
LE
OO
5 4 8 Umoona Opal Mine Pharmacy
O'T
H H
& Museum ......... .......... L5
Drive In Public Post Office
RD Theatre Noodling
GOLF COURSE
RD
UMOONA Area RD Hospital
J RACECOURSE J
MILE
RD
The Big
OLD
SPEEDWAY Toilets
ST
Winch
LLY
Information Centre .......... N6
TEEN Lookout
WAT
W D E R S GU
SEVEN 5 Caravan Park
1
ER T
K 3 Churches K
8 Catacomb............ .......... F8 RV Dump Point
ANK RD
Revival Underground ....... K7
ITA LIAN CLUB R D
ISON
C RO
8 Saint Elijah .......... .......... M14 Lookout
HUTCH
Saint Nicholas...... .......... N6
RD
L L
FITZG 7 Saints Peter &Paul .......... M6 Picnic Area
ERAL
D
EV 2
TCE 6 Parking
4 Water
Boot Hill Cemetery .......... S11
M Coober Pedy School Drive In Theatre ... .......... J6 Swimming Pool M
& Library Conservation Public Noodling Area....... K9
3 Area The Big Winch lookout..... K7
Greyhound Australia Wind Turbine
PAXTON RD
N SAINT
& Solar Field....... .......... U15 N
RD 2 6
AS
1 RD
TO
PAXTON See numbers 1-9 for the
N
9 Heritage Trail information LLY
GU
NICHO
RE
on page 13
RD
P P
HILL
I LL
7
Y
HU T
LAS
Police
CHI
ST
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BV
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N
ST
Oval
DERS ST
orchard FLIN
R Original R
IS
IOT
Wind Turbine
LL
ST
MA
Coober Pedy Boot Hill
S Park COOBER PEDY TO: S
Cemetery Glendambo 255km
FLAT
Port Augusta 542km
EXPLORERS WAY
T STUART STUART T
HWY
EXPLORERS WAY HWY
COOBER PEDY TO:
U Alice Springs 685km Wind Turbine U
Uluru 730km & Solar Field
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
14 Explore The Red Centre COOBER PEDY www.exploreoz.com.au COOBER PEDY 15
CURTIN SPRINGS
Mount Conner, located on the private
property of Curtin Springs Station, reaches
859 metres (2,818 ft) above sea level or
344m above the surrounding plains. It is a
distinctive flat-topped sandstone mesa. It is
often confused with another famous ‘rock’.
You can only access Mt Conner by joining a
tour or a Curtin Springs Walk. Ask at Curtin
Springs Wayside Inn for further details.
Mt Conner
Central Australia has a long, proud and strong pastoral industry. The
land you will drive through on your visit is predominately privately WHAT PLANT IS THAT?
owned, having been settled by very early explorers. These properties
Parakeelya is a succulent plant and with the
are challenged by the extreme environment and are now productive right rainfall can grow all year round in Central
cattle stations. Curtin Springs Station is no exception. Australia. Due to the high quality of feed this
“Not long after we arrived in 1956, the heavens opened up and it plant offers, when the seasons are right, once
every 7-10 years, cattle can go without needing
rained 1 inch. Then it didn’t rain again for 9 years!” (Peter Severin) to drink water for much longer periods.
Peter & Dawn with their toddler son Ash arrived in Curtin Springs with
1500 cattle. Their home for the first three hard years was under the CURTIN SPRINGS WAYSIDE INN Peel back the layers and
Bough Shed and they saw 6 visitors in their first year here. In the late discover the unique experiences and hospitality. We offer a range of
Fifties, the first tourism pioneers began a new industry as Dawn saw accommodation options, a campground with powered and unpowered
the opportunity to diversify and supply scones and tea. sites, fuel, store, bar and restaurant. Base yourself here and visit the
Australia continues to pull visitors to the rugged outback and Curtin other attractions of Uluru and Kings Canyon.
Springs stands as testament to the commitment made by the Severin
family to both the pastoral and tourism industries.
Lasseter Highway
(via Alice Springs) NT 0872
WHAT IS A WAYSIDE INN? P. +61 8 8956 2906
In early days pastoral cattle stations were called upon to provide www.curtinsprings.com
services for an increasing number of tourists. From this grew
‘Wayside Inns’. They were created, providing structured support
and a range of services to the travelling public. They had to offer Curtin Springs
their services 365 days a year and could be open 24 hours a day.
As visitor numbers increased further, roadhouses were created
Wayside Inn
with more emphasis on fuel, but usually shorter open hours. Your perfect base to visit the Ayers Rock
Wayside Inns provide an iconic experience in the NT, where and Kings Canyon regions. A wide range
visitors get to spend time with the ‘locals’. of accommodation, powered sites and free
unpowered sites, home-style meals and bar.
Curtin Springs Paper
Curtin Springs makes handmade paper from
the native grasses found on Curtin Springs
CURTIN SPRINGS PAPER TOUR Station. A distinctive and beautiful souvenir of
Central Australia.
Join us for a 1 hour tour to see how we make beautiful For current tour times, please check at the
paper from native local grasses. For current tour times
check at the store or our website. store or visit our website.
Lasseter Hwy, Via Alice Springs
Phone: 08 8956 2906
www.curtinsprings.com
16 Explore The Red Centre CURTIN SPRINGS www.exploreoz.com.au CURTIN SPRINGS 17
ULURU KATA
TJUTA NATIONAL
PARK
An experience that will stay with you for
a lifetime. The sheer red rock, its massive
presence will wow your senses. Allow time
to absorb the sight upon your arrival, explore
specific viewing areas at sunrise and sunset;
ROAD TRIP – DRIVE TIPS it’s unforgettable.
• T he Northern Territory (NT) has vast stretches of variable speed The ANANGU PEOPLE are the Traditional Owners of Uluru/Kata
and surfaced roads. The speed limit in the NT is 110 km per hour Tjuta; they welcome everyone to their country. This National Park
on open roads unless otherwise signposted. represents the beating heart of our nation! Located near the centre of
• Reduce to a safe slower speed on unsealed roads. the Australian continent, the sacred rock formations of Uluru and Kata
Tjuta, are a significant distance away for most visitors; but the moment
• Do not drive on 4WD tracks with a 2WD vehicle. you first set eyes upon Uluru, you will know that every step of that
• If you are not accustomed to driving long distances or in extreme journey was well worth it!
heat, driver’s fatigue can occur, so stop and rest frequently at As you settle into your accommodation, plan to make the most of
regular rest stops available. your 3 day park entrance pass, so you can participate in the variety of
• Many national roads travel through national parks and stations. experiences on offer.
Avoid driving at dusk or dawn or even at night as stock/wildlife The Yankunytjatjara and Pitjantjatjara people, the traditional landowners
may cross the roads. Do not swerve suddenly and safely reduce of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park welcome you to their lands. The local
your speed. people call themselves Anangu and ask you do use that word too, and
• Note that different school zone times apply in the NT. they are proud to share their land and culture with you.
• Don’t drive in convoys especially if you are towing a caravan.
Allow at least 200m between vehicles, especially to allow road
TJUKURPA – “our law, stories and spirituality”
trains to overtake safely. This is the foundation of the Anangu Culture and has a complex and deep
• Ensure your vehicle’s windscreens, mirrors and windows are meaning that links Anangu to the environment and their ancestors.
clean and unobstructed. Covering from the beginning of time, Tjukurpa stories contain important
• Ensure vehicle is fuelled up and tyre pressures checked, due to stories of how to survive the desert and rules for appropriate behaviour.
long distances between roadhouses. They are also used like maps, showing important features and how to
travel from place to place, where food and water can be found. These are
• Ensure pets are correctly restrained by using a secured carry box
never written down, but passed on to the right people like an inheritance.
or a pet seatbelt.
The understanding and depth of these stories increases throughout a
• Plan activities to keep your children content.
person’s life. It tells the traditional law on how to care for each other and
• Road conditions can change quickly, particularly in the Wet their land. It tells the relationship between people, plants, animals and
Season during October to May. the features of the land.
• Check on a map where you are going before you depart, as mobile
phone coverage is limited. Plan your route and regardless of how
experienced you are, let responsible people know which routes
ANANGU Words
you plan to travel and your approximate departure/arrival times. ANANGU WORD TRY TO SAY THE WORDS! WORD MEANING
Uluru ool-or-roo Name of a place, like Sydney or London
BEFORE YOU DEPART:
Kata Tjuta catta-jew-tah Many heads
• Check your vehicle is safe and roadworthy
Anangu arn-ung-oo Aboriginal people of the Western Desert
• Don’t drive tired, plan for road rest stops every two hours.
Palya pahl-yah Hello/goodbye/thankyou/welcome
• Check road conditions and weather reports
Tjukurpa chook-orr-pa Creation time, law, way of life, story
Check road conditions within NT parks – 4WD and 2WD tracks:
https://roadreport.nt.gov.au/home Kapi kah-pee Water
Waru wah-roo Fire
18 Explore The Red Centre DRIVE TIPS www.exploreoz.com.au ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK 19Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park
EXPLORER’S HISTORY & DISCOVERY Although Ernest Giles was ULURU AUDIO GUIDE provides GPS triggered audio commentary
the first explorer to identify Ayers Rock / Uluru, it was William Christie that has over one hundred fascinating stories and facts to share. It
Gosse who first climbed the rock in 1873. With 8 months supplies on can be used whilst you walk, drive or ride around Uluru or Kata Tjuta
camel trains, aided by Afghan cameleers, and a 3 month trek from Alice allowing visitors to explore the entire national park at their own pace.
Springs, Gosse named the Rock after Sir Henry Ayers, who later became Uluru Audio guide is available in 7 languages. To learn more head over
Premier of South Australia. Gosse also explored nearby Kata Tjuta and to their website www.uluruaudioguide.com.au
named them ‘The Olgas’ after Queen Olga of Wurtemberg.
A MORE RECENT HISTORY In the 1930s, the first flights and motor
vehicles made it to Uluru, but it wasn’t until the late 1940s that the first
graded road linked Uluru to Alice Springs. Tourism was encouraged
when Len Tuit, an Alice Springs local, began to run tours, camping at the
base of the Rock and near the Uluru climb. In 1958 records show 2,296
people travelled to Uluru; in recent years this has risen to more than
300,000 visitors a year.
During the 1970s, the Aboriginal Land Council negotiated with
authorities on the site for a new town - now called Yulara. By 1980
improved road access and an airport meant more tourists were able to
visit the Rock and the Olgas; basic motel accommodation was available
with Ayers Rock Campground opening in 1983.
In 1985, the Commonwealth Government handed back the Ayers Rock
(Uluru) National Park to Traditional Aboriginal Owners. By 2016 the
Tjintu Solar Field was completed - it produces over 15% of the average
power supply to Yulara Resort.
MULGA’S ADVENTURE TOURS For your outback adventure of a
lifetime, travel with a small group tour and choose between 3 & 4 day
options with experienced guides. Enjoy well equipped bush camps &
meals catering for dietary preferences. Comfortable touring for those
who thought they were not so ‘camping’ friendly!
mulgasadventures.com.au
DID YOU KNOW?
Uluru towers at 348 meters above the ground
making it taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
3-Day Rock Trip, 4-Day Rock-to-Rock Underground, Uluru extends at least another 2.5kms
Authentic Aussie Camping Tours beneath the surface, further below than above ground.
20 Explore The Red Centre ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK www.exploreoz.com.au ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK 21RESORT TOWN MAP
0 200 400 m
CONNELLAN
(AYERS ROCK)
AIRPORT Ayers Rock
residential Campground
area
Sails EV
in the
Desert EV Police
YULARA
LASSETER
DRIVE
Naninga
Uluru Lookout
Meeting Place Resort
Town Square
Field of Lights Lost Camel Hotel
residential
Imalung area
Lookout
AYERS ROCK RESORT
HIW
Emu Walk
Y
Apartments
Wintjiri Arts & Museum
IN ULURU KATA TJUTA Arkani Theatre
NATIONAL PARK Desert Gardens
Pioneer
Lookout
RESORT INFORMATION – From Cultural tours and stargazing, to Hotel
Ba s e m a p a n d d a ta © Custom M apping Services, 2022
YULAR Outback residential
I
VE
A Pioneer area
a sunset camel ride or reptile show, there is something to intrigue, DR
Hotel & Lodge
www.c u s to m m a ppingservices.com .au
entertain and fascinate all who immerse themselves in the beauty of
this region.
NAPALA
ACCOMMODATION – Whilst Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park is Uluru Lookout
located in Central Australian desert country, there is a veritable oasis
of accommodation options at Ayers Rock Resort, everything from five ROA
D
star motel suites to campgrounds.
ET
Wherever you choose to stay, please don’t miss the opportunity to EV Electric Vehicle
RE
Charge Point
ST
view the magnificent night sky, lit up by thousands of stars, before Resort Roads
Fuel
retiring for the night. Parking Police
Police
Other Roads
DINING – Ayers Rock Resort boasts a wide range of dining ULURU - KATA TJUTA Walking Track Meals
NATIONAL PARK Information
opportunities, from a poolside cafe through to fine dining restaurants. Centre Supermarket
A
If staying in any of the motels, meals can be charged back to your Medical Centre Swimming Pool
NI
KU
room from any of the restaurants. Enjoy the opportunity to indulge in Lookout Viewing Area
menus which include the tastes and textures of local bush tucker.
SERVICES AND FACILITIES – Newsagency, Post Office, banking, DIY TOURGUIDE’S AUDIO TRAVEL GUIDES will bring alive your
souvenir and art shops, an IGA Supermarket and even a hair salon are self-drive adventure between Alice Springs and Uluru, and around
all conveniently located at the Ayers Rock Resort Town Square. Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. Learn all about the region and the best
places to stop. Stories about early explorers, the natural landscape,
TOUR AND INFORMATION CENTRE – You can use the free hop on/ Aboriginal culture, and locals who call this remote area home, will fill
hop off shuttle bus service available to help you get around the Resort. your car. Commentary is triggered by GPS points on the DIY Tourguide
Ayers Rock Autos/Repairs can assist with any mechanical issues app, or it is available as an MP3 download. Visit diytourguide.com.au
and a first aid medical service is available at the resort. There isn’t a
pharmacy onsite, but the Supermarket sells basic medical supplies.
FREE ACTIVITIES* – There are a number of daily, family-friendly free
AUDIO TRAVEL GUIDES
activities at Ayers Rock Resort, including bush tucker tours; visit the Take your own tour guide with you in the car!
Wintjiri Arts & Museum for a guided tour, or to enjoy watching artists
at work, creating their stunning traditional designs; attend a Bush Yarn Alice Springs Uluru Kata Tjuta
to Uluru National Park
at the Circle of Sand to learn about ancient traditions of desert life,
including the hunting weapons and methods of harvesting various bush Hear fascinating stories of history, Aboriginal
tucker plants. culture, plants and animals, geology, and the
You can also explore the wonderful grounds of the Desert Gardens best places to stop.
Hotel, a beautiful example of outback landscaping. A playground and Available as a GPS triggered app on iPhone and Android, or as an MP3 download.
giant chessboard are located in the Ayers Rock Campground.
www.diytourguide.com.au I 0417 22 22 11
*Seasonal – Check at the Visitor Information Centre
22 Explore The Red Centre ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK www.exploreoz.com.au ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK 23ERLDUNDA 247km
ALICE SPRINGS 445km
Sandy Way
Rest Area
Base map and data © C u sto m Ma p p i n g Se rv i c e s , 2 0 2 2
ULURU KATA TJUTA
NATIONAL PARK
w w w.custo mma p p i n g se rvi ce s.co m.a u
RED CENTRE WAY
10 km
OUTBACK WAY
Talinguru Nyakunytjaku
Sunrise Viewpoint
HWY
Kata Tjuta
EV
Kunya Car Park
YULARA - Ayers Rock Resort
5
KATA TJUTA
ULURU
Wild Camp
Kata Tjuta means ‘many heads’ in Pitjantjatjara – one of several local
languages used in the Park and it is made up of 36 domes spread over
Viewing Areas
20 square kilometres, and higher than Uluru at 546 metres. Known
0
PARK ENTRY STATION
also as The Olgas, Kata Tjuta offers wonderful walks like Walpa Gorge,
Sunset
LASSETER
Car
the Valley of the Winds and viewing areas that are not to be missed.
CULTURAL CENTRE
To support the local community and deepen your understanding
Car Park
of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park start your trip with a visit to the
Mala
Bus
Cultural Centre.
Connellan
Airport
mechanic
EV
Learn about Anangu culture and the park’s natural environment
through exhibits and free presentations with Anangu and park rangers.
There are also displays, a visitor information desk, Aboriginal art
galleries and several community-owned shops and facilities.
Picnic Area / Shelter
Wheelchair Access
Red Centre Way
Drinking Water
The Cultural Centre buildings represent the two ancestral snakes that
Outback Way
Viewing Area
Information
Telephone
battled at Mutitjulu Waterhole and helped create Uluru: Kuniya, the
Rest Area
Water
woma python woman, and Liru, the poisonous brown snake man.
ROAD
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Artists from Mutitjulu community worked on the paintings, ceramics,
glass, wood and audiovisual displays.
Kata Tjuta Dunes
Road - Unsealed
To make the most of your visit allow at least two hours to fully explore
KATA TJUTA
Electric Vehicle
Accomodation
Road - Sealed
Viewing Area
General Store
Caravan Park
Charge Point
and appreciate the Cultural Centre, located at the base of Uluru.
Camping
OUTBACK
Toilets
WAY
Meals
tinyurl.com/UluruWalksFactSheetLink
Fuel
EV
A
KATA TJUT
Valey of the
Walpa
Sunset Winds
Gorge
Viewing Area
on to Western Australia
KALTUKATJARA 180km
** Permits Required
D
OUTBACK WAY
UR
(DOCKER RIVER)
R UR
KA
TJU
Kata Tjuta Shelter
24 Explore The Red Centre ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK www.exploreoz.com.au ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK 25RED
CENTRE TRACIE HALL 0438 873 809
Please
• Nam
WATARRKAVISITOR GUIDE marketing@absoluteme.com.au • Pho
NATIONAL PARK/ PO Box 5030 Alice Springs NT 0870 • Spe
KINGS CANYON nO
Business
Explore Watarrka National Name Kings
Park/Kings CanyonCreek Station
at the end of the Gorge Gill
Address Range with its
12725 Luritja Road, Petermann n CH
majestic rocky cliff tops and winding quiet se
Phone views from (08)
roads. See the magnificent 8956 7474
the Rim
Walk, rest at a waterhole,
Email and enjoy a sunset
res@kingscreekstation.com.au CHAN
or sunrise to remember.
Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon Rim Walk
These ancient red canyon walls soar 100mWe offer
above a Seniors
Kings Creek to aDiscount: ✔
n YES n Watarrka NO Finke
Gorge
Boggy
Hole
plateau of rocky domes. The rock holes and gorges are an important
Our Seniors Discount offer is ... National
10% off camping and Bush Tent Park National
Base map and d a ta © Cu sto m Ma p p in g S e rvice s, 2 0 2 2
refuge for many plants and animals. The sheltered environment below, Park
Kings Canyon
in the creek bed, has a great range of flora including the MacDonnell
www.cu sto mma p p in g se rvice s.co m.a u
Illamurta Springs
Ranges Cycad.
THE KINGS CREEK
KINGS
REPEAT Current Editorial (if applicable) CANYONn YES
RESORT
40 nKarrke Aboriginal
NO Tour
Cultural
Conservation
Reserve ✔
LUR
KINGS CREEK ITJA
WALK (2.6 km, one STATION 62
EV
hour return) – Suitable Set on a cattle station this is your perfect base for exploring Watarrka/ GILES ROAD
ST
NE
for families and ER
wheelchair access for Kings Canyon, only 36kms drive away. With unique luxury glamping Luritja Road to Stuart Hwy
via ERNEST GILES RD 100km
the first 700 meters, options and memorable outback experiences to be enjoyed, self-contained RED CENTRE
this gentle slope of
the track meanders up or not, you will always remember Lake this experience. 67 WAY
Amadeus
Kings Creek. 0 20 40 km
THE KINGS CANYON
ROAD
RIM WALK (6 km loop,
3-4 hours) – Suitable Curtain Springs to Imanpa
Yulara 30km LASSETER
for fit and experienced LASSETER 52 HWY
walkers. The first CURTIN
OUTBACK
Y
WAY
HW
steep climb is worth SPRINGS Luritja Road to Stuart Hwy, Erldunda
taking your time with, via LASSETER HWY 107km
as it offers spectacular
views from the Canyon
rim and features the KINGS CREEK STATION, set on a cattle station and is your perfect
‘Lost City’ and the base for exploring Watarrka/Kings Canyon, only 36kms drive away.
lush vegetation of the With unique luxury glamping options and memorable outback
Kings Canyon Waterfall experiences to be enjoyed, self-contained or not, you will always
‘Garden of Eden’.
remember this experience.
SOUTH WALL RETURN WALK (4.8 km, 2 hours return) – Suitable for
KINGS CREEK STATION
fit and experienced walkers. Starting with a steep climb up the southern
rim of Kings Canyon this walk offers stunning views of the Park’s
geological features. At the foot of the beautiful George Gill Range
*C heck with your accommodation outlet for the gate closing times, • Caravan & Camping facilities
as these walks can close early on days when the temperature • Tent style & Luxury glamping
forecast is 36°C (97°F) or above. accommodation
• 36kms from Watarrka/Kings Canyon
Tours began in late 1961, thanks to the pioneering family of Jack • Café - Shop - Fuel - Outback Activities
Cotterill and his sons John and Jim, who set up their new place of
Wallara Ranch approximately 110km (70 miles) from the Canyon, which P: 08 8956 7474
continued running until the late 1980s. Today this region offers a few E: res@kingscreekstation.com.au
accommodation options, as there is no camping allowed in the 12725 Luritja Road, Petermann
National Park. www.nt.gov.au/parks www.kingscreekstation.com.au kingscreekstation
26 Explore The Red Centre WATARRKA NATIONAL PARK / KINGS CANYON www.exploreoz.com.au WATARRKA NATIONAL PARK / KINGS CANYON 27SOUTH OF
ALICE SPRINGS
Driving through undulating country along
the Stuart Highway, you will come across
welcoming roadhouses at Stuarts Well and
Erldunda. You will cross the ancient Finke
River with its wide sandy bed, one of the
oldest natural watercourses in the world.
NAM
Mushroom Rock – Rainbow Valley ATJIR Rainbow Valley
A 91
DRIVE R IVE
1 2 85 3D 4 90 5 37 6
80 7 8 9
Just south of Alice Springs are some off-road experiences you don’t want
to miss. Take the turn off to RAINBOW VALLEY CONSERVATION EV
A To
Road - Sealed
A Owen Ooraminna
Ooraminna
RESERVE, 75 kilometres south of Alice and along 22 kilometres of Road - Unsealed
Y
Springs Napwerte/Ewaninga Track (4WD)
HW
unsealed road to the scenic sandstone bluffs and cliffs. Here you will find Boggy Reserve BINNS Binns Track
Hole Rock Carvings Santa Way
Outback
a hidden treasure… B Cons. Res. TRACK
Teresa Way
Explorer’s B
With significant archaeological sites and artefacts - evidence of ancient EV 46 Accomodation
Aboriginal connections to the area, Rainbow Valley is at its most STUARTS WELL Caravan & Trailer area / Gas BBQ Allambi
Caravan Park
impressive in the early morning or late afternoon around sunset; Rainbow C ROADHOUSE Rainbow Valley Deep C
Cons. Reserve
Valley is a photographer’s delight. There are two walking tracks within 70 Well Camping
Fin 38
the Reserve; both are graded easy and are suitable for families. There are ke General Store
Bas e map a nd d a ta © C u s to m Ma p p in g Se rv ic e s , 2 0 2 2
several viewing platforms along the way that provide the best views of D 32 D
River Henbury Meals
RAILWAY
Rainbow Valley.
ROAD Henbury Meteorites Fuel
Make sure you visit Mushroom Rock, an interesting sandstone formation, Titjikala
OLD
E E
which has been carved by wind and rain over millions of years. Palmer 41 EV Electric Vehicle
Charge Point
GHA
Valley Riv
Alcohol
N
Restriction
DID YOU KNOW? F 70
er F
Chamber's Pillar Toilets
Airbags go off with leg-
STUART Historical Reserve
Fire Place
breaking force –
G OUTBACK Picnic Facilities G
DON’T PUT YOUR FEET WAY
Idracowra
ON THE DASHBOARD!
120
H H
Only 90kms south of Alice Springs THE STUART WELL ROADHOUSE ERLDUNDA Horseshoe
is a fantastic base from which to explore Rainbow Valley, Henbury EV
w ww.c us tomma p pin gs erv ice s.c om.a u
Bend
RA
Meteorite Craters and Chambers Pillar. Stop and relax a few days in the
ILW
J J
ALIA
CHAMBER’S
AY
shady campground or well-appointed cabins. With meals that truckies
AUSTR
drive for miles for, a pool and local wildlife, you will understand why even
Alice Springs locals use this as a great getaway. K
75 PILLAR Lambert Centre K
EXPLORERS Lilla Creek (Geographical
STUARTS WELL ROADHOUSE
20
EV WAY Centre)
CENTRAL
0 25 50 km
Aputula
Only 90km south of Alice Springs on the Stuart Highway. L
Umbeara (Finke) L
Base yourself at Stuarts Well Roadhouse and explore Rainbow
Valley, Henbury Meteorite Craters and Chambers Pillar. KULGERA
• Cabins • Camping – powered & unpowered sites M 126 M
• Shady Caravan Park • Swimming pool • Laundry
• Meals • local wildlife • Pet Friendly
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
08 8956 0808 A: Stuart Highway, Stuarts Well E: stuartswell@outlook.com
www.stuartswellroadhouse.com.au
28 Explore The Red Centre SOUTH OF ALICE SPRINGS www.exploreoz.com.au SOUTH OF ALICE SPRINGS 29Napwerte Ewaninga Chambers Pillar
NAPWERTE EWANINGA CHAMBERS PILLAR HISTORICAL RESERVE
NAPWERTE / EWANINGA ROCK CARVINGS CONSERVATION The main access to Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve, 160 km south
RESERVE covers a six hectare region, protecting petroglyphs/ of Alice Springs, is along the Old South Road on a turnoff to the west
rock engravings. These valuable links to early Arrernte people are on of Maryvale Station. The road is unsealed and may be closed after rain.
outcrops of sandstone, forming natural galleries featuring a variety of After the Maryvale turnoff, a 4WD is required to negotiate the deep
symbols or motifs. According to Arrernte custodians, these are sacred sand drifts and steep jump ups. It is wise to let people in Alice Springs,
and too dangerous to reveal to the uninitiated into Aboriginal law. or your next destination know your travel time for this visit.
tinyurl.com/EwaningaFactSheetLink As you approach the reserve you will see the 50m high sandstone
pillar; it towers impressively over the plains below. This site was
recorded by John McDouall Stuart in April 1860, travelling north on
his first attempt to cross Australia. Until the coming of the railway in
the 1920s, the Pillar was a landmark in the desert on the long overland
journey from Adelaide to Alice Springs. Many of those early travellers
have left a record of their visit in the soft, white sandstone.
In the Dreamtime the Gecko ancestor Itirkawara, (pronounced itturk-
kar-wara) came here and local Aboriginal people believe both the Pillar
and Castle Rock, 500metres to the northeast, are part of this story. At
sunrise and sunset, the Pillar glows like a burning ember, as the rays of
the sun strike its walls, making an unforgettable sight. Early morning
and evening are excellent times to explore the reserve on foot and
Ancient art – Napwerte / Ewaninga don’t forget your camera. Use the viewing platform at the base of the
LAMBERTS CENTRE named after Dr Bruce Lambert, known as Pillar – this protects the fragile sandstone from erosion.
one of Australia’s top cartographers, was calculated in 1988 by the As this is a more isolated place off the highway, all visitors are
Royal Geographical Society of Australia. The centre of land mass advised to keep to designated roads and tracks in the reserve. The
is determined as a spot at which a shape, in this case Australia, two campground sites provided have wood firepits and pit toilets.
is balanced on a single point and manages to balance. As this is a Remember to carry and drink plenty of water, and avoid walks in the
complicated process, in the 1930’s another point was identified, heat of the day.
approximately 11kms from Lamberts, by explorer Dr Cecil Madigan. tinyurl.com/ChambersPillarFactSheetLink
UNCONVENTIONAL
COMPASS
N
Hold your watch horizontal
to the ground, point the 12
towards the sun.
Mid-point between the 12
and hour hand indicates the
north-south line. S
Chambers Pillar Campground
30 Explore The Red Centre SOUTH OF ALICE SPRINGS www.exploreoz.com.au SOUTH OF ALICE SPRINGS 31ALICE SPRINGS
Werte! Palya! G’day!
Welcome to Alice Springs,
the place where the black cocky sings;
this is where you spread your wings!
When you hear my welcome bell;
it’s a sound so grand and swell;
the word is out and I will tell;
Alice Springs, alive and well!
Meredith Campbell – Alice Springs Town Cryer Alice Springs at sunset from Anzac Hill
Your journey to The Red Centre will be one of expectation and More than half the land in the Northern Territory is Aboriginal owned
wonder. The gateway to the heart and soul of Australia’s outback, is and you need a permit to travel through. Ask the friendly staff for any
your introduction to a region, vast and rugged and one that will not further information.
disappoint. Flying into the Red Centre offers a ‘bird’s eye’ view of a You are spoilt for choice with attractions and adventures; and that’s
landscape more colourful than most expect. just close to Alice Springs! A majestic hot air balloon ride at dawn, to
Covering from Coober Pedy in South Australia, to the Barkly region in a camel ride along the spine of the MacDonnell ranges, or a stroll
the north and the iconic Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park to the west, around the world renowned Desert Park - everyone will find a pace to
this is a region that demands your attention and entices you to explore. suit them.
The Red Centre offers a surprisingly varied experience, often drawing Galleries in Alice Springs offer a range of amazing assorted arts and
you back time and again, to enrich memories that last you a lifetime. crafts, with museums dedicated to Namatjira’s style, to ones with
Culturally rich and scenically diverse, each region you traverse through fossils of some of the oldest birds that once walked the earth, all on
offers landscapes to marvel at and even the amateur photographer will show in first class displays.
be delighted with what their camera or phone can capture.
Guided tours can offer a personalised service to maximise your time
To maximise your stay in The Red Centre, your first stop should be the in The Red Centre or explore on day trips heading north, south east or
Visitor Information Centre in the Todd Mall for your full list of ‘what to west; adventure at your feet - all within 100 km.
do’. They can book tours, accommodation and offer you the best advice
to make the most of your time here. Their award winning service will Some of the wackiest events are proud, long term, fun packed
have you talking to a local who knows their ‘backyard’, and loves to share weekends in the Centre, so make sure you check the guide for what’s
their passion. on while you are here.
The Centre is famous for celebrating all things fun, from boat races
TRUST THE TICK! in the dry Todd River, to festivals celebrating all things Beanies!
Something different is always on offer, so join in the fun and meet We’re Austral
Choose a business with the “tick”. All leading Australian tourism some locals along the way.
operators who display the accreditation tick have met the specific
criteria to ensure you get the best quality product. Enjoy your time in this region best, by making sure you are well
They offer: quality, reliability, professional customer service, accuracy prepared for your outback adventure. It’s a harsh environment that
in advertising, sound environmental practices, appropriately even the most experienced traveller should respect, so take care
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and adherence to a code of ethics. www.trusttheticknt.com.au simple planning and advice from the local experts.
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32 Explore The Red Centre ALICE SPRINGS www.exploreoz.com.au ALICE SPRINGS 33You can also read
