Moree

Moree, a classic outback town in northern New South Wales, is famous for its natural hot artesian springs that bubble up from the Great Artesian Basin. This is a place where you can soak in mineral-rich waters under vast blue skies, explore Aboriginal rock art, and experience the genuine warmth of country hospitality. Moree offers a unique blend of relaxation, history, and wide-open landscapes that make it a rewarding stop on a self-drive itinerary through northern NSW.

Highlights & What to See

• Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre – The town’s star attraction: a complex of thermal pools fed by 39°C mineral water straight from the aquifer. Soak in the outdoor pools year-round.
• Bancroftia Rock Shelter – A significant Aboriginal site with ancient hand stencils and ochre art. A short walk leads to this sheltered overhang on the outskirts of town.
• Moree Plains Gallery – A contemporary gallery showcasing works by local and Indigenous artists, with a focus on the region’s cultural heritage.
• Jellicoe Park – A leafy spot in town with a historic bandstand and the Moree War Memorial. It’s a pleasant place for a picnic.
• Cotton Country – The surrounding plains are prime cotton-growing country. Drive the rural roads to see vast fields and cotton gins in season (summer to autumn).

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend one full day in Moree, which is enough to enjoy the artesian pools, visit the rock shelter, and explore the town. If you want to fully unwind, consider an overnight stay to soak in the pools at sunrise and sunset. Moree also works well as a stopover on a longer trip between Sydney and Queensland or as a base for exploring the nearby national parks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narrabri – About 90 minutes south, with the stunning Mount Kaputar National Park and the Australia Telescope Compact Array.
• Gunnedah – Known as the ‘koala capital of NSW’, with a strong agricultural heritage and the Water Tower Museum.
• Warrumbungle National Park – A dark-sky park with dramatic volcanic peaks, great for hiking and stargazing (about 2 hours south).
• Inverell – A sapphire-mining town with gem shops and picturesque Macintyre River walks (about 1.5 hours east).
• Goondiwindi – Just across the Queensland border, with the historic Customs House and the Macintyre River (about 1 hour north).

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