Moomba

Moomba is a remote gas-and-oil field and outpost deep in the South Australian desert, not far from the Northern Territory border. While not a conventional tourist destination, it offers a rare glimpse into Australia's industrial heartland and the stark, mesmerising beauty of the Channel Country. The journey here is an adventure in itself, crossing vast red plains and dry creek beds under an endless sky.

Highlights & What to See

• Moomba Gas Plant – This sprawling industrial complex is the heart of Australia's Cooper Basin energy production. While access is restricted, the sheer scale of the operation against the red desert is a striking sight.
• Strzelecki Track – The iconic outback route passes through Moomba. Driving this unsealed road is a classic Aussie adventure, with opportunities to spot wedge-tailed eagles and wild camels.
• Innamincka – A historic outback town 200 km south, where you can visit the grave of explorers Burke and Wills and soak in the hot artesian waters of the Innamincka Regional Reserve.
• Moomba Festival – If you time your visit (usually in September), you can join the quirky local community celebration with rodeos, camp oven cooking, and outback hospitality.

Suggested Time to Spend

Moomba itself is a quick stop – half an hour is enough to take in the gas plant and grab a photo. Most travellers use it as a rest point on the Strzelecki Track. Plan for a full day if you're driving from Innamincka or Lyndhurst, factoring in rough road conditions and time to appreciate the isolation.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Innamincka – 200 km south, this historic outpost offers the Burke and Will's Dig Tree, hot springs, and the Cooper Creek waterhole.
• Coongie Lakes – A wetland oasis in the Channel Country, perfect for birdwatching and canoeing when water levels are high.
• Strzelecki Desert – Explore the red dunes and gibber plains along the track, with chances to see rare desert wildlife.
• Lyndhurst – The southern gateway to the Strzelecki Track, with roadhouse supplies and the start of the Oodnadatta Track.
• Lake Eyre – Australia's largest salt lake, a surreal landscape that occasionally fills with water, attracting birds and photographers.

Please check official sources for current details.