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About Elsey Homestead Site
130,000 visitors annually. Former home of Jeannie Gunn, author of a famous Australian book on outback life.
About
130,000 visitors annually. Former home of Jeannie Gunn, author of a famous Australian book on outback life.
History & Significance
Elsey Homestead was the former pastoral property immortalised by Jeannie Gunn in her 1908 novel 'We of the Never Never', one of Australia's most iconic outback narratives. The homestead operated as a working cattle station before becoming a heritage site. The ruins now include interpretive displays explaining station life and Gunn's literary legacy.
Video
Getting There
Located near Mataranka, approximately 430 km south of Darwin. Access via Stuart Highway; turn off near Mataranka township. Standard 2WD vehicle access.
Parking
Free parking available on site. Capacity suitable for the volume of visitors; overflow parking adjacent. Accessible parking near main buildings.
Nearest airport
Visitor Tips
- •Visit early morning to avoid crowds and heat
- •Bring plenty of water and sun protection — minimal shade on site
- •Allow 1–2 hours to explore the ruins and interpretive displays
- •Check ahead for seasonal closures during extreme heat or wet season
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Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- Local
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- 30 minutes-1 hour
- Best Time
- April to September (dry season) — cooler temperatures and better conditions. Avoid November to March (wet season heat and humidity). Midweek visits are quieter than weekends.
- Hours
- Open 24 hours.
Location
- Area
- Mataranka
- Region
- Alice Springs
- State
- Northern Territory
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
Bring your own food and water. Picnic facilities available on site.
Features
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Nearby
Attractions(5)
Toilets(3)
Dump Points(1)
Mataranka Dump Point
Free · 19.1km