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Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve

Discover the birthplace of Alice Springs and experience Australia's outback history at the best-preserved Overland Telegraph Line station.

4.5

Step back in time at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve, the original site of the first European settlement in Central Australia. Established in 1872 as part of the Overland Telegraph Line, it connected Australia to the world. Explore the restored buildings, enjoy a picnic, and learn about the station's vital role in communication history.

A brief summary to Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (April to October) for the most pleasant weather.
  • Take a guided tour of the Historical Precinct to learn about the station's history.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the shaded lawns with free electric barbecues available.
  • Explore the walking and cycling tracks along the Todd River.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alice Springs town center, a pleasant 4km walk or cycle is possible along the Riverside Path on the west bank of the Todd River. Follow the path north; it leads directly to the Telegraph Station Historical Reserve. Allow approximately 1 hour for the walk. There is no cost for accessing the reserve.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines connect Alice Springs to stops near the Telegraph Station. Bus routes AS300, AS301, AS400 stop near the Telegraph Station Historical Reserve. From the bus stop, it's a walk to the reserve. A single bus fare is approximately $3.

  • Taxi/Ride Share

    Taxis and ride-share services are readily available in Alice Springs. A taxi from the town center to the Telegraph Station is approximately a 7km journey and will cost around $20-$25. The ride takes about 10 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve

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Discover more about Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve

The Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve marks the birthplace of Alice Springs, offering a fascinating glimpse into Australia's outback history. Established in 1872, the station was a crucial link in the Overland Telegraph Line, relaying messages between Darwin and Adelaide and connecting Australia to the global telegraph network. Before the telegraph, messages to England took months; with it, communication could reach London in as little as five hours. Explore the beautifully restored stone buildings, furnished with artifacts from the early 1900s, providing an immersive experience of life at the station. Wander through the grounds, and visit the original 'Alice Spring', the waterhole that gave the town its name. The station also served as a school and 'The Bungalow' for Aboriginal children. During World War II, parts of the station were used by the Australian Army. Today, the reserve is a popular destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and families. Enjoy a picnic on the shaded lawns, take a walk along the Todd River, or explore the mountain biking trails. The Trail Station Cafe offers refreshments and souvenirs. The Historical Precinct is open daily from 8am to 4pm, offering guided tours between March and November.

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