Fast facts
- A progressive town famous for its hot artesian spa
- A major agricultural centre, located in the fertile Gwydir Valley
- 607 km north-west of Sydney, population 10,000
Why go there
The Moree Hot Mineral Baths are visited by 300,000 people annually and are by far the town’s biggest drawcard. The baths opened in 1895, when the therapeutic waters were accidentally discovered while searching for a reliable source of irrigation water.
A bore was sunk into the Great Artesian Basin and hot mineral waters, heated naturally at 41 degrees Celsius, became available.
History
Prior to the 1830s, the Kamilaroi people lived across the Moree Plains region and many of their descendants live in the area today. The name Moree is thought to mean "long waterhole" or "rising sun". In 1832, Major Thomas Mitchell arrived in the vicinity looking for a great river which flowed north-west to the sea. James Brand opened the first store in Moree in 1852; the railway arrived in 1897.
Things to do
- Explore the Barry Roberts Walk along the banks of the Mehi River.
- See the site of Moree's first store at Mary Brand Park. Get in your historical stride at the town's cemetary and see if you can find the grave of Charles Dickens' son, Edward.
- Enjoy the Mediterranean-style climate while picnicking by one of the pleasant riverside parks.
- Get your feet wet or throw in a line at one of the areas three weirs: Tareelaroi, Boolooroo and Combadello.
Events
- Moree on a Plate, held in May, showcases local produce, including regional wines, olives, oils, gourmet pastas, lamb, beef and yabbies.
Don’t miss
- Immersing yourself in the healing waters of the Moree Hot Mineral Baths.
- Sampling some delicious nuts on a guided tour of the plantation, the largest pecan nut plantation in the southern hemisphere.
- A visit to The Cotton Shop for 100 percent Australian cotton products.
- A drink at Amaroo Tavern to see the DC3 aeroplane from World War II.
