The
Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve is situated 4 km north of
Alice Springs along Herbert
Heritage Drive off the Stuart Highway. Alternatively, there is a walking and cycling track into the Reserve from the Stuart Highway via Schwartz Crescent, and another along the west bank of the
Todd River (Riverside Walk).
The
Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve marks the original site of the first
European settlement in
Alice Springs. Established in 1872 to relay messages between
Darwin and
Adelaide. Construction of the Telegraph Station began in November 1871 and operated for 60 years, after which time the buildings served as a school and accommodation for Aboriginal children.
These buildings now house furnishings and artefacts from the early 1900s and are preserved as a historic interpretive display. An entry fee, which includes a brochure and guided tour is payable for access to the buildings in the Historical Precinct. Phone 8952 3993 to confirm tour times. Access to the remainder of the Reserve is free.
The Telegraph Station is a leisurely 4 km walk or cycle from the Todd Mall, along the
Todd River. Alternatively a number of short marked
walking tracks traverse the
hill country within the Reserve. The Riverside walk and the track along Herbert
Heritage Drive are shared walk/cycle paths.
Shaded lawns make a popular venue for picnics and barbecues. Free electric barbecues are provided. Camping - is not permitted in the Reserve.
For more information and a downloadable "fact sheet" with maps, go to the NT Government web site; click here:
Alice Springs Telegraph Station