Moree's iconic hot springs have reopened after almost two years

Time to dive back into Moree’s iconic hot springs. Here’s all you need to know.

Renowned as the Artesian Spa Capital of Australia, Moree has been without its biggest tourism and wellness asset for almost two years. But no longer. The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre is back in action this month.

Blessed to be sitting on top of the therapeutic Great Artesian Basin, these hot springs were discovered at this site in 1895. They feed the town of Moree (and other surrounding towns) with mineral-rich water at temperatures of 34-41°C (which is why you’ll want to visit a dedicated site where the temperatures are cooled to swimable levels). Not only does it just feel really nice to take a long bath, but the mineral water has also long been believed to help with skin health, joint function and tissue repair. What more could you want from a swim?

So why was this amazing asset closed? For a $3.223 million redevelopment, jointly funded by the NSW and Commonwealth governments, alongside Moree Plains Shire Council. Although the closure was never meant to take so long, something that the mayor acknowledged, she reiterated that it was essential to make sure the work was done properly after years of recurring issues.

“Witnessing the joy in the faces of families and visitors taking in the waters has been such a reward for our Councillors and team, following the reinstatement of one of the key jewels in the Moree Plains’ crown," said Moree’s Mayor, Cr Susannah Pearse.

“The artesian water has been a part of Moree’s identity since 1895. The love of artesian water and its thermal properties is a worldwide phenomenon, and we are so very lucky to have it here, beneath our feet".

What is the Great Artesian Basin?

front of Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre — Step into bathing heaven, thanks to the Great Artesian Basin. (Credit: Destination NSW)

The Great Artesian Basin is a bit of a wonder all on its own. Covering 1.7 million square kilometres beneath 22 per cent of Australia (spanning parts of Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and the Northern Territory), it’s the world’s largest and deepest underground freshwater resource.

Storing about 64,900 million megalitres, this millions-of-years-old water is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium and silica, which is great for swimming, of course. But it’s also a vital water source for pastoral, agricultural and town supplies.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

What to expect at Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre

Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre pool — The new and improved centre is open for business. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) is a state-of-the-art aquatic centre offering multiple indoor and outdoor pools using water from the Great Artesian Basin. Originally opened in 1923 to commemorate those who served in the First World War, renovations started in 2021 to bring the structure up to modern building standards and make it what it is today.

The two newly reopened Active Thermal Pool and Passive Thermal Pool both have water maintained at a relaxing 39-41°C. The cooler Program Pool sits at a milder average of 25°C. There’s a waterslide that is operational on weekends and limited hours during the school holiday period (for an extra fee). Additionally, there is a Wellness Pool, which is a private booking space with a separate entrance and fee.

Are there other artesian pools you can visit in Moree?

aerial of moree — Find more thermal pools around Moree. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Operating since 1979, Gwydir Thermal Pools Resort offers five artesian pools to motel and caravan park guests, ranging in soothing temperatures from 34 to 39 degrees. And that includes a 25-metre lap pool.

Really soak it all in by choosing from the resort’s range of accommodation, including one- and two-bedroom motel units, cabins, villas and caravan powered sites.

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The details

How do you get to Moree?

Moree is in the New England region, approximately a seven-hour drive from Sydney and 5.5 hours from Brisbane. Qantas operate regular flights between Sydney and Moree.

Do you need to book?

Due to popularity, booking accommodation in advance is recommended.

How much does it cost to visit Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre?

Casual entry fees for non-locals are $9 for adults and $7 for kids (children under three have free entry).

Where can you find out more?

Find out more information via the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre website .

Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

2. Super Full Moon Hike

Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo — Take in the might of a super full moon.

The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike . Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike — See dazzling celestial displays.

What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

Book now for 3 March.

4. New Moon Hike

New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko — Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

5. Thredbo River Track

Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

6. Merritts Nature Track

Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes — Stop at swimming holes along the way.

On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track , where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit. — Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.

Moree’s iconic hot springs have reopened after almost two years

Time to dive back into Moree’s iconic hot springs. Here’s all you need to know.

What is the Great Artesian Basin?

What to expect at Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre

Are there other artesian pools you can visit in Moree?