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?

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.

What to expect at Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre

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?

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.

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.