About Mataranka – Land of the Never Never

Welcome to Mataranka, a unique outback destination in the heart of the Northern Territory, where natural thermal springs, ancient Aboriginal culture, pioneering history and genuine outback hospitality come together.

Known as the “Capital of the Never Never,” Mataranka was made famous through Jeannie Gunn’s Australian classic We of the Never-Never. The name Mataranka comes from the local Yangmanic language and is commonly translated as “home of the snake” or “place of the snake.”

Culture & Country

The Mataranka region is the traditional Country of Aboriginal peoples including the Mangarrayi and Yangman people, whose connection to the land, waterways and natural springs stretches back countless generations.

The thermal springs and surrounding landscape hold important cultural significance and are connected through traditional stories and knowledge passed down through generations.

The Indigenous name Mataranka was later formally applied to the area during the early 1900s before becoming the name of the township we know today.

Our Famous Thermal Springs

No visit to Mataranka is complete without experiencing its beautiful natural thermal waters.

There are two popular swimming locations within Elsey National Park, and each offers its own special experience.

Mataranka Thermal Pool

Located within Elsey National Park, right beside Mataranka Homestead, the Mataranka Thermal Pool is surrounded by tropical palms and beautiful natural bushland.

The crystal-clear spring water rises naturally from underground and remains at approximately 34°C all year round, creating the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The springs also have a fascinating connection to World War II. During the war years, thousands of military personnel passed through or were stationed around Mataranka, and the thermal springs became a popular place for soldiers to swim and escape the Territory heat.

Bitter Springs

Just a short drive from Mataranka Homestead is Bitter Springs, another beautiful natural spring within Elsey National Park.

Unlike the more traditional swimming-pool experience at Mataranka Thermal Pool, Bitter Springs feels like a natural tropical river. Warm, clear spring water gently flows through palms and native vegetation, allowing visitors to float with the current and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Both springs are beautiful, but each offers a completely different way to experience Mataranka’s naturally warm waters.

The Story of the Never Never

Mataranka’s European history includes exploration, the development of the Overland Telegraph Line and the establishment of pastoral stations throughout the region.

One of the best-known was Elsey Station.

In 1902, Jeannie Gunn arrived at Elsey Station with her husband, Aeneas Gunn. Her experiences of life in this remote part of the Northern Territory later inspired her famous book We of the Never-Never, published in 1908.

The story became an Australian classic and helped introduce generations of readers to the people, landscape and challenges of life in the outback.

It also created Mataranka’s lasting connection with the name:

“The Land of the Never Never.”

Mataranka During World War II

Mataranka played an important role during World War II, particularly between 1942 and 1945.

The district became a major support area, with military camps, medical facilities, supply depots and other operations established throughout the region.

Thousands of Australian and Allied service personnel spent time in and around Mataranka, leaving behind another fascinating chapter in the town’s history.

Discover Mataranka

Today, Mataranka is a welcoming little outback community surrounded by history, culture and some of the Northern Territory’s most beautiful natural attractions.

Take a relaxing swim in the warm 34°C waters of Mataranka Thermal Pool, float peacefully through Bitter Springs, discover the story of Elsey Station and the Never Never, or simply slow down and enjoy life in the Territory.

And while you’re visiting or staying at Mataranka Homestead, why not take a little extra time for yourself with a fresh haircut or restyle at Outback Hair Retreat?

Come for the thermal springs. Stay for the history, beauty, and outback hospitality. Experience your own little piece of the Never Never.