Kunjarra/The Pebbles
Just 15 kilometres north of Tennant Creek sits Kunjarra/The Pebbles, a natural rock formation surrounded by myth and legend. Kunjarra/The Pebbles are believed by the Warumungu Aboriginal people to be related to the Devils Marbles and are a sacred site where a number of dancing and healing rituals have been traditionally carried out.
Due to the significance of the site, visitors are asked not to climb on the rocks, although there are plenty of places from which to get an excellent view. The journey is suitable for two-wheel drive cars, although there is a 6-kilometre stretch of unsealed road so four-wheel drives are recommended.
Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre
A trip to Tennant Creek would not be complete without finding out more about the local Aboriginal culture, at the Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre. Open since 2003, Nyinkka Nyunyu is owned and operated by local Aboriginal people, running tours and teaching visitors about Warumungu culture - both ancient and modern. Situated right in the middle of the town, you'll be captivated by the interactive displays, the unique artwork and the traditional storytelling.
Top tours
Battery Hill Mining Centre
Less than 2 kilometres from Tennant Creek town centre is the Battery Hill Mining Centre, a converted former mine from the 1930s which is also a visitor information centre. There are a number of tours, including the Underground Mine Tour and the Gold Stamp Battery Tour, giving an insight into life in an industry that built Tennant Creek.
Battery Hill has beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the rolling Honeymoon Ranges, while the gold panning station – where you keep whatever you find – gives you a chance to strike it rich in the Territory's 'heart of gold'.
Tennant Creek Telegraph Station
The town of Tennant Creek began its life as a telegraph station in the mid-1800s and some of the original station buildings are still standing today. Around 12 kilometres north of town is the Tennant Creek Telegraph Station, which has been an integral part of life in the town until the present day.
The self-guided walk takes you through the essential role played by the station in Australian Outback history. Believe it or not, such is the trustworthy nature of the Territory and its inhabitants, that the key to the Telegraph Station is available at the Battery Hill Mining Centre – you just have to pick it up!
Kelly’s Ranch
When you return from the NT, you'll bring pictures, souvenirs and stories to last a lifetime – but what about bringing back some real Outback skills while you're at it? Kelly's Ranch gives you a chance to brush up on your pastoral talents, including horse riding, cattle handling and other essential Outback skills.
Owner Jerry Kelly, an Aboriginal Australian and traditional owner, has lived the life on the land and knows everything about pastoral living. Already able to wrangle it with the best of them? Then just sit back and enjoy the local bush tucker with a billy tea while trading true Territory tales.