Moree

Moree is a large town in northern New South Wales, located in the fertile Gwydir River valley of the North West Slopes region. It is the administrative centre of Moree Plains Shire. Moree is famous for its artesian hot springs, which have made it a popular health and wellness destination. The area has a rich Aboriginal heritage and is part of the Kamilaroi nation. European settlement began in the 1840s with pastoral runs, and the town grew after the railway arrived in 1897. Today Moree is a major centre for cotton, grain, and livestock production. The climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters.

By Plane

Moree Airport (MRZ) has daily flights from Sydney operated by QantasLink, taking approximately 1.5 hours. The airport is about 5 km from the town centre. Taxis and ride-sharing are available.

By Train

Moree is the terminus of the Moree branch railway line, with NSW TrainLink services from Sydney Central Station (about 7 hours). The station is on Gosport Street in the town centre.

By Car / Road

Moree is located on the Newell Highway (A39), the main route between Victoria and Queensland. From Brisbane it is about 5 hours (470 km) via the Newell Highway. From Sydney, allow about 7 hours (640 km) via the New England Highway and the Kamilaroi Highway.

Moree is compact and easily walkable in the central area. A car is useful for visiting the surrounding attractions. Local taxi services are available. The flat terrain makes cycling feasible.

• Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre — The town's premier attraction, with natural hot spring pools maintained at a constant 40°C. Open year-round with water slides and swim-up pool bar.

• Moree Plains Gallery — Regional art gallery showcasing contemporary Australian art, with rotating exhibitions.

• Moree Railway Station — A heritage-listed building from 1897 reflecting the town's growth.

• Jellicoe Park — Historic park in the town centre with a bandstand, rotunda, and war memorial.

• Aboriginal art and cultural sites — The Kamilaroi people have a strong presence in the region, with cultural tours and interpretive sites.

• Soak in the artesian pools — The hot mineral waters are believed to have therapeutic properties. The aquatic centre offers public swimming and spa facilities.

• Cotton Country tours — Visit local cotton farms and gins to learn about cotton production.

• Moree on a Plate — Annual food and wine festival showcasing local produce.

• Plains and River Walk — A walking trail along the Gwydir River exploring local flora and birdlife.

• Balo Hotel — Historic pub serving classic Australian bistro meals.
• The Tattersalls Hotel — Family-friendly dining with a wide menu.
• Moree Services Club — Affordable meals and club facilities.
• Heath's Cafe — Popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and coffee in the town centre.
• Kinetic Cafe — Modern cafe with health-conscious options.

Moree's pubs include the Balo Hotel, Tattersalls Hotel, and the Royal Hotel. The town has several cafes serving quality coffee. The surrounding cotton-growing region has a handful of boutique wineries and a distillery.

• Budget — Moree Caravan Park, with cabins from $80 per night.
• Mid-range — Moree Motel, with comfortable rooms from $130 per night.
• Upscale — The Gwydir Motel, with modern rooms and pool from $160 per night.

Moree's main shopping is along Balo Street, with department stores, boutiques, and a shopping centre. Local produce includes cotton products, pecans, olive oil, and wines from the surrounding region.

• Narrabri (80 km east) — Town with the Australia Telescope Compact Array observatory.
• Goondiwindi (130 km north) — Queensland border town on the Macintyre River.
• Inverell (140 km east) — Sapphire country, known for gem fossicking.
• Warialda (100 km north-east) — Historic town in the Gwydir Shire.
• Tamworth (200 km south-east) — Country music capital of Australia.