People are attracted to Mataranka Homestead for a couple reasons. Firstly, they have a replica of the house used in "We of the Never Never," filmed in 1982. Secondly, they have a naturally occurring thermal pool.
Getting to the Homestead is easy enough by bus; Greyhound will drop you right here (note -- it's not actually in Mataranka), as long as you indicate Mataranka Homestead.
At first glance, it appears pleasant enough. The Homestead caters for campers, backpackers, and families, so it has different types of accommodation. Inexpensive dorms in a block next to the bar seem to consist of mainly twins, which are clean and spacious. A fan will keep you cool on those hot nights, although it's not necessary in the dry season.
The bathroom and toilets could do with a little more love. Cobwebs, dust, and general dirt is building up in these areas. The backpacker utilities and the kitchen leave a lot to be desired. A single refrigerator seems hardly adequate and stands opposite a dying cooker with rusted rings.
A short one hundred meter walk will get you out to the thermal pool, which is clear and pleasant to swim in. There is also "Stevie's Waterhole," which is supposedly a cool swimming area, but this was unavailable at our arrival. Signs also indicate that you may swim or canoe in the river, but again -- this was not available, nor was the Bistro in this visit.
The Kiosk was a dissappointment. Despite advertising selling food and drink, it did not. Only tourist items such as t-shirts and some toiletries were available. The bar is large and pleasant enough and in the evenings, singing entertainment is provided for a few hours.
There is hardly any mobile phone signal in the region. The Homestead provides no internet access either, making it rather cut-off. The atmosphere is very family-oriented and, apart from the bar in the evenings, there is simply nothing to do. With all the things promised and not provided (Bistro, cool swimming, canoeing/swimming in the river, Kiosk with food), coupled with a poor kitchen for backpackers and a quiet atmosphere, Mataranka Homestead is a rather disappointing place that needs some work to bring it up to scratch, but it's ok if you're staying one night and then moving on.
-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
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