Alice Spring NT Australia

 

I have spent most of the day trying to decide what the topic of today’s post would be, and I ended up picking the town of Alice Springs.

Aussies commonly refer to Alice Springs as "The Alice" or simply "Alice".

This is one town I would like to visit one day my parents visited the Alice and enjoyed the visit, I do remember mum & dad telling me that when the bought wine from a bottle shop, they were told to make sure it was covered so it couldn’t be seen by looking in a window and to get in their car and drive to a different area. This was because some of the local aboriginals would break into the car if they saw grog inside and if they were seen placing alcohol in the car and walking away the car would be broken into.

Alice Springs is a remote town in Australia’s Northern Territory, halfway between Darwin and Adelaide, both 1,500km away. It’s a popular gateway for exploring the Red Centre, the country's interior desert region. Its 1872 origin as part of the Overland Telegraph Line (linking Darwin and Adelaide) is preserved in the vintage buildings and equipment at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve.

It has an estimated population of around 28,922. This is based on the Alice Springs Town Council LGA profile, which was last updated in January 2025. The town is the major settlement in Central Australia and a significant population centre in the Northern Territory. 

The population of Alice Springs is an estimate because it is based on projections and statistical modelling rather than a direct head count. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) uses various methods, including census data and estimated resident population (ERP) figures, to calculate population numbers, but these are subject to revision and may not perfectly reflect the actual population at any given time, especially in smaller areas like Alice Springs. 

Alice Springs was established in 1872 with the construction of the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, part of the Australian Overland Telegraph Line (OTL) connecting Adelaide to Darwin. It was originally named Stuart, but the settlement near the telegraph station was later renamed Alice Springs in 1933. The name Alice Springs was given by W.W. Mills, after Alice Todd, wife of Sir Charles Todd, who was instrumental in the construction of the telegraph line. 

The Arrernte people are the traditional owners and custodians of Alice Springs, also known as Mparntwe in the Arrernte language. They have a deep and enduring connection to the land, dating back tens of thousands of years. The Arrernte have stories and significant sites related to the creation of the landscape, including the MacDonnell Ranges.

Alice Springs is famous for its unique location in the heart of Australia, its strong Aboriginal culture and art scene, and its stunning natural landscapes, including the MacDonnell Ranges. It's also known as a hub for exploring the broader Red Centre region and for its outback character.

Alice Springs faces a complex combination of social and crime-related issues that contribute to a perception of danger. These include high rates of alcohol-related violence, property crime, and domestic violence, along with concerns about youth crime and the impact of past policies. While the town has a diverse population and attracts tourists, these issues have led to increased fear and anxiety among residents. 

While Alice Springs faces significant challenges, it's important to acknowledge that it is also a place of cultural significance, with a diverse population and a strong community spirit. Efforts are underway to address the underlying issues and improve safety and well-being for all residents.