VISIT
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Desert Mob takes place in Mparntwe/Alice Springs in September and October each year. The opening events, including the official opening and exhibition, symposium, marketplace, workshops and demonstrations and Desert Mob After Dark events, all take place on the Araluen Arts Centre Precinct. Additional satellite events are presented at venues across Mparntwe, including Art Centres located within the central Mparntwe area.
Map:
GETTING HERE AND GETTING AROUND:
Flights:
Qantas, Virgin and Airnorth all service Mparntwe with flights from major cities around the country.
Transport:
A public bus service operates in Mparntwe. Service 400 – Gillen, Araluen and Larapinta – stops a short walk to the Araluen Cultural Precinct. Timetables and routes are available here: https://nt.gov.au/driving/public-transport-cycling/public-buses/alice-springs-timetables-and-maps
A shuttle bus service operates to and from the Alice Springs airport, picking up and dropping off at all regular accommodation locations.
Taxis are available along with a private car hire service. Uber does not operate in Mparntwe.
As distances are minimal and it’s flat, Mparntwe is a great place to walk and ride to events.
Parking:
Free parking, including accessibility parking, is available on the Araluen Arts Centre precinct and (mostly free) street and public parking is available close to all satellite events.
Bike Hire:
Getting around Mparntwe is easy by bike, the town is flat, and all the venues are all relatively close. You can hire a basic commuter bike or an E-bike from here
*please note, if walking or riding, September and October days in Central Australia can be hot and sunny, so please carry drinking water and wear appropriate clothing for protection from the sun and heat.
ACCOMODATION/PLACES TO STAY:
Mparntwe has many accommodation options available, but it is best to book as early as possible for Desert Mob opening event dates.
We are pleased to be able to partner with the following properties to offer discounted rates for Desert Mob attendees (please note, terms and conditions apply and availability is limited):
Mercure Hotel
15% off their best available flexible rates between September – October 2024. T&CS Apply. Click this link.
Crowne Plaza Alice Springs
20% discount through September to October (Excluding Red Centre NATS: 26TH August – 01st September 2024 & Masters Games: 12th October -19th October 2024). T&CS Apply. Click this link
Stays Alice Springs
20% discount rate. Use DESMOB24 – to make your reservation. T&CS Apply. Click this link
For comprehensive information to assist with planning your travel to and stay in Central Australia, please visit Tourism Central Australia’s website: www.discovercentralaustralia.com/#
ACCESSIBILITY
Venue Accessibility
Our venue and most of the satellite venues have wheelchair access, with some exceptions or limitations.
Accessibility Services
Accessible seating is available at the Symposium inside the theatre at the end of the middle rows. Please advise accessibility requirements when booking tickets. Staff will be available to assistance at events. Theatre seating is sturdy, with straight backs, and have armrests.
Accessible Parking
Accessible parking is available on the Araluen Arts Centre Precinct, and at or near most of the satellite venues.
Sensory Information
Some events will have large crowds. Outdoor events are all-weather. Please see our event pages and socials for details.
If you have questions, need further information regarding accessibility, or have any advice or feedback, please contact us at desertmob@desart.com.au
OTHER DETAILS
Marketplace
The Marketplace is an outdoor event. Weather can be unpredictable. If it is looking wet, please check our website or socials prior to the event for updates.
Under 16s
This event is a cultural celebration and children are most welcome. The opening events are busy so please keep children close and children need to be quiet for extended periods of time in the Symposium.
Event Photography
Desert Mob engages photographers and videographers to document our events. If you do not want your photograph taken, please speak with a Desert Mob staff member.
Waste
Desert Mob aims to use recycled packing materials and compostable containers where possible. If you have one, please bring a reusable cup for coffee at the Marketplace. Free water stations will be available throughout the event as well – bring your favourite water bottle along.
