Marree

Marree is a small town in South Australia's outback, positioned at the junction of the Birdsville and Oodnadatta Tracks, about 680 km north of Adelaide. The town's history is deeply tied to its role as a transport hub, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. When the Ghan Railway reached Marree in 1884, it became a critical railhead for the cattle industry, transporting livestock from remote regions to Adelaide.

Marree has a unique cultural heritage, including a large Afghan community that settled there in the late 19th century, many of whom were camel drivers essential for inland exploration. The town is home to Australia’s first mosque, built by Afghan cameleers, and remnants of their influence remain visible today. Marree is also famous for the mysterious "Marree Man," a giant geoglyph etched into the landscape in 1998, which can only be viewed from the air.

The local economy now focuses on tourism, serving as a gateway for travelers exploring Lake Eyre and the surrounding desert landscapes. Historical landmarks, such as the Marree Hotel and railway relics, along with local events like the annual Camel Cup, celebrate the town's enduring outback spirit​.