Discover William Creek

William Creek lies on the well-known Oodnadatta Track. The William Creek Hotel is a pub that has retained much of its original character. The town’s history, events and regional excursions offer a variety of ways to explore the area. If you are considering William Creek as a base for your trip, you can decide based on whether you are particularly interested in history, nature, events or destinations for scenic flights.

The Old Ghan and local events

William Creek opened in 1888 as a stop on the Old Ghan Railway. The opening year gives the town’s railway history a specific date. The William Creek “Museum” displays memorabilia from the Old Ghan Railway and Woomera Rocket Range, along with other historical artefacts. The exhibition offers a cultural perspective on railway and regional history, complementing the landscape with historical themes. If you enjoy getting to know different sides of a place when you travel, you can make these exhibits a focus alongside excursions.

William Creek’s annual events include Gymkhana and Motokana, as well as Bronco Branding. For 2026, Gymkhana and Motokana were announced for 28 March, and Bronco Branding for 15 August. These dates are part of the announcements for that year. Alongside railway relics and excursion destinations, recurring events are another aspect of the town.

The Oodnadatta Track and Kati-Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park

A visitor brochure for the Oodnadatta Track helps travellers find their way to waterholes, plants and animals along the well-known route. This means that, alongside the history of the Old Ghan Railway, the nature along the track is also a subject to explore on your trip.

Kati-Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park lies 60 km east of William Creek. From William Creek, it can be reached via the Oodnadatta Track and an access road suitable only for four-wheel-drive vehicles. This restriction is important when planning an excursion: access requires a suitable vehicle. If you are considering William Creek as a base for visiting the park, take this vehicle requirement into account. The park’s location east of the town and the access route described make it a specific destination, distinct from the local cultural themes and scenic flight destinations.

Scenic flight destinations from William Creek

Scenic flights from William Creek visit a range of destinations. One flight goes to the southern end of Lake Eyre North at Belt Bay. Another departs to visit the Anna Creek Painted Hills. A third passes over several landscapes and lookout points at Lake Eyre and continues as far as the Dalhousie Artesian hot springs.

A look at a pilot project

In mid-2024, a pilot project began in William Creek, allowing residents and visitors to access free high-speed internet via QR codes across large parts of the town. The access described required QR codes and covered large parts of William Creek. This specific local project is another facet of the town to help visitors get oriented.

For the broader travel overview: Electoral district of Stuart.