Mac Clarke Conservation Reserve - NT

Acacia peuce, or Waddywood is one of the most rare and striking trees of the Australian arid zone. It grows in this Reserve on a stony wind swept plain in one of the driest places in Australia. The average annual rainfall is only 150 mm and daily maximum temperatures average almost 40 degrees in January. The Acacia peuce thrives, growing to heights of 17 metres and possibly living for 500 years.

Acacia peuce is only found in three places - near Boulia and Birdsville in Queensland, and 40 kilometres north of Old Andado Homestead, in the Mac Clark Conservation Reserve. Mac Clark was a former Andado pastoralist whose interest in the trees led to the declaration of this Reserve which bears his name. About 1,000 mature trees are protected within the Reserve.

From Alice Springs, the Reserve can be reached via Santa Teresa or from Kulgera on the Stuart Highway. Access is by 4WD only and roads may become impassable after heavy rain. Please keep vehicles outside the fenced off areas. It is possible to walk throughout the fenced areas and admire these rare desert giants. Do not interfere with the trees and be careful not to trample seedlings.

The Reserve is generally accessible all year round, however, the cooler months (April to September) are the most pleasant times to visit. Remember that you are driving through private landholder properties so please drive only on the established roads, leaving gates as you find them and slow down around areas where cattle are grazing.

Camping - is available at Old Andado Station.