Lake Mary Ann

Lake Mary Ann, previously known as Mary Ann Dam or Tingkkarli in the local Waramungu language, is a man-made dam located around 5 kilometres north of Tennant Creek, Northern Territory, Australia.

The dam is easily accessible to visitors as it is situated just off the Stuart Highway.

The Waramungu people have a long history in the area, dating back thousands of years. The dam was originally pegged as mining lease GML441E and named Mary Ann after the daughters of Nugget Wilson and Bill Howes, who were involved in its establishment. The nearby watercourse was named Mary Ann Creek or Mary Ann Billabong.

The site was initially investigated in the late 1940s to increase water supply for Tennant Creek and Peko Mine. Later, in the mid-1950s, there were further investigations. In 1977, local citizens proposed a recreational dam near Tennant Creek, which was supported by the Northern Territory Government. Construction began in 1979 and was completed in 1980. The dam was officially opened on April 24, 1981, by the Hon Ian Tuxworth. In 2014, the Federal Court validated seven native title claims covering 37,000 square kilometres of Lake Mary Ann.

Lake Mary Ann offers a picturesque setting for water activities such as swimming, fishing, and canoeing. The man-made dam is surrounded by landscaped grassy areas on one side and natural bushland on the other, providing a beautiful backdrop for these activities. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of Tennant Creek as they immerse themselves in water, nature, and sunshine.

Lake Mary Ann is an ideal destination for travelers