The Overland Telegraph
Overland Telegraph Poles, Pine Creek
The Overland Telegraph Line was constructed between 1870 and 1874. The line linked Australia with the rest of the world via the underwater cable from Java to Port Darwin. Of the 1,765 miles (about 2800km) of telegraph line constructed, only a few of the original cypress pine poles remain standing. These poles represent the mammoth effort and commitment which was required to construct and maintain this link with the world and the rest of Australia. They also represent a method of construction and style no longer practised in this field in the Northern Territory.
Gazetted: 30 November 1994
Katherine Overland Telegraph Pylons
The Overland Telegraph pylons were built in 1898-99. Prior to this time flooding by the Katherine River often interfered with the wires of the telegraph line thus cutting off communications during the wet season.
The two towers are 30 foot (9.1m) stone cairns with two 50 foot (15.2m) steel poles in each. The two towers are a quarter of a mile (400m) apart. They are of specific social interest to the community as is demonstrated by the commemorative plaque for the centenary celebrations (1972) for the completion of the Overland Telegraph Line. They are a tangible reminder of the tenacity and skill which made such communication available to and within Australia.
Gazetted:10 July 1996
Produced: April 1997
