Northern Territory · Attraction
The Stockyard Gallery and Cafe
Local art and cold drinks in the outback
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
The Stockyard Gallery is a combined art gallery and cafe in the centre of Mataranka township on Roper Terrace, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and Aboriginal artefacts alongside books and gifts focused on the Northern Territory. A four-metre statue of Henry Peckham, a character from We of the Never Never, stands at the entrance. Visitors can browse the collection and sit in the shaded garden with a coffee or fruit smoothie.
The gallery stocks works by local and regional artists alongside carved artefacts and a curated selection of books on Top End history, natural history, and Aboriginal culture. It is one of the few dedicated art and retail spaces between Katherine and Tennant Creek, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone travelling the Stuart Highway who wants to take home something more considered than a roadhouse souvenir.
The cafe serves barista coffee, Devonshire tea, fresh food, and seasonal fruit smoothies. Seating in the shaded courtyard garden provides a cool respite from the midday heat, and the relaxed pace makes it a natural gathering point for travellers breaking their journey through Mataranka. The gallery is at 9 Roper Terrace, within easy walking distance of the Never Never Museum and the main township amenities.
Opening hours are subject to seasonal variation, the gallery operates primarily during the dry season tourist period from May to October and may reduce hours or close during the wet. Visitors are advised to phone ahead or check the gallery's social channels before making a dedicated trip. Entry to browse is free.
Scenic views
Lookouts near The Stockyard Gallery and Cafe.
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