Ross, NT 0873

Ross is a small urban area south of Heavitree Gap in the municipal township of Alice Springs, in the Northern Territory, Australia.

The urban subdivision is named after John Ross, who explored the area in 1870. John Ross (17/5/1817-5/2/1903) was a Scottish-born immigrant, who made Australia home, and in doing so, became a highly respected drover and explorer.

In 1870 his employer Thomas Elder recommended John Ross' service to Charles Todd, who was the colony's superintendent of telegraphs and the government astronomer.

Charles Todd employed John Ross to lead an exploration of the route for the Australian Overland Telegraph Line.

John Ross' party ventured across the MacDonnell Ranges, the Simpson Desert, the Phillipson and Giles creeks and the Fergusson Ranges; they also arrived at the Todd River. In March 1871 he arrived at and gave an English name to Alice Springs. His exploration party eventually made their way to Darwin.

The area is relatively small, however, it is popular because it is mostly rural living, with many blocks averaging 5 acres. It is out of town, but close enough to be accessible to the CBD of Alice Springs, within 10-15 minutes driving time.

Ross is located within the federal division of Lingiari, the territory electoral division of Braitling and the local government area of the Town of Alice Springs.