Northern Territory TOP END HOLIDAY GUIDE 2018 Edition DISCOVER TOP END DAY TOURS

Kakadu National Park Explorer Litchfield National Park Waterfalls • Explore Kakadu National Park FULL DAY | D4 • Explore Litchfield National Park FULL DAY | D5 • Experience Warradjan Cultural Centre • Swim at Florence & Wangi Falls • Cruise the Yellow Water Billabong * • Visit Howard Springs Nature Park ADULT ADULT • Visit spectacular Nourlangie $265 • See spectacular Tolmer Falls $185 * • View ancient Aboriginal rock art $133 CHILD • Stop for a nice, relaxing lunch $93 CHILD

Katherine Gorge Cruise & Edith Falls Culture, Wildlife & Wetlands • Explore Nitmiluk National Park FULL DAY | D11 • Cross the Adelaide River Floodplains FULL DAY | D6 • Cruise spectacular Katherine Gorge • Enjoy a lunch cruise on the Mary River Wetlands & Corroboree Billabong • Visit the Adelaide River War Cemetery * ADULT ADULT • Take a swim at Edith Falls $269 • Meet the local Indigenous people $209 * for insight on bush skills & tucker • See Aboriginal rock art $135 CHILD • Spot native flora & fauna $105 CHILD

For more information please visit, Shop 6, 52 Mitchell Street, Darwin or call 1300 228 546 aatkings.com *Conditions: These prices do not include the entry fee to the Kakadu National Park. 12343a WELCOME TO THE TOP END Aboriginal people are the original custodians of the Top End and have a unique relationship with the land. Their art and Dreamtime stories weave a connection between spirit and country and provide modern travellers with a deeper understanding and insight to the mysteries of land and waters.

The Northern Territory occupies Darwin is the Northern Territory’s hire with unlimited KM. about one sixth of Australia’s total multicultural capital, famed for its Further detailed information and land mass; its boundaries encompass markets and festivals, Asian cuisine advice is available by contacting a variety of contrasting landscapes and beautiful natural harbour. It is Tourism Top End on and experiences. also the perfect base from which 1300 138 886 visiting our website to explore the natural treasures of tourismtopend.com.au or emailing The Top End of the Northern World Heritage-Listed Kakadu and [email protected] Territory is known for its tropical Litchfield National Parks as well as you can also visit the information weather, crocodiles, rich indigenous the Tiwi Islands, Nitmiluk National centre. culture, great fishing, national parks Park and Arnhem Land and laid-back lifestyle. Front cover image: Airboat on the This guide is intended as an Mary River - Wildlife & Wetlands It is home to an eclectic mix of informative planning tool to help Region - Wildlands Pty Ltd cultures whose outdoor lifestyle is plan your holiday. Contained within complemented by brilliant sunsets, are accommodation, tour and fantastic fishing and a colourful attraction listings as well as maps, calendar of outdoor events. essential information and vehicle

1 Welcome to the Top End 36 The Peninsula Way 68 Katherine and Surrounds 4 Festivals & Events 2018 38 Litchfield National Park 72 Mataranka, Stuart Highway & 6 Travelling To & Around 42 Adelaide River & Batchelor Roper River 11 Things to do in the Top End 44 Wildlife & Wetlands Region 74 Victoria River & Timber Creek 12 Tours, Charters & Cruises 48 Kakadu National Park 75 Borroloola and the Gulf 15 Itineraries for the Top End 57 Arnhem Land - Gove & Cobourg 76 East Kimberley 23 Fishing in the Top End 61 Tiwi Islands 78 Membership Directory 25 Discover Darwin & Surrounds 63 Douglas & Daly River Region 82 Map of Northern Territory 30 Darwin Accommodation 66 Pine Creek BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 1 Sightseeing?

With our great range of vehicles and extensive location network, we make it easy for you to explore all of what the Top End has to offer in air-conditioned comfort.

Darwin • Katherine • Tennant Creek Alice Springs • Ayers Rock • Kununurra • Broome

One way and long-term rentals, 24-hour roadside assistance, maps and local advice - whatever you need, think Thrifty.

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136 139 thrifty.com.au

50 Mitchell St, 64 Stuart Hwy [email protected] & Darwin Airport

2 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Sightseeing?

With our great range of vehicles and extensive location network, we make it easy for you to explore all of what the Top End has to offer in air-conditioned comfort.

Darwin • Katherine • Tennant Creek Alice Springs • Ayers Rock • Kununurra • Broome

One way and long-term rentals, 24-hour roadside assistance, maps and local advice - whatever you need, think Thrifty.

Call us today to find out how we can help.

136 139 thrifty.com.au

50 Mitchell St, 64 Stuart Hwy [email protected] & Darwin Airport

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 3 FESTIVALS & EVENTS 2018 January February March

20-21 Heineken Hottest 7’s in the 5 Goyder’s Day, Darwin 2 Commonwealth Games Baton World, Rugby Park, Marrara Waterfront by the Relay Final Event, Deckchair Cinema Darwin Waterfront 22 Flix in the Wet, BCC Cinemas Darwin City 3 Steve Backshall’s BBCEarth 10 Darwin Masters 10s, (running until 25 March) Deadly 60 Downunder, Little Mindil Beach Darwin Convention Centre 26 Australia Day Celebrations, 18 Tiwi Islands Football and Art various venues across the 16 Chinese New Year, various Sale, Bathurst Island Top End venues across Darwin 24 Mud Racing, Hidden Valley 28 Mud Racing, Hidden Valley 19 76th Anniversary of the Motor Sports Complex Motor Sports Complex Bombing of Darwin, Cenotaph - The Esplanade and various 31 Blacken Open Air, venues across the Top End Alice Springs (Running until 2 April) 24 Mud Racing, Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex May Cont...

18-27 A Taste of Kakadu, May Kakadu National Park

5 Billy Joel Tribute Concert, 19 Bass in the Grass, April SKYCITY Darwin George Brown Darwin Bontanic Gardens

18 Deckchair Cinema Opening 5-20 Nightcliff Seabreeze Night, Deckchair Cinema Festival, Nightcliff Foreshore 19-20 Fred Pass Rural Show, Freds Pass

21 Mud Racing, Hidden Valley 6 Royal Flying Doctors Service 90 Motor Sports Complex Year Anniversary Event, Stokes 20 Jimmy Barnes, Darwin Hill Wharf Entertainment Centre 25 ANZAC Day Commemorations 8-14 NT Barramundi Classic, 26 Uluru Camel Cup, Around the Top End Ayers Rock Resort 25-29 Tjungu Festival, Ayers Rock Resort 11-20 Ord Valley Muster, 26 Noonamah Tavern Rodeo, Kununurra Noonamah Tavern 26 Mindil Beach Sunset Markets Opening Night, 18 Darwin Star Ball , Darwin 26 Darwin Waterfront Harmony Mindil Beach Convention Centre Soiree, Darwin Waterfront

4 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 The Top End is host to a wide range of incredible, world-class, unique events. Laugh along with the locals at quirky events distinctive to the Top End, honour Aboriginal culture at indigenous celebrations in remote communities or revel in major sporting events such as the V8 Supercars, SuperBikes and Darwin Cup Carnival. You will find all you need to know about Top End events listed here, more events can be viewed at tourismtopend.com.au/events/whats-on June July August

8-10 Barunga Cultural and 1 Territory Day 2-7 Desert Harmony Festival, Sports Festival, Tennant Creek Barunga Community 7 Darwin Cup Carnival, Darwin Turf Club 3-6 Garma Festival, (Running until 6 Aug) Arnhem Land

10 Ocean Film Festival 4 Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball, World Tour, Darwin Turf Club Darwin Deckchair Cinema 9-11 Finke Desert Race, Alice Springs 14 Darwin Dili Yacht Rally

9-10 Greek Glenti, 15-17 Supercars Championship Bicentennial Park Series, Hidden Valley Raceway 10 Summer Session, Darwin 20-21 Royal Katherine Show, 23-24 Darwin 4WD, Boating and Katherine Showgrounds Camping Expo, Darwin Showgrounds 22 Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta, Mindil Beach 23-24 TERRA 3 Hour Race, Hidden Valley Raceway 26-28 Royal Darwin Show, Darwin Showgrounds 23-24 BMXA Nationals Series - 4 Pesona Indonesia, Round 3, 30 The Terra Territory Darwin Waterfront Satellite City BMX Club Challenge, Hidden Valley Raceway 6 Darwin Cup Day, 28 Speedway Sedans Australia, (Running until 5 Aug) Darwin Turf Club National junior Sedan Title, Northline Speedway 30 Pitch Black - 9-26 Darwin Festival, various venues (Running until 1 July) Royal Australian Air Force around Darwin (Running until 17 Aug) 28 Australian Superbike Championship, Hidden Valley 10-12 Darwin Aboriginal Fair, Raceway(Running until 1 July) Darwin Convention Centre October 29 Alice Springs Beanie Festival, 1 Million Dollar 11 Noonamah Tavern Rodeo, Alice Springs Fish Competition, Noonamah Tavern (running until 2 July) (Running until 28 Feb 2019) 19-25 Lasseters Classic Outback Trial, 30 Noonamah Tavern Rodeo, 1-28 October Business Month Alice Springs Noonamah Tavern November Disclaimer: The calendar of September events is provided as a service 11 Remembrance Day, from Tourism Top End. As event Bicentennial Park information by organisers can 13-23 Darwin International Film change without notice, we advise Festival, Darwin you to contact organisers directly to Deckchair Cinema December confirm all details prior to planning your holiday. Tourism Top End 22 Noonamah Tavern Rodeo, 31 New Years Eve, various assumes no responsibility for any Noonamah Tavern venues around the Top End errors or omissions.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 5 TRAVELLING TO & AROUND THE TOP END

Getting Here explore some of the special locations air services from Singapore, the in remote areas, a four-wheel drive Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, Self-drive is absolutely essential. Good travel Thailand, Timor Leste and Indonesia. Excellent sealed highways provide advice for those using four-wheel It is possible when booking your ease of access into and around the drive vehicles will make the trip fun flights to arrange for a rental car, Top End region. The Stuart Highway and keep it safe. Make sure you plan awaiting your arrival at Darwin from Adelaide, the Barkly Highway ahead for your journey and always airport. Airport collections attract an from Queensland and the Victoria advise somebody of your travel additional fee. Highway from Western Australia schedule. are sealed all the way. For the more Rail adventurous traveller, access into For specific information on self-drive Great Southern Rail offers the Top End may also be made access to some of the more remote visitors to the Top End region the by the Savannah Way, entering locations in the Top End region, opportunity to enjoy one of the our region from Queensland on and the truly unique experiences world’s great train journeys aboard an unsealed road that starts that these off-road adventures can The Ghan. The regular service from at Wollogorang. But no matter offer, visitors are advised to visit Adelaide to Darwin stops at Alice which way you decide to come – their local library or check out their Springs and Katherine before its caravanning or driving – the Top local bookstores for one of the final destination, Darwin. A truly End offers an incredible range of many specialist guides available on memorable way to experience the attractions and top class facilities exploring the four-wheel drive tracks wonders of this unique landscape. for our motoring and caravanning of the Top End region. visitors to ensure that your visit to Cruise the region is a memorable one. Bus/Coach Many cruise ships now include the Darwin and the Top End region is Top End in their schedules, often well serviced by major national including a day stopover in Darwin. coach companies. Check with your Expedition cruises are also becoming local travel agent or direct with a popular way to visit remote north the operator for details of service coast Aboriginal art communities in schedules, fares and tour packages. Arnhem Land and Groote Eylandt.

Fly Daily scheduled flights to Darwin 4WD operate from every mainland Although a two-wheel drive vehicle Australian capital city. Darwin, being will get you to the majority of sites the closest Australian capital city and attractions in the region, to to Asia, has regular international

6 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Getting Around Know your roads the Northern Territory, cyclists have A ‘fully-sealed road’ refers to a road right of way on public roads and that is sealed and maintained with highways. Free WIFI Hotspots around bitumen and tar. A ‘gravel road’ is the Top End not sealed and surface conditions Darwin’s flat terrain and glorious - Darwin CBD - Smith Street Mall can vary. Usually these roads are tropical climate lend themselves to - Darwin Waterfront graded once or twice a year, but cycling as a pleasant recreational - Mindil Beach Markets ‘bulldust’ and corrugations are pursuit - and you can do it in - Bathurst Island, Tiwi Islands common hazards. complete safety by using the city’s - Mary River Wilderness Retreat extensive local network of excellent - Gunlom - Kakadu National Park A ‘one-lane development road’ is a cycle tracks. - Gove - Visitor Information Centre gravel road with a strip of bitumen - Wangi Falls running down its centre. Road trains Cycle tracks will take you along the travel along the bitumen for quick breezy coastal fringe of the city transportation. If you are driving on and suburbs, to parks, reserves a one-lane development road, pull and general recreation facilities to the side to allow the road train throughout Darwin. to keep all tyres on the bitumen and For further information visit overtake safely. www.darwin.nt.gov.au/cyclepaths

- Katherine Hot Springs A ’four-wheel drive track’ is a road Entering Aboriginal land - Mataranka Homestead that is suitable only for cars with If you’re planning to visit Aboriginal - Daly Waters Pub four-wheel drive capability. These land during your stay in the Top End - Timber Creek Caravan Park roads traverse grounds that are region you must first obtain a travel - Barkly Homestead unsuitable for two-wheel drive permit before entering. When visiting - Tennant Creek - vehicles and can be rocky, sandy, Aboriginal land and communities Visitor Information Centre muddy and steep. in the more remote areas, it is - Devils Marbles Hotel (Wauchope) sometimes necessary to join an - Devils Marbles - Car parking/Info Remote areas organised tour with one of our many Driving off the beaten track into specialised 4WD safari operators. the remote Top End requires extra Those wishing to enter Aboriginal Driving in the Top End equipment for the adventure. Along land on their own must apply in Whether you are heading off on your major highways, food and fuel writing to the relevant Aboriginal driving adventure for a week or just stops are generally every 200-300 Land Councils. a day, preparation and planning is kilometres, but in more remote areas For further information contact: the key to a safe drive experience in distances can be much greater. The Northern Land Council the Territory. Ninety-five percent of (08) 8920 5100 the Northern Territory’s highways Carry additional fuel and sufficient Fax: (08) 8920 5255 are sealed, but the more challenging food and water for the trip. Plan Email: [email protected] off-road routes traverse sand, where to re-supply. www.nlc.org.au rocky watercourses and escarpment country. It is important for your Mobile phone coverage is limited Buying Takeaway Alcohol vehicle to be well-equipped with outside major regional centres in All Territorians and visitors to the recovery gear, a first aid kit, spare the Northern Territory. A satellite Northern Territory will need to show parts and tools. Have your vehicle phone, CB radio or HF radio are good photo ID to buy takeaway alcohol. serviced before you take off and alternatives. Ultra-high frequency This change is part of the Banned carry extra fuel when driving into (UHF) is the most commonly used CB Drinker Register (BDR) program. The remote areas. You will also need setting among four-wheel drivers, register will identify people who are to take sufficient food and water although it will only transmit over banned from purchasing takeaway supplies. a short distance. Permits may be alcohol and stop them from buying required. Restrictions apply to the it. It will assist in reducing alcohol- Always check road conditions and let consumption and transportation of related harm to individuals, families someone know your travel plans. alcohol on Aboriginal land. and the community. For further information visit The Northern Territory Government nt.gov.au/driving/safety/alcohol- Plastic bags are bannned in the has a 24hr recorded message service drugs-and-driving Northern Territory on 1800 246 199 or visit The plastic bag ban commenced in www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport Cycling in the Top End 2011, and means that retailers can no Drivers need to be mindful of longer supply lightweight, “single- cyclists when travelling on roads. In use” style plastic bags, including

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 7 degradable bags. There are a range Restrictions may apply to the hire of incredible carnivore has sat atop the of environmentally friendly options your vehicle and insurance policies food chain of the Top End for 100 available from retailers, but you may can vary. Some plans do not offer million years and is a major draw be charged for them, or you can take roadside assistance in remote areas card for visitors to the Top End. your own bag to the shop. or coverage for travel on ungazetted Corroboree Billabong is home to the nt.gov.au/environment/environment- roads. highest concentration of saltwater protection-recycling-waste/plastic- crocodiles in the world. bag-ban Companies rarely insure single vehicle accidents at night, so drive Saltwater crocodiles are protected Climate cautiously as native animals and by law and abound in most The Top End has a tropical climate stock often wander close to roads at Northern Territory waterways, and has two distinct seasons, the this time. including Darwin Harbour and its ‘Wet’ and the ‘Dry’. The Wet season surrounding creeks and estuaries. is from November until April. Expect Check the conditions of your These creatures, which can grow to monsoonal rains and storms, which insurance policy at the time of more than six metres in length, are usually only last 25 - 45 minutes. booking and ensure the hire car incredibly territorial and have, at Temperatures typically range 25°C company explains how to use your times, been known to attack people (77°F) to 33°C (91°F) and humidity vehicle, including how to engage the levels can reach in excess of 80%. four-wheel drive function. However, by taking a few precautions you can share their While weather conditions at this time Fatigue environment without danger: of year can restrict travel to some Fatigue is one of the most common areas, the Wet season is a stunning causes of serious accidents. - NEVER stand on riverbanks or time to see the Top End. Waterfalls The Northern Territory has vast clean fish by the waters edge tumble, skies host incredible light distances between towns and driving and always be aware of your shows and the landscape turns a long distances in high temperatures surroundings while near the water lush green. can significantly increase driver fatigue. - HEED all warning signs and take The ‘Dry’ season, from May until Stop at least every 2 hours and care when swimming or wading in October, is traditionally the most avoid driving for more than 8 to any Territory waterways. popular time to visit for visitors 10 hours at a stretch. Along most to explore the many attractions of routes, designated rest areas allow - CROCS can make their way inland the Top End region. A major factor you to pull up and stretch your legs. a surprising distance, and with their is the warm, dry, sunny days and To avoid dehydration, drink at least current rise in population, it should cool nights. Temperatures typically three litres per day. never be assumed that an area is range from 21°C (70F) to 32°C (90F), free of them. and the humidity levels are much Mobile phone coverage becrocwise.nt.gov.au lower: around 60–65%. For further Large areas of the outback are information visit www.bom.gov.au without mobile (cell) phone Box jellyfish coverage, but all significant Box Jellyfish and associated species Dump points population centres throughout the can be very dangerous to humans in The Northern Territory has Northern Territory are served by a Top End waters. They are particularly designated effluent dump points mobile network. common from October to May but at Alice Springs, Batchelor, can also occur at any time of year. Borroloola, Darwin, Douglas Daly, The four types of mobile phone It is recommended that you do not Howard Springs, Jabiru, Katherine, service available in the Top End are swim in the sea during this peak Mataranka, Pine Creek, Tennant GSM, 3G, 4G and 4GX. period of activity. Creek, Wycliffe Well and Yulara. Empty your effluent waste here and For further information, please The jellyfish deliver an excruciatingly protect the Territory’s impressive contact your mobile telephone painful and sometimes fatal sting. environment. provider before your departure, They are particularly dangerous to www.sanidumps.com/rvdumpsregion. or visit www.telstra.com.au/coverage- children, older people and people php?region=117 networks/our-coverage with underlying medical issues.

Vehicle hire in the Top End Natural hazards Vinegar neutralises tentacles still Four-wheel drive and two-wheel saltwater crocodiles attached to the stung victim and drive vehicles can be hired from The world’s largest reptile is the should be carried at all times if Darwin and Katherine. Contact Northern Territory’s very own swimming in the sea. Seek medical Tourism Top End to book your car saltwater crocodile, or ‘salties’ advice immediately. hire with unlimted kilometres. as they are known by locals. This

8 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Mosquitoes the wet season (Nov-April) the heed all warnings issued by the local Mosquitoes in the Northern Territory bacteria becomes active in wet soils. authorities. carry a variety of viruses. A good, Waterproof shoes and protective tropical strength repellent and gloves should always be worn if you A cyclone watch is issued when a wearing light coloured clothing at are walking through or handling cyclone is active in the Australian dawn and dusk is recommended. muddy soils. region, and is expected to impact land- based communities within 48 hours, but Snakes High temperatures not within 24 hours. The Northern Territory has a range Due to the heat and humidity of the of some of the most venomous land region, carry plenty of water when A warning is issued if cyclone gales are snakes in the world. They are rarely travelling, even for short distances. affecting or expected to affect coastal encountered but remember to always It is recommended you let someone communities within 24 hours, or are wear solid footwear, especially at know where you are heading and an already occurring. night. Use a torch at night and stay estimated time you will return. on clearly marked paths. Cyclones and storms The Northern Territory Emergency Other wildlife In the Top End from October to May, the Service website provides information A range of other wildlife in the weather can at times be fairly wild and about the shelter options available Northern Territory can be harmful unpredictable. Storms can be sudden www.pfes.nt.gov.au/Emergency-Service/ to visitors. For your safety please and localised and care should be taken Public-safety-advice/Shelters-in-the-NT. ensure that you do not interfere with when driving. Lightning strikes are both aspx any wildlife. frequent and spectacular and seeking For more information, call Tropical cover indoors is advised. Cyclone Warning Service on Melioidosis 1300 659 211 or visit Melioidosis is a disease caused by Cyclones can occur from November to www.bom.gov.au/nt/ a soil based bacteria and there May each year. It is very important to is currently no vaccine. During pay attention to weather forecasts and

Travelling from Darwin - Distances and Travel Times Departs Darwin Approx. Distance from City Drive Time Fly Time (Incl. Stop) (Kilometres) (Miles) Approx. Approx.

Alice Springs 1491km 927mi 15hr 2hr

Batchelor 98km 61mi 1hr 15min N/A

Berry Springs 55km 34mi 45min N/A

Fogg Dam 66km 43mi 45min N/A

Howard Springs Nature Park 30km 19mi 30min N/A

Jumping Crocodiles 66km 41mi 45min N/A

Kakadu National Park 257km 160mi 3hr 1hr

Katherine 314km 195mi 3hr 30min 1hr 10min

Litchfield National Park 129km 80mi 1hr 30min N/A

Mataranka 420km 261mi 4hr 30min N/A

Pine Creek 226km 140mi 2hr 30min N/A

Tennant Creek 986km 613mi 10hr 3hr

Window on the Wetlands 60km 38mi 45min N/A

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 9 HOPON DISCOVER HOPOFF EXPLORE SIGHTSEEING YOUR WAY 12 STOPS INCLUDING • Crocosaurus Cove • Waterfront Precinct • Stokes Hill Wharf - RFDS/Military • Doctor’s Gully • Botanic Gardens Museum and Sunset • Cullen Bay Marina • Mindil/Parap Markets Harbour Cruises • Defence of Darwin Museum • Museum & Art Gallery of NT

1 DAY ADULT $40 / CHILDREN $25 / SENIOR & STUDENT $35 / FAMILY $110 TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED WHEN BOARDING BUS OR ONLINE / CASH, VISA, MASTERCARD ACCEPTED. BIGBUSTOURS.COM CALL 0416 140 903

DARWIN AIRPORT Tick off your bucket list knowing we’ve SHUTTLE ticked off our checklist! Airport • Hotel • Airport Airport Shuttle Service

Exclusive licence to 24 hours • 7 Days a week operate directly Darwin City Airport Shuttle Service to & from the terminal door at the Darwin International Airport 08 8947 3979

Image Courtesy Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin

We make sure that when you travel, your choice of activities o er the highest standards of service and professionalism. We check tourism businesses’ licences, practices, insurances and Available for: systems, and if they meet the standard, they earn the tick. • private charters • conference transfers So whether you’re choosing tours, activities or accommodation, • contracted shuttle transfers look for the tick and you’ll know that we’ve checked them out • safe, clean & reliable service before you dive in! To find quality tourism businesses in the NT visit www.trusttheticknt.com.au BOOK ONLINE: www.dcass.com.au

10 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 THINGS TO DO IN THE TOP END

Whether you are planning on visiting Darwin for just a day or two, or perhaps making Darwin your base for a longer visit, the range of tours, charters and cruises available has something to appeal to all.

To really discover the Top End, plan township of Adelaide River (42) will to spend 7-14 days touring. For those take you back in time to the days of Pages 23-24 of this guide show visiting Darwin for just a short stay, World War II. examples of fishing tours and there is much to see within the charters in the Top End. city itself - some local attractions Litchfield National Park (38) and well worth a visit and suggested its gateway township of Batchelor Sporting shooters are also welcome itineraries are shown on pages 15-22 (42), provide a myriad of natural and at certain times of the year to join of this guide. cultural experiences that deserve a organised pig, buffalo and other wild stay of at least two days or more. game hunts. Travelling from Darwin, be sure to stay overnight in the Wildlife and A short trip from Darwin, The For regulations pertaining to Wetlands region (44) en-route to Peninsula Way (36), is a great firearms, contact Northern Kakadu National Park (48). See the getaway with fantastic beaches, Territory Police on jumping crocodiles on the Adelaide natural springs and exciting harbour (08) 8922 3344. River, spend up to a week in Kakadu fishing. Please remember it is strictly and Arnhem Land (57) exploring the illegal to enter private property, ancient landscape, before following The following section of the guide including cattle stations, without the Stuart Highway south to the lists a wide range of touring options having obtained prior permission. Katherine region (68). to the Top End’s must see destinations. Stop over in Pine Creek (66) for a Up here for the fishing (23)... or taste of gold mining, railway and perhaps hunting? Whether it be Overland Telegraph history before bluewater, reef or estuary fishing, arriving in Katherine - adventure the Top End offers the lot for those territory. You’ll find plenty to do in on organised fishing tours, or for the region to easily fill three days those visitors who prefer to do it and more. independently. There are, however, some restrictions and regulations – Travelling north back to Darwin check with the Northern Territory (25), the Douglas Daly region (63) Department of Fisheries for further offers superb barra fishing and the information contact (08) 8999 2144.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 11 Tours, Charters & Cruises

SACRED EARTH SAFARIS SACRED EARTH SAFARIS KAKADU AIR

Private Charter Touring 3,4 and 5 day Kakadu & Top End Tours One Day Kakadu Tour Phone: (08) 8536 2234 Phone: (08) 8536 2234 Phone: 1800 089 113 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.sacredearthsafaris.com.au Website: www.sacredearthsafaris.com.au Website: www.kakaduair.com.au Departs: Various Regions Departs: Darwin Region Departs: Darwin Region Cost: From POA Cost: From $1,800 Cost: From $750 Personalised private tours are great for Explore Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield Start with a 2hr flight, see the spectacular families, incentives, groups of friends and on a small group 4WD tour with a sights of the coastal features of the Mary special interests such as photography maximum of 9 guests. Accommodated in River Park, Van Diemen Gulf, Kakadu and bird watching. Glamping and Bush Bungalows, fixed Safari Tents and wetlands and rivers, Arnhem Land plateau accommodated tours are available, through Station Rooms, upgrade options are also and escarpments. Land at Cooinda, explore the Top End, Red Centre and Kimberley. available. Rock art, waterfalls, birdlife the Warradjun aboriginal culture centre 6, 9 and 24 seat 4WD vehicles to choose and crocs - all parts of your Top End and cruise the stunning Yellow Waters. from. Adventure!

CORROBOREE BILLABONG NAUTILUS AVIATION ADELAIDE RIVER TOURS WETLAND CRUISES

Phone: (08) 8985 5855 Phone: 1800 88 HELI (4354) Phone: 0472 786 877 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.wetlandcruises.com.au Website: www.nautilusaviation.com.au Website: www.adelaiderivertours.com.au Departs: Darwin & Wildlife and Departs: Darwin Region & Departs: Darwin Region & Wetlands Regions Wildlife and Wetlands Region Wildlife and Wetlands Region Cost: From $30 - $140 Cost: From $160.00pp With over 24 years of exceptional service Corroboree Billabong offers a wildlife Join us for a small group experience on experience not to be missed. We are and an impeccable safety record, enjoy one of the best ways to see the Territory with the Adelaide River, spotting the Famous the “Original” operator here with 17 NT Saltwater Crocodiles, an abundance of years experience providing passengers a proven tour specialist! Guests can enjoy scenic flights, custom tours, combined birdlife and much more. Morning Tea and a with unforgettable wildlife cruises. View tasty BBQ lunch is provided on this magnificent birdlife and large saltwater day packages PLUS even pilot a helicopter themselves! Fly with Nautilus Aviation and unique NT wildlife cruise. City and crocodiles up close and personal in their surrounds transfers included. natural environment. See our main advert. “Experience the Difference!”

VENTURE NORTH SAFARIS TOP END DAY TOURS SEA DARWIN

5 Day Kakadu, Arnhem Land Arnhem Land Day Tours Australia’s Frontline: & Cobourg Peninsula Tour Phone: 1300 324 914 WWII Bombing of Darwin Tour Phone: (08) 8927 5500 Email: [email protected] Phone: 1300 065 022 Email: [email protected] Website: topenddaytours.com.au Email: [email protected] Website: www.venturenorth.com.au Departs: Kakadu National Park & Website: www.seadarwin.com Departs: Darwin Region Darwin Region Departs: Darwin Region Cost: $3,490 Cost: From $279 - $299 Cost: From $20.00 - $119.00 See the highlights of Kakadu before This tour offers a once in a lifetime See the sights and hear the stories of the journeying into Arnhem Land. Explore experience to interact and learn about Bombing of Darwin. This half day tour will sacred rock art sites with an Aboriginal the world’s oldest living culture. Tour allow you to relive one of Australia’s most guide and stay at our safari-style camp; with experienced guides through mystical significant wartime events. Includes a city Cobourg Coastal Camp. Enjoy good food, Arnhem Land, enjoy stunning scenery of tour, the bunkers, a harbour great guides and see something a bit billabong, birds, escarpment cruise and the Military Museum. different on this award-winning and visit the unique Injalak 1-hour cruise available micro-group tour. Art & Craft Centre. separately.

12 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 YOU ARE IN CROC COUNTRY

Crocodile danger is real. Don’t risk your life. To report problem crocodiles Darwin 0419 822 859 Katherine 0407 958 405 • 1.0, 1.5. 2.0 & 2.5 hour cruises available

becrocwise.nt.gov.au

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 13 Harbour Cruises

DARWIN HARBOUR CRUISES CAPE ADIEU HARBOUR CRUISE

Stokes Hill Wharf, Darwin NT 0800 Stokes Hill Wharf, Darwin NT 0800 Phone: (08) 8942 3131 Phone: 0439 893 939 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.darwinharbourcruises.com.au Website: www.capeadieu.com.au Departs: Darwin Region Departs: Darwin Region Cost: From $58.00 - $102.00 Cost: From $55.00 - $110.00 Enjoy a delicious Territory buffet dinner, in Enjoy a unique sunset dining experience air-conditioned comfort aboard the Charles aboard a 22m traditional ketch. Operated Darwin, showcasing the best local produce. by NT commercial fishermen specialising A perfect way to experience our famous in fresh, wild caught seafood/scotch fillet sunsets, listen to informative and historic steak. Fresh salads, crusty bread and commentary and enjoy a delicious meal dessert complement the seafood selection. with family. All cruise options include homemade dips, **Wide range of cruises available** tea/coffee. BYO or fully licensed.

TOP END CRUISES

CRUISE 45 – Darwin Harbour Sightseeing Tour  45 minute sightseeing cruise around Darwin Harbour  Informative live commentary points out all the sights  Seating choice of open sundeck or air-conditioned cabin  Departs from Cullen Bay ferry terminal ADULTS $37.50 SENIORS $32.50 CHILD (5-14) $20_ MON TO FRI AT 11:55am (April to Sept excl public holidays) CRAB CLAW ISLAND – Full Day Leisure Cruise  Relaxing two hour scenic cruise with light commentary  Delicious seafood buffet lunch at Crab Claw Island Resort  Bring your bathers for a swim in one of the two resort pools ADULTS $149 SENIORS $129 CHILD (5-14) $89_ Selected SATURDAYS (April–Sept) DEP 10:30am / RET 5:30pm

Call 1300 130 679 sealinknt.com.au Northern Territory

14 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 TOP END ITINERARIES

Give us one day - fourteen days, we’ll give you the trip of a lifetime The following itineraries give you an idea of some of the great experience you can have in the Top End. These are meant as a starting point to customise your own individual adventure. For example, you can easily combine two itineraries or reverse the route of any trip. For more suggestions and sample itineraries, visit tourismtopend.com.au or call 1300 138 886 or email [email protected] BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 15 DARWIN AND DARWIN IN ONE DAY SURROUNDS (3 DAYS) Here on a business stopover or cruising in for Tiwi Islands, Wildlife and Wetlands Region the day? and The Peninsula Way Discover all Darwin has on offer… Day 1 - Tiwi Islands Option 1 Take a ferry ride or scenic flight to the Tiwi Islands for a Explore the art, craft and food stalls at one of the many unique cultural experience with the Tiwi locals in an art markets. Get up close & personal with a saltwater crocodile. workshop and join a cultural history guided tour. Visit Enjoy the local seafood and culinary fare at one of the many the Old Mission Church and the art gallery and see the restaurants. Enjoy a night of cinema under the stars. fascinating carvings, painting and beautiful Tiwi fabrics.

Option 2 Day 2 - Wildlife and Wetlands Region Immerse in the colour, beauty and diversity of the Top End’s Start the morning with a short drive to the Adelaide River. Indigenous art in the CBD and Parap. Take a nature walk Jump on a Jumping Crocodile Cruise, relaxing wildlife and through the East Point Reserve or George Brown Botanic wetland cruise or take an airboat ride. Stop in at Window on Gardens. Hand feed the hundreds of Milk fish that come the Wetlands to view the region from the viewing platform. in at high tide. Relax on a lunch or sunset cruise on the Stop in and enjoy bushwalking and bird watching at Fogg spectacular Darwin Harbour. Dam Conservation Reserve.

Option 3 Day 3 - The Peninsula Way Take a walk to learn about the history of Darwin. View the Check out the famous Bird of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar WWII attractions and learn about Darwin’s war history. at the internationally renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop Experience Darwin from the air with a scenic flight. in at Berry Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the natural Watch a spectacular Top End sunset from a beach side springs. Make sure to stop and enjoy a tasty home-made restaurant or café. mango ice-cream from a farm gate shop.

Option 4 Jump on a city sights tour to see the major attractions. Swim in the Waterfront Wave pool and salt water lagoon. Get energetic and hire a bicycle, tandem skydive, segway tour, fishing, crabbing, scenic flight or do an airboat tour.

For more ideas visit pages 11 - 14 for tours and pages Crazy Acres 25 – 29 for attractions in Darwin.

Darwin Waterfront - Wave Lagoon Tiwi Islands

16 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 THE TOP END LOOP (5 DAYS) Wildlife & Wetlands Region, Kakadu National Park (Permit Required), Katherine Region and Litchfield Region

Day 1 - Wildlife & Wetlands/Kakadu cascading waterfalls and plunge pools in the Park or take Learn the culture of Aboriginal people with spear throwing a walk through nature. Stop in to Wangi Falls and take and basket weaving. Overlook the region from the viewing a scenic flight. On your way back into Darwin check out platform at Window on the Wetlands. Experience a Jumping the famous Bird of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar at the Crocodile Cruise, a relaxing wildlife and wetland cruise or internationally renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop into take an airboat ride. Stop to see the abundance of native the Berry Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the birdlife at Mamukala Wetlands. Visit the Ubirr Aboriginal Art natural springs. Site in World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park.

Day 2 - Kakadu Start the morning with a scenic flight over the wetlands and escarpments. Drop into Bowali Visitor Centre and see the interpretive displays and art gallery. Stop in at the ancient Aboriginal rock shelter at Nourlangie Rock and art sites. Climb to view magnificent escarpment views from Nawurlandja lookout. See the sunset with a Yellow Water Cruise to a place forgotten by time where nature is raw.

Day 3 - Katherine Region Head 3 hours south to Edith Falls plunge pools. Travel to Katherine, an extra 30 mins further south, wander through the many art galleries and meet the artists or join in an Aboriginal Art cultural tour. Take a short drive to Nitmiluk Gorge Visitor Centre and see the interpretative displays. While at the gorge, take a gorge cruise or canoe and swim in the gorge, weather permitting. Enjoy an outback experience and bushfire damper dinner under the stars.

Day 4 - Pine Creek/Adelaide River/Batchelor/Litchfield Drive 1 hour north to the old gold rush mining town of Pine Creek. Here you can visit the historic railway heritage museum and take in the stunning views from the lookout. Continue along the Stuart Highway to the Adelaide River township where you can wander through the War Memorial Cemetery. Before arriving in Litchfield National Park you will pass through the township of Batchelor. There you will find a butterfly farm, museum and plenty of places to grab lunch.

Day 5 - Litchfield/The Peninsula Way/Darwin While driving into Litchfield National Park, stop at the Pine Creek - Mine Shaft Lookout termite mounds; take a refreshing dip in one of the many

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 17 THE TOP ADVENTURE (7 DAYS) THE TOP END EXPLORER (7 DAYS) Wildlife & Wetlands Region, Kakadu National Day 6 - Arnhem Land/Kakadu Pine Creek, Daly Region, Park (Permit Required), Start the day by visiting Smith Point and learn the art of Litchfield Region and Peninsula Way Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula crabbing and catch dinner. Visit Black Point Jungle Ranger Station and learn about the history of European pioneers, Day 1 - Pine Creek/Daly Region Day 7 - The Peninsula Way/Darwin Day 1 - Wildlife & Wetlands Macassan Traders and the Aboriginal people. Explore the Start your trip by visiting the old gold rush mining town of On your way back into Darwin check out the famous Bird Start the day with a nature walk and bird watching at pristine white sandy shell covered beaches in the Garig Pine Creek. There you can visit the historic railway heritage of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar at the internationally Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve. Learn the culture Gunak Barlu National Park. 4wd through Arnhem Land museum and take in the stunning views from the lookout. renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop in at the Berry of Aboriginal people with spear throwing and basket returning to Kakadu National Park. Stop in for a swim at Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park, an Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the natural springs. weaving. Overlook the region from the viewing platform isolated gorge with steep red cliffs. Drop into the natural Return to Darwin for a sunset harbour cruise, a visit to the at Window on the Wetlands. Experience a Jumping Day 7 - Kakadu springs of Douglas Daly Hot Springs. Take a shaded riverine markets or a movie under the stars. Crocodile Cruise, a relaxing wildlife and wetland cruise. Take an early morning scenic flight over the wetlands and walk along Butterfly Gorge Nature Park (seasonal & 4WD escarpments. Drop into Bowali Visitor Centre and see the only). See the amazing natural formation at ‘The Arches’ Day 2 - Wildlife & Wetlands interpretive display’s and Art gallery. Visit Ubirr Aboriginal and the Waterhole. Experience an exhilarating airboat ride. Take a guided Art Site. Stop to see the abundance of native birdlife at nature walk through termite mound fields and freshwater Mamukala Wetlands. Day 2 - Daly Region/Litchfield mangroves. See buffalo in the wild with a scenic helicopter Hire a boat for early morning Barramundi fishing on the flight. Join a guided fishing charter and catch the elusive Daly River. Stop into Nauiyu Community and see the Barramundi at popular Shady Camp. historic Catholic Mission Church. Drive 2 hours to Adelaide River township where you can wander through the War Day 3 - Kakadu National Park Memorial Cemetery and stop in and visit the Adelaide River Learn the ways of life for Kakadu’s Aboriginal Traditional Railway Heritage Precinct. Owners at Warradjan Cultural Centre. Stop in at the ancient Aboriginal Rock shelter at Nourlangie Rock and art Day 3 - Batchelor/Litchfield sites. Climb to view magnificent escarpment views from Before arriving in Litchfield National Park, you will pass Nawurlandja lookout. See the sunset with a Yellow Water through the Township of Batchelor. There you will find a Cruise to a place forgotten by time where nature is raw. butterfly farm, museum and plenty of places to grab lunch.

Day 4 - Kakadu/Arnhem Land Day 4 - Litchfield Start the morning with a 2 hour drive to Gunbalanya in Spend the day in Litchfield National Park and stop at the Oenpelli, (tidal river crossing, permits required prior to Termite Mounds; take a refreshing dip in one of the many travel). Visit the Injalak Art Gallery and see local Aboriginal cascading waterfalls and plunge pools in the Park or take a Art. Take a guided tour to sacred Injalak art sites with a walk through nature. local Aboriginal guide to see the many ‘galleries’ and to hear dreamtime stories. Take a 4 hour 4wd scenic drive Day 5 - The Peninsula Way through magnificent Arnhem Land country to Cobourg Arnhem Land - Lonely Beach View WWII relics and Liberator Bomber memorial at Peninsula. Mandorah. Take a tour to the Mandorah wetlands region and Pine Creek - Historic Railway Heritage Museum then continue on the way to Dundee Beach. Day 5 - Arnhem Land Cruise across the Cobourg Peninsula to Port Essington Day 6 - The Peninsula Way by boat to view the historic Victoria Settlement. Fish Join an early morning fishing charter for some deep sea for giant trevally, coral trout and mackeral. View the and reef fishing around the Peron Islands and catch pelagic, first RAMSAR Wetland in the world. Enjoy the pristine coral trout, snapper and sail fish or catch a Barra or a mud wilderness with a large variety of sea life and world crab in Bynoe Harbour or the Finniss River. largest’s herd of purestrain Banteng cattle. Kakadu - Yellow Water Billabong Railway Museum

18 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 THE TOP END EXPLORER (7 DAYS) Pine Creek, Daly Region, Litchfield Region and Peninsula Way

Day 1 - Pine Creek/Daly Region Day 7 - The Peninsula Way/Darwin Start your trip by visiting the old gold rush mining town of On your way back into Darwin check out the famous Bird Pine Creek. There you can visit the historic railway heritage of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar at the internationally museum and take in the stunning views from the lookout. renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop in at the Berry Stop in for a swim at Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park, an Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the natural springs. isolated gorge with steep red cliffs. Drop into the natural Return to Darwin for a sunset harbour cruise, a visit to the springs of Douglas Daly Hot Springs. Take a shaded riverine markets or a movie under the stars. walk along Butterfly Gorge Nature Park (seasonal & 4WD only). See the amazing natural formation at ‘The Arches’ and the Waterhole.

Day 2 - Daly Region/Litchfield Hire a boat for early morning Barramundi fishing on the Daly River. Stop into Nauiyu Community and see the historic Catholic Mission Church. Drive 2 hours to Adelaide River township where you can wander through the War Memorial Cemetery and stop in and visit the Adelaide River Railway Heritage Precinct.

Day 3 - Batchelor/Litchfield Before arriving in Litchfield National Park, you will pass through the Township of Batchelor. There you will find a butterfly farm, museum and plenty of places to grab lunch.

Day 4 - Litchfield Spend the day in Litchfield National Park and stop at the Termite Mounds; take a refreshing dip in one of the many cascading waterfalls and plunge pools in the Park or take a walk through nature.

Day 5 - The Peninsula Way View WWII relics and Liberator Bomber memorial at Mandorah. Take a tour to the Mandorah wetlands region and Pine Creek - Historic Railway Heritage Museum then continue on the way to Dundee Beach.

Day 6 - The Peninsula Way Join an early morning fishing charter for some deep sea and reef fishing around the Peron Islands and catch pelagic, coral trout, snapper and sail fish or catch a Barra or a mud crab in Bynoe Harbour or the Finniss River.

Railway Museum

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 19 THE BEST OF THE TOP END (14 DAYS)

Wildlife & Wetlands Region, Kakadu National Day 1 - Wildlife & Wetlands Park (Permit Required), Arnhem Land, Drive 1 1/2 hours to Window on the Wetlands where Katherine, East Arnhem Land, Mataranka, you can overlook the region from a viewing platform. Pine Creek, Daly River Region, Litchfield Experience a jumping crocodile cruise, a relaxing wildlife National Park and The Peninsula Way and wetland cruise or take an airboat ride. Learn the culture of Aboriginal people with spear throwing and basket weaving. Stop in and enjoy bushwalking and bird watching at Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve.

Day 2 - Wildlife & Wetlands/Kakadu Stop to see the abundance of native birdlife at Mamukala Wetlands. Visit Ubirr Aboriginal Art Site. Join a guided cultural cruise and gain an insight into local Aboriginal culture. Drop into the Bowali Visitors Centre and see the interpretive displays and Art gallery. During the Dry Season, Rangers run a free program of guided walks and activities throughout Kakadu.

Day 3 - Arnhem Land Book a guided day tour to Arnhem Land and visit the Injalak Art Gallery. Discover authentic art inspired by ancient dreamtime stories and the aboriginal art site at Injalak hill and visit the community of Gunbalanya (Oenpelli).

Day 4 - Kakadu Take an early morning scenic flight over the Kakadu wetlands and escarpments. Take a short drive to the ancient Aboriginal Rock shelter at Nourlangie Rock and art sites. Climb to view magnificent escarpment views from Nawurlandja lookout. Stop in at the Waradjun Cultural Centre.

Day 5 - Kakadu/Katherine Region Start the day with a Yellow Water dawn cruise to a place forgotten by time where nature is raw. Head 3 hours south Wildlife & Wetands Region - Airboat to Edith Falls plunge pools. Travel to Nitmiluk National Park

20 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 and visit the Nitmiluk Gorge Visitor Centre and see the Day 13 - The Peninsula Way interpretative displays. Enjoy an outback experience and Take an afternoon charter and catch a Barra or a mud crab bushfire damper dinner under the stars. in Bynoe Harbour and the Finniss river. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon watching the sunset views over Dundee Beach. Day 6 - Katherine/Arnhem Land Take an early morning scenic Heli-flight over the 13 gorges Day 14 - The Peninsula Way of Nitmiluk National Park. Jump on a cruise along the On your way back into Darwin, check out the famous Birds Katherine Gorge. Wander through the many art galleries of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar at the internationally and meet the artists or join in an Aboriginal Art Cultural renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop into the Berry tour. Stop to take a dip in the Katherine Hot Springs. Fly to Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the natural springs. the remote town of Nhulunbuy in the Gove Peninsula, East Return to Darwin for a sunset harbour cruise, a visit to the Arnhem Land. markets or a movie under the stars.

Day 7 - Arnhem Land Spend the day on a blue water fishing charter and enjoy the world class fishing on offer.

Day 8 - Arnhem Land Pick up a 4WD hire car and take a short drive to Yirrkala Art Centre. Continue north to view the Roy (Malpi) Marika lookout for a view of Nhulunbuy. Discover the Dhimurru area by 4WD (Permit required from www.dhimurru.com.au). Fly back to Katherine.

Day 9 - Katherine/Adelaide River Take a drive south to Mataranka township. Visit the Cutta Cutta Limestone Cave and take a guided tour, swim in Bitter Springs and Thermal Pools, pop into the Museum and Art Gallery. Visit the historic Elsey Station Homestead and the Katherine Region - Bush Tucker under the Stars Memorial Cemetery home of ‘We of the Never Never’.

Day 10 - Pine Creek/Daly Region Drive 2 hours north to the old gold rush mining town of Pine Creek. There you can visit the historic railway heritage museum and take in the stunning views from the lookout. Stop in for a swim at Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park, an isolated gorge with steep red cliffs. Drop into the natural springs of Douglas Daly Hot Springs. Take a shaded riverine walk along Butterfly Gorge Nature Park (seasonal & 4WD only). See the amazing natural formation at ‘The Arches’ and the waterhole.

Day 11 - Daly Region/Adelaide River Hire a boat for early morning Barramundi fishing on the Daly River. Stop into Nauiyu Community and see the historic Catholic mission church. Drive 2 hours to Adelaide River township where you can wander through the War Memorial Cemetery and stop into visit the Adelaide River Railway Heritage Precinct. Katherine Region - Mataranka Thermal Pool Day 12 - Litchfield Before arriving in Litchfield National Park, you will pass through the township of Batchelor. There you will find a butterfly farm, museum and plenty of places to grab lunch. Upon arriving in Litchfield National Park, stop at the Termite Mounds; take a refreshing dip in one of the many cascading waterfalls and plunge pools in the Park or take a walk through nature. Stop into Wangi Falls and take a scenic flight. Litchfield National Park - Florence Falls

Katherine Region - Mataranka Thermal Pool

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 21 DO THE NORTHERN TERRITORY DO SAVANNAH WAY

Stock up the four-wheel drive with camping and fishing gear, and hit the Savannah Way. This journey of a lifetime will take you from Cairns in Queensland through the Savannah lands of Northern Territory and on to Broome in the West. The route is mainly sealed highway although there are some long stretches of gravel road and several challenging four-wheel drive routes to tackle.

Pine Creek NITMILUK (KATHERINE GORGE) Peppimenarti NATIONAL PARK Manyallaluk

KATHERINE Barunga Roper Bar CUTTA CUTTA CAVES ELSEY NATURE PARK NATIONAL PARK GULF OF

GREGORY Mataranka Roper Hwy Nathan River Rd CARPENTARIA NATIONAL PARK STUART Timber Creek Larrimah KEEP RIVER Victoria Buntine Hwy NATIONAL PARK River Borroloola

Victoria Hwy Daly Waters GREGORY NATIONAL PARK Top Springs Carpentaria Hwy Cape Dunmarra Crawford Buchanan Hwy

Newcastle Kalkarindji Waters Wollogorang Elliott

Buntine Hwy Barkly Stock Route Calvert Rd

DO BORROLOOLA RennerDO MATARANKA Springs Lajamanu Next to the MacArthur River, Borroloola is Mataranka, a small community located only a Must Do along Savannah Way. This fishing 100km south of Katherine, is more than just a enthusiasts paradise has excellent estuary stopover on the Explorers Way. Why not stop, and open water fishing. Take a few days to relax and take a dip in the Mataranka Thermal land an iconic barramundi, or explore the Sir Pools the region is known for, bubbling up at Edwards Pellew Group of Islands in the Gulf of a fairly constant temperature of 34 degrees Carpentaria. Celsius.

DO LORELLA SPRINGS Lorella Springs Wilderness Park is a huge 4,000 DO KATHERINE square kilometres (one-million acre) Outback Where the outback meets the tropics - discover Australia cattle station. a region full of gorges and misty waterfalls, thermal springs and ancient cultures. The DO CAPE CRAWFORD mighty Katherine Gorge is also a must do, and the Nitmiluk National Park it sits in has many of Do a chopper flight over the iconic Lost City spots to enjoy a dip in the water. and take a walk amongst the giant standstone pillars.

DO ROPER BAR DO VICTORIA RIVER For spectacular fishing action, head to the Just a short walk from the camping area lies great tidal pandanus-fringed Roper River and stay fishing & bird-watching spots, and walking tracks with stunning scenery. Feeling more adventurous? the night at the new Munbililla camp ground. Take a 90 minute meander up the soaring rocky An exciting 4WD adventure, Roper Bar is a esparments on the Escarpment Lookout Walk and fantastic getaway from the buzzing city-life. you’ll be rewarded with amazing panoramic views of the valley below.

DO DALY WATERS DO JUDBARRA/GREGORY In between Katherine and Tennant Creek is a Victoria River Roadhouse is the gateway to unique pub that could only belong in the NT. sensational fishing and 4WD adventures of Daly Waters Pub attracts visitors from all over Gregory National Park. Discover historic and Australia and beyond, wanting to relax after Aboriginal sacred sites, the magnificent boab a long drive and enjoy Daly’s famous outback tree or even try out bush camping amid a tucker, cold beer and live music. Daly is a must fantastic natural backdrop. do on your NT adventures.

22 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 FISHING THE TOP END & TRANSPORT

Fishing in the Northern Territory is world class and there are many diverse fishing habitats on offer; lush billabongs, big tidal rivers, mangrove-lined estuaries, a scattering of islands and hundreds of kilometres of unspoilt coastline. The pristine coastal waters are where some of the best tropical sportfishing action in the world takes place.

Must Do: • Try Heli or Air Boat Fishing • Book a spot on a bluewater fishing boat & hook up some of the big fish just outside of • Darwin Harbour • Head to Arnhem Land or the Tiwi Islands and stay in one of the remote fishing lodges – a • true Territory fishing experience • Target Barramundi one day and sports fishing the next • Combine a scenic flight or tour with your fishing experience

Darwin Harbour is full of exotic fish March to May, anglers can fish You can hire a boat or bring your but those seeking adventure can successfully at any time for a range own, take a fully-guided fishing head into Arnhem Land, over to the of species. The northern regions of safari, stay at a remote fishing lodge Tiwi Islands, down to the Victoria or the Territory are also home to an or charter a mothership – every type Daly Rivers in the Katherine region array of other great sport and reef of angler and every type of fishing or into the Gulf region for a truly fish, including giant trevally (GT), experience is catered for in the unforgettable fishing expedition. queenfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, Northern Territory. Huge, wide rivers like the Daly and black jewfish, golden snapper, red Victoria are prime barra haunts, emperor, coral trout, marlin and as are the networks of beautiful sailfish. waterways found in World Heritage- Listed Kakadu National Park and the Try your hand at mud crabbing. Wildlife and Wetlands region. Darwin Harbour has a maze of mangrove inlets that play home to Fishing in the Northern Territory is the mighty Northern Territory mud excellent all year round and while crab, which makes for delicious barramundi are most active from eating.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 23 Fishing Tours and Charters

HELIFISH OFFSHORE BOATS COBOURG FISHING SAFARIS

Phone: 1800 88 FISH (3474) Darwin, Northern Territory Phone: 1300 148 809 Email: [email protected] Phone: 0407 212 255 Email: [email protected] Website: www.helifish.com.au Email: [email protected] Website: Departs: Darwin Region & Website: www.offshoreboats.com.au www.cobourgfishingsafaris.com.au Wildlife and Wetlands Region Departs: Darwin Region Departs: Darwin Region and Cost: From $1,150pp Arnhem Land Offshore Boats provides quality, small Helicopter fishing specialists offering half, group, offshore fishing charters, targeting We offer accommodated fishing charters full and custom designed multi-day safaris! all offshore species with their highly within the fish-filled waters of the Cobourg Flying over impressive landscapes, target experienced, local fishing guide. If you Peninsula (Arnhem Land). Heralded as the mighty Barramundi, Salmon, Mangrove prefer to skipper yourself, their 250hp, one of the best fishing destinations in Jack and other species! More than just a 7.5m Stabicraft is the only NT hire boat Australia, the Peninsula is only an hour’s fishing tour - it’s a photographers dream licensed for up to 30nm offshore & flight from Darwin. Experience the first- and a chance to WIN $10,000! Here’s to overnight hire. class fishing the NT is famous for today! tight lines and dollar signs!

BARRA BOAT HIRE & FISHING CHARTERS

Phone: 0419 916 638 Email: [email protected] Website: www.barraboathire.com.au Departs: Darwin Region From: $380.00

Offering a range of boats to hire as well as fishing charters we can get you on the water for a great days fishing. Call us now.

Vehicle Hire

THRIFTY DARWIN THRIFTY KATHERINE

64 Stuart Highway, Darwin NT 0820 Travel North, 6 Katherine Terrace, Phone: 1800 891 125 Katherine NT 0850 Email: [email protected] Phone: 1800 891 125 Website: www.thrifty.com.au Email: [email protected] Website: www.thrifty.com.au Thrifty are locally owned and operated, with an extensive fleet of passenger and Centrally located on the main street in 4wd vehicles. Whether you are heading to Katherine, renting a great vehicle from Litchfield National Park, exploring Kakadu our Katherine office is easy. Alternatively, or relaxing around town, our staff have the if you would prefer to drive to Katherine, knowledge and advice to help you have an you can choose from our extensive fleet of enjoyable and safe trip. vehicles at any of our three Darwin locations.

24 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 DISCOVERING DARWIN & SURROUNDS

Darwin is a lively harbour city well-known as Australia’s gateway to worldclass nature and cultural activities and experiences. With a population in excess of 145,000, it is a destination renowned for its tropical climate and colourful characters.

Darwin, Australia is the place to Darwin is no hotter or more humid can eat laksa on the beach at the enjoy fresh seafood, go fishing than Asian destinations such as sunset markets, catch a band at one for the catch of a lifetime, watch Bali and Singapore, with year-round of many live music venues, cruise the sun set while cruising Darwin temperatures consistently around the harbour at sunset or relax in a Harbour and party at the lively 32˚ Celsius, ensuring a fabulous deckchair watching a movie on the clubs and bars. There’s so much to outdoor lifestyle. big screen under a canopy of stars. learn and do in Darwin. Experience Darwin’s unique WWII history at With its diverse mixture of more than East Point Military Reserve, Charles 60 nationalities Darwin offers Darwin National Park, Darwin year-round dining to suit all Military Museum and Defence of tastes and budgets. Choose from Darwin Experience and the Royal fine dining at East Point, one of Flying Doctor Service Darwin many eateries on the Cullen Bay Tourist Facility are just some of the boardwalk, lively Mitchell Street, locations that played a historic role Darwin Waterfront, the family- during WWII. friendly Darwin Sailing Club and There is plenty to do and see around Darwin Trailer Boat Club at Fannie town or simply relax, recharge the Bay, Darwin Ski Club, fish and batteries and enjoy the holiday chips on Stokes Hill Wharf, Dinah atmosphere. There is a huge focus Beach or Fisherman Wharf...the on outdoor activities – eating, choice is yours. drinking, shopping, movie-going, sailing and visiting the markets. You

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 25 In the heart of Darwin City Crocs in the City! Home to the Cage of Death

9 awesome reptile shows daily Crocodile feeding 11.30am & 2.30pm daily 10% Fishing for Crocs platform Hold a baby crocodile OFF ENTRY World’s largest display with presentation of this voucher Stokes Hill Wharf Darwin not valid with any other promotion of Australian reptiles rfdsdarwin.com.au | Open 7 Days 2018 TOP TTE 08 8983 5700 58 Mitchell St, Darwin City • 08 8981 7522 • croccove.com

26 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 WAVE LAGOON - THE DARWIN HISTORY AND DARWIN WATERFRONT WARTIME EXPERIENCE

Cnr Kitchener Drive & Stokes Hill Road 5 Smith Street, Darwin NT 0800 Phone: (08) 8941 7260 Phone: 0455 998 346 Email: [email protected] Email: Website: www.waterfront.nt.gov.au [email protected] Price: $0 - $7.00 Website: www.dhwe.com.au Opening times: 10.00am - 6.00pm daily Departs: Darwin Region Cost: From $40.00 - $115.00 The Wave Lagoon is one of Darwin’s coolest attractions. Located at the Darwin The Darwin History and Wartime Waterfront, the Wave Lagoon has 10 Experience offers a fun and informative different wave types which run for 20 tour through and around the city of Darwin minutes every half an hour. Boogie boards in a genuine WW2 army truck! A great and floatation tubes are introduction to Darwin, we give available, or bring your own. a comprehensive overview of the city and its history.

DECKCHAIR CINEMA THE CHANTILLY KITCHEN TEA ROOM CROCOSAURUS COVE

Jervois Road, 66 Aralia Street, Nightcliff NT 0810 58 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Darwin Waterfront NT 0800 Phone: (08) 7906 2825 Phone: (08) 8981 7522 Phone: (08) 8981 0700 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.thechantillykitchen.com Website: www.croccove.com Website: www.deckchaircinema.com A delightful little cafe, where you can Located in the heart of Darwin City, Darwin’s beloved independent cinema leave any worries behind you. Our menu is Crocosaurus Cove is home to the “Cage under the stars, fringed by tropical quaint and perfect for morning tea, a light of Death”, Australia’s only crocodile dive, gardens and overlooking Darwin Harbour. lunch or afternoon tea. We make a variety and boasts the World’s largest display Dinner is available every night, prepared of light sandwiches and our desserts are of Australian reptiles. Offering 9 reptile fresh by local caterers. Enjoy a famous proudly all homemade from scratch. shows daily, including the Big Croc Feed Top End sunset with a refreshing beverage Show. Adults: $35, Senior: $28, Child: $23. from the licensed kiosk. Open every night of the week, April – November.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 27 Markets

MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKET PARAP VILLAGE MARKET NIGHTCLIFF MARKET Gilruth Avenue, Darwin Parap Shopping Village, Parap Progress Drive, Nightcliff Location from Darwin CBD: 3km Location from Darwin CBD: 4km Location from Darwin CBD: 10km Phone: (08) 8981 3454 Phone: (08) 8942 0805 Phone: 0414 368 773 Day: Thursdays and Sunday (April to Oct) Day: Saturdays (year round) Day: Sundays (year round) Time: Thur: 5.00pm - 10.00pm Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm Sun: 4.00pm - 9.00pm

Renowned for the tropical sunsets over This vibrant and colourful market place A casual wander around the market may Mindil Beach. Visitors can experience will enthrall you with its diverse food unearth an unusual bargain or a unique the vibrant, friendly and stimulating stalls, arts and crafts from locals artisans gift with stalls displaying a range of environment while enjoying the culinary and its busy but relaxed atmosphere. original crafts, plants and recyclable delights on offer, and an extensive array Locals just can’t pass up a Saturday goods. With plenty of shade and space to of handmade craft, art and services. Live morning without their laksa or fresh sit and enjoy the entertainment from entertainment including live bands, street tropical smoothie. local artists. performers, cultural dance and fire shows.

RAPID CREEK FRESH MALAK MARKETPLACE - PRODUCE MARKET ORGANIC FARMERS MARKET

Rapid Creek Shopping Centre, TowerRd Chamber Crescent Car Park, Malak Location from Darwin CBD: 11km Location from Darwin CBD: 15km Phone: (08) 8948 4866 Phone: 0421 955 282 Day: Saturdays and Sundays (year round) Day: Saturdays (April - Oct) Time: 6.00am - 2.00pm Time: 4.30pm - 9.00pm

Spend a lazy Sunday morning getting a Darwin’s first organic market, arts and massage, followed with a delicious brunch craft and health hub, with a unique before browsing the stalls for fresh multicultural and creative flare. After produce. Specialising in a wide selection opening in 2016, Malak Marketplace has of fruit and vegetables, bric-a-brac, become the iconic, family friendly location seafood, craft and an extensive variety for a late Saturday afternoon / evening of food stalls. There is live entertainment to share local culture, music, organic food and performances. and entertainment.

PALMERSTON & RURAL MARKET FRED PASS RURAL MARKET BERRY SPRINGS MARKET

Goyder Square, Palmerston CBD Fred Pass Reserve, Cnr of Bees Creek Cox Peninsula Road, Berry Springs Location from Darwin CBD: 20km Road and Stuart Highway Location from Darwin CBD: 50km Phone: (08) 8988 4124 Location from Darwin CBD: 30km Phone: (08) 8988 6674 Day: Fridays (May - Oct) Phone: 0410 836 880 Day: Saturdays (year round) Time: 5.30pm - 9.30pm Day: Saturdays (year round) Time: 8.00am - 12.00pm Cost: Free Entry Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm

Selling everything from hand-crafted Fred Pass Rural Market is bigger and Come along and join the locals for jewellery and novelty items, fresh better in its new location, the markets are breakfast or maybe grab an early lunch. produce and a selection of exotic foods. held each Saturday throughout the year The Berry Springs Community Market has Be entertained by great live music, and include a varied selection of market stalls ranging from fresh locally grown multicultural dances, and let’s not forget stalls offering fresh produce, food stalls produce, to arts and crafts, plants and the kids - with rides, clowns, games, and local craft items. second-hand goods and local competitions and giveaways. hand-made market products.

28 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 TO PALMERSTON>>>

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 29 DARWIN ACCOMMODATION

Darwin City and surrounds boasts a range of accommodation designed to appeal to the comfort, needs and the pockets of all visitors to the region. Accommodation options are available in the heart of the city, at Cullen Bay Marina, near the Botanic Gardens and at the Darwin Waterfront, all within easy access to the CBD.

Accommodation is also available shaded caravan parks, cabin seven days, simply call just outside the city, convenient to accommodation and farmstays. 1300 138 886. the local attractions of areas such as East Point Reserve, the weekend It is important to remember when Note: This guide includes a markets, Stuart Highway, Casuarina planning your accommodation to selection of accommodation Shopping Centre, Palmerston book in advance, particularly during options available in Darwin and the and Darwin International Airport. the peak season of May to October. Top End region. All accommodation provides the Major festivals and events during A comprehensive list and an online convenience of off-street parking this time can affect occupancy levels booking facility can be found at and easy access to public transport as well as pricing of accommodation. tourismtopend.com.au to transfer you into the city or to By booking in advance you will other sights and attractions around have secured the most reasonable Darwin. rates and availability on offer at accommodation properties. As you head ‘down the track’ out of Darwin, you will find accommodation If you require assistance with unique to the region, with properties your holiday planning, the helpful providing their own specialised and friendly staff at the Visitor facilities such as bed and breakfast, Information Centre are available

30 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 ONE PRECINCT TWO UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

FROM $129* PER ROOM PER NIGHT

*Based on lead in room type, single / twin share, room only. Subject to availability.

Darwin Airport DARWIN AIRPORT RESORT

novotel Darwin Airport MERCURE DARWIN AIRPORT RESORT

2 Sir Norman Brearley Drive, Marrara 1 Sir Norman Brearley Drive, Marrara Phone (08) 8920 7800 • Email [email protected] Phone (08) 8920 3333 I Email [email protected]

VISIT US AT DARWINAIRPORTHOTELS.COM.AU

JOIN OUR GLOBAL LOYALTY PROGRAM AT ACCORHOTELS.COM BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 31 TRAVELODGE RESORT DARWIN VIBE HOTEL DARWIN WATERFRONT PALMS CITY RESORT

64 Cavenagh Street, 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City NT 0800 64 The Esplanade, Darwin NT 0800 Darwin City NT 0800 Phone: (08) 8982 9998 Phone: (08) 8982 9200 Phone: (08) 8946 0111 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: vibehotels.com Website: www.palmscityresort.com Website: travelodgehotels.com.au Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront is perfectly Palms City Resort is a 3.5 star property Travelodge Resort Darwin is located in positioned amongst the entertainment located on the picturesque Esplanade in the heart of Darwin’s CBD. Stay in one and dining hub of Darwin’s seafront Darwin City. With a choice of Hotel Rooms, of our 168 rooms or 32 self-contained promenade. Stay in one of our 120 well- Garden Bungalows, Tropical Villas and townhouses. Enjoy facilities including two appointed guest rooms and admire the Executive Villas all surrounded in tropical swimming pools and spas, fitness room as splendour of the Darwin Waterfront lagoon. gardens the property’s design is unique well as dining in Treetops Restaurant. Enjoy the modern pool, gym and restaurant amongst the other city facilities. accommodation choices.

CLUB TROPICAL RESORT DARWIN CITY GARDEN APARTMENTS DARWIN AIRPORT INN

622 Lee Point Road, Lee Point NT 0810 93 Woods Street, Darwin NT 0800 1 Sir Norman Brearley Drive, Phone: (08) 8944 8500 Phone: 1800 891 138 Marrara NT 0812 Email: Email: [email protected] Phone: (08) 8920 3333 [email protected] Website: www.citygardensapts.com.au Email: [email protected] Website: Website: www.darwinairporthotels.com.au Darwin’s original tropical boutique www.clubtropicalresortdarwin.com.au From: $99.00 – $159.00 accommodation nestled in a quiet part Darwin Airport Inn was designed for savvy In the northern suburbs of Darwin, just of the CBD. 15 two bedroom fully self- travellers seeking convenient, short-stay 200 metres from stunning Lee Point contained apartments overlooking a lagoon accommodation close to Darwin Airport. Beach, a relaxing destination that is style pool. Walking distance to Mindil Located within the Mercure Darwin Airport perfect for business or leisure. Markets, Golf Course, Botanical Gardens, Cafes and Darwin Nightlife. Free parking, complex, all 108 brand-new rooms feature Wi-Fi and a complementary BBQ area. a modern design and quality finishing’s and furnishings. They offer modern style with the comfort travellers seek.

DARWIN FREESPIRIT RESORT VALUE INN MELALEUCA ON MITCHELL - DARWIN YHA

901 Stuart Highway, Holtze NT 0829 50 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 52 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Phone: (08) 8935 0888 Phone: (08) 8981 4733 Phone: (08) 8941 7800 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.darwinfreespiritresort.com.au Website: www.valueinn.com.au Website: www.momdarwin.com

Central, affordable accommodation that Located in Darwin’s vibrant backpacker A welcoming atmosphere, range of won’t break the budget! All air-conditioned district, Melaleuca on Mitchell - Darwin accommodation, caravan/camping, onsite rooms feature a queen and single bed, YHA has the best facilities in Australia! bar and bistro, activities and entertainment ensuite, TV, fridge, and tea and coffee Chill out on our rooftop sundeck, enjoy 2 programs. Only 17kms from the Darwin making facilities. Free off-street parking, swimming pools, a waterfall spa, pool bar, CBD, its centrally located to everything in a plunge pool and BBQ area, and 24 hour and 4m big screen. Offering standard and Darwin, so you can easily see the sunsets, reception (via Melaleuca on Mitchell en-suite dormitories and private rooms. national parks and various attractions. next door).

32 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 AFFDADARWIN YHA Awesome ACCMMDA Backpacking H HA F in the heart of DAW roperty Facilities Darwin city P P 2 P oom Facilities Chill out on the huge 1st floor sundeck and E enjoy 2 swimming pools, waterfall spa & pool bar. Plus a range of air-conditioned private and dorm rooms to suit all budgets 0 T 52 Mitchell St, Darwin City, Northern Territory, Australia 08 881 +61 (0) 8 8941 7800 | Book online @ momdarwin.com oo online valueinn.com.au for best rate availability

DISCOVER THE BEST OF DARWIN Immerse yourself in the lush, tropical landscaped gardens, giant shady trees and comfortable accommodation at Discovery Parks – Darwin, the closest holiday park to Darwin City. Relax in our swimming pools, outdoor BBQ areas or enjoy a meal from our onsite dining hall. Cabins and sites available all year round.

11 Farrell Crescent, Winnellie, NT 0820 Phone: 1800 662 253 Email: [email protected]

WWW.DISCOVERYHOLIDAYPARKS.COM.AU

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 33 DARWIN CENTRAL HOTEL DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ADINA APARTMENT HOTEL ESPLANADE DARWIN DARWIN WATERFRONT

21 Knuckey Street, Darwin NT 0801 Phone: 1300 364 263 116 Esplanade, Darwin, NT 0800 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City NT 0800 Email: [email protected] Phone: (08) 8980 0800 Phone: (08) 8982 9999 Website: www.darwincentral.com.au Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Cost: From $109.00 - $350.00 Website: www.esplanadedarwin.doubletree.com Website: adinahotels.com The Darwin Central Hotel has an Price: $105.00 - $355.00 Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront is unbeatable location opposite the Smith Situated across from Darwin’s beautiful located in the heart of the Darwin Waterfront Street Shopping Mall, surrounded by Esplanade Park and within walking distance of precinct with close proximity to the CBD. shopping, dining & tourist attractions. the city centre, enjoy recreation facilities and The hotel features 121 spacious one and two Featuring 132 spacious rooms decorated comforting amenities. Spend time relaxing in bedroom apartments and studio rooms. For with unique local artwork & some with Darwin’s largest outdoor pool. Dine al fresco business travellers, the Darwin Convention kitchenettes. Enjoy a large range of dining on the sun soaked terrace of the poolside Centre is steps away. options including 24hr room service. restaurant and bar, Aqua, open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DARWIN OAKS ELAN DARWIN HILTON DARWIN

122 Esplanade, Darwin, NT 0800 31 Woods Street, Darwin NT 0800 32 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Phone: (08) 8943 3600 Phone: 1300 542 502 Phone: (08) 8982 0000 Email: Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] [email protected] Website: oakshotels.com Website: www.darwin.hilton.com Website: www.darwin.doubletree.com Cost: From $109.00 - $499.00 Price: From $119.00 - $369.00 Price: From $115.00 - $358.00 Oaks Elan Darwin offers uninterrupted Overlooking Darwin Harbour, Hilton Darwin Enjoy a famous Darwin sun set over the views over the city, Darwin Harbour and offers stunning views and an ideal location horizon from the comfort of your Juliet Frances Bay. Our hotel rooms and one and in the heart of the city. The elegant rooms balcony in your harbour view room. Located two bedroom apartments are contemporary and suites are loaded with thoughtful on Darwin Esplanade and within walking in design with quality finishes. Guests can amenities and contemporary features. We distance to the city centre. Spacious guest enjoy our resort-style leisure amenities also offer a high-floor outdoor pool, gym rooms and suites offer floor-to-ceiling including an outdoor lap pool, gymnasium and more. windows. Indulge in superior service and and onsite restaurant. modern amenities.

ARGUS HOTEL DARWIN ARGUS APARTMENTS RAMADA SUITES ZEN QUARTER

13 Shepherd Street, Darwin NT 0800 6 Cardona Court Darwin NT 0800 6 Carey Street, Darwin NT 0800 Phone: (08) 8941 8300 Phone: (08) 9825 5000 Phone: (08) 7912 5212 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.argusdarwin.com.au Website: www.argusdarwin.com.au Website: www.zenquarter.com Price: From $99.00 Price: From $199.00 Price: From $95.00 - $395.00 Argus Hotel, one of Darwins newest CBD Argus Apartments Darwin consists of luxury Spacious, fully self-contained hotel Hotels, consists of 102 Superior and Deluxe One, Two and Three Bedroom Apartments, apartments with large balconies. rooms. All rooms offer Juliette balconies, in addition to our multi-level Four-Bedroom Complimentary high-speed internet, Foxtel LCD TV & cable, plus free WIFI as standard. Penthouse Suites. A short walk from Darwin’s and free parking including spaces for The property also features a plunge pool/ entertainment, restaurant and Waterfront high-set or long vehicles. Gym, 28 metre spa, gymnasium and undercover secure precincts, Argus Apartments Darwin is Darwin’s infinity pool, licensed café, with one of the parking. Rates include light continental premier luxury accommodation from which to best breakfasts in Darwin. buffet breakfast. explore the Darwin surrounds. All rooms have air-conditioning, full kitchens, washing machines.

34 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Caravan Parks

DARWIN FREESPIRIT RESORT HIDDEN VALLEY HOLIDAY PARK BIG4 HOWARD SPRINGS HOLIDAY PARK

901 Stuart Highway, Holtze NT 0829 25 Hidden Valley Road, Phone: (08) 8935 0888 Berrimah NT 0828 Email: [email protected] Phone: (08) 8984 2888 170 Whitewood Road, Website: www.darwinfreespiritresort.com.au Email: Howard Springs NT 0835 [email protected] Phone: (08) 8983 1169 Website: www.big4howardsprings.com.au A welcoming atmosphere, range of Website: accommodation, caravan/camping, onsite www.hiddenvalleyholidaypark.com.au With powered and ensuite sites as bar and bistro, activities and entertainment well as an extensive range of cabin Waiting to be found accommodation, we have something to programs. Only 17kms from the Darwin Just 10 mins from the CBD you will find CBD, its centrally located to everything in cater for all budgets. Located just 20 our Hidden Treasure. Offering multiple minutes’ drive from Darwin and close to Darwin, so you can easily see the sunsets, accommodation options to suit all national parks and various attractions. Litchfield and Kakadu National Park, make travellers. Relax and unwind by the pool BIG4 Howard Springs your go and enjoy the tropical lifestyle. to destination. Visit our website or call reception for more information and rates.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 35 THE PENINSULA WAY

The Peninsula Way region provides a tantalising taste of the Top Ends most pristine landscapes and unique wildlife within an hour from Darwin City.

Must Do: • Birds of Prey presentation at the Territory Wildlife Park • Visit Dundee Beach • Visit WWII sites, wetlands, termite mounds and finish off with a beach sunset • Home made mango ice-cream is a must • Swim in the local Berry Springs Natural Springs • Go fishing or catch a crab or two

The Peninsula Way encompasses swimming and walking. kilometres south-west of Darwin and Berry Springs, Dundee Beach and a popular weekend destination for Mandorah, travelling west off the Berry Springs is also the home of the Top End locals. Fishing, boating and Stuart Highway on the Cox Peninsula world acclaimed Territory Wildlife long walks at sunset are just some of Road. Park, nestled on 400 hectares of the activities to enjoy here. Dundee natural bushland and showcasing is a great place to target big, hard Locals consider The Peninsula Way the wildlife of Northern Australia in fighting sports fish. as their best-kept secret; the perfect their natural habitats. There are six getaway for a weekend of relaxing by kilometres of walking trails and a Mandorah a spring fed creek, saluting a sunset free shuttle train to link the 26 major The beachside town of Mandorah on an isolated beach or hauling in a exhibits. Allow at least four hours to is near the Peninsula’s tip. Within big fish within cooee of the pub. The explore the park. Presentations and easy access of Darwin, either by a Peninsula Way spoils action lovers displays start from 10am daily. 20 minute ferry trip from Cullen for choice with fishing charters, Bay, or 128 kilometres along the Cox helicopter safaris, quad bike tours, Peninsula Road. There are excellent and four-wheel drive adventures. It beaches, creek and bluewater fishing is easy to spend a few days or more opportunities and convenient boat exploring The Peninsula Way. ramp access at Mandorah.

Berry Springs You can explore natural springs, Berry Springs Nature Park located wetlands and termite mounds just 60 kilometres south of Darwin rivalling those near Litchfield. Visit is a favourite relaxation spot for historic World War II sites including locals and visitors alike. With two the Liberator Memorial - the crash large spring-fed pools and a small site of a WWII Liberator bomber waterfall fringed by pandanus and Dundee Beach and the WWII bunkers, a submarine monsoon rainforest make for an This relaxed coastal town and defence cable anchor site. ideal spot for leisurely barbecues, popular fishing spot is 140

36 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Monsoon Forest Walk eet so e rea Nocturnal House erritorians erritor i i e ar Flight Deck 50 km from Darwin Cox Peninsula Rd, Berry Springs Tel: (08) 8988 7200 www.territorywildlifepark.com.au Aquarium Open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week Closed Christmas Day

River Ray Encounter

<<< TO DARWIN <<< TO MANDORAH

Berry Springs Tavern Anglers Choice Fishing Safaris Dundee Beach Sholly Shack S T Cox Peninsula Rd Dundee Beach Holiday Park Berry Springs U Nature Reserve A Crab Claw Island Resort R

AAOK Lakes T H

Resort & I Cox Peninsula Rd G Caravan Park H Crazy W Berry Creek Acres Farm A Bush Retreat Shop Y Fogg Bay Rd Darwin River Tavern NT Adventure Park

THE SandPalms Tropical Motel PENINSULA WAY

<<< TO BATCHELOR

65km to Litchfield National Park from the Cox Peninsula Road turn off.

Pell WWII Airstrip

37 BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.auWar Cemetery

Adelaide River Heritage Precinct Robin Falls LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

Litchfield National Park is just an hour-and-a-half drive from Darwin and features a myriad of diverse environments including rugged sandstone escarpments, perennial spring-fed streams, monsoon rainforest, magnetic termite mounds, waterfalls and historic ruins.

Must Do: • Visit Tjaynera (Sandy Creek) Falls, Blyth Homestead Ruins and the weathered sandstone • columns of The Lost City by 4WD • View the magnetic termite mounds • View Florence Falls set amid the monsoon forest • Cool off at Buley Rockhole, a series of cascading waterfalls and rockholes • Visit Wangi Falls – one of the park’s best swimming and picnic spots

This 1,500 square-kilometre park however to really experience necessary to access The Lost City park is an important area to the the park we suggest you stay longer. and the Reynolds River Track. It is Koongurrukun, Marranuggu, Werat, also possible during the dry season and Warray Aboriginal people. The to travel by four-wheel drive down Finniss exploration was the first the Reynolds River Track to the Daly European connection to the area and River Road. the park was named after Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of the The crystal-clear swimming holes expedition. For 75 years until 1955, and pleasant bushwalking trails make the area was the centre for tin and this park a favourite among Darwin copper mining. It then fell under a locals. Meals and refreshments are pastoral lease until it was designated available inside the park at Wangi a national park in 1986. Falls and you can stay overnight at a number of places in and along It’s best to stay at least two days the road to the park that offer in Litchfield to experience the true campsites, cabins and caravans, or in beauty. With plenty of plunge pools Litchfield National Park’s major the small township of Batchelor – the and rockholes to keep you busy. You attractions are linked by a sealed gateway to Litchfield. can spend as little as one day in the road, although a four-wheel drive is

38 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 The Tabletop Track – LITCHFIELD TOURIST PARK a Bush Walker’s Delight This long distance bushwalk offers the opportunity to experience the isolation of the Top End. You’ll hike through extensive woodlands, along creeklines to scenic waterfalls and 705 Litchfield Tourist Park, pools. The 39 kilometre circuit Finnis Valley NT 0845 is suitable for experienced, well- Phone: (08) 8976 0070 prepared bushwalkers willing to carry Email: [email protected] Website: litchfieldtouristpark.com.au their supplies (including water) and Cost: From $14.00 - $269.00 camp with minimal facilities. Stay closest to the entrance of Litchfield Note: The Tabletop Track is closed National Park - the ideal base for your Litchfield adventure. Enjoy the outback where between October and June. cattle and horses roam freely over our back For more information visit: fence, native birds and wildlife make their home. Cabins, sites, cafe, swimming pool, guest nt.gov.au/leisure/recreation/ barbecues, laundry and pet friendly. bushwalking-hiking/litchfield- national-park-tabletop-track

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL TO DARWIN >> PARK Pandanus Litchfield on Litchfield Tourist Park Coomalie Creek TO DARWIN VIA ad WWII Airstrip 2 5 5 lor Ro THE PENINSULA WAY >> che Bat 14 Rum Bamboo Creek Jungle BATCHELOR 23 << TO CHANNEL POINT 2 Tin Mine Lake 69km 10 Walker Creek Florence Falls

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Wangi Falls Cafe e h Camp Sites 7 Tjaetaba Falls C Greenant Creek d Meals / Refreshments Milton Roa The Lost City War Cemetery Walking Trails ADELAIDE RIVER Mount Bundy Station 5 3 Swimming Tolmer Falls Blyth Homestead Adelaide River 4WD Access Only Railway Heritage 2 Tjaynera Falls / Sandy Creek Precinct Toilets / Shower 15

Toilets Robin Falls Adelaide River PROSPECT HILL Show Society Wheelchair Access Caravan Park TO KATHERINE Picnic Facilities VIA PINE CREEK >> Kiosk Cafe 19 32 WIFI Information Surprise Creek Falls Emergency Call Device Ranger Station Aboriginal Culture 16 Fuel WWII Airstrip Sealed Road Unsealed Road 4x4 Access Only Railway << TO DALY RIVER BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 39 Attractions the car park. There is no access to walking trail. After your walk enjoy the gorge below as it is home to the usually uncrowded plunge pool. Termite Mounds protected rare species of bats, the The falls are nine kilometres from A major attraction seen on driving Orange Horseshoe Bat and the Ghost the southern access track accessible into the park are the many Magnetic Bat. However, the Tolmer Creek Walk by four-wheel drive only Toilet and Termite and Cathedral Termite (1.6km) leads from the Lookout along shower facilities. Camping fees apply. Mounds found on the floodplains, Tolmer Creek. Note: No swimming or Closed over the wet season. standing up to two metres in height camping permitted at this location. in a north-south orientation. The Cascades configuration acts as a built-in Greenant Creek to Tjaetaba Falls A year-round waterhole suitable for temperature control mechanism, Allow 1.5 hours for this three swimming, Cascades features an allowing the least possible surface kilometre return walk. Picnic tables all-weather access road to a new area to be exposed to the heat of near the creek provide a good place carpark, grassland viewing platforms the sun. to take a break before taking the and a walking trail from the picnic climb to the top of Tjaetaba Falls. area to the top of Cascades. Toilet The falls and area below are an facilities available. Aboriginal sacred site - swimming downstream is prohibited. Toilet Wangi Falls facilities available Note: No The most popular because of it’s swimming or camping permitted at easy access. Information is provided this location. near the car park. An interpretive walk which commences near the Blyth Homestead Ruins pool provides an opportunity Blyth Homestead is located just for photography. Wangi has a Buley Rockhole off the Sandy Creek Road. Within camping ground with all amenities A series of small waterfalls and the park are the ruins of the old including toilets, showers and rockholes that provide the perfect homestead built in 1929 by the free gas BBQs in designated areas site to simply cool off and relax. For Sergeant family. The homestead was and waterfalls surrounding a cool the bushwalker the Florence Creek eventually abandoned in the 1960s freshwater swimming hole. Meals Walk leads from Buley Rockhole to and is now preserved as a popular and refreshments are available from Florence Falls. visitor attraction. No camping. the café at the Wangi Falls Centre. Closed over the wet season. Camping fees apply. Florence Falls A spectacular double waterfall set amidst monsoon rainforest. There are 135 steps through rain- forest to take you to the base of the falls, but if you don’t feel like walking all the way a nearby viewing platform is ideal for sightseeing and photography. The falls have 2WD and 4WD campgrounds with showers and Walker Creek toilet facilities. Camping fees apply. Allow two hours for this 3.5 kilometre return walk. The trail leads The Lost City Surprise Creek Falls to a shared picnic area with the Accessible by 4WD only (during the Accessible by four-wheel drive opportunity for a cooling swim in a dry season, May to October) the only. A short walk through a shady crystal clear pool. Camping spots are impressive site known as ‘The Lost monsoon forest leads to a large available along the trail - these must City’, reminiscent of the ruins of tranquil pool. A little further, a be booked on the reservation board. some lost civilisation, is a formation couple of round rock pools sunk Closed over the wet season. of sandstone blocks and majestic into the rock face towards the start pillars formed and weathered by of these small but pleasant falls. A Bamboo Creek Tin Mine the elements. The site is some eight great cooling-off spot after a walk. Easily accessed, just a short walk kilometres off the main Litchfield Camping fees apply. Toilet facilities from the car park to the ruins of the Park Road. No camping. only. Closed over the wet season. old tin mine. Tin was mined here on Closed over the wet season. a small scale from 1905, however Tjaynera Falls/Sandy Creek Falls adverse conditions of transportation Tolmer Falls Nestling in an open valley luxuriant and unfavourable wet season rains The lookout to view these dramatic with paperbarks, the falls can be brought about the closure of the falls is located 400 metres from accessed by taking the 1.7 kilometre mine in the 1950s.

40 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&ved=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realcommercial.com.au%2Fproperty-hotel%2Bleisure-nt-dun-

STAY AND EXPLORE THE GREATER LITCHFIELD REGION TO ADELAIDE RIVER Discover below why you need more than just a day trip to explore the JUMPING CROCS, Co eninsula, err rings, athelor, itheld delaide ier regions KAKADU & JABIRU TO DARWIN WWII HERITAGE BERRY SPRINGS ARNHEM HWY TO MANDORAH NATURE PARK

STUART HWY TERRITORY FANTASTIC 1.5 FISHING HRS WILDLIFE PARK C O X P E N IN BOTH RIGHT ON THE SU L BEACH, READY FOR A COX PENINSULA RD 2 R LAUNCH! O HRS A CRAB CLAW D THE PENINSULA WAY ISLAND 45 MINS FAMILY FRIENDLY 2 FOOD HRS DUNDEE ADVENTURE & ECO TOURS RANGE OF BEACH ACCOMMODATION FOG G BAY ROAD BERRY SPRINGS AREA

FISHING

SIGHTSEEING / TRACKS RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION LITCHFIELD PARK ROAD SWIMMING RELAX & RECHARGE VISITOR 45 INFORMATION MINS HOLIDAY AT INDIGENOUS CULTURE LAKE BENNETT RICH WWII BIRD WATCHING / WILDLIFE TO DARWIN HISTORY 4WD ACCOMMODATION / CAMPING LITCHFIELD PARK RD

REFRESHMENTS / SHOPS ADELAIDE SIGHTSEEING & RIVER MEALS ATTRACTIONS HERITAGE 1.2 HWY STUART TOURS HISTORY / HERITAGE HRS BATCHELOR / RUM JUNGLE

ADELAIDE RIVER INN FLORENCE 1.2 FALLS ADELAIDE HR RIVER WAR CEMETERY WANGI FALLS BULEY & CAFE ROCK HOLE MAGNETIC ADELAIDE RIVER TERMITE MOUNDS MOUNT 1.5 BUNDY HRS THE LOST CITY ROBIN FALLS LITCHFIELD TOLMER FALLS NATIONAL TO DOUGLAS DALY PARK PINE CREEK & KATHERINE

PENINSULA WAY ADELAIDE RIVER RUN XX APPROX. DRIVING TIME LITCHFIELD LOOP HRS FROM DARWIN

All maps and attractions within this document represent journeys and are not to scale. Drive times are approximate and some permits may apply. Information correct at time of printing, please check local conditions before starting your journey. IMAGES: Pitta © M Jerram, Red Collared Lorikeet © Ewan Bell, RainbowBOOK Bee-eater ONLINE © Tim Dolby, tourismtopend.com.autourismtopend.com.au 41 ADELAIDE RIVER & BATCHELOR

The townships of Adelaide River and Batchelor are steeped in history, from the early Chinese market gardens and military presence during WWII, to the discovery of uranium and the mining at Rum Jungle. The area was originally inhabited by the Kungarakan and Warai Aboriginal clans - the first Europeans to travel through the area were members of the Goyder survey expedition in 1869. The first settlement here was not established until 1870, a base for workers on the construction of the Overland Telegraph Line.

Must Do: • Take a guided tour to the Adelaide River War Cemetery and the Railway Heritage Precinct • Visit the beautiful Robin Falls in Adelaide River. Just a short walk through the scenic bush • surrounds, the area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna • Experience station life at Mount Bundy • Walk amongst the butterflies at the Batchelor Butterfly Farm

Adelaide River Township location for a huge military base, demonstration farm established in Situated on the Stuart Highway 112 with the 119 Australian General 1912 by a Mr. E.L. Batchelor. The kilometres south of Darwin, Adelaide Hospital, army camps and thousands area began to flourish in 1949 with River offers a warm welcome to of service personnel stationed in the discovery of uranium by John travellers. The township came to the town and surrounding areas. (Jack) Michael White. 1952 saw prominence following the completion Following the bombing of Darwin the expansion of the town when it of construction on the Overland in 1942, Australian and American became home for workers employed Telegraph Line, followed by a military headquarters were relocated at the Rum Jungle Uranium Mine hotel, police outpost and railway from Darwin to the Adelaide River (White’s Mine), Australia’s first station. The town became a popular township. The town is now the site uranium mine and one of the overnight stopover for travellers and of the third-largest war cemetery in greatest economic influences on the prospectors enroute to Pine Creek Australia, the resting place for subsequent development of the Top following the discovery of gold there some 63 civilians and 434 End. Mining operations ceased in in 1871. service personnel. the early 1970s and Batchelor came under the control of the Northern Batchelor Territory Administration. Batchelor Batchelor, ‘the gateway to Litchfield Institute, in the centre of town, National Park’, lies just 100 originally occupied the single men’s kilometres south of Darwin. Goyder’s quarters of the mining company. survey party passed through the area in 1869, and in 1874 a small roadhouse, the Rum Jungle Hotel, From 1939, with the build-up of was constructed on the supply route. World War II military activity, the The present township stands on a town took on a major role as the section of land that was part of a

42 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions

MOUNT BUNDY STATION Adelaide River Railway surrounds. The area around the falls Heritage Precinct is home to a wide variety of flora and Corner of Stuart Highway & fauna unique to the Top End region. Dorat Road. This is the idyllic spot to get away Open daily from 9.00am–5.00pm all from the crowds and enjoy a year round. Staffed by volunteers. cooling swim. Construction of the Palmerston to 315 Haynes Road, Adelaide River NT Pine Creek Railway in 1888 was part Phone: (08) 8976 7009 Email: [email protected] of the great dream for a north-south Website: www.mtbundy.com transcontinental railway. Adelaide Cost: From $100.00 - 1500.00 River, midpoint on the railway, Farm Stay Accommodation, Caravan Park boasted tea rooms and the largest and Campground near Adelaide River, just off the Stuart Highway. Great family bridge on the line (500ft in length). stopover and ideal position to explore the During World War II the Adelaide Litchfield Region. Cottages, Outback Bar River Township was a major forward and Pizza, sealed road access. Pet friendly. Function venue. Farm Tours. supply base and hosted a large military presence. The Precinct features exhibits highlighting the way-of-life and infrastructure of the early and Adelaide River War Cemetery BATCHELOR HOLIDAY PARK military history of the area. and Civil Cemetery One featured exhibit is a section Open 24 hours. Free entry. of Charles Todd’s 1872 Overhead The site most visited in the town Telegraph Line. is the impeccably maintained war The attraction is equipped to assist cemetery which marks the final travellers with information on resting place of 434 Australian, the many attractions in the area British and Canadian service men 37 Rum Jungle Rd, Batchelor NT 0845 including the nearby national parks and women who lost their lives in Phone: 1800 188 343 and significant World War II the Top End during World War II. The Email: [email protected] Website: www.batchelorholidaypark.com.au heritage sites. central memorial is dedicated to 287 Cost: From $15.00 - $240.00 service personnel who were lost in Batchelor Holiday Park provides all types Robin Falls Timor and the northern regions, who of accommodation including Ensuite sites Dorat Road, off the Stuart Highway, have no known resting place. The Powered sites, Bush camping powered sites, Grassed shady tent sites, Ensuite just 15km south of Adelaide cemetery is maintained by staff of cabins and Luxury 2-bedroom villas Mini River township. the Office of Australian War Graves. golf, swimming pool & free WIFI. Wild birds are fed twice daily. We are a Pet The scenic Robin Falls is located The War Cemetery adjoins the Civil friendly Park off the Stuart Highway along Dorat Cemetery where 63 civilians Road south of the Adelaide River including 31 Aboriginal people are township. buried. Among the civilians are nine The falls are reached by taking Post Office workers who lost their a short walk following a crystal lives on 19 February 1942 in the clear creek through scenic bush bombing of Darwin.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 43 WILDLIFE & WETLANDS

The Wildlife & Wetland Region encompasses Mary River National Park, Adelaide River, Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve and Djukbinj National Park.

Must Do: • Go back to nature and stay in a luxurious safari lodge • Take an exhilarating ride on a guided air boat over the wetlands • Enjoy a cruise on Corroboree Billabong, home to the highest concentration of saltwater • crocodiles in the world and other abundant wildlife • Hire a boat and catch the elusive Barramundi at Shady Camp

Many believe the vast wetlands greater freedom to explore those Shady Camp, Corroboree Billabong of the Mary River are the most less accessible areas. Tour companies and Mary River. Guided boat tours beautiful in the Top End – home to a operating out of Darwin and Mary are available out of Corroboree vast variety of birdlife, some of the River also provide a service, relieving Billabong, Point Stuart, Rockhole biggest barramundi and the largest the visitor of any concerns about Billabong and Mary River – but concentration of saltwater crocodiles self-driving. remember, be sure to book early! in the world. Lagoons, canals and Air boat tours and helicopter scenic billabongs make up the waterways flights are also available in the Mary of the wetlands of the Mary River, River region. which runs both north and south of the Arnhem Highway. Join a guided bush tucker tour and learn about the rich Aboriginal Mary River National Park culture, history and amazing incorporates many destinations landscape. worthy of exploration – Rockhole, Couzens Lookout, Brian Creek The billabongs, paper bark and Monsoon Forest Walk, Jimmy Creek monsoon forests support breeding Monsoon Forrest, Point Stuart populations of brolgas, egrets, black- Coastal Reserve, Shady Camp, The Mary River is an angler’s dream necked storks, sea eagles, magpie Mistake Creek, Corroboree Billabong – popular fishing spots include Shady geese and many more bird species. and Hardies Four Wheel Drive Track. Camp within the national park, as Without a doubt, Mary River National well as Corroboree Billabong to Park is a magical place. Touring the region the west of the national park. To Exploring the region by two-wheel book a fishing tour on the wetlands A wide variety of accommodation drive is a breeze, even on the call Tourism Top End. For the is available in the region including unsealed roads, but during the wet independent traveller, small boats caravan and camping sites, cabins season a four-wheel drive offers can be hired in Darwin, Point Stuart, and luxurious safari style lodges.

44 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions wildlife, fishing, four-wheel Window on the Wetlands is perched driving, bushwalking, camping and on Beatrice Hill, overlooking the Djukbinj National Park photography. A drive along Point Adelaide River floodplains. Fun Open daily (seasonal). Free entry. Stuart Road offers the opportunity to interactive displays help to explain Located off the Arnhem Highway experience the exceptional views of the ecological processes that occur near Leaning Tree Lagoon turnoff. the Mary River system from Couzens in Top End wetlands and touch- Part of the Marrakai Plains, Djukbinj Lookout, Brian Creek Monsoon screen computers allow visitors to National Park contains a portion of Forest, Jimmy’s Creek Monsoon find detailed information on local the catchment area and drainage for Forest, Point Stuart Coastal Reserve Aboriginal and European history, the Adelaide River. Consequently, and Mistake Billabong, which are land management and the diversity the abundance of water year-round easily accessible. of wetland animals. assures the park’s importance as a favourite feeding and roosting site Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve for a wide variety of waterbirds 66km east of Darwin on Arnhem including magpie geese, egrets, Highway. Open 24 hours. jabiru and brolgas. Free entry. Fogg Dam is only 45 minutes from Darwin yet it provides the most accessible place in the NT to experience the spectacular wetlands of the Top End at any time of the year. These wetlands are an amazing haven for the Top End’s wildlife right on Darwin’s doorstep. Jumping Crocodile Cruises Like Kakadu, this reserve is enriched Adelaide River off the Arnhem Shady Camp by the continued connection held by Highway. All year round access. Point Stuart Road – 50km north off its Wulna Traditional Owners. Just an hour and 15 minute drive the Arnhem Highway. Access all year from Darwin on the Arnhem Highway round. Corroboree Billabong towards Kakadu is the Adelaide In 1987 a barrage was constructed 105km east of Darwin off the River. Here, a number of operators at Shady Camp on the Mary River Arnhem Highway. Open daily April to offer jumping crocodile cruises on to stop saltwater penetrating into December. Free entry. a variety of vessels providing the the wetlands, the meeting of fresh Partly unsealed road. opportunity to get up and close and saltwater here offers some of Take a leisurely drive from Darwin with these awesome and powerful the best barramundi fishing in the to Corroboree Billabong, a popular reptiles, some up to six metres long. Top End. Mullet converge to feed on fishing location. With waterbirds Join a cruise and see the mighty algae washed down by the stream and woodland wildlife, along with prehistoric crocodile propel itself out of fresh water at the end of the crocodiles to keep you company of the water for an easy meal. wet with barramundi and other fish whilst you fish, you will have a pretty following to feed on the mullet. good chance of catching that elusive Shady Camp was named by John ‘barra’ or saratoga. Be amazed as Accommodation Stuart at the end of his epic journey some of Australia’s largest saltwater to the Top End for the shade offered crocodiles drift lazily past. The by the abundance of trees there at billabong is also home to wild buffalo POINT STUART WILDERNESS LODGE the time - the shade has now long and an abundance of birdlife. since disappeared. Public access to a boat ramp is Boat hire is available from Point provided. Stuart Wilderness Lodge.

Mary River National Park Point Stuart Road Located 150km east of Darwin along Phone: (08) 8978 8914 the Arnhem Highway Email: [email protected] Website: www.pointstuart.com.au Tel: (08) 8978 8986. Open 24 hours. Price: From $198.00 Free entry Situated in the heart of the Mary River The wide expanse of the Mary River Wetlands, the Lodge borders Mary River National Park offering air-conditioned National Park protects part of rooms, Saloon Bar & Bistro, caravan sites, the Mary River catchment, where Window on the Wetlands safari tents, pool. Tours include 4wd floodplains, billabongs, woodlands, Beatrice Hill, Arnhem Highway, Safaris, Mary River Wetlands Cruise, Bird & Wildlife Tours & Barra Fishing safaris. paperbark and monsoon forest Humpty Doo. An outback adventure… Top End Style. provide visitors with excellent Tel: (08) 8988 8188. Opening hours: Point Stuart opportunities for observing 8.00am–7.00pm daily. Free entry. W I L D E R N E S S L O D G E N T

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 45 Tours

CORROBOREE BILLABONG POINT STUART WILDERNESS LODGE POINT STUART WILDERNESS LODGE WETLAND CRUISES

Phone: (08) 8985 5855 4WD Floodplain Safari Mary River Wetlands Cruise Email: [email protected] Point Stuart Road Point Stuart Road Website: www.wetlandcruises.com.au Phone: (08) 8978 8914 Phone: (08) 8978 8914 Departs: Darwin & Wildlife and Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Wetlands Regions Website: www.pointstuart.com.au Website: www.pointstuart.com.au Cost: From $30 - $140 Departs: Wildlife and Wetlands Region Departs: Wildlife and Wetlands Region Cost: From $65.00 Cost: From $55.00 Corroboree Billabong offers a wildlife experience not to be missed. We are Travel to our private sunset vantage point Come & see why the Mary River Wetlands the “Original” operator here with 17 overlooking the magnificent Mary River is fast becoming the best place to view years experience providing passengers Floodplain. View a variety of bird species, wildlife in the Top End. Departing the with unforgettable wildlife cruises. View Water Buffalo, Brahman cattle, pigs, Rockhole relax & enjoy 1.5 & 2hr Cruises magnificent birdlife and large saltwater wallabies & dingoes. Travel in our along these unspoilt & captivating crocodiles up close and personal in their comfortable safari vehicle past billabongs, waterways. Operating for more than 20 natural environment. See our main advert. rainforest fringes, grasslands & years. Bookings essential. paperbark forests. Operates May Point Stuart Point Stuart to end October. W I L D E R N E S S L O D G E N T W I L D E R N E S S L O D G E N T Point Stuart

Point Stuart Accommodation Chambers Bay Coastal Reserve

Caravans

Camping

Restaurant / Cafe Bamurru Plains Adelaide River MARY RIVER Toilets NATIONAL PARK Mary River Boat Cruises N

Aboriginal Art / Culture

Fuel Adelaide River Cruises Boat ramp Shady Camp Information

Fogg Dam Mary River Floodplain Conservation Reserve << TO DARWIN Jimmy Creek Monsoon Forest

DJUKBINJ Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge

Window on NATIONAL the Wetlands PARK Mistake Billabong Viewing Platform Pudakul Aboriginal Wildman Wilderness Lodge Cultural Tours Brian Creek Spectacular Rockhole Monsoon Forest Jumping Mary River Wetlands Cruise Crocodile Cruise Ranger Station Corroboree Couzens Lookout Billabong Leaning Tree Lagoon Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruises Nature Park Wildlands Wetlands Safaris Top End Boat Hire Top End Houseboats

Purple Mango Cafe Hardies MARY RIVER KAKADU NATIONAL PARK Corroboree Park Tavern Lagoon Mary River NATIONAL PARK Arnhem Highway WILDLIFE Point Stuart Road AND Bird WETLANDS Billabong Jim Jim Road

Mary River Wilderness REGION Retreat & Caravan Park

46 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 POINT STUART WILDERNESS LODGE

Shady Camp Fishing Tours Point Stuart Road Phone: (08) 8978 8914 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pointstuart.com.au Departs: Wildlife and Wetlands Region Cost: From $220.00 Shady Camp is a renowned Barramundi hotspot. Some of the largest barramundi in the NT are caught here. Fishing is excellent all year round. We are local experienced Shady Camp guides with 19 years here. Quality boats & tackle provided. Half, full day & extended tours available.

Point Stuart W I L D E R N E S S L O D G E N T

• 1.0, 1.5. 2.0 & 2.5 hour cruises available

(08) 8978 8925 [email protected] www.topendboathire.com.au Corroboree-Billabong Rd, Corroboree NT 0822 Australia

Top End Boat Hire Day boats, ready to go. Just 90 min from Darwin CBD On the calm waters of Corroboree Billabong. Soak up the magic of this amazing wetland, where sh, birds and wildlife abound.

Spot a crocodile basking in the sun, a Brolga dancing or a Jacana stepping across the water lilies. The Fishing is amazing, try your hand at catching the NT’s famous Barramundi or Bar-B-Queing and Sightseeing. Day light hours by the Hour, 1/2 day or Day Hire, No Licence

required. The ultimate Top End experience!

(08) 8978 8925 [email protected] www.maryriverhouseboats.com.au Corroboree-Billabong Rd, Corroboree NT 0822 Australia

Mary River Houseboats on Corroboree Billabong ‘The unspoken Jewel of the Top End’. Encounter the Wonders of this wetland and river system aboard our unique two storey houseboats with en suites, full kitchens BBQ’s and outdoor settings, Sleeping for up to six and all linen provided.

Each houseboat has high surrounds for your safety and drop down mesh blinds to keep the insects at bay in the evenings, explore for a day, stay over night and you will want to stay for a week, there’s plenty to see and do. With Jabiru’s, Jacana’s, Sea Eagles and so many more birds and of course be mesmerised by the giant saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat from The ultimate Top End experience! the safety of your secure Houseboat with over 35km of waterways to explore its the experience of a lifetime.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 47 KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, covering almost 20,000 square kilometres, is a place of contrasting landscapes and diverse habitats. Saltwater crocodiles lurk in freshwater billabongs dotted with lotus lilies. Rugged cliffs of the Arnhem Land escarpment hide deep sandstone gorges and pockets of monsoon rainforest. Waterfalls cascade into pools fringed with paperbarks and pandanus.

Must Do: • Cruise Yellow Water wetlands and spot birds and crocodiles • Take a scenic flight during the tropical summer (November – April) for a breathtaking view of • Kakadu’s magnificent Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls • Head to Gunlom and take the hike to the top of the waterfall, where it feels like you’re • standing on the edge of the world • Take a cultural cruise on the East Alligator River. Birdwatch at Mamukala • Join ranger activities including rock art site talks, painting and weaving

You can view the spectacular Jim spectacular, the lowlands are The drive runs along the Arnhem Jim Falls, browse through galleries flooded, and the vegetation is lush. Highway to Jabiru, follows the of ancient Aboriginal rock art at Kakadu Highway to Pine Creek, and Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock or explore Late in the dry season large flocks continues south to Katherine and Yellow Water and Mamukala, wetland of magpie geese and whistling Nitmiluk National Park. areas of international significance. ducks, spoonbills, egrets and jabirus Over 1000 plant species, a quarter congregate around the remaining A visit to Kakadu should include a of all Australian freshwater fish waterholes. stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre species, and over one third of all near Jabiru, a small town within the Australian bird species can be found A number of Aboriginal clans reside national park, situated approximately in the park. in Kakadu National Park and the 250 kilometres east of Darwin. exquisite rock art galleries at Ubirr The township offers a range of and Nourlangie Rock bear witness to accommodation, including tent, their strong and ongoing connection caravan and camping, cabin, lodge with the land, having lasted for many and hotel accommodation. Resort thousands of years. style accommodation and camping is also available at South Alligator, on Other spectacular landmarks include the Arnhem Highway, and Cooinda Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, Maguk, near Yellow Water. Motor Car Falls and Gunlom. There Kakadu’s landscapes have been are many established walking tracks, A number of safari camp style shaped by water with the Mary, some accessible year round. Yellow operations provide visitors with Wildman, West Alligator, South Water boat cruises depart several the opportunity to engage with Alligator and East Alligator Rivers times a day from Cooinda, indigenous guides in an authentic teeming with wildlife. During the year round. on-country experience. Plus, tropical summer from November to Kakadu’s Crocodile Hotel, a April, waterfalls along the Arnhem The Nature’s Way tourism drive is crocodile-shaped complex, is one of Land escarpment are at their most a great way to explore the park. a kind.

48 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions savannah woodlands, placid fresh many thousands of years, and why water billabongs and raging seven Kakadu is uniquely dual heritage Scenic Flights metre coastal tides. Each with listed – for nature and culture. Kakadu is dual World Heritage- distinctly diverse fauna and flora, Listed, a worthy recognition that the ready food source and the Kakadu National Park Pass is difficult to comprehend from the heartbeat of Australia’s original Kakadu has a seasonal Park fee ground, but abundantly clear from custodians. Viewing Kakadu from stucture. All visitors require a Park above. View varied landscapes, above is not only spectacular Pass. Your pass includes Park entry, from floodplains to arid dry but also educational, explaining ranger activities and access to sandstone plateaus, mangrove and why Aboriginals have enjoyed a Visitors centre’s. Buy your Park Pass spinifex, tropical monsoon forest, continuous existence in Kakadu for online before you go at www.parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/

Fuel Caravan Aboriginal Art/Culture Unsealed Road Airstrip Camping Boat Ramp 4WD Vehicles Only Cafe/Restaurant Boat Cruises Toilets/Showers Accommodation Information Toilets

Ubirr

OENPELLI Four Mile Hole (Gunbalanya) Merl

Border Store Cahill’s Crossing Bowali Visitor Centre & Park Mamukala Headquarters

JABIRU Two Mile Hole Malabanjbanjdju Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel Information Bay Aurora Kakadu Anbinik Kakadu Resort << TO DARWIN VIA Kakadu Lodge WILDLIFE AND Burdulba Yellow Waters WETLANDS REGION Bucket Billabong Red Lily (Ngurrungurrudjba) Nourlangie (Burrungkuy) Alligator Billabong Billabong Mirrai Sandy Billabong Cooinda Lodge Kakadu Lookout Djarradjin (Muirella Park Campground) Mardugal

Giyamungkurr Warradjan Aboriginal (Black Jungle Springs) Cultural Centre

Garnamarr

Gungurul Maguk KAKADU Jim Jim Falls NATIONAL Twin Falls

PARK ARNHEM LAND Gunlom

Information Bay Jarrangbarnmi Koolpin Gorge Ranger Station Kambolgie Yurmikmik (permit required) Walks Mary River Roadhouse

<< TO KATHERINE REGION BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 49 Bowali Visitor Centre majestic waterfall is a sight to Nature’s Way Drive Open daily 8.00am–5.00pm. Free behold. Set in the red ochre of This 457 kilometre drive entry. Closed Christmas Day. the Arnhem Land escarpment, and starts in Darwin and Before exploring Kakadu National boasting white sandy beaches and finishes in Katherine. Park, get familiarised at the Bowali crystal clear water, it is worth the It follows the Arnhem Visitor Centre where you can watch two kilometre return walk across Highway through the Adelaide River documentaries to help you gain a rocks to appreciate this special area and Mary River wetlands to Jabiru in greater understanding of Kakadu’s during the dry season. Kakadu National Park and continues landscape and seasons, then take along the Kakadu Highway to Pine a walk through the interpretive Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge) Creek, where it joins the Stuart displays. The friendly staff can bring 46km from the Kakadu Highway Highway (Explorer’s Way). you up to date on road conditions, Seasonal access only. 4WD only. It then continues south to Katherine free ranger-guided activities and Access to beautiful Koolpin Gorge and Nitmiluk National Park. give advice on which sites to visit. (Jarrangbarnmi) is restricted. Here is a sample itinerary: Videos are shown throughout the Those wishing to visit the site must day giving different perspectives obtain an entry permit and key to Day 1 on Kakadu and its international gain access. For details call (08) Nature’s Way from Darwin to Kakadu significance. The habitat-based 8938 1140, Permits Officer, Kakadu National Park - 257km to Jabiru display and library gives detailed National Park. Allow at least seven • Depart Darwin information about the park and how days for permit processing – book • Stop off – Corroboree Park Tavern much there is to see and do. early to avoid disappointment. • Visit Mamukala Wetlands Take a look at Marrawuddi Gallery www.parksausralia.gov.au/kakadu • Lunch at the Border Store in for Aboriginal arts and crafts, books Kakadu (dry season only) and gifts, and then enjoy a coffee at Maguk • Guluyambi East Alligator River the cafe. Open daily during the dry season. Cruise 4WD only. • Explore Ubirr A one kilometre bushwalk along • Overnight accommodation at Jabiru Barramundi Creek leads through shady monsoon forest to the base of Day 2 Maguk with its beautiful plunge pool Experiencing Kakadu National Park – and small waterfall – a truly scenic 52km Jabiru to Cooinda and tranquil place. • Depart Jabiru • Scenic flight over Kakadu Mamukala Wetlands & Bird Hide • Nourlangie art site Gunlom Plunge Pool Open daily, subject to weather • Visit Warradjan Cultural Centre Open daily during the dry season. conditions. • Overnight – Cooinda Lodge Gunlom, located in the southern In the dry season, Mamukala end of Kakadu, is the magical Wetlands and Bird Hide displays Day 3 combination of waterfall and serene the spectacle of thousands of Kakadu National Park to Katherine plunge pool, with shady gums magpie geese and whistling ducks via Pine Creek – cooling the picnic areas. congregating to feed. You can watch Cooinda to Pine Creek 165km - A climb to the top of the waterfall them from one of the bird hides or Pine Creek to Katherine 90km provides sweeping views of the amble along the marked walking • Depart Cooinda southern-most parts of Kakadu and a trails beside the tranquil wetlands. • Early Yellow Water Billabong cruise natural horizon infinity pool. Walks vary from one to three • Pine Creek – lunch at Pine Creek kilometres. Railway Resort • Travel south to Katherine and Yurmikmik Walks explore Nitmiluk National Park In the south of Kakadu, 26km from the Gunlom turn off. Open daily. A Be sure to observe all park series of interconnected walking safety signs and swim only where tracks providing a wonderful tropical recommended. Carry and drink plenty summer experience. Boulder Creek of water, wear a hat, sunscreen and (2km return), Motor Car Falls (7.5km insect repellent and suitable clothing Jim Jim Falls return), Uyrmikmik Lookout (5km and footwear. Ensure your vehicle Open daily during the dry season return) and Kurrundue Creek (11km is well maintained and equipped for 6.30am–8.30pm subject to weather return - permit required - through the length of time that you plan to be conditions. 4WD only. Bowali Visitor Centre). travelling and avoid strenuous activity Whether the falls are raging with during the heat of the day. water or the merest trickle, this

50 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Warradjan Aboriginal egrets, jabiru, sea eagles, magpie Land escarpment. Take a ranger- Cultural Centre geese and a number of migratory guided boat cruise, followed by a 4.5km off the Kakadu Highway bird species. Paperbark forests, bushwalk and a scenic stroll along a enroute to Cooinda. Open daily. pandanus and freshwater mangroves boardwalk to the cascading falls. Sit Free entry. line the banks, and the water is down on the white sandy shore and To gain an understanding of the dotted with beautiful pink and white be rewarded with panoramic views connection Kakadu’s Aboriginal waterlilies. Explore the billabong by of the towering cliffs and sparkling owners have with this special part of joining a wildlife cruise, or witness waters. the Top End, spend some time at the an unforgettable sunset from the Warradjan Cultural Centre and learn boardwalk and viewing platform. Ubirr the stories that gave them their laws. 40km from Jabiru. Open daily. Members of local Aboriginal clans Nourlangie (Burrungkuy) Subject to closure during wet season developed this centre to share their Rock Art Site flooding. Ubirr is one of Kakadu’s two culture with visitors. The b uilding Open daily. most famous rock art galleries. The has been styled in the shape of a pig The walls of the Nourlangie Rock galleries can be viewed by following nosed turtle, Warradjan, and is based Art Site have served as a shelter an easy one kilometre circular on the theme, ‘our land is our life’. and canvas for thousands of years. walking track. During the dry season, Allow at least an hour to view and Paintings such as Namarrgon, Park Rangers give free scheduled appreciate this attraction. the Lightning Man, explore the talks about the ancient rock art. relationship of the people to their A moderately steep 250 metre Yellow Water Billabong country and beliefs. During the climb takes you to a rocky outlook Open daily. months of May until October, Park with views across the floodplains. Yellow Water is one of Kakadu’s Rangers invite visitors to join them Enjoying a spectacular tropical best known landmarks. Located near and share their knowledge of this sunset from Nadab Lookout is not to Cooinda Lodge, Yellow Water is home ancient gallery. be missed. to crocodiles, birds, barramundi and Note: The Traditional Owners of Ubirr other wildlife. The billabong, which Twin Falls request visitors to the park that no floods to join other waterways during Open daily during the dry season. alcohol be consumed at this site. the wet season, attracts millions of Boat Cruise fee applies. 4WD only. birds each year, including jacana, Twin Falls Gorge is set in the Arnhem

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 51 Tours, Charters & Cruises

SACRED EARTH SAFARIS SACRED EARTH SAFARIS KAKADU AIR

3,4 and 5 day Kakadu & Top End Tours Private Charter Touring Kakadu Scenic Flights Phone: (08) 8536 2234 Phone: (08) 8536 2234 Phone: (08) 8941 9611 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.sacredearthsafaris.com.au Website: www.sacredearthsafaris.com.au Website: www.kakaduair.com.au Departs: Darwin Region Departs: Various Regions Departs: Kakadu National Park Cost: From $1800 Cost: From POA Cost: From $150.00 - $250.00 Explore Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield Personalised private tours are great for Fly with Kakadu Air to truly appreciate on a small group 4WD tour with a families, incentives, groups of friends and the vastness of this timeless land. maximum of 9 guests. Accomodated in special interests such as photography Experience the spectacular highlights of Bush Bungalows, fixed Safari tents and and bird watching. Glamping and World-Heritage Kakadu National Park. station rooms, upgrade options are also accommodated tours are available, through Spectacular Fixed Wing flights overfly the available. Rock art, waterfalls, birdlife the Top End, Red Centre and Kimberley. dramatic escarpments, wetlands, rugged and crocs - all parts of your Top End 6, 9 and 24 seat 4WD vehicles to choose rock country and mighty rivers. 30 min and Adventure! from. 60 min flights available.

VENTURE NORTH SAFARIS KAKADU CULTURAL TOURS KAKADU CULTURAL TOURS

5 Day Kakadu, Arnhem Land Guluyambi Cultural Cruise Arnhemlander Cultural & & Cobourg Peninsula Tour Phone: 1800 525 238 Heritage 4WD Day Tour Phone: (08) 8927 5500 Email: [email protected] Phone: 1800 525 238 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au Email: [email protected] Website: www.venturenorth.com.au Departs: Kakadu National Park Website: www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au Departs: Darwin Region Cost: From $52.00 - $79.00 Departs: Kakadu National Park Cost: $3,490 Cost: From $218.00 - $273.00 The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is a unique See the highlights of Kakadu before tour on Kakadu’s scenically spectacular journeying into Arnhem Land. Explore With an endorsed guide in a comfortable East Alligator River. Local Aboriginal sacred rock art sites with an Aboriginal 4wd you’ll venture into Arnhem Land guides provides guests with an insight into guide and stay at our safari-style camp; experiencing ancient rock art & occupation their culture, local mythology, the river’s Cobourg Coastal Camp. Enjoy good food, sites, Injalak Arts Centre & its artists, abundant food chain as well as traditional great guides and see something a bit stunning scenery of billabongs, wildlife bush survival skills. Come and count the different on this award-winning & towering escarpment. 100% owned by Crocodiles. micro-group tour. the Traditional Aboriginal Owners. Permits and lunch included.

KAKADU TOURISM KAKADU TOURISM

Kakadu Tourism Adventure Tours Yellow Waters Cruises Phone: 1800 550 401 Phone: 8979 1500 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.kakadutourism.com Website: www.kakadutourism.com Departs: Kakadu National Park Departs: Kakadu National Park Cost: From $219.00 Cost: From $72.00 - $99.00 Kakadu Tourism Adventure Tours offers guests the chance to see the less Yellow Water Cruises provides visitors accessible parts of Kakadu. Take an to Kakadu National Park the exclusive exclusive off-road adventure to visit the opportunity to explore breathtakingly waterfalls, swimming holes and beautiful Yellow Water Billabong through a escarpments of Kakadu. The Adventure guided cruise home to around 60 species Tours offer 4WD all day tours that operate of birds, including magnificent ‘dancing’ throughout the dry and shoulder periods. Brolgas and of course, up close encounters with saltwater crocodiles.

52 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Guluyambi Cultural Cruise On the East Alligator River

Injalak weaver

Cultural & Heritage Tours Experience the scenically spectacular • Injalak Arts & Crafts • Towering Escarpment East Alligator River with a local Aboriginal Guide 100% Aboriginal Owned & Operated by Kakadu Cultural Tours • Ancient Rock Art Sites • Comfortable 4WD Vehicles Spectacular wildlife The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is a unique boat tour on Kakadu’s East • Magnificent Flood Plains • Experienced Guides Alligator River. Local Aboriginal guides provide guests with an insight into their culture, local mythology, the river’s abundant food chain, traditional • Inkiyu Billabong • Departs daily May - Nov uses for many plants & animals as well as bush survival skills. Disembark on the Arnhem Land side of the river for a display of traditional hunting 100% Aboriginal Owned & Operated by Kakadu Cultural Tours & gathering implements. Limited to just 25 guests, the Cruise ensures an Experienced local guides intimate & personalised cultural experience. 1800 525 238 1800 525 238 [email protected] [email protected] kakaduculturaltours.com.au kakaduculturaltours.com.au

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 53 World Heritage-listed

A Taste of Kakadu 18-27 MAY 2018 Find out more!

Discover it for yourself

54 Tourism Top Endwww.kakadu.com.au - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 World Heritage-listed 08 8979 3144 [email protected] www.kakadu.net.au

• Multi award winning • Central to Kakadu icons • Pool • Bungalows • Ensuite sites

Explore Kakadu from an Anbinik shelter Multi Award Winning • Central to Kakadu Icons • Pool • New Seasonal Restaurant • Ensuite Sites • Cabins & Bungalows Ask about our Kakadu touring & accommodation packages

Jabiru

Perfectly located in the heart of Kakadu National Park

- Studio ,1 and 2 bedroom self-contained cabins A Taste - Shady grassed powered sites - Award winning poolside bar of Kakadu & bistro - Lagoon style swimming pool 18-27 MAY 2018 & spa - Camp kitchen & free BBQ areas Find out more! - Friendly, informed staff

(08) 8979 2422 [email protected] Discover it for yourself www.auroraresorts.com.au www.kakadu.com.au BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 55 Accommodation

COOINDA LODGE COOINDA LODGE CAMPGROUND MERCURE CROCODILE AND CARAVAN PARK HOTEL KAKADU

Kakadu Highway, Kakadu NT 0822 Phone: (08) 8979 0148 Kakadu Highway, Kakadu NT 0822 Kakadu Highway, Kakadu NT 0822 Email: [email protected] Phone: (08) 8979 1500 Phone: 1800 500 401 Website: www.kakadutourism.com Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Cost: From $139.00 - $249.00 Website: www.kakadutourism.com Website: www.kakadutourism.com Cost: From $20.00 - $49.00 Cost: From $149.00 - $249.00 Cooinda Lodge, the gateway to Yellow Water Billabong, provides the ideal base to The Cooinda Campground & Caravan Park Mercure Crocodile Hotel Kakadu is uniquely explore Kakadu National Park. With 48 air- shady camping area offers 100 powered shaped to represent Kakadu’s most famous conditioned lodge rooms, restaurant with sites and 200+ unpowered sites, set in inhabitant, the saltwater crocodile. Just full bar facilities, shop and petrol station. attractive shaded areas next to 2 1/2 hours’ drive from Darwin, Mercure After a day of exploring the park, relax by Yellow Water Billabong, and with access to Crocodile Hotel Kakadu is the only full the lagoon style outdoor feature pool. Cooinda’s wide range of facilities service hotel in Kakadu National Park and and services is the ideal base to explore the magnificent expanse of Kakadu.

ANBINIK KAKADU RESORT HAWK DREAMING WILDERNESS LODGE

83 Jabiru Drive, Jabiru NT 0886 Phone: (08) 8979 3144 Cannon Hill, Kakadu National Park Email: [email protected] Phone: 1800 525 238 Website: www.kakadu.net.au Email: [email protected] Cost: From $42.00 - $260.00 Website: www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au Anbinik Kakadu Resort won three NT Cost: From $289.00 - $415.00 Architect Awards in 2016. Anbinik offers a wide range of self- Located in an exclusive and restricted contained accommodation from a Jabiru area of northern Kakadu known as base; Anbinik Suites, Bush bungalows, Cannon Hill. Explore ancient rock art sites air-con double rooms, two bedroom air- and experience spectacular sunsets on con cabins & powered ensuite sites. New escarpment outliers over the wetlands. onsite restaurant. 100% Aboriginal owned Only 12 tented ensuite cabins. Transfers, & operated. DBB and a sunset tour included. 3 day packages available.

56 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 ARNHEM LAND

A truly magical location! Explore a spectacular landscape with unspoilt shores and timeless culture. The scenery is beautiful and diverse, it includes rugged coastlines, remote islands, rivers teeming with fish, lush rainforest, towering escarpments and savannah woodland. Arnhem Land is made up of 91,000 square kilometres of unspoilt wilderness in the middle of Australia’s northern coast.

Must Do: • View some of the most prized indigenous arts and crafts in the world, including the • didgeridoo (Yidaki) • Have an amazing cultural experience in places like Gunbalanya, Maningrida & Yirrkala • Witness spectacular wildlife, scenery and rare birdlife then complete the day with a sunset • you will never forget • Experience some of the best fishing in the world! Catch a coral trout, red emperor, Spanish • mackerel or a trophy bill fish or barra. • Visit the ruins of early European settlement on secluded Cobourg Peninsula

Arnhem Land is a habitat for where indigenous artists gather at Garma Festival is held here from the abundant wildlife including saltwater the Injalak Art and Craft Centre. An 3 to the 6 August 2018, this event is crocodiles, buffalo, dugong, nesting open day is held in Oenpelli usually not to be missed! turtles and migratory birds. One of during July, when travellers can the last pristine areas in the world, visit freely and enjoy the cultural To enter Arnhem Land a permit from its small population is predominantly activities without a permit. the Northern Land Council (NLC) is Aboriginal people, whose traditional required phone (08) 8920 5100 or culture remains largely intact. The The town of Maningrida, on the north visit www.nlc.org.au region is an exciting destination coast of Arnhem Land, is famous for for travellers wanting authentic its indigenous art. Once you arrive into Nhulunbuy to traditional cultural experiences. visit any of the beaches you will require a permit from Dhimurru There are many areas of historic Aboriginal Corporation phone significance including the ruins of 08 8939 2700 or apply online: - an early European colony at Victoria www.dhimurru.com.au/permits.html Settlement in Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, on the secluded A permit is also required for the Cobourg Peninsula and the Black Cobourg Peninsula through Parks & Point Cultural Centre which displays Wildlife Aboriginal, Macassan and European The town of Nhulunbuy is located www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/ histories of the area. on the Gove Peninsula, it is a parks/find/gariggunak major service centre, providing For details on Road Conditions visit: Gunbalanya (Oenpelli), one of the accommodation, supplies and offers www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport first stops east of Kakadu National spectacular beaches and great Park, is an Aboriginal community fishing. The hugely popular annual

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 57 Attractions - West Arnhem Land Corbourg Peninsula

Aboriginal Art and Culture Explore the ruins at Fort Wellington essential you report to the Ranger Join a safari tour to Mount (1827) and Victoria Settlement (1838) Station on arrival), or a 30 minute Borradaile and be guided to which met with failure – charter flight from Darwin. witness one of the most stunning the harsh conditions proving too Aboriginal cultural sites in Australia. much for those early settlers. The Peninsula is the perfect View galleries of ancient rock destination for hiking, birdwatching art paintings which depict the Wildlife Photography and plenty of opportunities to indigenous history of the clans and For the keen photographer, the photograph this truly unique show elements of the Dreamtime. Cobourg Peninsula offers excellent landscape. opportunities to capture the true Fishing nature of this remote region. With A permit is required by visitors to Considered to be one of the finest an abundance of wildlife including stay overnight in the Park, whether fishing spots in the country, the buffalo, Timor ponies, wild boar, you arrive by road, air or sea. To waters around the Cobourg Peninsula crocodiles and wallabies, and with an apply please visit: https://nt.gov.au/ abound with Spanish mackerel, array of colourful birdlife, there is leisure/parks-reserves/permits-for- giant trevally, queenfish and coral no better location in the Top End to parks/permits-for-cobourg-peninsula- trout, whilst in the tidal creeks and capture that ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ shot. garig-gunak-barlu-national-park estuaries barramundi, mangrove jack and threadfin salmon lie in wait to Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, Access by road to the Cobourg tempt the serious angler. The Cobourg Peninsula Peninsula is not possible during Pronounced Gah-rig Goon-uk Bar- the wet season. The area can be loo, is Northern Australia’s first flora accessed by private air charter or and fauna protected reserve, and the boat. surrounding Cobourg Marine Park, provide an ideal habitat for many For further information on thousands of waterfowl and other accommodation and touring options bird species. in Arnhem Land contact Tourism Top End on 1300 138 886 The Cobourg Peninsula, remote and [email protected] or visit rugged, is fringed with magnificent tourismtopend.com.au Historic Sites white sandy beaches. The Peninsula, Take the time to visit Kennedy Bay recognised as one of Australia’s and Port Essington where, over most spectacular fishing locations, 165 years ago, the British made an is accessible only by four-wheel attempt to establish settlements. drive from Oenpelli via Jabiru (it’s

GARIG GUNAK BARLU NATIONAL PARK ARNHEM Cobourg Coastal Camp Smith MELVILLE Point CROKER ISLAND Cape Minjilang LAND ISLANDS Don Milikapiti Murganella WESSEL ISLANDS Pirlangimpi COBOURG COBOURG GOULBURN ISLANDS PENINSULA MARINE Warrumi Nguiu PARK GOVE BATHURST ELCHO ISLAND PENINSULA Maningrida Milingimbi Galiwinku ISLAND Mt. Borradaile BREMER ISLAND

Oenpelli NHULUNBUY (Gunbalanya) Ramingining Yirrkala JABIRU Gapuwiyak Dhupuma ARNHEM HWY

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL STUART HWY PARK KAKADU Balma NATIONAL CENTRAL ARNHEM RD GROOTE KAKADU HWY PARK Daly River Bulman EYLANDT PINE CREEK Alyangula Mainoru NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK Numbulwar KATHERINE GULF OF Y CARPENTARIA

ORIA HW Ngukurr T To Tennant Creek VIC

58 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions - East Arnhem Land The Gove Peninsula Arnhem Land is culturally strong, Gove Peninsula remote, pristine, easy to get to and has some of the best adventure Fishing region. Contact the Northern Land fishing in the world! Yolngu people Fishing is a major drawcard for the Council in Nhulunbuy on (08) 8986 solely own Arnhem Land. Yolngu region and Gove Peninsula offers 8500 have lived in the region for tens of some of the best sportfishing in the Visitors to the recreation beach thousands of years with recognised world. Fish are abundant – catches and river areas require a visitor’s land and marine estates. Clans live include red emperor, Spanish permit and should contact throughout Arnhem Land hunting mackerel and coral trout. A range Dhimurru Land Management fish, bush animals and seasonal bush of fishing charters are available Aboriginal Corporation / Nhulunbuy foods. Today, Yolngu retain their from half day to extended island on (08) 8393 2700. Penalties cultural and spiritual links to the safaris – or boat hire can be arranged apply for travelling throughout area. for a self-guided trip. the region without a permit and The fishing in the region is all visitors are requested to respect East Arnhem Land is one of the about options and something can the wishes of the Traditional Land last wilderness areas on earth, yet be arranged to suit individual needs Owners. all services can be found in the – talk to one of the licensed tour Arnhem Land is scenic and town of Nhulunbuy, located on the operators. enjoyable. If you’re seeking Gove Peninsula approximately 750 adventure or simply a relaxing kilometres by road from Katherine. Air Services time, this is the place to visit. The town is now an intricate part of Airnorth has daily jet services the region, making it an ideal base to Gove Airport from Cairns and Baringura – Little Bondi from which to explore. Nhulunbuy Darwin. The Cairns-Gove flight is Visitors to the Gove Peninsula has a lodge and motels in town. The one hour and forty minutes and will be amazed by the quality of Gove Airport is about 15 kilometres Darwin-Gove flight is one hour and the beaches, ideal for picnics, and from town. Camping is possible at ten minutes. Aircraft are jets seating day trips. Daliwuy (Daliwoi Bay) the recreation areas. 73-80 passengers. There is also a is a popular fishing spot with the turbo-propeller service from Darwin- locals. Ngumuy (Turtle Beach) is a The Gove Peninsula is scenic with Gove offered by Airnorth, seating 30 beautiful, sheltered sandy cove and long white sandy beaches, azure passengers. An airport shuttle bus Garanhan (Macassan Beach) has a waters and green vegetation. This is meets every flight for transfers to historical link with the Macassan where the Gulf of Carpentaria meets accommodation houses in Nhulunbuy sea traders. the Arafura Sea and the temperature for a nominal fee. Note: Visitor’s permit required. ranges between 28˚ and 30˚with Charter flights are also available plenty of cool breezes. to Arnhem Land from a range of Gayngaru operators. For details ask one of the Gayngaru is an area of lagoon For permits to visit recreational friendly staff at Tourism Top End on wetlands extending some areas please contact the Dhimurru 1300 138 886 info@tourismtopend. seven kilometres parallel to the Aboriginal Corporation on com.au beachfront. The lagoon, home to 08 8939 2700 or apply online: around 200 species of birds, has www.dhimurru.com.au/permits.html Touring the Region an over-water observation platform The pristine environment can be providing an ideal hideaway for enjoyed overland with eco-tours keen bird watchers. encompassing Yolngu culture and A marked walking trail offers easy art, birds, flora and fauna. Other access for those on foot. Guided activities include scenic flights over interpretive tours are available. spectacular landscapes, bushwalking, Note: Permits not required. beachcombing, four-wheel driving, surfing and fishing. Roy Marika Lookout The Roy Marika Lookout offers Travelling Overland visitors the opportunity to take To travel the Central Arnhem Road in the extensive panoramic views (four-wheel drive only) requires of the town and its surroundings. crossing many Yolngu clan lands and Take time to look over the lagoon a permit from the Northern Land wetlands with their abundance Council (NLC) is required. There of birdlife, the activity on Gove is no cost for this permit but it is Harbour, the coastline, the town necessary to monitor the numbers of centre and the Gove buaxite mining people on the road to maintain this operation. Note: Visitor’s permit required. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 59 Wessel Islands, Bromby Islets, of milkwood carvings (unique to this VENTURE NORTH SAFARIS English Company Islands, Elizabeth region), bark paintings, screen prints, Bay, Bremer Island woven baskets and mats. Examples Accessible by boat from Gove of traditional & contemporary art Harbour, these island groups and can be found at one of Australia’s coastline offer unbeatable fishing most renowned community-based opportunities. Outstanding bluewater traditional Aboriginal art museums and reef fishing, sportfishing and at Yirrkala. 4 Day Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Safari estuary fishing. Day and overnight Phone: (08) 8927 5500 camping trips can be organised Nanydjaka – Cape Arnhem Email: [email protected] Website: www.venturenorth.com.au by local charter operators. Note: Nanydjaka (Cape Arnhem), just a few Departs: Kakadu National Park Visitor’s permit required. hours drive from Nhulunbuy, has long Cost: $2,990 white sandy beaches with sand dunes Journey straight into Arnhem Land and explore sacred rock art sites with an Aboriginal Arts & Culture as far as the eye can see. This is Aboriginal guide. Stay at our safari-style The strong Yolngu culture in the the perfect destination for absolute camp; Cobourg Coastal Camp. Enjoy good region is evident in the range of peace, solitude and relaxation. Note: food, great guides and see something a bit different on this award-winning arts and crafts. Contemporary A visitor’s permit is required. micro-group tour. Also available as a 5 Yolngu art is available in the form day option from Darwin.

Adventures In Culture Davidson’s Arnhemland Safari Lodge Mt Borradaile - North West Arnhem Land - Northern Territory

Escorted Yolngu Homeland Visits Northern Australia’s most exciting Aboriginal East Arnhem Land, NT and Wildlife Wilderness Be welcomed into a Yolngu family and learn age-old traditions. Experience first hand how the Yolngu people have an unwavering bond and connection to their land and country. This is a rare opportunity to experience the life of these unique people as they welcome you into a culture so powerful, it will change the way you see the world. 5 day escorted homeland visits from $2,399 p/p

www.lirrwitourism.com.au

www.arnhemland-safaris.com

60 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 TIWI ISLANDS

Just 80 kilometres north of Darwin lie Bathurst and Melville Islands, known collectively as the Tiwi Islands. Europeans first made contact with the Tiwi people in 1705. Then, 119 years later, the British established a settlement which was the first in Northern Australia. This was at the short-lived Fort Dundas on Melville Island near where Pirlangimpi now stands.

Must Do: • Try damper and billy tea straight from the fire with the Tiwi ladies • Swim in the clear and shady waterhole at Tomorapi Falls • Buy exclusive Tiwi Island artwork from the artists themselves - printed fabrics, clothing, • carvings, painting and pottery • Stay at the beachfront lodge or join a guided fishing trip from Darwin to experience the Tiwi • Islands’ world-class fishing

You can visit the Tiwi Islands on a fabric prints, pottery, sculptures part of everyday life today and guided tour and experience life in a and carvings. There are several they appear to have successfully modern-day Aboriginal community art galleries on both Melville and combined both traditional and learning about the rich and Bathurst Islands and visitors are modern lifestyles. fascinating history and culture of the more than welcome to purchase Tiwi people. Visitors either board a directly from the artists. The Tiwi people are also famous for small plane in Darwin for the short their love of sports, in particular flight to the Islands, or cruise the Australian Rules football. The Tiwi Timor Sea for around two hours on a Football Grand Final and Art Sale is ferry – check wet season availability held in March and is the one time with Tourism Top End. Permits when you can visit the island without are only required if you intend to a permit. visit outside the main township of Wurrumiyanga, these permits are The islands’ isolation and high required before you travel to the Tiwi rainfall means you will find many Islands. For more information please species not recorded elsewhere contact the Tiwi Islands Regional Tiwi people are coastal Aborigines in the world. The islands’ are host Council on (08) 8944 4480 or your with a culture different to those to the world’s largest breeding tour operator. on the mainland. Their strong colony of Crested Terns and a large traditions, rituals and traditional population of the vulnerable olive The Tiwi people are known around foods are still a very important ridley turtle. the world for their distinctive

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 61 TIWI ISLANDS

TIWI BY DESIGN DAY TOUR  Local Tiwi guide  Traditional Tiwi Welcome ceremony and totem dances  Informative, cultural walking tour  Behind the scenes screen printing session  Return ferry transfers & lunch TIWI ISLANDS FERRY  Explore the Tiwi Islands at your own pace  Grab a tourist map and museum ticket on board the ferry  Visit the art centres, museum and church precinct  No permit needed! DEPARTS THURS & FRI (Apr–Dec) + MON (Jun–Aug)

Call 1300 130 679 sealinknt.com.au Northern Territory

TIWI ISLANDS

Darwin - Tiwi Islands Ferry

62 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 DOUGLAS & DALY RIVER Located midway between Darwin and Katherine, just off the Stuart Highway and an easy scenic drive from both destinations, the region is famous for its fishing, and also boasts hot springs, gorges, bushwalking and an abundance of wildlife.

Must Do: • Have a relaxing swim in the Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs • Catch a Barramundi - (Daly)

Douglas - Daly Daly River

Also known as the Douglas Daly, this is an important place for “The Malak Malak welcome after its two major river systems, the women’s ceremonies. recreational fishers to their country region has become a favourite spot Recreational fishers should for travellers to spend time camping, Butterfly Gorge is another respect and recognise the cultural fishing, bushwalking, and swimming. picturesque swimming area where importance of these waters to the the pools are fringed with paperbark Malak Malak people”. Oolloo Crossing has also proven to trees over 50 metres high and be an excellent spot for barra fishing the crevices in the rock faces are The Daly River, famous for its in the early dry and for black bream inhabited by thousands of butterflies. large barramundi, is one of the Top all year round. End’s most popular waterways for recreational fishing and boating A great spot for bird-watching and hosts two major annual fishing and swimming are the Tjuwaliyn competitions – the ‘Barra Classic’ (Douglas) Hot Springs. Swimming and the ‘Barra Nationals’. is best suited to the cooler pools upstream and downstream from the springs, which can be very hot. Owned by the Wagiman Aboriginal people and jointly managed by the NT Parks and Wildlife Commission,

Saltwater crocodiles inhabit these areas, visitors are urged to look out for and observe crocodile warning signs as incidents with crocodiles have caused injury and death.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 63 Douglas - Daly Attractions Nowadays, the site contains the remnants of the Northern Territory’s The Arches and the Waterhole of birdlife and mammals such as first commercial copper mining ‘The Arches’, located near Douglas bandicoots, wallabies and flying enterprise and the graves of four Daly Tourist Park are a part of foxes. The campground is accessible deceased mine employees. the Douglas River Esplanade to all vehicles including caravans Conservation Area, an amazing during the dry season. Swimming is Daly River Crossing natural formation. available in the Douglas River but Daly River Crossing is a popular please test the temperature before fishing and boating area that is Butterfly Gorge Nature Park entering, the further downstream the renowned for its barramundi, scenic 4WD access only. cooler the water. surrounds, and its diverse wildlife. Cool crevices in the rock face of Powerful saltwater crocodiles lurk beautiful Butterfly Gorge provide beneath the tranquil waters, and shelter for thousands of common millions of migratory birds visit the crow butterflies. Rock pools provide area each year. a chance for a refreshing swim. The pools are shaded by paperbarks Peppimenarti up to 50 metres tall. The sheer A small community, home to the rock faces, edged by dense riverine Ngangikurrunggurr people famous vegetation and rocky spinifex for their weaving, is accessed by an country, offer shaded riverine walks unsealed road, a continuation of the and beautiful scenery. Daly River Crossing. (Permit Required to visit) Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs Nature Park Daly River The annual Merrepen Arts Festival 47km from the Stuart Highway via incorporates both the art and Oolloo Road. Attractions various guest appearances such as Copper Mine the Darwin Symphony Orchestra. The popular Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Copper was first discovered in the The festival is held over the first Springs Park protects part of the Daly River area in 1883, with mining weekend of June each year. Douglas River, where thermal pools occurring sporadically over the create an oasis in the surrounding following 26 years. The machinery Arts and Culture dry woodland. relics now visible on the site are The region is well known for its indicative of the early mining culture and beautiful indigenous The water attracts a wide variety techniques and technology of the arts. late 19th and early 20th centuries. Lee & Jenny’s Bush Camp Bamboo Rock Bar Copper Mine Maddaingya Creek DALY Woolianna on the Daly Brown's 2km Creek Dingirreyet 1km RIVER Woolianna Road Daly River Barra Resort

Rocks

1km

1km Perry’s on the Daly Robin Falls, Turn-o 89km 4 x 4 Reynolds River Track, Turn-o 21km Stuart Highway (103km) 6km

Banyan Farm Tourist Park Woolianna Road Information Tommy's Bay Daly River Road Creek Rock Bar Wani-Mengit Fuel 7km

Cafe/Restaurant d

R

m r a Accommodation Yorrowpack Creek F Rocks Rock Bar Caravan Mango 5km Daly River Roadside Inn Camping

Mission Creek Western Farms Road Daly River Crossing Boat Ramp Unmaintained road 4WD recommended Toilets

Nanaar Road

5km

Port Keats Road

64 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 on the Daly Closest to the Action - Oasis in the Bush The Fishermans Lodge New Executive Villa Two self-contained units Units - New villa Located on the bank of - Boat Fuel overlooking a tropical units comprising of the Daly River 260kms - Ice garden and pool with 2 bedrooms (Sleep north of Katherine, - Gas joint washing machine 4) - airconditioned, Furthest downstream, - Souvenirs facilities. ceiling fans, open- less distance to travel - Swimming Pool Unit 1 upstairs sleeps 4 plan dining, kitchen, to the best fishing hot - Laundry Unit 2 downstairs sleeps 6 lounge and satellite TV. spots. - Boat Ramp Fitted with microwave, - Boat Hire Camping fridge, cooktop and own - Mango produce from Woolianna has 50 washing machine. Woolianna powered, lawned and Linen and towels shaded sites as well as supplied. Verandah tent sites with excellent with outdoor setting and amenities. BBQ. Villa 1 Queen Bed & 2 single Villa 2 - 4 singles

(08) 8978 2478 Fax: (08) 8978 2634 [email protected] www.woolianna.com.au

Banyan Farm Tourist Park Daly River

Spacious peacefull van park on the banks of the Daly River. Shady sites, cabins, bistro, swimming pool, pet friendly, private boat ramp, fishing guide, river cruises

Douglas Daly Tourist Park

DOUGLAS REGION Ph: (08) 8978 2461 Email: [email protected] www.banyanfarm.com.au

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 65 PINE CREEK

Established in the late 1800s, Pine Creek is located 90 kilometres north of Katherine. It is the Top End’s only original mining town remaining from the 1870s gold rush era and is a treasure trove of heritage bush buildings and mining sites. Gold was discovered in 1871 by workers on the Overland Telegraph Line. Although small, the township offers a range of accommodation options, including caravan parks and cabins.

Must Do: • Explore the Pine Creek Railway Precinct and Miners Park • Enterprise Pit Mine Lookout

Many of the original buildings still trail that takes you from Pine Creek extended to Katherine and during stand. The National Trust Museum to Adelaide River offers an insight World War II when it became one of building is the oldest surviving into life during the era. the four dispersal bases on the North prefabricated structure in the Australian Railway. Miners Park has Northern Territory. Originally The Pine Creek Railway Precinct is strong architectural and historical the home of the Mining Warden home to the original terminus of associations and remains a key in Burrundie, it was later moved an uncompleted transcontinental feature in the township’s heritage and to Pine Creek and over the years railway system. The railway’s streetscape. served as a doctors residence, contribution to the development of clinic, dispensary, military hospital, the mining boom in the late 19th post office and exchange. Today it Century was profound and enabled houses the National Trust Museum the transport of machinery and and town library. Browse through equipment with greater ease to the the building and it’s contents to gain mine fields than had been previously an insight into the gold rush, local possible. Chinese history, buffalo hunters and the Overland Telegraph Line. The Pine Creek maintained its Northern Goldfields Loop Heritage importance after the railway was

66 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions More recently it was used as a post goldfields, supported several towns. office and telephone exchange. The Follow the signposts off the Stuart Copperfield Recreational Dam Museum houses displays of gold and Highway and explore the area, which Copperfield Recreation Dam is a cool gemstones, Aboriginal and Chinese is dotted with historic sites and ruins haven just six kilometres south-west history and historic equipment. of those bygone days after many a of Pine Creek. This reserve has a change in fortune. deepwater lake surrounded by hills Pine Creek Railway Resort and is an ideal place to swim and Built in the shape of two trains This intriguing place is located relax with shady picnic areas and parked at a railway station, the against a backdrop of shady creeks, toilets nearby. Day use only, camping reception and restaurant area is magnificent salmon gums and is not permitted. furnished and styled after Pine unusual rocky outcrops. Creeks’ Chinese heritage. Complete Enterprise Pit Mine Lookout with a showcase of images from local The Water Gardens The Mine Lookout affords a archives and attractions, the Pine Open daily. Free entry. panoramic view of the open-cut Creek Railway Resort has already Enterprise Pit, left when Pine Creek become a talking point up and down These water gardens in the middle Goldfields ceased operation in 1994. the Stuart Highway. of town were created after the old The water-filled pit is 135 metres railway tracks were uplifted, leaving deep, but before its closure, more Railway Station Museum a series of unsightly trenches, which than 764,000 ounces of gold were Open daily. Free entry. were then turned into a series of extracted from the mine. Old Chinese Located in the original station attractive ponds and landscaped mine shafts can also be viewed building built in 1888 which served gardens. Now a popular pleasant close to the lookout. Sunsets viewed as a communications centre until shady place for a quiet picnic or a from this vantage point can be 1976. walk. spectacular. Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park Open daily subject to weather conditions.

Umbrawarra Gorge, located 22 kilometres south-west of the town of Pine Creek past Lake Copperfield, features a pleasant little creek running between steep red cliffs, and a series of swimming pools with sandy beaches. The first pool is about a 15 minute walk from the car park.

Miners Park Historic photos, maps and The gorge is excellent for exploring Open daily. Free entry. memorabilia depict the history of and if you are willing to rock- This Bicentennial Park, next to the North Australian Railway. Next to hop and swim, you can find some the railway station and the old the station is an 1877 Beyer Peacock pleasant, secluded swimming holes, station master’s residence, offers locomotive which was restored as and from the clifftops witness some a fascinating look at the mining a Centenary of Federation project superb views. Surrounding bushland history of the region. It comprises by the Pine Creek Community abounds with wildlife, making the an outdoor display of historic Government Council. Believed to area a naturalist’s delight. Camping mining machinery and mining be the oldest restored locomotive with toilet facilities is available, but equipment from the old Pine Creek in Australia, it operated between bring your own drinking water. mines, together with interpretive Darwin and Pine Creek from 1915 signs, photographic displays and until it was finally decommissioned background information on mining in 1945. history. The Northern Goldfields Loop Pine Creek National Trust Museum A journey on the Northern Goldfields The Museum has served a number Loop, an area rich in history as well of purposes over past years. It has as in minerals, is a journey through been the home of a mining warden, time. a doctor’s residence, clinic and dispensary, and a military hospital. The area, once the heart of the

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 67 KATHERINE & SURROUNDS

While its star attraction is undoubtedly the famous Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, Katherine and its surrounds include great fishing, hidden natural wonders and a rich indigenous and pioneering history. The region stretches from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the West Australia border. Around 300 kilometres south of Darwin, Katherine is set on the banks of the Katherine River.

Must Do: • Relax by the natural spring-fed pool of the Katherine Hot Springs. • Visit Cutta Cutta Caves located, a series of limestone caverns featuring sparkling columns, • pillars and flowstones of calcite crystal • Take a cruise or canoe along the magnificent Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. • Explore ancient rock art, crafts, galleries and culture of Katherine.

Katherine was named by explorer the main gorges, and view ancient Other attractions within easy reach John McDouall Stuart in the late Aboriginal rock paintings high on of the town include the Cutta Cutta 1800s after the daughter of one the rock faces. Waterfalls and rock Caves Nature Park, the Katherine of his expedition sponsors, and pools are found along more than Hot Springs and Leliyn (Edith Falls). the gorge was renamed ‘Nitmiluk’ 100 kilometres of walking tracks, – meaning ‘cicada place’ – in 1989 beginning at the park’s visitor when traditional owners, the Jawoyn centre. Katherine offers a wide Aboriginal people, gained title to the range of accommodation, facilities land, which is now Nitmiluk National and attractions, including museums, Park. art galleries, character-filled pubs and historic sites. It is also home to The Katherine River flows through the Tindal RAAF Base. Although the 13 separate gorges that carve their airfield was constructed in 1942, it is way through the Arnhem Land the Air Force’s youngest operational plateau. You can canoe, cruise base and one of Australia’s most and swim between sheer cliffs to important defence installations. the sandy freshwater beaches of

68 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions Cutta Cutta Caves KATHERINE OUTBACK EXPERIENCE Located off the Stuart Highway 27 Nitmiluk National Park kilometres south of Katherine, Cutta Just 32 kilometres from the town Cutta Caves Nature Park covers an centre, the gorge system is the major area of some 1,499 hectares. Ranger- natural attraction in the area - a guided tours of the cave system visitor’s delight of 292,800 hectares are conducted daily during the dry of natural wonder. There are 13 season. The caves are also home to 115 Collins Road, Uralla, Katherine NT 0850 gorges in the system, carved out of the rare orange horseshoe bat and Phone: 0428 301 580 the rock by torrential summer rains the ghost bat. The Jawoyn Aboriginal Email: [email protected] Website: over millenia. people have a long association www.katherineoutbackexperience.com.au with this area and evidence of their Price: From $0 - $50.00 Commercially operated cruises on culture can be found throughout the Tom Curtain’s 90-min show celebrates life on cattle stations through real horse the gorge system are available, with park. training and working dog demonstrations, a breakfast and sunset dinner cruise live music and humorous bush tales. Fun being popular options. Helicopter for all ages. Pat and feed the station animals. Kids 5yr&U: Free. scenic flights are also available. Private tours, school camps and excursions available. Within the gorge system are many fine examples of Aboriginal rock paintings that are thousands of years LORELLA SPRINGS old. WILDERNESS PARK Katherine Museum Nitmiluk Gorge / Katherine River was The Katherine Museum was originally the cultural and spiritual foundation constructed as an air terminal during for the first inhabitants of the area, WWII and now contains an eclectic the Jawoyn and Dagomen people, collection of artefacts, photographs, providing food and water for both maps and pioneer memorabilia in spiritual and recreational needs. an informative display. Outdoor Savannah Way, Gulf of Carpentaria between Roper Bar and Borroloola and undercover exhibits illustrate Phone: (08) 8975 9917 Nitmiluk Visitor Centre a rich heritage of ingenuity in rural Email: [email protected] The Visitor Centre is located machinery and household equipment. Website: www.lorellasprings.com Family owned one-million-acre remote at Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Entry fees apply. coastal property. 4WD tracks, swimming Information displays explain the in natural hot and cold springs, waterfalls, geology, landscape and Aboriginal The Jatbula Trail Walking Track fishing, boat ramp, bird watching, bush walking, scenic helicopter flights over Lost history of the national park. The famous Jatbula Trail is a 62 City. Extensive campground with licensed Informative staff are there to kilometre track traversing a variety bar and dining facilities. Accommodation inc air-con cabins. help you with tour enquires and of landscapes from sandstone information, and to assist with your escarpment to wet paperbark forests enquiries about walks and camping. and features waterfalls, cultural sites and deep sandstone gorges. The Centre has toilet facilities, a TOP DIDJ CULTURAL EXPERIENCE souvenir shop and café. The dining The Jatbula Trail commences at & ART GALLERY area on the deck overlooking the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and Katherine River is the ideal spot to culminates at Leliyn (Edith Falls), relax, enjoy a meal or just savour a following the Edith escarpment cooling drink and take in the glorious overlooking the 17 Mile Valley. It sunset. takes around five days to fully experience the Jatbula Trail. There Leliyn (Edith Falls) are designated campsites each with Cnr Gorge & Jaensch Rd, Katherine NT Located on the western boundary natural swimming holes, waterfalls or Phone: 0414 888 786 Email: [email protected] of Nitmiluk National Park, the wide rivers to cool off in. Website: www.topdidj.com paperbark and pandanus fringed Learn about Aboriginal Culture natural pool at the base of the falls The Jatbula Trail is limited to only *Paint your own rarrk painting using a reed brush is safe for swimming throughout 15 hikers per day. You must book *Light a fire using two special sticks most of the year. The area is also and pay a deposit in advance with *Throw a spear using a woomera *View and purchase some of the best great for bushwalking. Open daily – the Parks Office on (08) 8972 1886. Aboriginal art & didgeridoos in the NT subject to weather conditions. Free The trail is open between June *Hold and feed rescued wallabies entry. Camping available. and September, subject to weather conditions, camping fees apply.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 69 Katherine Accommodation

NITMILUK CHALETS CICADA LODGE SHADY LANE TOURIST PARK

Nitmiluk National Park Nitmiluk National Park 257 Gorge Road, Landsdowne NT 0852 Phone: 1300 146 743 Phone: 1300 146 743 Phone: 1800 043 043 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.nitmiluktours.com.au Website: www.cicadalodge.com.au Website: www.shadylanetouristpark.com.au Fully self-contained one and two bedroom One of the Northern Territory’s leading luxury Quiet friendly atmosphere, 6km from the chalets, set in Nitmiluk Campground. Just products, Cicada Lodge offers 18 rooms set in PO on the road to Nitmiluk. Self-contained minutes’ walk to the departure point for all private grounds, offering world class service studio cabins, 1 & 2 bedroom deluxe villas, touring on Nitmiluk Gorge, the chalets are and facilities. Our award winning restaurant special needs Cabin, foxtel, swimming perfect for families and have full access to the and signature sunset canapes, served each pool, large shady powered sites, modern Campground facilities, including the evening on the pool deck, are not to be missed. outdoor pool. clean amenities, laundry, amenities for the disabled, free Gas BBQs, tour bookings and Internet.

BEAGLE MOTOR INN PALM COURT BUDGET MOTEL PINE TREE MOTEL AND BACKPACKERS

2 Fourth Street, Katherine NT 0851 Corner Giles and Third Street, 3 Third Street, Katherine NT 0850 Phone: (08) 8972 3998 Katherine NT 0850 Phone: (08) 8972 2533 Email: [email protected] Phone: (08) 8972 2722 Email: Website: www.beaglemotorinn.com Email: [email protected] [email protected] Price: From $155.00 Website: www.palmcourtbudgetmotel.com Website: www.pinetreemotel.com.au Clean, comfortable and affordable. Quiet Cost: From $35.00 - $117.00 Cost: From $170.00 - $210.00 location yet still close enough to walk to centre Friendly place to stay offering air-conditioned of town. Secure off street parking, pool, guest Stay at this comfortable and affordable rooms all with ensuite bathrooms, communal laundry and dining room as well as all your Katherine motel. All rooms are spacious, kitchen, pool, BBQ facilities, tour desk and tour bookings. Customer service is our priority. with air conditioning, large LED TV, Foxtel, Nitmiluk Gorge transfers. Located only 5 private ensuite and tea and coffee facilities minutes from the CBD, our friendly staff will and close proximity to local shops. An assist with all your travel and tourist advise. inviting pool in a tropical garden setting.

LORELLA SPRINGS BLUESTONE MOTOR INN WILDERNESS PARK Savannah Way Accommodation <<< 1 Paterson Street, Savannah Way, Gulf of Carpentaria Tennant Creek NT 0860 between Roper Bar and Borroloola Phone: (08) 8962 2617 Phone: (08) 8975 9917 Email: Email: [email protected] [email protected] Website: www.lorellasprings.com The Bluestone Motor Inn is the perfect place to Family owned one-million-acre remote Tennant Creek take a rest during your journey or a base from coastal property. 4WD tracks, swimming which to explore the diverse nature and culture in natural hot and cold springs, waterfalls, Accommodation of the Australian outback. With 65 rooms set fishing, boat ramp, bird watching, bush in a Tropical Oasis to appeal to every aspect of walking, scenic helicopter flights over Lost the Traveller’s needs. City. Extensive campground with licensed >>> bar and dining facilities. Accommodation inc air-con cabins.

70 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Tours

NABILIL DREAMING SUNSET DINNER CRUISE

Nitmiluk National Park Phone: 1300 146 743 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nitmiluktours.com.au Departs: Katherine Region • 4WDING • REMOTE CAMPING • Caravan Park Explore the beauty of Nitmiluk Gorge at • Swimming • Fishing • Hot water spring sunset, as the sandstone gorge walls turn • BIRDWATCHING • BUSHWALKING • Croc Feeding • Air-con Accommodation • Helicopter Flights glorious shades of ochre. Relax with a glass • Licensed Bar • Boat ramp • Airstrip • Fuel of sparkling wine and a delicious three course dinner prepared on board, as you drift through the Gorge under the famous Northern Territory One-million-acre family night skies. owned coastal property. www.lorellasprings.com.au

p: (08) 8975 9917 e: [email protected] fb: www.facebook.com/lorellaspringsstation

Mary River Roadhouse

NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK

KATHERINE REGION

MATARANKA THERMAL POOL

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 71 MATARANKA, STUART HIGHWAY & ROPER

Mataranka township sits on the upper reaches of the Roper River, an hour’s drive south- east of Katherine. With a population of about 250, it services outlying cattle stations and Aboriginal communities and is well- equipped with facilities for travellers. Attractions include the Mataranka Thermal Pool, Bitter Springs and the Never Never Museum with displays of local Aboriginal history.

Must Do: • Stop in at the Daly Waters Pub for an outback pub experience. • Learn about the history of the Mataranka Homestead and Elsey Station. • Cool off in the picturesque waters of Bitter Springs.

The area was made famous in the tumbling over rocks and tufa dams. its bush hospitality, huge meals and Jeannie Gunn novel ‘We of the You can canoe and fish on the Roper quirky decorations on the walls. Never Never’ - written in 1905 River and swim at the palm-fringed about nearby Elsey Station. Elsey thermal pools of Rainbow and Bitter Cemetery, 21 kilometres south of the Springs. Mataranka thermal pools township, marks the resting place are fringed by paperbark and palm of many of the book’s characters. forest and bubble at a constant At Mataranka Homestead there is a temperature of 34° Celsius. Some replica of the Gunn’s original home. 180 kilometres east is Roper Bar, a The Station is now administered by natural rock crossing separating the the local Aboriginal people. saltwater and freshwater sections of the Roper River. Elsey National Park, on the eastern edge of Mataranka, is another of Also in the area is Daly Waters, an the region’s natural attractions. The outback town with a rich history. The Roper River meanders through the Daly Waters Pub is the quintessential park, flowing through waterholes and outback watering hole famous for

72 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions replica especially constructed for later becoming the site of the rail the film ‘We of the Never Never’. head and shunting yards after the Bitter Springs Every detail is duplicated down demise of the township of Birdum, This tropical spring-fed thermal pool to the hand-hewn local cypress remaining a busy terminus until the is located just two kilometres from pine. Nearby Aboriginal gunyas, or railway closed in 1976. Remains of Mataranka in Elsey National Park. wurlies, built with the advice of local the railway shunting yards near the Set among palms and tropical forest, Aboriginal elders can be seen. Larrimah Hotel and remnants of it is an ideal location to bushwalk, World War II camp relics are dotted swim or simply relax. Toilet facilities, Elsey Memorial Cemetery throughout town. Interpretive signs picnic benches and barbeques are Located just 21 kilometres from are located at the sites of the former available. Mataranka, the gravestones mark BIPOD (Bulk Issue Petrol and Oil the resting place of many of the Depot) and the No. 45 Australian Daly Waters characters written about in the novel Camp Hospital, seven kilometres Daly Waters, 273 kilometres south by Jeannie Gunn ‘We of the Never south of Larrimah. of Katherine has the distinction of Never’. being Australia’s first international The Larrimah Museum, housed in airfield. For almost 30 years, from Elsey National Park the old telegraph building, features the 1930s to the late 1950s, it was Incorporating the spring-fed Roper displays and information about the focus of activity in the area. and Waterhouse Rivers, the park World War II activities in the area, Initially, it was used for flying offers opportunities for swimming, the Overland Telegraph Line and the mail into the Northern Territory fishing, canoeing and bushwalking. operation of the railway. from Queensland. It then became Mataranka Thermal Pool, Bitter a staging and refuelling point Springs, Stevie’s Hole, Mataranka Larrimah Pub for Qantas international flights Falls and the tracks along the Roper Originally the World War II Officer’s flying through Darwin and onto River are some of the highlights of Mess, the pub has some interesting Singapore and other domestic a visit. A popular activity is bird- memorabilia, as extensions were flight services. By the beginning watching. The rare Red Goshawk, added using materials from the of World War II, military air traffic Hooded Parrot, and Northern dismantled Birdum Hotel. It offers an had replaced civilian air traffic. Rosellas are some of the many ideal stop for history buffs – look out Although the aerodrome was closed species to be observed. Camping for the Pink Panther! to commercial traffic in 1965, the and accommodation facilities are original Qantas hangar still stands, available near the thermal pool and Mataranka Thermal Pool housing interesting facts, photos and at Bitter Springs, with bush camping Open daily. equipment, where you can explore at 12 Mile Yard on John Hauser Drive. Mataranka Thermal Pool located in the terminal ruins and walk along the Elsey National Park was dedicated airstrip. Roper River and surrounding areas as a reserve in 1967 to ensure the support a range of plants and presentation of the thermal spring wildlife including the largest stand and surrounding palm forest. The of Livingstonia rigida Palms in the pool is at a constant 34° Celsius world. The river is well known to and flows from Rainbow Springs anglers as one of the best spots at an amazing 30.5 million litres a to catch barramundi. A boat ramp day. Pets must be restrained in the is located at 12 Mile Yard off John private pet parking bay outside the Hauser Drive. park and the camping area.

Dunmarra Restrictions: Outboard motor sizes Roper Bar Dunmarra is located 316 kilometres are limited (maximum 15hp) at 12 The Roper Bar is 180 kilometres south of Katherine. This roadside Mile Yard boat ramp and National along the Roper Highway and well stop was named after a man called Park Fishing Restrictions apply. No known as a great place to catch Dan O’Mara whose body was never pets. No generators. barramundi. This is where the found. The Aboriginal people of the Leichhardt Expedition of 1845 area involved in the search couldn’t Larrimah crossed the Roper River, named pronounce his name and referred to Larrimah, meaning ‘meeting place’ for John Roper, a member of this him as ‘Dunmarra’. Accommodation, in the local Aboriginal language, party. The bar was built in the early caravan park, fuel and food are is a small town 185 kilometres 1900s as part of the supply route available. south of Katherine on the Stuart for the Overland Telegraph Line. Highway. The town came into being Accommodation, camping, fuel and Elsey Homestead Replica in 1940 with the construction of a store are available. Turn east from Open daily. Free entry. the nearby Gorrie Airfield, a major the Stuart Highway, seven kilometres The Homestead is an authentic airfield servicing the war effort and south of Mataranka.

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 73 VICTORIA RIVER & TIMBER CREEK

The Victoria River Region is south-west of Katherine and is most often visited while travelling between Katherine and the Kimberley region. The area’s colourful scenery features grassy plains, boab trees and majestic gorges.

Must Do: • Take in the panoramic view of the magnificent Victoria River from Policeman’s Point • Visit Gregory’s Tree inscribed with the dates of Augustus Charles Gregory’s North • Australian Expedition • Capture the ever-changing colours of the sandstone towers in the Keep River National Park • on camera

The small township of Timber Creek, Keep River National Park, situated expedition, which was commenced 286 kilometres west of Katherine 180 kilometres west of Timber Creek, in 1855. Gregory’s Tree has special and the region’s main centre, is is a photographer’s dream. The park significance to the Ngaringman home to about 229 people. Fishing is encompasses towering sandstone Aboriginal people and is a registered Timber Creek’s biggest drawcard and landforms radiating a myriad of sacred site. the beautiful Victoria River, running colours at sunrise and sunset. through deep valleys and gorges, is The area is best explored on foot, Keep River National Park one of the Northern Territory’s most following well-marked bushwalking Open daily subject to weather scenic places to catch barramundi. trails. There are two camping areas conditions. Free entry. in the park with barbeques, tables This small park contains a diversity Closer to Katherine, Flora River and pit toilets. of landscapes. Visitors can explore Nature Park is a beautiful hideaway sandstone ridges and ‘Bungle for those looking to escape from the Bungle-like’ formations from crowds travelling west and should be Attractions the campgrounds. Spectacular accessed with a high set two-wheel Judbarra/Gregory National Park walks include the two kilometre drive vehicle or a four-wheel drive. Open daily. Free entry. Gurrandalng walk which presents one Judbarra/Gregory National Park Judbarra/Gregory National Park magnificent view after the next; and sitting at Timber Creek’s doorstep is the Northern Territory’s second the 5.5 kilometre Jarnem Lookout and covering an area of some largest national park, encompassing Walk which is particularly stunning 13,000 square kilometres, features spectacular ranges, escarpments, in the soft light of early morning and spectacular landscapes, prolific gorges and eucalypt woodlands. A late afternoon. wildlife, ancient boab trees and drive through the eastern section of significant remnants of Aboriginal the park along the Victoria Highway Victoria River Crossing and European history. will reveal some of these landscapes The Victoria River Crossing is 194 while the easily accessed walks near kilometres southwest of Katherine on Historic Bullita Homestead is an old the Victoria River Roadhouse provide the Victoria Highway. The stunning cattle outstation with stockyards close up experiences of the dramatic escarpment country provides where you can find out more about sandstone escarpment. the perfect backdrop for fishing the park’s nature, culture and tours and boat cruises, with Red history. Located just 19 kilometres Gregory’s Tree Valley Gorge providing a shady northwest of Timber Creek is Open daily. Free entry. and scenic rest area. The Victoria Gregory’s Tree, a large boab that Located in Judbarra/Gregory River Roadhouse is close to the stands at the campsite of explorer National Park 19 kilometres north- crossing, and offers camping and Augustus Gregory’s North Australian west of Timber Creek, a large Boab accommodation facilities. Expedition, undertaken between tree stands at the campsite of October 1855 and July 1856. Augustus Gregory’s North Australian

74 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 BORROLOOLA & THE GULF

Borroloola, a remote community on the McArthur River in the Gulf of Carpentaria and once a frontier town, is now the capital of the Gulf region. It’s home to four main indigenous language groups, the area includes many large cattle stations. Fishing and camping remain a way of life for locals and travellers chasing barramundi.

Must Do: • Spend an afternoon swimming in the picturesque hot springs of Butterfly Springs • Visit the towering sandstone pillars of the Lost City • Take part in the Easter Fishing Classic and catch a prize barramundi in King Ash Bay • Don’t miss Seven Emu Station with culture, heritage, wildlife, coastal and river access, with the • Shadforth family • Visit Lorella Springs Wilderness Park and swim in natural hot and cold springs and waterfalls

King Ash Bay, a popular fishing visit. Helicopter flights which touch intriguing sandstone spires. spot 50 kilometres from Borroloola, down in the Lost City give access to attracts thousands of visitors each the site. King Ash Bay year and a fishing competition is King Ash Bay is the location of the usually held over the Easter long Surrounded by grasslands, Borroloola Boat and Fishing Club. weekend. escarpments, waterfalls and The general store has fuel, ice waterholes, Cape Crawford is within and supplies. Campground, budget Barranyi (North Island) National easy reach of Limmen National Park. accommodation, houseboats and a Park, located in the Sir Edward The area is home to a stunning array boat ramp are available for visitors. Pellew Group of Islands, is a wildlife of native wildlife. haven, providing a home to nesting Limmen National Park turtles and migratory birds and offers Located 182 kilometres north-west of excellent reef fishing opportunities. Attractions Borroloola, this park is accessed from Access to the islands is limited, and Barranyi National Park (North Island) the Roper River Road or by travelling visitors must contact Parks and The park, in the Gulf of Carpentaria, north from Cape Crawford. It features Wildlife NT before making the journey. is one of the Territory’s most remote several large sandstone spires and visitor destinations. This peaceful rounded dome formations resulting Cape Crawford, at the junction of the wilderness haven is the traditional from erosion of the sandstone Carpentaria and Tablelands Highways, home of the Yanyuwa people. Special escarpment. The main recreational is home to the famous Heartbreak features of the island park include activity is fishing throughout the Hotel. Cape Crawford is situated long sandy beaches like Paradise Bay, towns and Limmen Rivers. approximately 120 kilometres from a glorious stretch of white beach the ocean and is so named because it ideal for walking, beachcombing and The Lost City Formation of Ancient is situated at the northern extremity birdwatching. Columns of Sandstone or ‘cape’ of the Abner Ranges, Located in the Abner Ranges the site first ‘discovered’ in 1880 by drover Caranbirini Conservation Reserve of ancient columns of sandstone is Lindsay Crawford. Open daily. Free entry. isolated and access is by helicopter Just 46 kilometres south of only from Cape Crawford. This is a The Abner Ranges are home to an Borroloola and easily accessed off breath-taking flight and well worth impressive site known as the Lost the Carpentaria Highway, the reserve considering. City covering an area of some eight protects a diversity of habitats square kilometres and dotted with for such a small area, including For further information contact the towering sandstone formations. These sandstone hills and ridges, semi- Tourism Top End Visitor Information natural pillars conjure up images of permanent waterholes flanked by Centre 1300 138 886 skyscrapers, and are well worth a riverine vegetation, woodland and

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 75 EAST KIMBERLEY WESTERN AUSTRALIA

The East Kimberley Region, covering an area of around 200,000 square kilometres of Western Australia, is one of the most remote areas of the country. The region offers escarpment country, waterfalls, rivers, gorges and pristine coastline. Remote stations provide camping and access to some great landscapes in an area rich with Aboriginal culture.

Must Do: • Take a scenic flight, by helicopter or light plane and marvel at the sheer magnitude of the • Bungle Bungles • Take a cruise on the mighty Ord River between Lake Argyle and Kununurra - an area rich in • wildlife and scenic beauty • Join a tour to the Argyle Diamond Mine, the world’s largest diamond producer

Surrounding rugged ranges, an an awesome sight with many bays, Purnululu National Park abundance of water and wildlife islands, creeks and waterfalls. (Bungle Bungles) make the town of Kununurra the Purnululu National Park is home ideal base to explore the region’s Take a scenic flight over the lake, to one of the most spectacular natural wonders including the Bungle cruise the placid waters, take a landforms on earth, the peculiar Bungles, the Mitchell Plateau, the canoe or simply relax on the banks rocky striped mounds (or Bungle Ord River and Wolfe Creek Crater and enjoy some leisurely fishing. The Bungles). These huge orange and National Park. turnoff to the lake, which supports black striped domes, formed from a wide variety of wildlife, is just layers of sandstone and minerals, are For more detailed information on seven kilometres from the Northern a sight to see. the region pick up a copy of the East Territory/Western Australia border. Kimberley Travellers Guide from the There are some fantastic gorges Kununurra Visitor Centre. The Ord River around the park, with Echidna The most famous river of the East Chasm in the northern section, and Kimberley, the mighty Ord, creates Cathedral Gorge in the southern Attractions a variety of diverse ecosystems section. Both are a one-hour walk Lake Argyle and is the water source for the Ord from the carpark, although if you The damming of the Ord River in Irrigation Scheme. A large number have the time and energy the long 1972 formed Lake Argyle – the of tourism related operations utilise ten hour walk of Piccaninny Gorge largest man-made lake in Australia. the river and it provides a huge is worth the effort. Scenic flights Set amongst the Carr-Boyd Ranges recreational waterway for both locals over the park are available, or the and covering an area of around 1000 and visitors alike. 55 kilometre trip by four-wheel drive square kilometres, Lake Argyle is only, will take around 3 hours.

76 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments provides a comfortable and relaxing base whilst you are holidaying or working in the East Kimberley. • One, Two & Three Bedroom apartments - fully self-contained • Stunning free form pool in lush tropical gardens. • Free WiFi and Foxtel in all rooms • Free airport transfers on request • Breakfast baskets available

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 77 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Accommodation Hilton Darwin 08 8982 0000 Walkabout Lodge and Tavern 08 8939 2000 Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp 0448 407 172 Wildman Wilderness Lodge 08 8978 8955 AAOK Lakes Resort & Caravan Park 07 4123 6927 Kakadu Lodge & Caravan Park 08 8979 2422 Wiligi Experience Out of Arnhemland Adelaide River Inn 08 8976 7047 Kalidonis Hospitality Group Pty Ltd 08 8988 0444 08 8979 0069 Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront Katherine Holiday Park 08 8972 3962 Woolianna on the Daly 08 8978 2478 08 8982 9999 Katherine Motel 08 8972 1622 Aileron Hotel & Roadhouse 08 8956 9703 Katherine River Lodge Motel 08 8971 0266 Airport Quality Hotel 08 8948 9400 Kimberley Croc Motel WA 08 9168 1411 Air Transport & Touring Alatai Holiday Apartments 08 8981 5188 Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park WA Airborne Solutions Darwin Helicopter Tours Alice on Todd Apartments 08 8953 8033 08 9168 1280 08 8972 2345 Anbinik Kakadu Resort 08 8979 3144 Knotts Crossing Resort 08 8972 2511 Airnorth 08 8920 4061 Argus Apartments Darwin 08 8925 5000 Kununurra Country Club Resort WA 08 9168 1024 Aviair 08 9166 9300 Argus Hotel Darwin 08 8941 8300 Kununurra Lakeside Resort WA 08 9169 1092 Chartair 08 8920 7777 Ashton Lodge 08 8941 4866 Kununurra Resorts WA 08 9169 1995 Darwin International Airport 08 8920 1808 Aurora Kakadu 08 8979 0166 Lake Argyle Resort WA 08 9168 7777 Helispirit 08 9168 1101 Bamurru Plains 02 9571 6399 Lakeview Apartments WA 08 9168 0000 Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures WA Banyan Farm Tourist Park 08 8978 2461 Lazy Lizard Caravan Park 08 8976 1019 08 9192 1172 Barramundi Lodge 08 8941 6466 Lee & Jenny’s Bush Camp 0427 030 556 Kakadu Air Services 08 8941 9611 Batchelor Butterfly Farm & Tea House Litchfield Motel 08 8976 0123 Katherine Aviation 08 8971 1277 08 8976 0110 Litchfield Safari Camp 08 8978 2185 Kimberley Air Tours WA 08 9168 2653 Batchelor Holiday Park 08 8976 0166 Litchfield Tourist Park 08 8976 0070 Kingfisher Tours WA 08 9168 1333 Beachlife Apartments Darwin 0450 686 645 Lorella Springs Wilderness Park 08 8975 9917 Kookaburra Air 08 8945 5475 Beagle Motor Inn 08 8972 3998 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park 08 8952 6111 Nautilus Aviation 1800 884354 Berry Creek Bush Retreat 08 8983 1178 Manbulloo Homestead 08 8972 1559 Nitmiluk Helicopters 08 8972 5414 Big4 Howard Springs Holiday Park 08 8983 1169 Mantra on the Esplanade 08 8943 4333 North Australian Helicopters (Coolibah Air) Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping at Mataranka Mantra Pandanas 08 8901 2900 08 8972 5600 08 8975 4838 Marrakai Luxury All Suites 08 8982 3711 NT Air 0434 156 259 Bluestone Motor Inn 08 8962 2617 Mary River Wilderness Retreat & Caravan Park Outback Ballooning 08 8952 8723 Boab Caravan Park 08 8971 2433 08 8978 8877 Qantas Airways 08 8982 3399 Bond Springs Outback Retreat 08 8952 9888 Mataranka Roadhouse 08 8975 4571 Remote Adventures 08 8947 6724 Bremer Island Banubanu Beach Retreat Melaleuca on Mitchell 08 8941 7800 The Scenic Flight Company 08 8979 3432 08 8987 8085 Mercure Alice Springs Resort 08 8951 4545 C2 Esplanade Serviced Apartments 08 8941 2022 Virgin Australia 08 9466 6508 Mercure Darwin Airport Resort 08 8920 3333 Casa On Gregory 08 8941 3477 Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel 08 8979 9000

Chilli’s Backpackers 08 8980 5800 Metro Advance Apartments & Hotels Darwin Art & Galleries Cicada Lodge 08 8971 0167 08 79792222 Aboriginal Bush Traders 08 8944 7200 City Gardens Apartments 08 8941 2888 More Than a Room 08 8942 3012 Aboriginal Fine Arts 08 8981 1315 Club Tropical Resort Darwin 0889 448 500 Mount Bundy Station 08 8976 7009 ANKAAA 08 8981 6134 Coconut Grove Holiday Apartments Nitmiluk Chalets 08 8971 0877 Coomalie Art Centre 08 8939 7160 08 8985 0500 Nitmiluk Permanent Tents & Campground Didgeridoo Hut & Art Gallery 08 8988 4457 Cooinda Lodge Kakadu 08 8922 5904 08 8971 0877 Gallop - Thru - Time Gallery & Framing Coolalinga Tourist Park 08 8983 1026 Novotel Atrium Darwin 08 8941 0755 08 8972 2399 Corroboree Park Tavern 08 8978 8920 Novotel Darwin Airport 08 8920 7800 Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Cultural Centre Crab Claw Island Resort 08 8941 2022 Oaks Broome WA 1300 822 010 08 8972 3751 Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary WA 1300 880 861 Injalak Arts and Crafts 08 8979 0190 08 8950 7777 Oaks Elan Darwin 08 8981 0888 Jodi Bilske Photographics 0400 275 202 Cullen Bay Resorts 08 8981 7999 One 30 Esplanade Serviced Apartments Katherine Museum 08 8972 3945 Curtin Springs Station/Roadhouse 08 8956 2906 08 8941 2022 Daly River Roadside Inn 08 8978 2418 Palm Court Budget Motel & Backpackers Marrawuddi Gallery 08 8979 2777 Daly Waters Historic Pub 08 8975 9927 08 8971 9999 Mason Gallery 08 8981 9622 Darwin Airport Inn 08 8920 3333 Palms City Resort 08 8982 9200 MBANTUA Gallery 08 8941 6611 Darwin Boomerang Motel & Caravan Park Pandanus On Litchfield 08 8976 0242 Mimi Aboriginal Arts & Craft 08 8971 0036 08 8983 1202 Paravista Motel 08 8981 9200 Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory Darwin Central Hotel 08 8944 9000 Paraway Motel 08 8972 2644 08 8999 8163 Darwin City Edge Motel & Suites 08 8981 1544 Perry’s on the Daly 08 8978 2452 Nomad Art Productions 08 8981 6382 Darwin FreeSpirit Resort 08 8935 0888 Pine Creek Railway Resort 08 8976 1001 NT Chinese Museum 08 8941 0898 Desert Palms Alice Springs 08 8952 5977 Pine Tree Motel 08 8972 2533 Outstation - art from art centres 08 8981 4822 Discovery Holiday Parks - Darwin 08 8984 3330 Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge 08 8978 8914 Read Back Books & Art Gallery 08 8981 8885 Discovery Parks - Lake Kununurra WA Quest Berrimah 08 8935 3600 Tactile Arts 08 8981 6615 08 9168 1031 Quest Palmerston 08 8919 4100 Top Didj Cultural Experience and Art Gallery Djakanimbba Pavilions - Djilpin Arts Aboriginal Quest Parap 08 8919 8100 08 8971 2751 Asscociation 08 8977 4250 Ramada Suites Zen Quarter Darwin 08 7912 5212 Waringarri Aboriginal Arts WA 08 91682212 Double Tree by Hilton Darwin 08 8980 0800 Riverview Motel & Caravan Park 08 8972 1011 Double Tree By Hilton Esplanade 08 8980 0800 RNR Serviced Apartments 0879700138 Douglas Daly Tourist Park 08 8978 2479 Rum Jungle Bungalows 08 8976 0555 Attractions & Entertainment Dundee Beach Holiday Park 08 8984 3280 Rydges Palmerston 08 8983 6666 Alice Springs Desert Park 08 8951 8788 Dundee Beach Sholly Shack 03 9817 4286 Sandpalms Tropical Motel 08 89782822 Aquascene 08 89817837 Edith Falls (Leliyn) Campground & Kiosk Savannah Way Motel Borroloola 08 8975 8883 Australian Aviation Heritage Centre 08 8947 2145 08 8972 2884 Seven Emu Station 08 8975 8307 Batchelor Museum 08 8976 7006 Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments WA Shady Lane Tourist Park 08 8971 0491 Breakout NT 0466 976 948 08 9169 2010 SKYCITY Darwin 08 8943 8888 Brown’s Mart Theatre 08 8981 5522 Frontier Hotel Darwin 08 8981 5333 St Andrews Serviced Apartments 08 8971 2288 Crocodylus Park 08 8922 4500 Glen Helen Homestead Lodge 08 8956 7489 The Cavenagh Hotel 08 8941 6383 Crocosaurus Cove 08 8981 7522 Goldfields Hotel Motel 08 8962 2030 The Youth Shack 08 8923 9790 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair 0413 900 785 Groote Eylandt Lodge 08 8987 7077 Timber Creek Hotel 08 8975 0722 Darwin Airport Central 0416945827 H Hotel 08 8942 5555 Top End Short Stays 08 8921 8811 Darwin Convention Centre 08 8923 9000 H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel 08 8946 3000 Town Caravan Park WA 08 9168 1763 Darwin Entertainment Centre 08 8980 3366 Haven Resort 08 8952 4663 Travelodge Resort Darwin 08 8946 0111 Darwin Festival 08 8943 4200 Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge 08 8938 3202 Tumbling Waters Holiday Park 08 8988 6255 Darwin Golf Club 08 8927 1322 Hi Way Inn Motel 08 8947 0979 Value Inn 08 8981 4733 Darwin Ice Skating Centre 0429569321 Hidden Valley Holiday Park 08 8984 2888 Vibe Hotel Darwin 08 8982 9998 Darwin Kart Hire 0428 486 868

78 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Darwin Military Museum 08 8981 9702 Clearwater Island Lodge 08 8978 3783 Europcar 1300 131 390 Darwin Symphony Orchestra Inc. 08 8946 6488 Cobourg Fishing Safaris 08 8927 5500 Maui Motorhome Rentals 03 8398 8835 Darwin Turf Club 08 89234222 Daly River Barra Resort 08 8978 1193 Mighty Campervans and Cars 03 8398 8835 Darwin Waterfront Corporation 08 8999 5103 Darwin Barra and Crab 08 8985 1267 Thrifty NT (Darwin, Alice Springs, Katherine) Deckchair Cinema 08 8941 4377 Darwin Barra Fishing Tours 08 8931 0031 08 8924 0000 Flip Out Darwin 1300354768 Darwin Game Fishing Club 0408 762 544 Travellers Autobarn 02 9360 1500 Gardens Park Golf Links 08 8981 6365 Darwin Harbour Fishing Charters 08 8986 7207 George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Darwin’s North Australian Barra Fishing 08 8999 4418 08 8932 4219 Markets Indo Pacific Marine 08 8981 1294 Dhipirri Barra & Sportfishing Lodge Arnhemland Adelaide River Market 08 8976 0547 Jenny’s Orchid Garden 08 8983 1641 08 8983 3722 Malak Marketplace 0421 955 282 Kakadu National Park - Bowali Centre Equinox Fishing Charters 08 8942 2199 Mindil Beach Sunset Market Association 08 8938 1100 Helifish 1800884354 08 8981 3454 Katherine School of the Air 08 8972 1833 Johnson River Camp 08 8947 3366 Parap Village Markets 08 8942 0805 KJS Entertainment 08 8927 1133 Kakadu Fishing Tours 08 8979 2025 Melanie Gray 0437 291 180 Leaders Creek Fishing Base 08 8983 5009 National Trust Of Australia (NT) 08 8981 2848 Melville Island Lodge 08 8947 3366 Mechanical Palmerston Golf and Country Club 08 8932 1324 Offshore Boats 0407 212 255 Acarr Autoair 0889927703 Parliamentary Education Services 08 8946 1414 Outback Boat Hire 0400 592 939 BTC Parts & Accessories 08 8932 6777 Royal Flying Doctor Tourist Facility 0889 835 700 Phil’s Affordable Barra Tours 02 9838 0667 Stuart Hwy Tyres 08 8972 1444 Territory Wildlife Park 08 8988 7200 Reel Screamin Barra Fishing 08 8927 3782 Terrys Mobile Auto Electrical and Auto Aircon Timezone 02 9899 8100 Reidy’s Fishing Lure Factory 08 8988 4760 0407 721 039 Top End Bridge 08 89817287 Spring Tide Safaris 08 8981 3664 Window on the Wetlands 08 8976 0268 Top End Boat Hire 08 8978 8877 WWII Oil Storage Tunnel Tours 08 8985 6322 Top End Seafaris 0457 209 985 Media & Publications Wildcard Luxury Cruises 0428 114 413 Absolute Media & Marketing 0438873809 Alex Julius Fishing Media 08 8983 1738 Beauty Associated Advertising & Promotions Avoca Natural Beauty 08 8941 8922 General 08 8942 3388 Elements Day Spa 08 8941 1977 Adelaide River Show Society 08 8976 7032 Australian Tourist Publications 08 8952 2366 Star Nails Professional Beauty Care AANT - Automobile Assoc of NT 08 8925 5901 Channel Nine Darwin 08 8981 8888 0455 588 088 Australian Hotels Association NT Branch Coleman Printing 08 8982 4000 08 8981 3650 Country Wide Publications 08 9324 1574 Barkly Tourism 08 8962 1281 Darwin Digital Television 08 8927 4410 Boat Cruises & Charters Belle Models 0413 631 835 Darwin Life Magazine 08 8981 2600 Adelaide River Cruises 08 8983 3224 Chamber of Commerce NT 08 8982 8100 Hot 100/Mix 104.9 FM/92.3 Top Country/Classic Ahoy Buccaneers 0429 581 579 Charles Darwin University 08 8946 7898 Rock Digital 08 8941 9999 Arnhemlander Cultural & Heritage Cruise City of Darwin Council 08 8930 0300 Image Offset 08 8947 1168 08 8938 3202 City of Palmerston 08 8935 9911 Imparja Television 08 8941 6124 Cape Adieu Harbour Cruises 08 8942 2011 Coomalie Community Govt Council 08 8976 0058 John Batman Group - City of Darwin Cruises 0428 480 090 Cullen Bay Marina Management Corporation The Hospitality Supermarket 03 9879 8588 Coral Expeditions 07 4040 9999 08 89420400 Lane Print Group 08 8179 9900 Darwin Harbour Cruises 08 8942 3131 Darwin Presbyterian Church 08 8945 7878 Let’s Go Kids 0407 012 940 Guluyambi Cultural Cruise 08 8938 3202 Ecotourism Australia 07 3252 1530 NT News 08 8944 9710 Kununurra Cruises WA 08 9168 2882 Edutourism International 0401 126 379 Off The Leash 08 8941 7413 Lake Argyle Cruises WA 08 9168 7687 Enchanted Moments 08 8984 3336 Ontime Publications 0400 473 200 Mary River Wetlands Cruise 08 8978 8914 EPIRBhire Australia Wide 0499 806 178 Southern Cross Broadcasting 08 8941 5777 Sail Darwin! 0448736492 Explore Augmented Reality 360 0447 055 155 Zip Print 08 8947 0179 Sea Darwin 1300 065 022 Flash Camp - Pop Up Tents 1800 113 640 Sealink NT 1300 130 679 Fusion Exhibition & Hire Services 0437 983 706 Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Group Training NT 08 8941 2112 Pets 08 8978 9077 Hire for Baby (NT) 08 7912 5111 A1 Kennels & Cattery 08 8988 1793 Spirit of Darwin 0417 381 977 HPA Helping People Achieve 08 89470681 Dogtainers 08 8988 5673 Streeter Pearl Lugger Cruises 0448 675 824 Industry Skills Advisory Council NT (ISACNT) Helga’s Pet Resort 08 8983 1717 Top End Houseboats 08 8978 8877 08 7913 7507 i-vet (Gove Veterinary Services) 1300 080 806 Triple J Tours WA 08 9168 2682 Katherine Visitor Information Centre Victoria River Cruises 08 8975 0850 08 8972 2650 Wetland Cruises 08 8985 5855 Knight Frank 08 8982 2500 Restaurants, Cafes & Bars Wildlands Wetlands Safaris 0448 967 734 Moore Marketing & Distribution 08 8981 1933 Antiquity Greek Restaurant 08 8981 2270 Yellow Waters Cruises 08 8922 5904 Northern Territory Athletics Inc. 0447 717 556 Barrel & Cruse Bistro 0431216199 Northern Territory Seafood Council 08 8981 5194 Berry Springs Tavern 08 89886186 NT Beverages Group 0439 579 819 Boost Juice Bars 0451 850 515 Business Consultants Pace Insurance 08 8948 1222 Border Store 08 8979 2474 Boab Design 08 8941 1799 Palmerston Regional Business Association Char Darwin 08 8981 4544 Business Enterprise Centre (Darwin Region) Inc. 0488 869 653 Crazy Acres 08 8988 6227 08 8923 6144 Paradise Outdoor Advertising 07 4758 4626 Crustaceans on the Wharf 08 8981 8658 Imagine Social Media 0418 564 582 Parks & Wildlife Commission of the NT Darwin Fish Markets 08 8941 2522 Snappy Marketing 0488 121 172 08 8999 4561 Darwin River Tavern 08 8988 6104 Savvy Social 0439 868 748 Savannah Guides 0408 772 513 Darwin RSL 08 8981 5437 Sharyn Innes Consultancies 08 8942 1395 Territory Medical Group 08 89484333 Darwin Sailing Club (The) 08 8981 1700 Sprout 08 8980 5700 Territory Proud 0419 906 524 Darwin Ski Club 08 8981 6630 Telford Business Solutions 0418 473 853 Tourism Central Australia 08 8952 5199 Darwin Trailer Boat Club Inc. 08 8981 6749 Treeti Business Consulting & Mediation Tourism NT 08 8999 3900 De La Plage 0415914727 08 89671788 Dinah Beach Cruising Yacht Association 08 8981 7816 Hire Vehicles Eat-A-Pizza 08 89410963 Fishing Advance Car Rentals 08 8981 2999 Frying Nemo 08 8981 2281 Anglers Choice Fishing Safaris 08 8978 1292 Apollo Motorhome Holidays 08 8981 4796 Hanuman Restaurant 08 8941 3500 Arafura Bluewater Charters 08 8932 3006 Bargain Car Rentals 1300 729 230 Hibiscus Tavern Dollys Bar 0889276388 Barra Boat Hire 08 7978 8147 Britz Campervan Rentals 03 8398 8835 Hotel Darwin 08 8941 7947 Budget Rent A Car 08 8418 7309 Karen Sheldon Catering 08 8945 6048

BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 79 Katherine Country Club 08 8972 1276 Ethical Adventures 04 8844 2269 Little Miss Korea 08 89817092 Experience the Wild 0400 404 058 Monsoons 08 8941 7171 Kakadu 4WD Safaris 1300 525 238 Noonamah Tavern 08 8988 1054 Kakadu Cultural Tours 08 8938 3202 Oka Teppanyaki 08 8941 5453 Kakadu Dreams 1800 813 269 One Mile Brewing Company 0423 534 122 Kimberley Adventure Tours 08 9191 2655 Oyster Bar Darwin 08 8981 2242 Katherine Outback Experience 0428 264 030 Pee Wee’s at the Point 08 8981 6868 Kimberley Offroad Adventure Tours 0447740880 Piper Collective 1300174737 Kimberley Outback Tours 08 9169 1995 Rachael’s Seafood Shack 0407 722 422 Kimberley Wild Expeditions 08 9193 7778 Rum Jungle Tavern 08 8976 0811 Kimberley Wilderness Adventures 1800889389 Seafood on Cullen 08 8981 4666 Lirrwi Yolngu Tourism Aboriginal Corporation Shenannigans 08 8981 2100 07 5539 8231 Six Tanks Brewing Co. 0889 239 780 Litchfield Dreams 08 8981 3266 Stone House Wine Bar & Kitchen 0419 139 966 Litchfield Escapes 0456 893 160 Tandoori Vibes 0402 798 994 Lords Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris The Bell Bar & Bistro 08 7917 8926 0438 808 548 The Chantilly Kitchen Tea Room 0417 140 496 Marksie’s Stockman’s Camp Tucker Night The Foreshore Restaurant & Café 08 8948 4488 0427 112 806 The Katherine Club Inc 0889721250 Mary River Wilderness Retreat Tours The Precinct 08 8941 9000 08 8978 8877 The Purple Mango Café 0407 739 738 Mulgas Adventure Tours 08 8952 1545 The Tap on Mitchell 08 8981 5521 Nitmiluk Tours 08 8971 0167 Trampoline Gelato 0411884655 North Tours Australia 0416 976 882 Wangi Falls Centre 08 8978 2077 NT Adventure Park 0468 615 608 Wharf One - il Lido 08 8941 9000 NT Bird Specialists 0421 651 122 Wisdom Bar & Café 08 8941 4866 NT Day Tours 08 8947 5383 Offroad Dreaming 0408799029 Offroad Rush WA/NT 0417 957 504 Shopping Outback Camp Tours 0427 111 071 American Express Currency Exchange Outback Elite Tours 0429 263 437 1300 139 060 Outback Floatplane Adventures 08 8981 4881 Batchelor General Store 08 8976 0045 Outback Spirit 1800688222 Caryota Book Exchange 0455 747 220 Outback Tour Services 08 8950 9900 Casuarina Square 08 8920 2306 Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours 08 8984 9282 Central Business Equipment 08 8947 4950 Sacred Earth Safaris 08 8555 3838 Charlotte’s Web Chocolate Factory 0468 615 608 Segway Tours 0417 781 178 City Savvy 0889416060 Southern Cross Motor Bike Tours 08 8985 1681 Coca-Cola Amatil (Aust) 1300666120 Spirit of Kakadu Adventure Tours 08 8922 5904 Coolalinga Central 0437 961362 Spirit Safaris 08 8120 0366 Creative Jewellers 08 8941 1233 Star Safaris 0417 847 967 Croc Stock & Barra 0499 991 405 Sugarbag Safaris 0407 250 370 Darwin in the Wet 0408 428 221 Territory Expeditions 08 8988 3222 Darwin Laundries 0419 199 299 Territory Experiences 0428 142 724 Darwin Tours 08 8985 6322 Territory Wild Tours Darwin 0427 474 434 Disclaimer di CROCO 08 8941 4470 The Darwin History and Wartime Experience Dragonfly Fabrics 08 8948 0691 0455998346 The information contained in this publication Ensign 08 8981 7488 The Rock Tour 08 8953 1008 is provided as a guide only. Whilst every Eva Valley Meats 0419662052 Tiwi Tours 08 8923 6523 effort has been made to ensure the accuracy Kimberley Fine Diamonds WA 08 9169 1133 Top End Day Tours 0456 375 264 Louise Denton Photography 0406 811 479 Top End Tandems 0417190140 of the information, Tourism Top End Mitchell Centre 08 8981 5688 Tour Tub 08 8985 6333 disclaim any liability or responsibility for Murray Oakley Discounts 08 8947 4844 Travel North 08 8971 9999 Paspaley Pearls Pty Ltd 02 9775 1024 Uluru Camel Tours 08 8956 3333 the accuracy of the information contained Paul Arnold Bush Photo’s 08 8941 6062 Uluru Segway Tours 0889 563 043 herein. Venture North 08 8927 5500 Paperbark Woman 08 89417142 Advertising material appearing in this Peterpans Adventure Travel 08 8941 4861 Walk Darwin 0428 183 444 Shine Gifts and Fashion 0407612570 Wallaroo Tours 08 8981 6670 publication is supplied by the operator or Splash on Knuckey 08 8981 4550 Wayoutback Desert Safaris 1300 551 510 service provider and the above mentioned Territory Jerky 08 89527332 Wildman Wilderness Lodge Tours 08 8978 8955 Tourism Top End are not responsible for the The Australian Opal & Diamond Collection Willie Creek Pearls WA 08 9192 0000 08 8211 9995 Willis’s Walkabouts 08 8985 2134 accuracy of advertising content. Woolah Tours 0423371926 Top End Tackle World 08 8932 3006 In circumstances where Tourism Top End

acts as booking agent, the organisation shall Tours Transport not be liable for any injury, loss or damage AAT Kings Darwin 08 8923 6555 ATG Downunder 08 8952 5688 arising from the provision of or failure to Adelaide River Transfers 0438 946 444 Buslink 08 8947 0577 Adelaide River Tours 0472 786 877 Coach Charters Australia 08 8988 1447 provide any such service. Adventure Tours Australia 08 8309 2277 Darwin City Airport Shuttle Service 0889 473 979 Design and artwork Tourism Top End. Art.Walk.Eat 0409 015 951 Darwin Radio Taxi 08 8985 0704 Ask Darryl In Darwin 08 8927 9939 Grand Touring 08 8981 0300 Photographic images/text included in this Aussie Adventures 08 8923 6523 Spinway Northern Territory 0414 296 196 publication kindly provided by: Palms City Bombing Of Darwin Heritage Tours 0432 041 132 Resort, Venture North, Tourism NT Image Brookes Australia Tours 08 8948 1306 Bungle Bungle Expeditions WA 08 9168 7220 Gallery, Peter Eve, TFE Hotels, Dundee Bungle Bungle Guided Tours WA 1800 899 029 Beach Sholly Shack, Alex Julius, Wildlands Cutta Cutta Caves 08 8972 7800 Darwin Bike Tours 0487 453 488 Safari Airboats, Archie Sartracom, Tourism Darwin Chinese Tours 02 8378 0633 Australia, Crazy Acres, Anita Goodgame, Darwin Explorer 0416 140 903 Jake West, Sherwyn Bremner, Chloe Wilson, Darwin Photography Tours 0403545982 Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris 08 8979 0413 Dustin Curtis, Anbinik, Wetland Cruises and East Kimberley Tours WA 08 9168 2213 Fishing the Daly River Publication.

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#TourismTopEnd 1300 138 886 THE TOP END REGION Tourism Top End Corner Bennett and Smith Streets Darwin NT 0800 T: 1300 138 886 T: +61 8 8980 6000 F: +61 8 8981 0653 E: [email protected] tourismtopend.com.au

KATHERINE REGION Katherine Visitor Information Centre Corner Stuart Highway and Lindsay Street Katherine NT 0850 T: +61 8 8972 2650 F: +61 8 8972 2655 E: [email protected] visitkatherine.com.au

BARKLY REGION Tennant Creek Visitor Information Centre & Battery Hill Mining Complex Battery Hill – Peko Road, Tennant Creek NT 0860 T: 1800 500 879 T: +61 8 8962 1281 F: +61 8 8962 2022 E: [email protected] barklytourism.com.au

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA Tourism Central Australia Corner of Todd Mall and Parsons Street Alice Springs NT 0870 T: 1800 645 199 T: +61 8 8952 5800 F: +61 8 8953 0295 E: [email protected] discovercentralaustralia.com

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