DESTINATION DARWIN AND THE TOP END 2018/19 Edition
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08 8981 4881 BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 3 DARWIN AIRPORT SHUTTLE Airport • Hotel • Airport Airport Shuttle Service
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24 hours • 7 Days a week Darwin City Airport Shuttle Service 08 8947 3979 BOOK ONLINE: www.dcass.com.au
4 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 CHARLES DARWIN CENTRE | PASPALEY.COM BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 5 Dear Visitors Welcome to Darwin, the gateway Events Page 8 to Northern Australia. I hope that Useful Information 10 you take time to enjoy our unique and enviable tropical lifestyle and Top End Climate 12 experience for yourself the many Driving in the Top End 14 people and places that make Darwin a great place to live. Transportation 16 The Larrakia people are the traditional Vehicle Hire 17 custodians of the land and waters of Darwin Attractions 18 the greater Darwin region and I would encourage you to explore and enjoy Fish Feeding Timetable 23 Aboriginal culture during your stay. Food and Please take time to discover the unique history of Darwin and the Territory – Entertainment 26 visit the ancient Aboriginal rock art in Kakadu, discover what happened when Shopping 33 Darwin was bombed in World War II Art and Culture 35 and then flattened by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Darwin is a city that has rebuilt Fun For Kids 36 itself several times. This is one of the WWII Tourism 38 reasons we are such a vibrant and resilient community. Darwin City I hope that you will find Darwin to be Heritage Walk 41 the friendly, cosmopolitan city it is Accommodation 45 known for, where locals and visitors enjoy our world-famous markets, Budget/Backpacker 52 festivals, cafés and thriving arts scene. Things to do in the If you’re active, you can make the most of our outdoor lifestyle, with world Top End 54 class fishing, sailing, camping, cycling Top End Itineraries 60 and walking in our stunning natural environment. Take advantage of the Fishing the Top End 65 fact that we are on the doorstep of Darwin Harbour 67 World Heritage wilderness areas. Palmerston City 70 Make sure you take the time to chat with our friendly locals and volunteer The Peninsula Way 72 Ambassadors, and ask them about Litchfield National Park 74 their favourite things to do. You’ll soon discover why the Top End captures the Adelaide River hearts of so many who come here. & Batchelor 79 During your stay, if someone Wildlife & provides you with an excellent tourist experience, please nominate them for Wetlands Region 81 a Tourism Top End Super Deeds award. Kakadu National Park 86 You can fill out the form at the back of this book, or nominate via email, Arnhem Land 94 Facebook or Twitter. Tiwi Islands 97 I hope you make the most of all the Katherine & Surrounds 100 unique, diverse and exciting things to do in Darwin and the Top End of Tourism Top Australia. Be safe, and happy travels! End Members 108 The Hon. Kon Vatskalis JP Front cover image credit: Lord Mayor of Darwin Charlie Bliss Creative and
6 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information CentreMindil 1300 Beach 138 886Markets Morning and Afternoon transfers daily in Air-conditioned comfort from Darwin City.
5 Star facilities and Amenities
Fully Licenced Pavilion Cafè with Barista made cappuccinos
Custom built Pathfinder vessels, cruise in complete safety
Territory Owned and Operated, family run business for over 30 years.
SHUTTLE BOOKINGS SELF-DRIVE, CALL DIRECT TO BOOK YOUR CRUISE 0438 946 444 (08) 89 888 144 *Conditions, schedule and pricing subject to change without notice. Shuttle bus bookings are essential. Morning and afternoon shuttle time are subject to change please check our website for more information. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 7 FESTIVALS & EVENTS 2018
January February March 20-21 Heineken Hottest 7’s 5 Goyder’s Day, 2 Commonwealth Games in the World, Rugby Park, Darwin Waterfront by the Baton Relay Final Event, Marrara Deckchair Cinema Darwin Waterfront
22 Flix in the Wet, (running 3 Steve Backshall’s BBC 10 Darwin Masters 10s, until 25 March), BCC Deadly 60 Downunder, Little Mindil Beach Cinemas Darwin City Darwin Convention Centre 18 Tiwi Islands Football and 26 Australia Day 16 Chinese New Year, Art Sale, Bathurst Island Celebrations, various various venues across venues across the Top End Darwin 24 Mud Racing, Hidden Valley Motor Sports 28 Mud Racing, Hidden 19 76th Anniversary of the Complex Valley Motor Sports Bombing of Darwin, Complex Cenotaph – The Esplanade 31 Blacken Open Air, and various venues across Alice Springs the Top End (Running until 2 April)
24 Mud Racing, Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex
July August August Cont... 1 Territory Day 2-7 Desert Harmony 9-26 Darwin Festival, Festival, Tennant Creek Various Venues around 7 Darwin Cup Carnival, Darwin Darwin Turf Club (running 3-6 Garma Festival, until 6 August) Arnhem Land 10-12 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, Darwin Convention 22 Ocean Film Festival 4 Darwin Turf Club Gala Centre World Tour, Deckchair Ball, Darwin Turf Club Cinema 11 Noonamah Tavern 4 Pesona Indonesia, Darwin Rodeo, Noonamah Tavern 14 Darwin Dili Yacht Rally Waterfront 19-25 Lasseters Classic 20-21 Royal Katherine 6 Darwin Cup Day, Darwin Outback Trial, Alice Springs Show, Katherine Turf Club Showgrounds 31 Red Centre NATS, Alice Springs (Running until 2 22 Darwin Lions Beer Can July Cont... September) Regatta, Mindil Beach 31 The Terra Territory Challenge, Hidden Valley 26-28 Royal Darwin Show, Raceway (running until 5 Darwin Showgrounds August)
30 Pitch Black - Royal Australian Air Force (Running until 17 August) 8 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 FESTIVALS & 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 EVENTS 2018 know about Top End events listed here, more events can be viewed at tourismtopend.com.au/events/whats-on
April May June 18 Deckchair cinema 5 Billy Joel Tribute 8-10 Barunga Cultural and opening night Concert, SKYCITY Darwin Sports Festival, Barunga Community 21 Mud Racing, Hidden 5-20 Nightcliff Seabreeze Valley Motor Sports Festival, Nightcliff 9-11 Finke Desert Race, Complex Foreshore Alice Springs
25 ANZAC Day 6 Royal Flying Doctors 9-10 Greek Glenti, Commemorations Service 90 Year Bicentennial Park Anniversary Event, Stokes 25-29 Tjungu Festival, Hill Wharf 10 Summer Session, Darwin Ayers Rock Resort 8-14 NT Barramundi 15-17 Supercars 26 Mindil Beach Sunset Classic, Around the NT Championship Series, Markets Opening night, Hidden Valley Raceway Mindil Beach 11-20 Ord Valley Muster, Kununurra 23-24 Darwin 4WD, Boating and Camping Expo, 18 Darwin Star Ball, Darwin Darwin Showgrounds Convention Centre 23-24 TERRA 3 Hour Race, 18-27 A Taste of Kakadu, Hidden Valley Raceway September Kakadu National Park 13-23 Darwin 23-24 BMXA Nationals International Film 19 Bass in the Grass, Series, Round 3 Satellite Festival, Darwin George Brown Darwin City BMX Club Deckchair Cinema Botanical Gardens 28 Speedway Sedans 22 Noonamah Tavern 19-20 Freds Pass Rural Australia, National junior Rodeo, Noonamah Show, Freds Pass Sedan Title, Northline Tavern Speedway (Running until 20 Jimmy Barnes, Darwin 1 July) October Entertainment Centre 1 Million Dollar Fish 28 Australian Superbike (running until 28 26 Uluru Camel Cup, Ayers Championship, Hidden Feb 2019, Northern Rock Resort Valley Raceway(Running Territory until 1 July) 26 Noonamah Tavern 1-28 October Business Rodeo, Noonamah Tavern 29 Alice Springs Beanie Month Festival, Alice Springs 26 Darwin Waterfront (running until 2 July) Soiree, Darwin Waterfront November 30 Noonamah Tavern 11 Remembrance Day, Rodeo, Noonamah Tavern Bicentennial Park
* The calendar of events is provided as a service from Tourism December Top End. As event information by organisers can change 31 New Years Eve, without notice, we advise you to contact organisers directly to Various Venues around confirm all details prior to planning your holiday. Tourism Top the Top End End assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 9 Useful Information Accredited Tourism Businesses Businesses displaying the following symbols are committed to high standards of service and professionalism.
The Australian Tourism Accreditation symbol indicates an accredited tourism business which has achieved the standard. For more information visit: trustthetick.com.au
The Eco-Certification symbol indicates a commitment to best practice ecological sustainability, natural area management and provision of quality ecotourism. For more information visit: www.ecotourism.org.au
The ROC symbol indicates a commitment to operate with respect for Indigenous cultural heritage, including cultural protocols and authenticity.
Tourism Top End is proud to partner with:
Places of Worship/Darwin CBD and the Northern Suburbs Anglican Christchurch Cathedral/Smith Street, Darwin ...... 8981 9099 Church of Latter Day Saints/Trower Road, Millner ...... 8985 1980 Darwin Community Church/58 Sabine Road, Millner ...... 8985 4231 Darwin Presbyterian Church/Berrimah ...... 8945 7878 C3 Church Darwin (Pentecostal)/Vanderlin Drive, Malak ...... 8945 3343 Greek Orthodox Church/92 Cavenagh Street, Darwin ...... 8981 3272 Islamic Centre and Mosque/53 Vanderlin Drive, Wanguri ...... 8945 0390 Lutheran Church/14 Trower Road, Milner ...... 8985 5270 Seventh Day Adventist Church/80 Cavenagh Street, Darwin ...... 8981 9572 St. Mary’s Catholic Church/90 Smith Street, Darwin ...... 8981 2863 Uniting Church/78 Smith Street, Darwin ...... 8981 2897 Darwin Baptist Church/Cnr Stuart Hwy & Ross Smith Ave ...... 8941 0701 Dreambuilders Church Darwin/82 Leanyer Drive, Leanyer...... 8927 3002
10 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Banking Hours Banking hours in the Northern Territory are from 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and from 9.30am to 5pm Friday.
Banks in Darwin City ANZ Corner Peel Street/Smith Street ...... 8982 3510 People’s Choice Credit Union 66 Mitchell Street ...... 13 13 21 NAB Corner Smith Street/Peel Street ...... 13 22 65 Bank SA Knuckey Street ...... 13 13 76 Commonwealth Bank 67A Smith Street ...... 8982 8707 Westpac 24 Smith Street Mall ...... 13 20 32 Bank of Queensland 32 Cavenagh Street ...... 8936 8111 Bendigo Bank 67 Smith Street ...... 8941 4666
Foreign Exchange Facilities Foreign exchange is available through the following outlets. Travelex Darwin International Airport ...... 8945 2966 Change Group Shop 5, Galleria, Smith Street Mall...... 8981 0511 REMOX Mitchell Centre ...... 8981 7137 American Express Currency Exchange 4 Rowling St (Casuarina)...... 1300 139 060
Local Currency Denominations for banknotes: $5/$10/$20/$50/$100 Denominations for coins: 5c/10c/20c/50c/$1/$2
Power Supply Power throughout Australia is 240 volt AC. As few places have alternative power outlets, it is recommended you carry a universal plug conversion kit.
Public Telephones Australia code: +61, Northern Territory area code: 08. Public phones are for local, national and international dialling. Phones Cards are available at the airport, and also available from selected outlets in the city.
Local Time GMT plus 9 hours and 30 minutes.
Translation Services If you need help translating your language into English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service (T.I.S.) on 131 450 (available 24 hours and the cost of a local call).
Doctors/Health Services Goodlife Dental Studio 1 Eric St Alawa ...... 7979 3246 Territory Medical Nightcliff 159 Dick Ward Drive ...... 8948 4333 Territory Medical Bayside 9 Keith Lane, Fannie Bay ..8948 4333 Territory Medical Essington 22 Chapman Rd, Nightcliff ...... 8948 4333 Territory Medical Mitchell 55/59 Mitchell Street...... 8948 4333
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 11 Top End Climate The Dry Season (May to October) This is traditionally the most popular time for visitors to explore the many attractions of the Top End region. A major factor being the cooler daytime temperatures (ranging from a very pleasant 27˚c - 32˚c). Lower humidity levels at this time of the year, make perfect conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the many attractions of the Top End region. The Top End's Tropical Summer (November to April) During the months from November to April, visitors can expect monsoonal rains during late afternoon or overnight. During this period flooding can occur which can restrict access to parts of the region. While weather conditions at this time of year can restrict travel to some areas, the Wet season is a stunning time to see the Top End. Waterfalls tumble, skies host incredible light shows and the landscape turns a lush green.
Does the Wet Affect Tours and Accessibility? A misconception about the wet season is that it rains continuously – not so! When it rains, an average storm might only last 25-45 minutes. Late night storms are welcome, providing truly amazing light shows unrivalled by any man- made pyrotechnics. Visitors will often talk about the unique experience of witnessing a typical Top End storm.
The wet season offers visitors the opportunity to see this vast region during its most fertile and dramatic cycle. Tours and attractions operate year round within the majority of destinations across the region including Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks. However, due to restricted road access, some destinations can close seasonally between December and May. Major attractions like Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park are normally accessible in the wet, but swimming may close due to excessive rainfall which can cause dangerous conditions. See website for more details. nt.gov.au/driving/safety/check-road-conditions
Dehydration Visitors should be aware of our climate and its effect on the body. Water is the body’s cheapest and most effective cooling agent and in our Top End climate it is essential to consume sufficient water to prevent dehydration. If you’re active (eg. walking, cycling, climbing, etc.) you’ll need to make sure you consume additional water at regular intervals. In order to maintain an adequate level of hydration, drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
12 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Should bushfires be reported? In the early dry season bushfires in the Top End do not need to be reported unless they are a threat to property or land values. Many fires have been intentionally lit in order to manage land. Bushfires in the later months however, August-November, can be reported by contacting Bushfires NT on 8922 0844. If you encounter a bushfire while driving and if there is a lot of smoke: • Turn on your headlights • Slow down and be aware that there could be people, vehicles, large trucks and livestock on the road ahead • Follow directions of police and firefighters if present and if you cannot see clearly, pull off the road, stop your vehicle and wait until the smoke clears. When lighting a campfire you should always: • Clear a four metre radius around the fire of all flammable material • Ensure that the fire is attended at all times • Ensure that the fire can be completely extinguished with water or soil.
Darwin boasts an excellent network of cycle and walking tracks offering spectacular ocean views and an excellent means of exploring the city and outer suburbs. Visit WWII historic sites, enjoy stunning sunsets, secluded picnic spots, clifftop outlooks and coastal nature reserves.
Things to be aware if you plan to explore on foot: • ● Be sure to carry plenty of drinking water • ● Wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent • ● Wear good, solid walking shoes and appropriate clothing • ● Carry a map of the area • ● Follow advice from guides • ● Stick to walking tracks and take notice of signs at all times
Entering Aboriginal Land If you’re planning to visit Aboriginal land during your stay in the Top End you must obtain a travel permit before entering. When visiting Aboriginal land and communities in the more remote areas it is sometimes necessary to join an organised tour with one of our many specialised 4WD Safari Operators. Those wishing to enter Aboriginal lands on their own must apply in writing to the relevant Aboriginal Land Councils. For further information contact:
The Northern Land Council 45 Mitchell St Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8920 5100 Fax: (08) 8945 2633 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nlc.org.au
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 13 Driving in the Top End One of the most popular ways to travel and explore the Top End is by self-drive vehicle. While the Territory offers an excellent road system, care must be taken at all times due to our vast distances and varying road conditions. Here are some hints to help you enjoy your drive through the Top End.
International Drivers Throughout Australia, vehicles are right-hand drive and use the left-hand side of the road. If you’re planning on driving during your visit, remember - before departing for Australia you must ensure that your driver's licence is valid. If your licence is not in English you will need to carry an International Driver’s Licence.
Seat Belts By law, the wearing of seat belts by both driver and passengers is mandatory. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers ‘belt up’. Penalties apply.
Driver Fatigue Driving for long distances can cause fatigue, one of the most common causes of accidents in the Top End. As our distances are so vast, it is important to STOP and REST at least every two hours for your own and your passengers’ safety.
Fuel Availability Some of the more remote service stations have restricted operating hours and limited credit card facilities. In addition, fuels such as LPG are not always available so please always ensure to plan well and check ahead.
Road Trains You’ll be amazed at the length of the road trains travelling throughout the Territory, some up to three trailers or 50 metres in length. When overtaking always allow at least 1 kilometre of clear road ahead to be able to pass safely.
Dirt Roads To avoid accidents when driving on dirt roads always be aware that dust can obscure your vision, so always stop and wait for dust to settle before proceeding with your journey.
Unfenced Roads Many of our main roads are unfenced, so wandering stock or wildlife can create safety hazards. It’s best to avoid driving at dawn, dusk or at night to reduce the risk of hitting one of these animals. DON’T TAKE A CHANCE! If you’re heading off on a long car journey make sure you are carrying sufficient fuel. Some of the more remote service stations have restricted hours and limited card facilities. So14 ALWAYS Tourism Top plan End ahead! - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Wildlife and Wetlands Region
DEPART DARWIN DISTANCE DRIVE TIME FLY TIME (non Stop) FROM CITY APPROX. APPROX. Alice Springs 1491 km 15 hrs 2 hrs Batchelor 100 km 1 hr N/A Berry Springs 55 km 45 min N/A Fogg Dam Reserve 66 km 45 min N/A Howard Springs - Nature Park 30 km 30 min N/A Jumping Crocodiles 66 km 45 min N/A Kakadu National Park 257 km 3 hrs 1 hr Katherine 314 km 3 hrs 30 min 1 hr 10 min Litchfield National Park 129 km 1 hr 30 min 20 min Mataranka 420 km 4 hrs 30 min 1 hr 20 min Pine Creek 226 km 2 hrs 30 min N/A Tennant Creek 986 km 10 hrs N/A Territory Wildlife Park 57 km 45 min N/A Window on the Wetlands 60 km 45 min N/A
Following drive times include rest breaks - Sydney (direct flight) 4005 km 4 days 4 hrs 20 min Melbourne (direct flight) 3752 km 5 days 4 hrs Brisbane (direct flight) 3387 km 3 days 3 hrs 40 min Perth (direct flight) 3981 km 3.5 days 4 hrs 35 min Adelaide (direct flight) 3015 km 2.5 days 3 hrs 40 min BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 15 Transportation Public Transport Bus Services The Territory’s public bus service is managed by the Territory Government and serviced by a range of contracted bus operators including Buslink and Darwin Bus Service (DBS). For the latest information on bus timetables, maps, interchange locations, fares and much more please visit the Public Transport website at www.nt.gov.au/publictransport or phone (08) 8924 7666 between 6:45am and 4:30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturdays. Please note: public transport services do not operate on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Travel advice To avoid confusion and missed buses, it is recommended that passengers use the website as it is the most up to date information. Alternatively, collect a bus timetable at an interchange.
Taxis The Darwin International Airport taxi rank is located outside the terminal building. Fares to the city are approximately $30 - $50. Main city taxi ranks are located at the Knuckey Street end of The Mall and (weekends only) outside the cinema complex on Mitchell Street. Wheelchair access taxis are available. Call: 138 294
Ride-sharing is now available in the Top End. ww.hi-oscar.com.au
Transfers & Taxis Ask Darryl...... 8927 9939 Darwin City Airport Shuttle Service...... 8947 3979 Darwn Radio Taxis ...... 131 008
16 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Vehicle Hire THRIFTY DARWIN 50 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 64 Stuart Highway, Darwin NT 0820 Darwin International Airport, Terminal building Reservations: 136 139 Looking to see the sights of Darwin or want to explore the wonders of Kakadu, the Katherine Gorge or Litchfield National Park? We have you covered. We are locally owned and operated with a diverse range of small, medium and large sedans, buses, trucks and 4WDs to suit your needs. We also provide 24 hour roadside assist to give you that extra peace of mind. THRIFTY KATHERINE Travel North, 6 Katherine Terrace Katherine NT 0850 Reservations: 136 139 Wanting to explore the attractions of the magnificent Katherine Gorge, Mataranka or Litchfield National Park? We have you covered. We are locally owned and operated with a diverse range of small, medium and large sedans, buses, trucks and 4WDs to suit your needs. We also provide 24 hour roadside assist to give you that extra peace of mind. ADVANCE CAR RENTALS 86 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Free Call: 1800 002 227 Tel: (08) 8981 2999 Email: [email protected] Web: www.advancecar.com.au Advance Car Rentals is a locally operated company which boasts helpful and highly efficient service from our friendly staff. We pride ourselves in providing a wide range of late model vehicles for a comfortable and safe journey to suit any budget. Specialising in ALL- INCLUSIVE PACKAGES that include liability excess reductions and all taxes so you know there is no more to pay. Unlimited kilometres - Cars 4WD Child Seats - Conditions apply - Subject to availability
Litchfield National Park
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 17 DARWIN ATTRACTIONS Darwin City is a beautiful tropical paradise just waiting to be discovered. With its close proximity to South East Asia, Darwin is well influenced by its northern neighbours - more than 50 cultural groups living and working together in harmony to create a fantastic mix of cultures which will leave an indelible image in the minds and hearts of all who visit.
There is much of interest to see around Darwin itself. In this section of the guide we describe some of the most popular visitor attractions in and around the city, including a suggested walking tour which takes in some of the significant sites of historic and cultural interest. So much to see and do in Darwin, enjoy! Maps A and B are located at the back of this guide.
18 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKET Map A 14 Mindil Beach, Darwin NT Tel: (08) 8981 3454 Email: [email protected] Web: mindil.com.au Thursday & Sunday 4-9pm 26 April to 25 October 2018 Mindil market is the Essence of Darwin showcasing our multicultural laid back lifestyle. Our exciting night market hosts over 200 stalls with over 60 food stalls and a selection of handmade craft, crocodile products, indigenous art, handcrafted jewellery and souvenirs. Come for dinner, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy our unique shopping experience. Mix with the locals, listen to the music, watch a street performer, crack a whip or just enjoy the magical sunset. Come and experience our Mindil…
DARWIN AVIATION MUSEUM Map B 7 Stuart Highway, Berrimah NT Tel: (08) 8947 2145 Email: [email protected] Web: www.darwinaviationmuseum.com.au Did You Know Darwin was Bombed More than Pearl Harbour? Come and See the Unique Relics of WWII. From WWII Spitfire to the Impressive B52 Bomber, Iconic Bombing of Darwin Displays, Aviation Pioneers and Civil and Military Aircraft. Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm (entry fee applies). All ages Welcome. Spacious Parking and Souvenir Shop BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 19 DARWINS NO.1 CROCODILE EXPERIENCE Open Daily 9am-5pm 08 8922 4500
CROCODILE CRUISES
JUMPING CROCODILES FEEDING TOURS 10AM, 12PM, 2PM, & 4PM ONLY ZOO IN DARWIN · ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
DECKCHAIR CINEMA Map A 12 Jervois Road off Kitchener Drive, Darwin Waterfront Precinct. Tel: (08) 8981 0700 Web: www.deckchaircinema.com Deckchair Cinema is Darwin’s iconic outdoor cinema operating 7 nights a week from April to November, showing a wonderfully eclectic range of films. Dinner is available every night, as well as snacks and drinks from the fully licensed bar (strictly no BYO alcohol). The cinema provides the chairs including disabled access. Free parking is available, or simply walk from the Darwin Waterfront or Esplanade (via the Damoe Ra Walkway). Buy tickets online or at the box office from 6.00pm nightly.
60 international food Stalls 100+ Art, Free Craft & Souvenir Entertainment Stalls Didgeridoo, whip cracking, BYO circus and Experience our Alcohol live music Sunset Mindil Market... 6.30-6.45 THURSDAYwww.mindilmarket.com.au & SUNDAY 4 – 9PM. • 26TH [email protected] APRIL - 25TH OCTOBER 2018 mindil.com.au facebook/mindilmarket #mindilmarket
20 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 INDO PACIFIC MARINE Map A 14 29 Stokes Hill Road, Darwin NT 0800 DARWINS NO.1 Opposite the Darwin Convention Centre Tel: (08) 8981 1294 CROCODILE Email: [email protected] Web: www.indopacificmarine.com.au EXPERIENCE Darwin’s only Living Marine Discovery Centre features the beautiful Open Daily 9am-5pm coral reef eco systems of Darwin Harbour. No water changing filtration etc. Fully guided tours ensure a memorable visit. Rated 08 8922 4500 as one of the ten most outstanding aquariums in the Southern Hemisphere by Trip Advisor. Hours are 10am - 2pm each day. Closed Monday’s.
CROCODILE CRUISES Stokes Hill Wharf JUMPING CROCODILES FEEDING TOURS Darwin 10AM, 12PM, 2PM, & 4PM Open 7 Days ONLY ZOO IN DARWIN · ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS rfdsdarwin.com.au 08 8983 5700
CROCOSAURUS COVE Map A 8 58 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8981 7522 Email: [email protected] Web: www.croccove.com Home to Australia’s only crocodile dive, the “Cage of Death” Crocosaurus Cove, located in heart of Darwin city, allows visitors a unique and up close experience with the Top End’s iconic Saltwater crocodile. Boasting the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles with daily meet the reptiles and reptile feeding shows. Don’t miss the Big Croc Feed Show every day at 11.30am and 2.30pm. Adults: $35, Senior: $28, Child: $23
DARWIN WATERFRONT Map A 27 Tel: (08) 8999 5155 Web: www.waterfront.nt.gov.au Wind back the pace a notch between tours at one of Darwin’s best-rated visitor experiences: the Darwin Waterfront just five minutes’ walk from the city centre. Relax with a coffee or linger over a long breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks at one of the precinct’s many cafes, restaurants and bars. Ride the swell at the Wave Lagoon or float in the free saltwater Recreation Lagoon with a manmade beach and shady lawn beyond. Two hours free parking is available in the Kitchener Drive Multi-level Car Park or $2 for 3 hours and $4 for 4 hours.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 21 The Wave Lagoon and Recreation Lagoon are open 7 days. Wave Lagoon Recreation Lagoon Open daily 10am–6pm. Open daily with lifeguards on Adults $7 Children $5 patrol from 9am–6pm. Family $18 (2 adults & 3 child). Free swimming lagoon with beach. waterfront.nt.gov.au
In the heart of Darwin City Crocs in the City! Home to the Cage of Death 9 awesome reptile shows daily 10% Crocodile feeding 11.30am & 2.30pm daily Fishing for Crocs platform OFF ENTRY Hold a baby crocodile
with presentation of this voucher World’s largest display of Australian reptiles DD 2018 TTE not valid with any other promotion 58 Mitchell St, Darwin City • 08 8981 7522 • croccove.com
TERRITORY WILDLIFE PARK Cox Peninsula Road, Berry Springs NT 0838 Tel: 8988 7200 Email: [email protected] Web: www.territorywildlifepark.com.au Unique, breathtaking wildlife experiences in an expansive natural landscape. Different from any other wildlife experience in the Top End, you will appreciate the beauty of nature and be charmed by our amazing animals. Our daily program is packed with entertaining talks and up-close wildlife encounters. We feature an air-conditioned Nocturnal House, Aquarium and Café and outdoor aviaries, wallaby enclosure, waterbird lagoons, buffalo and dingoes. Free shuttle trains take you on safari around the Park. Open daily 9am-5pm except Christmas Day. 22 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Opening times for Fish Feeding
April 2018 May 2018 June 2018 1 8.00 - 9.00 17 8.00 - 9.00 1 8.00 - 9.00 17 8.00 - 9.30 1 8.00 - 10.00 16 8.00 - 10.00 5.00 - 6.15 5.00 - 6.15 5.00 - 6.00 5.00 - 6.00 2 8.00 - 10.00 17 8.00 - 10.00 2 8.00 - 9.30 18 8.00 - 10.00 2 8.00 - 9.30 18 8.00 - 10.00 3 8.00 - 10.00 18 9.00 - 11.00 3 8.00 - 10.00 19 8.00 - 10.00 3 8.00 - 10.00 19 8.30 - 10.30 4 9.00 - 11.00 19 9.00 - 11.00 4 8.00 - 10.00 20 8.00 - 10.00 4 8.00 - 10.00 20 9.00 - 11.00 5 9.00 - 11.00 20 10.00 - 12.00 5 8.00 - 10.00 21 9.00 - 11.00 5 9.00 - 11.00 21 9.00 - 11.00 6 10.00 - 12.00 21 11.00 - 1.00 6 9.00 - 11.00 22 9.00 - 11.00 6 9.00 - 11.00 22 10.00 - 12.00 7 11.00 - 1.00 22 12.00 - 2.00 7 9.00 - 11.00 23 11.00 - 1.00 7 10.00 - 12.00 23 11.00 - 1.00 8 12.00 - 2.00 23 1.00 - 3.00 8 10.00 - 12.00 24 12.00 - 2.00 8 10.00 - 12.00 24 1.00 - 3.00 9 1.00 - 3.00 24 2.00 - 4.00 9 11.30 - 1.00 25 2.00 - 4.00 9 12.00 - 2.00 25 2.00 - 4.00 10 2.00 - 4.00 25 3.00 - 5.00 10 Closed 26 3.00 - 5.00 10 1.00 - 3.00 26 3.00 - 5.00 11 3.00 - 5.00 26 4.00 - 6.00 The Wave Lagoon and Recreation Lagoon 11 3.00 - 5.00 27 4.00 - 6.00 11 2.00 - 4.00 27 4.00 - 6.00 12 4.00 - 6.00 27 4.00 - 6.00 12 4.00 - 6.00 28 4.00 - 6.00 12 3.00 - 5.00 28 4.00 - 6.00 13 4.00 - 6.00 28 5.00 - 6.15 are open 7 days. 13 4.00 - 6.00 29 4.30 - 6.15 13 4.00 - 6.00 29 4.00 - 6.00 14 4.15 - 6.15 29 8.00 - 9.00 14 4.00 - 6.00 30 4.30 - 6.15 14 4.00 - 6.00 30 8.00 -9.00 15 8.00 - 9.00 5.00 - 6.15
Wave Lagoon Recreation Lagoon 15 4.00 - 6.00 15 4.00 - 6.00 5.00 - 6.00 5.00 - 6.15 30 8.00 - 9.30 16 4.30 - 6.15 16 4.30 - 6.00 31 8.00 - 9.00 Open daily 10am–6pm. Open daily with lifeguards on Adults $7 Children $5 patrol from 9am–6pm. July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 Family $18 (2 adults & 3 child). 1 8.00 - 10.00 17 8.00 - 10.00 1 8.00 - 10.00 16 8.00 - 10.00 1 8.00 - 10.00 16 9.00 - 11.00 Free swimming lagoon with beach. 2 8.00 - 10.00 18 9.00 - 11.00 2 8.00 - 10.00 17 9.00 - 11.00 2 9.00 - 11.00 17 9.00 - 11.00 waterfront.nt.gov.au 3 8.00 - 10.00 19 9.00 - 11.00 3 9.00 - 11.00 18 9.00 - 11.00 3 9.00 - 11.00 18 Closed 4 9.00 - 11.00 20 10.00 - 12.00 4 9.00 - 11.00 19 10.00 - 12.00 4 10.00 - 11.30 19 Closed 5 9.00 - 11.00 21 11.00 - 1.00 5 10.00 - 12.00 20 Closed 5 Closed 20 Closed 6 10.00 - 12.00 22 12.00 - 2.00 6 11.00 - 1.00 21 Closed 6 Closed 21 Closed 7 11.00 - 1.00 23 Closed 7 Closed 22 Closed 7 3.00 - 5.00 22 4.00 - 6.00 8 12.00 - 2.00 24 Closed 8 Closed 23 Closed 8 4.00 - 6.00 23 4.00 - 6.00 9 1.00 - 3.00 25 4.00 - 5.00 9 3.00 - 5.00 24 4.00 - 6.00 9 4.00 - 6.00 24 4.00 - 6.00 In the heart of Darwin City 10 2.00 - 4.00 26 4.00 - 6.00 10 4.00 - 6.00 25 5.00 - 6.15 10 5.00 - 6.15 25 5.00 - 6.15 11 3.00 - 5.00 27 5.00 - 6.15 11 4.00 - 6.00 26 5.00 - 6.15 11 5.00 - 6.15 26 5.00 - 6.15 12 4.00 - 6.00 28 8.00 - 9.00 12 8.00 - 9.00 27 8.00 - 9.00 12 8.00 - 10.00 27 8.00 - 9.00 13 4.00 - 6.00 5.00 - 6.15 13 8.00 - 10.00 28 8.00 - 9.30 Crocs in the City! 5.00 - 6.15 5.00 - 6.15 14 8.00 - 9.00 29 8.00 -9.00 13 8.00 - 9.30 28 8.00 - 9.00 14 8.00 - 10.00 29 8.00 - 10.00 Home to the Cage of Death 5.00 - 6.15 30 8.00 - 10.00 14 8.00 - 10.00 29 8.00 - 10.00 15 8.00 - 10.00 30 8.00 - 10.00 15 8.00 - 10.00 31 8.00 - 10.00 15 8.00 - 10.00 30 8.00 - 10.00 9 awesome reptile shows daily 16 8.00 - 10.00
10% Crocodile feeding 11.30am & 2.30pm daily October 2018 November 2018 Fishing for Crocs platform 1 8.00 - 10.00 16 8.30 - 10.00 1 Closed 16 Closed OFF ENTRY Hold a baby crocodile 2 9.00 - 11.00 17 Closed 2 Closed 17 Closed with presentation of this voucher World’s largest display of Australian reptiles DD 2018 TTE 3 10.00 - 11.00 18 Closed 3 Closed 18 Closed not valid with any other promotion 4 Closed 19 Closed 4 3.00 - 5.00 19 3.00 - 5.00 5 Closed 20 Closed 5 4.00 - 6.00 20 4.00 - 6.00 58 Mitchell St, Darwin City • 08 8981 7522 • croccove.com 6 3.00 - 5.00 21 4.00 - 6.00 6 4.00 - 6.00 21 4.00 - 6.00 7 4.00 - 6.00 22 4.00 - 6.00 7 4.30 - 6.30 22 4.30 - 6.30 23 4.00 - 6.00 8 5.00 - 6.30 23 5.00 - 6.30 8 4.00 - 6.00 24 4.30 - 6.30 9 5.00 - 6.30 24 5.00 - 6.30 9 4.30 - 6.30 25 5.00 - 6.30 10 8.00 - 9.00 25 5.30 - 6.30 10 5.00 - 6.30 26 5.00 - 6.30 11 8.00 - 9.00 26 8.00 - 9.00 11 8.00 - 9.00 27 8.00 - 9.00 12 8.00 - 9.00 27 8.00 - 9.00 12 8.00 - 9.30 28 8.00 - 9.00 13 8.00 - 10.00 28 8.00 - 10.00 13 8.00 - 10.00 29 8.00 - 10.00 14 8.00 - 10.00 29 8.00 - 10.00 14 8.00 - 10.00 30 8.00 - 10.00 15 Closed 30 10.00 - 11.00 15 8.00 - 10.00 31 8.00 - 10.00 * Unsuitable tides or poor conditions due to low tide
24 TOURISM TOP END - VISITORBOOK INFORMATION ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au CENTRE 1300 138 886 23 Darwin Attractions Aquascene Map A 3 Hundreds of fish visit the shallows of Doctors Gully every high tide looking for a free meal. A family experience not to be missed. Admission fee applies.
Burnett House/Myilly Point Heritage Precinct Map A 6 Four heritage-listed National Trust houses comprise the Myilly Point Heritage Precinct. One house, Burnett House, is open to visitors on Monday to Saturday from 10am till 1pm. Admission fee applies.
Casuarina Coastal Reserve Map B 3 The Reserve protects a large coastal area between the mouth of Rapid Creek and Buffalo Creek and features sandy beaches fringed by Casuarina trees and sandstone cliffs. Free admission. Charles Darwin National Park Map B 1 Close to the city off Tiger Brennan Drive, the park was developed to highlight the rich mangrove habitats of Darwin Harbour and it is a great place to enjoy a relaxing picnic. A great vantage point overlooking the city. During WWII, the site was one of a network used as a munitions depot. An informative display housed in one of the original storage bunkers depicts Darwin’s role in the war. Free admission. Open daily 8.00am - 7.00pm. Darwin Military Museum & Map B 9 Defence of Darwin Experience The Museum is located at East Point, an important location in the wartime defence of Darwin. The Defence of Darwin Experience provides visitors with an immersive, interactive multimedia experience of the story of Darwin’s role in World War II. Admission fee applies. East Point Reserve Map B 17 Evidence of Darwin’s wartime history is visible within this delightful 200 hectare reserve, with sweeping views across Fannie Bay and the harbour to the city skyline. Visit late afternoon and stay to enjoy the glorious vista of a Top End sunset. Free admission. George Brown Darwin Map B 21 Botanic Gardens Walk through the historic Gardens and experience rainforest, mangroves and open woodlands. Highlights include the waterfall, playground with its treehouse, cafe and the self-guided multimedia tree walk. Free admission.
24 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Jenny’s Orchid Garden With more than two acres dedicated to the commercial propagation of orchids, the Garden has the largest variety of tropical tree orchids in the Northern Territory. Admission fee applies.
Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory Map B 28 The Museum and Art Gallery features collections of the region’s art, natural science, history and culture. Encompassing Aboriginal art and culture, arts and craft from the South- East Asia and Pacific regions, maritime archaeology and local history, the museum includes a fascinating Cyclone Tracy exhibit. Free admission.
NT Chinese Temple and Museum Map A 7 History of Chinese in the NT and features a model of old Darwin Chinatown, comprehensive family trees of pioneering Chinese families, artefacts and memorabilia. Admission fee applies.
NT Parliament House Map A 19 Guided tours depart from the foyer on Saturdays at 9.00am and 11.00am February to November; and on Wednesdays at 10.30am during the months of May to September. Free admission.
Reidy’s Fishing Lure Factory At the Reidys factory you will see a huge range of their fantastic Lures. They also have a great range of arts and crafts and all the latest fishing information. Factory Tours daily at 11am Monday to Friday excluding Public Holidays. Free admission.
The Royal Flying Doctor Map A 25 Service Darwin Tourist Facility Two iconic territory stories in one iconic location. Enjoy the heroic tales of the birth and growth of the RFDS and relive the drama of the Bombing of Darwin Harbour that rocked Australia in 1942. Admission fee applies.
The Cenotaph Map A 24 The Cenotaph is Darwin’s official memorial to those members of the armed services, rescue services, and civilian personnel who lost their lives in the service of their country in the time of war. Map A 28 WWII Oil Storage Tunnels The WWII Tunnels were constructed in 1943 to protect Darwin’s oil supplies. Photographic displays pay tribute to the men and women who served in Darwin during the WWII conflict. Admission fee applies. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 25 FOOD AND ENTERTAINMENT The Top End of Australia is governed more by the weather than almost anywhere on earth. A glorious dry season of cloudless skies is followed by a spectacular wet season of life-giving rain and gorgeous sunsets. Not surprisingly, the supply of local produce – everything from the world’s best prawns to the world’s best mangoes – is dictated by the rhythm of the rain and sun. Tourism Top End wants visitors to know more about the fantastic fish, fruit and vegetables on offer, and that it’s produced in a well-managed, sustainable way. The majority of the restaurants and pubs in the Northern Territory now use local and fresh ingredients to serve excellent food. 26 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Fruit and veg Fruit and vegetables are produced throughout the year, but the peak season is April-November. The Top End fruit scene is dominated by mangoes, which can be used as a conventional fruit or in salads or in drinks or marvellous cut into sticks and dipped in chilli soy sauce. Kids love ripe mangoes topped with ice cream. Beautiful jackfruit also thrive in the Top End.
There’s so much more on sale in the shops and markets: watermelon, bell and wax apples, guava, rambutan, limes, carambola, soursop, bananas, grapefruit, star apple and the delightfully named hogg plum. As well as the high-end dragon fruit which is popular around Chinese New Year in February. Try a pummelo (Pometo), which is peeled and eaten segment by segment; or make cakes and bread from paw paw, which is high in fibre and vitamins.
The dry season is the best time of the year for the so-called Big Five veggies – six varieties of Asian melon, snake beans, okra, Lebanese and continental cucumbers and sweet Italian basil. But there is also amaranth and Ceylon spinach, galangal and wax gourd, eggplant and shallots, Vietnamese mint and Thai brinjal, Chinese white cabbage and lemon grass, yam bean and angled luffa, spring onions and Indian mustard, Chinese chives and garland chrysanthemum. Some of the names are undoubtedly exotic – demonstrating the Top End’s amazingly rich cultural diversity.
Seafood The Top End’s seafood is recognised around the world as second to none – barramundi, snapper, jewfish, prawns, mud crabs … all are caught in the most environmentally friendly way possible. The commercial barramundi fishing season is February - September with fresh, wild caught barramundi available at the Fish Markets and at the local restaurants. The banana prawn season is April -June and the season for tiger prawns August- November.
Where to shop Top End fruit and veg can be bought in every market, greengrocer and supermarket. The main farmers’ markets are Rapid Creek and Malak Marketplace; this is the time and place to buy lovely produce direct from the producers. But don’t forget the other markets, such as Parap, Fred's Pass, Nightcliff and Berry Springs. Seafood can be bought at all wet fish shops and supermarkets throughout the Top End and are served in most restaurants and pubs. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 27 Award Winning Club I Visitors Welcome Open 7 days from 10am I The best TAB in town 55 of the latest gaming machines 27 Cavenagh Street, Darwin I 8981 5437 darwinrsl.com.au
ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS 74 The Esplanade, Darwin 0800 Tel: (08) 8942 4023 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aboriginalbushtraders.com For 40,000 years Aboriginal people have been harvesting bush tucker; today Aboriginal Bush Traders is serving it up with a modern twist! Native Australian bush food products are the showpiece of our dampers, jams, cakes, teas, sandwiches and salads. Visit us at Lyons Cottage in the heart of the CBD for breakfast, lunch and coffee. Aboriginal Bush Traders is 100% not for profit and provides support to Indigenous people wanting to engage in economic activities in a sustainable way. Outdoor venue. DARWIN’S FIRST TEA ROOM 66 Aralia Street, Nightcliff NT 0810 Tel: (08) 7906 2825 Email: [email protected] Facebook: TheChantillyKitchenTeaRoom Enter a place of yesteryear, where you can leave any worries behind you. Our menu is quaint and perfect for morning tea, a light lunch or afternoon tea. We make a variety of light sandwiches and our desserts are proudly all homemade from scratch. Scones are also baked every morning from an old family recipe and served with jam and fresh cream. If tea isn’t your ‘thing’, we also serve delicious coffee, traditional milkshakes, soda and Maggie Beer’s sparkling Chardonnay (non-alcoholic). 28 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 FRYING NEMO Tipperary Waters Marina 10/90 Frances Bay Drive, Stuart Park Tel: (08) 8981 2281 Web: www.fryingnemo.com.au Awarded Best Fish and Chips in Australia by the National Seafood Industry and two times consecutive winner Northern Territory Seafood Awards. Darwin’s Fish and Chippery is a truly Territorian experience for lovers of fish and seafood, waterside at Tipperary Waters Marina. Specialising in delicious Australian seafood, including the popular Barramundi - plus a range of Terrritory Burgers, with tasty local Crocodile and Buffalo. The venue is fully licensed with counter service for eat in or takeaway. Frying Nemo’s relaxed and friendly vibe is the ideal place to enjoy!
AHA AHA NT AHA NT AHA NT NATIONAL BEST OVERALL BEST SPORTING BEST UBET BEST SPORTING METROPOLITAN ENTERTAINMENT LICENSED ENTERTAINMENT HOTEL VENUE VENUE VENUE 2017 2017 2017 2017
SPORTS BAR • BEER GARDEN • FOOD SPECIALS • HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY • TRY A TERRITORY TASTING PLATE • VISIT HOTEL DARWIN’S HISTORY WALL p 08 8941 7947 • e [email protected] w www.thehoteldarwin.com.au • 39 Mitchell Street Darwin NT 0800
DARWIN WATERFRONT Restaurants, Cafe and Bars Web: www.waterfront.nt.gov.au Darwin Waterfront is the place to go at any time of the day to enjoy a large range of great food and drinks, ranging from pizza and burgers at Il Lido, Asian delights at Chow!, incredible sea food from The Oyster Bar and craft beers and ciders at The Precinct. With stunning views of the water and some beautiful sunsets, be sure to put Darwin Waterfront on your list of things to do in Darwin. See website for more information. WHARF ONE FOOD & WINE 19 Kitchener Drive, Darwin Waterfront Tel: (08) 8941 0033 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wharfone.com.au Treat yourself to absolute waterfront dining, Wharf One Food & Wine offers guests a fun and casual dining experience, specialising in wood grill cooking and seasonal local produce. Located 10 minute walk from Darwin CBD, and only a 3 minute walk from the Adina Vibe Hotel, it is the perfect location for lunch, dinner, special occasions or just a drink. Open 7 days. Group bookings welcome, Free Wifi.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 29 OYSTER BAR Darwin City Waterfront, 19 Kitchener Drive Darwin NT 0800 Ph: (08) 8981 2242 Email: [email protected] Web: www.oysterbar.com.au/darwin The Oyster Bar is ideally located in the Darwin City Waterfront Precinct. There’s no better place to take advantage of Darwin’s climate and lifestyle. The Oyster Bar provides an extensive choice of Australian wine and beer selections while enjoying delicious fresh chilled or grilled oysters, share-food and platters, and of course, the impeccable waterfront views. Perfect for a quick catch up with friends or a whole evening out.
The iconic Darwin Ski Club has a rich heritage in water sports. It is the best location to relax and enjoy Fannie Bay’s stunning sunsets. Our restaurant serves quality food made with fresh ingredients. Finish your day on the bay! 8981 6630 darwinskiclub.com.au
DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB 8 Atkins Drive, Fannie Bay Tel: (08) 8981 6749 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dtbc.com.au Like us on Facebook and Instagram. Waterfront dining has never felt so good! The Club’s westerly aspect is ideal for witnessing Darwin’s famed tropical sunsets. Take a seat under the palms, order a cold ale and enjoy a truly amazing spectacle as the sun sinks into the horizon. Meanwhile the kids can swim in the pool, play in the shaded playground area or watch a video on the big screen. Families won’t be disappointed as they’ll find one of the best- located kid friendly venues in the Top End.
30 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Markets Darwin boasts a thriving market scene throughout the year, a hugely popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. Operating during the weekend at Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, Parap Shopping Village, Malak Marketplace, Fred Pass, Palmerston, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek, you won’t be disappointed as you discover the sights, tastes, sounds and above all, the hustle, bustle and friendly atmosphere that make our market scene such a unique attraction. Some markets are seasonal and some operate all year round please see more details on the listings below.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets Gilruth Avenue, Darwin - Location from Darwin CBD: 3km Phone: (08) 8981 3454 Day: Thursdays and Sunday (April to Oct) Time: 4.00pm - 9.00pm Renowned for the tropical sunsets over Mindil Beach. Visitors can experience the vibrant, friendly and stimulating environment while enjoying the culinary delights on offer, and an extensive array of handmade craft, art and services. Live entertainment including live bands, street performers, cultural dance and fire shows.
Parap Village Saturday Markets Parap Shopping Village, Parap Location from Darwin CBD: 4km - Phone: (08) 8942 0805 Day: Saturdays (year round) - Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm This vibrant and colourful market place will enthrall you with its diverse food stalls, arts and crafts from locals artisans and its busy but relaxed atmosphere. Locals just can’t pass up a Saturday morning without their laksa or fresh tropical smoothie.
Nightcliff Village Sunday Market Progress Drive, Nightcliff Location from Darwin CBD: 10km - Phone: 0414 368 773 Day: Sundays (year round) - Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm A casual wander around the market may unearth an unusual bargain or a unique gift with stalls displaying a range of original crafts, plants and recyclable goods. With plenty of shade and space to sit and enjoy the entertainment from local artists.
Rapid Creek Market Rapid Creek Shopping Centre, Trower Rd Location from Darwin CBD: 11km - Phone: (08) 8948 4866 Day: Saturdays and Sundays (year round) Time: 6.30am - 1.30pm Spend a lazy Sunday morning getting a massage, followed with a delicious brunch before browsing the stalls for fresh produce. Specialising in a wide selection of fruit and vegetables, bric- a-brac, seafood, craft and an extensive variety of food stalls. There is live entertainment and performances. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 31 Malak Marketplace - Organic Farmers Market Chamber Crescent Car Park, Malak Location from Darwin CBD: 15km - Phone: 0421 955 282 Day: Saturdays (April - Oct) - Time: 4.00pm - 9.00pm Darwin’s first organic market, arts and craft and health hub, with a unique multicultural and creative flare. After opening in 2016, Malak Marketplace has become the iconic, family friendly location for a late Saturday afternoon / evening to share local culture, music, organic food and entertainment.
Palmerston and Rural Market Goyder Square, Palmerston CBD Location from Darwin CBD: 20km Phone: (08) 8988 4124 Day: Fridays (May - Oct) - Time: 5.30pm - 9.30pm Selling everything from hand-crafted jewellery and novelty items, fresh produce and a selection of exotic foods. Be entertained by great live music, multicultural dances, and let’s not forget the kids - with rides, clowns, games, competitions and giveaways.
Fred's Pass Rural Market Fred's Pass Reserve, Cnr of Bees Creek Road and Stuart Highway Location from Darwin CBD: 30km Day: Saturdays (year round) - Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Fred's Pass Rural Market is bigger and better in its new location, the markets are held each Saturday throughout the year and include a varied selection of market stalls offering fresh produce, food stalls and local craft items.
Berry Springs Markets Cox Peninsula Road, Berry Springs Location from Darwin CBD: 50km - Phone: (08) 8988 6674 Day: Saturdays (year round) - Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Come along and join the locals for breakfast or maybe grab an early lunch. The Berry Springs Community Market has stalls ranging from fresh locally grown produce, to arts and crafts, plants, second-hand goods and local hand-made market products.
32 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 SHOPPING Darwin City is your gateway to international and national fashion, coveted south sea pearls, indigenous art and some of the world’s most unique fine-quality accessories. Darwin is an easy city to shop in and a rewarding one. You’ll be impressed by the range of goods available in a variety of shops and galleries in and around Darwin City. Take a stroll around Knuckey Street, Cavenagh Street, Mitchell Street and the Smith Street Mall to discover just what is on offer. Shop in air-conditioned comfort at the Mitchell Centre on Mitchell Street with its major supermarket and range of retail stores. Specialty shops will spoil you for choice. Discover local crafted jewellery, world-renowned Paspaley Pearls, fine quality crocodile products, Aboriginal art and artefacts, framed Top End landscape photographs, swim and leisure wear, souvenirs and many other treasures. The city caters to your every need with banks and exchange centres, pharmacies and postal services. But your shopping experience doesn’t end there. A 15 minute journey from the city takes you to Casuarina Square, the Territory’s largest shopping centre - easily accessible by public transport (Buses No. 4 or 10) from the city. Casuarina Square features more than 200 retail stores including jewellers, gift outlets, electrical retailers, bookshops and fashion chains such as Cue, Just Jeans, Country Road, RM Williams, Sportsgirl and Witchery. There are also banks, cafés and restaurants, pharmacies, travel agents and major retailers such as Big W, K Mart, Coles and Woolworths and a seven screen cinema complex. On the way to Casuarina don’t forget to drop into Dragonfly Fabrics in Alawa and check out the amazing selection of fabrics. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 33 SPLASH ON KNUCKEY Knuckey Street, Darwin (opposite Raintree Park) Tel: (08) 8981 4550 With the largest range of swimwear in the NT you’ll find all your favourite brands under one roof including Seafolly, Tigerlily, Sunflair and many more. We also have a great range of cool cotton clothing ideal for the Darwin climate. Sizes 6 - 22, up to G cup sizing - Open 7 days
di CROCO Shop 4, 27 The Smith Street Mall (Bennett St end), Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8941 4470 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dicroco.com An extraordinary boutique stocked with luxurious Australian saltwater crocodile skin accessories. Handbags, belts, corporate gifts and crocodile skin inlaid jewellery in a fantastic array of colours and styles. Mon-Fri 9-5.30, Sat 9-2, Sun and Most Public Holidays 10-2 PAPERBARK WOMAN Shop 13 Arafura Plaza, 24 Cavenagh Street, Darwin Tel: (08) 8941 7142 Email: [email protected] Web: www.paperbarkwoman.com.au Lenore Dembski Paperbark Woman is Aboriginal. Her shop has over 300 different fabrics designed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. These fabrics suit quilters and people who like sewing. They are also suitable for framing and for making soft furnishings. Paperbark Woman specialises in clothing and accessories, bags, homewares, patchwork pieces, textiles, conference bags and corporate gifts. If you are fitting out your office, building or commercial accommodation premises, please contact us about introducing ATSI designed fabrics into your business. 34 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 ART AND CULTURE Darwin’s cultural heritage is a unique blend of ancient Aboriginal custom, European pioneering legacy, WWII history and fresh Asian influence. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, just four kilometres from the city centre is a great place to start your exploration of Darwin’s heritage. The Art Gallery houses a comprehensive display of indigenous art and artefacts that reveal much about the various Aboriginal groups from Darwin and its surrounds. Talk to an expert, or buy something to take home from one of the many art galleries in the city and in the suburb of Parap on the city's outskirts. Indigenous art is thriving in many communities throughout the Northern Territory’s tropical outback. These include Maningrida, Oenpelli, Tiwi Islands and Yirrkala. While buying direct from these communities is a unique experience, indigenous art can also be purchased from the many art and craft outlets in and around Darwin, Kakadu and Katherine. Refer to the Arts & Galleries listing on page 109 for a full list. ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS 74 The Esplanade, Darwin 0800 Tel: (08) 8942 4023 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aboriginalbushtraders.com Situated in the historic Lyons Cottage, Aboriginal Bush Traders is one of Darwin’s most unique attractions. A retail gallery selling authentic Indigenous products, Aboriginal Bush Traders also houses a modern bush tucker cafe and function facilities. We stock unique, authentic and ethically sourced art, gifts, clothing and homewares from across the Northern Territory. Aboriginal Bush Traders is 100% not-for profit and provides support to Indigenous people wanting to engage in economic activities in a sustainable way. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 35 FUN WITH KIDS Darwin Waterfront - Wave Lagoon Embrace your endless summer at Darwin’s Wave Lagoon. Part of the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, the Wave Lagoon is located at Stokes Hill Road or Kitchener Drive and is open daily between 10am - 6pm. With swells up to 1.7m, the kids can enjoy using boogie boards and water tubes. The toddlers can enjoy a shallow zone adjacent to the main Lagoon. Admission fees apply.
Museum and Art Gallery of the NT There’s something for you and the kids to enjoy at the Museum. Get the kids involved at the Discovery Centre with interactive displays built specifically for them. Free Admission.
Window on the Wetlands When heading out to Kakadu, you’ll pass a big blue building on top of a hill just outside of Humpty Doo - Window on the Wetlands. By now the kids will be due for a break and this facility provides great fun for the kids to interactively learn about the environment in the Top End. Open daily 8am - 5.30pm. Closed Christmas Day. Free Admission.
Territory Wildlife Park - Berry Springs Any child is easily satisfied if you take them to this park just 45 minutes out of Darwin. This park gets you up close and personal with local animals that are entirely different to what you’d expect at your local zoo back at home. Special events occur 36 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 during the school holidays so keep an eye out. Admission fee applies.
Leanyer and Palmerston Water & Skate Parks These water and skate parks are a kids delight. This is a water based recreation facility for kids in Darwin and Palmerston without nasties like crocs and box jellyfish. There are BBQs and picnic tables, basketball courts and plenty of skateboarding space. Free Admission. For more information and opening times call 08 8927 4199.
Mount Bundy Station - Adelaide River Mount Bundy Station offers a range of accommodation for families and school groups. Wildlife, farm animals, fishing, bushwalking, swimming and photography are just a part of the experience. Only one hour from Darwin and 40 minutes from Litchfield National Park.
See Crocodiles REAL Close Enter the world of the awesome Northern Territory Saltwater Crocodile at Crocosaurus Cove and Crocodylus Park, with some of the largest in captivity on display. You can choose to get up close and personal. There’s plenty of interactive stuff for the kids who can also get close to a baby crocodile. Darwin Cycling Darwin and the surrounding suburbs have fantastic cycling paths for the family to enjoy. Some great spots are around Jingili Water Gardens, Marlow Lagoon and along Nightcliff Foreshore. Contact Tourism Top End on 1300 138 886 for bicycle hire and tour options in Darwin.
The Fun Bus - Darwin Operating from February to December. The Fun Bus, run by the Darwin City Council for children aged between 0 and 5 years, is a mobile playground for children to attend with parents or carers between 9.30am and 11.30am Mondays to Fridays. A Wet Season program operates from a variety of indoor/undercover venues. For more information call 8930 0556 or 0419 031 651.
Outdoor Recreation Great fun for the kids, Kart Hire offers the full thrill of open wheel racing at high speed in quality karts and the opportunity of driving on a world-class outdoor circuit, 1035 metres long.
Flip Out Darwin Flip Out aim to give you healthy & awesome fun through their massive trampolines, ball games, events and more surprises for everyone's enjoyment.
Darwin Ice Skating Centre The Darwin Ice Skating Centre provides social ice-skating sessions, learn to skate program, coaching, ice hockey and figure skating. A great day out for all the family. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 37 WWII TOURISM IN DARWIN During WWII, Darwin became the first mainland site in Australia to come under direct attack from the enemy when it was the target of over 64 Japanese air raids, causing huge devastation and many civilian casualties. The Top End played a key strategic role in the defence of Northern Australia and much of its unique military heritage is well preserved. Gun emplacements, oil storage tunnels, bunkers, military airstrips and lookout posts are scattered in and around the city. Most are easily accessible and many are free of charge. Visitors are encouraged to explore this fascinating (and often overlooked) chapter in Australia’s history.
East Point Military Reserve Originally established as Darwin’s main defence point to protect precious oil stores at Stokes Hill Wharf, 9.2 inch gun emplacements, anti-submarine boom net, ammunition magazines, lookout towers, communication rooms, searchlight emplacements and command posts still stand in East Point Reserve. Free Entry. Location: Eight kilometres from Darwin CBD along East Point Rd.
Darwin Military Museum Featuring a unique display of WWII memorabilia and wartime stories, the museum boasts fantastic relics, an extensive photograph collection, displays of war instruments and even restored guns constructed for use during the conflict. Entry fee applies. Location: Approximately eight kilometres from Darwin along East Point Road.
Charles Darwin National Park This area was part of the network of military sites established during the development of Darwin as Australia’s northern defence line during WWII. The site has recently been restored 38 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 to include an interpretive display outlining Darwin’s role in the Pacific War. Gates open 8am & close 7pm. Free Entry. Location: Approximately seven kilometres from Darwin along Tiger Brennan Drive.
WWII Oil Storage Tunnels The WWII tunnels were constructed in 1943 to protect Darwin’s oil supplies. Photographic displays pay tribute to the men and women who served in Darwin during WWII. Closed December 1st - 27th and New Year’s Day. Entry fee applies. Location: Kitchener Drive, Darwin Waterfront.
Adelaide River War Cemetery The only war cemetery in the Top End, this is the resting place for 434 service men and women and 63 civilians, all of whom died during the Japanese air raids. Situated on the north east banks of the Adelaide River, this special site is beautifully maintained amidst tranquil gardens. Free Entry. Location: Approximately 120 kilometres south of Darwin on the Stuart Highway.
Strauss Airstrip The site, including a new information shelter and life-size cut-out plane images, was an important landing strip used by American, British and Australian pilots involved in combat over Darwin and Fenton. Free Entry. Location: Approximately 45 kilometres south of Darwin along the Stuart Highway.
Darwin Aviation Museum From the WWII Spitfire to the B52 bomber, the Musuem boasts an impressive presentation of aircraft and graphic displays depicting the Northern Territory’s long standing involvement in aviation history. Entry fee applies. Location: Approximately 13 kilometres south of Darwin along the Stuart Highway. Be sure to check out the Bombing of Darwin display!
USS Peary Memorial / USAAF Memorial Overlooking Darwin Harbour the memorial is dedicated to the Officers and Crew of the USS Peary, which was attacked and sunk during the first Japanese air-raid on Darwin. One of the guns later salvaged from the vessel now serves as the memorial to those lost in the action. Also honoured here is Lieutenant Robert Buel, a United States Army Airforce pilot who lost his life on 15 February 1942 in a heroic attack on Japanese aircraft on a bombing raid over Darwin. Free Entry. Location: Bicentennial Park / The Esplanade.
The Cenotaph / War Memorial Overlooking the Harbour in Bicentennial Park, the Cenotaph is Darwin's official memorial to members of the armed services, rescue services and civilian personnel who gave their lives in
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 39 the service of their country in time of conflict. Flanking the Cenotaph, memorial plaques including dedications to the many who perished as a consequence of the air-raids on Darwin during WWII. Location: Bicentennial Park / The Esplanade.
AUSTRALIA’S FRONTLINE:WWII TOUR Tel: 1300 065 022 Email: [email protected] Web: www.seadarwin.com See the sights and hear the stories of the Bombing of Darwin. This half day tour will take you back in time to relive one of Australia’s most significant wartime events. This tour includes hotel pick up, a visit to significant sites, the Charles Darwin bunkers, a one hour harbour cruise and the Defence of Darwin Experience. 8.00am - 12.30pm. Note: The Bombing of Darwin cruise available separately at 11.00am. $119.00 Adults, $109 Cons, $99.00 Child. Cruise only $35 Adults
THE DARWIN HISTORY AND WARTIME EXPERIENCE Phone: 0455 998 346 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dhwe.com.au Join this iconic Darwin tour and discover the city’s fascinating history while travelling in a genuine WW2 army vehicle. See historic landmarks, wartime relics and visible evidence of the Japanese attacks on Darwin. Learn about pre-war Darwin, wartime Darwin and Cyclone Tracy. Tour length is 1 hour 15 minutes may include the option to hop off at the Defence of Darwin Experience (entry fees apply). Adults: $45; Concession: $40; Child: $25; Family(2A + 2C) $115.
BOMBING OF DARWIN WWII HERITAGE TOUR Phone: 0432 041 132 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bombingofdarwin.com.au Experience the original Darwin WWII tour with a local in air conditioned comfort. Our small and unique 4hr morning tour is more than a bus ride. We journey back in time to all the sites and relics, and hop off for fan- tasic photo opportunities. With the stories, names and photos we ‘bring them back to life’. See Darwin’s beautiful sites at the same time. Light snacks included. Adults $95, Chil- dren (15 and under) $50. Garry. Entry to Aviation OR Military Museum included. 40 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Darwin City Heritage Walk Steeped in ancient Aboriginal values and beliefs and moulded by the tough European pioneering character, Darwin enjoys a unique heritage that surprises many who visit. Its role as Australia’s frontline against the very same Japanese force that struck Pearl Harbour, is only just now being recognised and respected. Today, visitors can experience WWII heritage unlike anywhere else in Australia. Sacred Aboriginal sites exist in and around Darwin. Visitors can also experience what it was like to be living in Darwin when the ferocious winds of Cyclone Tracy struck on Christmas Eve in 1974, devastating the city for the second time.
WALK DARWIN Tel: 0428 183 444 Email: [email protected] Web: www.walkdarwin.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/walkdarwin Walk Darwin conduct guided sightseeing walking tours. Walks are leisurely paced and a short duration, leaving you with time in your day to discover more of what Darwin has to offer. History | Food | Character Walks | WWII | Botanic Gardens | City | Heritage | Art
If you're not taking a tour to discover Darwin’s unique history, we encourage you to take a self guided walk around Darwin using the map provided on page 42.
1. The Tree of Knowledge / The Beagle Bells The banyan tree ficus virens, a species revered by Buddhists worldwide as the ‘Tree of Knowledge’, is strikingly represented behind the current Civic Centre on Harry Chan Avenue in Darwin. This ancient beauty has been a locally-famous landmark throughout the town’s history. Adjacent to the tree is the HMS Beagle Ship Bell Chime – a musical instrument linking the City of Darwin to Charles Darwin’s voyage on the HMS Beagle from 1831-1836.
2. Christ Church Cathedral The original cathedral built in 1902 was devastated by Cyclone Tracy. The cathedral you will see today, is a totally modern design built in 1975 incorporating part of the ruins of the original structure.
3. Browns Mart Theatre Intended as a mining exchange when built in the 1880s, this stone cottage has served many purposes throughout the years. In recent years the building has been converted for use as a community theatre and concert venue.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 41 DARWIN WATERFRONT PRECINCT 4. The Old Town Hall Conservation techniques are used to slow the decay of these pre-Cyclone Tracy ruins. Along with Browns Mart and Christchurch Cathedral, the simple, rectangular building erected in 1883 during a mining boom created a human- scaled streetscape of stone. In WWII, it was used for naval administration and later as an art gallery.
5. The Old Courthouse and Police Station Built in 1884 for the South Australian Government. The courthouse adjoined the police station with a cellblock in the back. The Navy used these buildings from WWII until the Christmas Day of 1974 cyclone disaster.
6. Government House Once known as The Residency this is an 1883 stone replacement of a timber structure built 13 years earlier which suffered a debilitating white ant attack. Verandahs with louvres providing the main living area, encircle the building. Government House is open to the public at certain times during the year.
7. NT Parliament House and NT Library The NT Parliament House is a uniquely beautiful building standing on a site rich in Territory history. Open to the public. Enquiries phone: (08) 8946 1434. Parliament House is also the location of the Northern Territory Library housing the most comprehensive range of historical and contemporary NT documentary material in the world.
8. The Cenotaph / War Memorial The Cenotaph is Darwin’s official memorial to members of the armed services, rescue services and civilian personnel who gave their lives in the service of their country in time of conflict.
9. USS Peary Memorial / USAAF Memorial Located on the Esplanade overlooking Darwin Harbour is the site of the memorial dedicated to the Officers and Crew of the USS Peary, which was attacked and sunk during the first air attack on Darwin by the Japanese during World War II. One of the guns salvaged from the vessel now serves as a memorial to all those lost in the action.
10. B.A.T. House - Lyons Cottage DARWIN WATERFRONT PRECINCT Constructed in 1925 to house staff from the British and Australian Telegraph Company. Following WWII the cottage was home to the Mayor, John Lyons. The building is now Aboriginal Bush Traders.
11. Old Admiralty House This tropical-style elevated building once housed North Australia’s naval commander. This is one of the relatively few BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 43 buildings to escape damage by Cyclone Tracy. The building is now the Char Restaurant.
12. Victoria Hotel - The VIC Called the North Australian Hotel when it was built in 1894, the ‘Vic’ on Smith Street Mall is a survivor of every cyclone and bombing raid that the elements and man have thrown at it (currently closed).
13. Commercial Bank Only the colonnade from the original 1893 ‘Stone Bank’ now survives, incorporated into the Paspaley Pearls building. The ‘Stone Bank’ was so nicknamed because the Commercial Bank of Australia had chosen to build in local stone, to counter, the ‘Tin Bank’ was erected by a nearby competitor.
14. Star Village Built before WWII as one of Darwin’s first cinemas, the Star Village is now a modern shopping arcade and alfresco dining area which still retains that early Territory feel.
15. Chinese Temple and Museum The present Temple building was erected after the original Temple built in 1887 was destroyed by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Adjacent to the Temple, the Museum depicts, in text and pictures, a history of the Chinese in the Northern Territory from the 1880s to the end of World War II.
16. World War II Oil Storage Tunnels This WWII relic is a network of five steel-lined concrete tunnels built for storage of the Navy’s oil reserves after the Japanese bombed Darwin’s above ground facilities. Tunnel 5 is open to the public and includes a fascinating display of photographs depicting life in wartime Darwin.
17. Stokes Hill Wharf The Wharf area still incorporates many of its historical landmarks which include the Travellers Walk, the Steam Pump House (now renovated for use as The Jetty Restaurant) all with a story to tell.
18. Myilly Point Heritage Precinct National Trust (NT) listed Myilly Point Heritage Precinct, at Burnett Place on the outskirts of the city, comprises four pre- WWII houses built circa 1938/39 for top level public servants. Burnett House is open to the public Monday to Saturday 10 till 1. (Subject to seasonal closures).
44 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 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 just outside the city, convenient to the local attractions of areas such as East Point Reserve, the weekend markets, Stuart Highway, Casuarina Shopping Centre and Darwin International Airport. All accommodation provides the convenience of off-street parking and easy access to public transport to transfer you into the city or to other sights and attractions around Darwin.
As you head ‘down the track’ out of Darwin, you will find accommodation unique to the region, with properties providing their own specialised facilities such as bed and breakfast, shaded caravan parks, cabin accommodation, wilderness lodges and cattle stations.
If you require assistance with your holiday planning, the helpful and friendly staff at the Visitor Information Centre are available seven days, simply call 1300 138 886. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 45 ADINA APARTMENT HOTEL DARWIN WATERFRONT 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8982 9999 Email: [email protected] Web: adinahotels.com Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront is located in the heart of the Darwin Waterfront precinct with close proximity to the CBD. The hotel features 121 spacious one and two bedroom apartments and studio rooms. For business travellers, the Darwin Convention Centre is steps away. If you’re looking to unwind, you’ll be close to Darwin’s Deckchair Cinema and Mindil markets. And don’t forget about the restaurants, cafes, bars, swimming and boating lagoon and wave pool around the Darwin Waterfront.
TRAVELODGE RESORT DARWIN 64 Cavenagh Street, Darwin City NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8946 0111 Email: [email protected] Web: travelodgehotels.com.au Travelodge Resort Darwin is located in the heart of Darwin’s CBD, close to great shopping and many major city attractions. The spacious resort, not far from the water, has a relaxed atmosphere and is an ideal place to experience all that the area has to offer. Stay in one of our 168 rooms or 32 self-contained townhouses. Enjoy facilities including two swimming pools and spas, fitness room as well as dining in Treetops Restaurant.
VIBE HOTEL DARWIN WATERFRONT 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8982 9998 Email: [email protected] Web: vibehotels.com Perfectly positioned amongst the entertainment and dining hub of Darwin’s seafront promenade, Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront is surrounded by great shopping, a range of pubs, as well as some of the most amazing restaurants in the NT. Stay in one of our 120 well-appointed guest rooms and enjoy the splendour of the Darwin Waterfront lagoon. After a day exploring nearby attractions retreat to your hotel and enjoy the modern pool, gym and restaurant facilities. DARWIN CENTRAL HOTEL 21 Knuckey Street, Darwin NT 0801 Tel: 1300 364 263 Email: [email protected] Web: www.darwincentral.com.au The 4.5 rated Darwin Central Hotel, is ideal for leisure and business travellers with an unbeatable location in the heart of City, opposite the Smith Street Shopping Mall, within easy walking distance to restaurants, cafes, tourist attractions. Spacious rooms, complete with mini-bar & in-house movies, WIFI, 24hr reception, porterage, valet car parking, outdoor plunge pool and guest laundry facilities and the added convenience of 24hr room service. 46 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 DARWIN FREESPIRIT RESORT 901 Stuart Highway, Holtze NT 0829 Tel: (08) 8935 0888 Email: [email protected] Web: www.darwinfreespiritresort.com.au Darwin FreeSpirit Resort, situated 15 minutes drive from the Darwin CBD - is a favourite amongst families. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, wide range of accommodation, caravan and camping sites, myriad of facilities, bar & bistro, activities and entertainment – makes it the perfect base whilst exploring Darwin! The resort is centrally located to experience the magic of Darwin and the Top End with its vibrant sunsets, amazing National Parks and a variety of attractions. Visit us today!
DARWIN AIRPORT INN 1 Sir Norman Brearley Drive, Marrara NT 0812 Tel: (08) 8920 3333 Email: [email protected] Web: www.darwinairporthotels.com.au Darwin Airport Inn is centrally located just 300 metres from Darwin International and Domestic Airport and within easy reach of Darwin CBD and major tourist attractions. The rooms are space efficient, contemporary and fresh, featuring a Queen size bed, en-suite bathroom, flat-screen TV, step out private balcony, air conditioning and more. Guests have full access to the facilities at the Mercure Darwin Airport Resort, including the stunning lagoon resort pool and pool bar. The onsite restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day.
PALMS CITY RESORT 64 The Esplanade, Darwin NT Tel: (08) 8982 9200 Fax: (08) 8981 9575 Email: [email protected] Web: www.palmscityresort.com Darwin City’s most unique accommodation concept! Ideally located on The Esplanade opposite Parliament House and overlooking Darwin Harbour with shopping, restaurants and entertainment on the doorstep. Newly refurbished in 2015 the resort boasts 39 villas, 50 Hotel rooms and free-form swimming pool set in lush tropical gardens. Villas, some with private spas, have cooking facilities and electric bbq on their private verandah. Other facilities include breakfast cafe, laundry, 24 hr reception, complimentary cable TV, complimentary wifi, parking on-site and tourist information. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 47 MERCURE DARWIN AIRPORT RESORT 1 Sir Norman Brearley Drive Tel: (08) 8920 3333 Email: [email protected] Website: www.darwinairporthotels.com.au Mercure Darwin Airport Resort is a relaxed tropical oasis set in landscaped gardens and the perfect place for your holidays. Accommodation ranges from spacious hotel rooms to semi self-contained bungalows and 1 bedroom spa suites. Facilities include a restaurant and bar serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, lagoon style pool, 24 hour reception, ADSL and wifi internet access, free 24 hour airport shuttle service and free onsite parking. NOVOTEL DARWIN AIRPORT 2 Sir Norman Brearley Drive Tel: (08) 8920 7800 Email: [email protected] Website: www.darwinairporthotels.com.au Novotel Darwin Airport is conveniently located just 250 metres from the Darwin Airport Terminal. A range of accommodation is available from spacious hotel rooms to semi self-contained 2 bedroom suites. Facilities include a restaurant and bar serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, lap pool, 24 hour reception, ADSL and wifi internet access, free 24 hour airport shuttle service and Hotel Gymnasium with 24 hour access. CLUB TROPICAL RESORT DARWIN 622 Lee Point Road, Lee Point Darwin NT Tel: +61 8 8944 8500 Email: [email protected] Facebook: Club Tropical Resort Darwin Club Tropical Resort Darwin opens the door to a relaxing destination that is perfect for business or leisure. Set on 300 quiet & relaxed acres, with tropical landscaped gardens, 272 spacious accommodation rooms, self-contained units & poolside villas, 2 resort pools, spacious air-conditioned restaurant, outdoor café, a full-service gym & plenty of parking, Club Tropical Resort offers the perfect tropical holiday. COCONUT GROVE HOLIDAY APARTMENTS 146 Dick Ward Drive, Coconut Grove NT 0810 Tel: (08) 8985 0500 Fax: (08) 8985 0591 Email: [email protected] Website: www.coconutgroveapartments.com.au Just six kilometres from the airport and a fifteen minute drive to Darwin City, Coconut Grove Holiday Apartments are set amidst a lush garden of tropical ferns and palms; a perfect setting for you to relax. We offer free off-street parking, swimming pool, BBQ and free Wi-Fi in all rooms. A supermarket is located just 500m away. The bus stops to Darwin City, Casuarina Square, University and Hospitals is less than 190m away. 48 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 RAMADA SUITES ZEN QUARTER 6 Carey Street, Darwin NT Tel: (08) 7912 5212 Fax: (08) 7912 5232 Email: [email protected] Web: www.zenquarter.com Our spacious, fully self-contained apartments all have water and/or city views along with large furnished balconies. Guests enjoy complimentary unlimited high speed internet, full Foxtel channels and free parking including spaces for high-set or long vehicles. Facilities include onsite air-conditioned gym, 28 metre saltwater infinity pool and a licensed café, serving one of the best breakfasts in Darwin. All rooms feature refrigerator, stovetop, oven, microwave, washing machine/dryer and full amenities. Extra bedding and children’s equipment are available on request.
ARGUS HOTEL DARWIN 13 Shepherd St, Darwin NT, 0800 Tel: (08) 8941 8300 Email: [email protected] Web: www.argusdarwin.com.au Argus Hotel Darwin is one of the newest Hotels in Darwin CBD and a superb addition to the Argus Accommodation Darwin portfolio. Located on Shepherd St, Argus Hotel Darwin consists of 102 Superior and Deluxe rooms and 3 luxury suites with stunning views of the city from the 9th floor. All rooms offer Juliette balconies, LCD TV & cable, plus free WIFI as standard. The property also features a swimming pool/ spa, gymnasium & business centre onsite as well as undercover parking. Rates include a light continental buffet breakfast.
OAKS ELAN DARWIN 31 Woods St, Darwin, NT, 0800 Tel: 1300 542 502 or +61 8 8982 1888 Email: [email protected] Web: www.oakshotels.com Rising over 27 floors, Oaks Elan Darwin offers uninterrupted views over the tropical city, Darwin Harbour and Frances Bay. Our hotel rooms and one and two bedroom apartments are contemporary in design with modern décor and quality finishes. For guests wanting to relax and unwind, our premium leisure facilities include an outdoor lap pool, well-equipped gymnasium and onsite restaurant open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 49 ARGUS APARTMENTS 6 Cardona Crt, Darwin NT, 0800 Tel: (08) 9825 5000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.argusdarwin.com.au Set within the heart of Darwin CBD, Argus Apartments Darwin consists of luxury One, Two and Three Bedroom Apartments, in addition to our multi-level Four-Bedroom Penthouse Suites and a 24-hour reception - accommodating every guest’s needs from single corporate travellers and small groups. Just a short walk away from Darwin’s entertainment, restaurant and Waterfront precincts, Argus Apartments Darwin is the Darwin’s premier luxury accommodation from which to explore the Darwin surrounds and city tourist sites. METRO ADVANCE APARTMENTS & HOTEL 55 Cavenagh St, Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 7979 2222 Email: [email protected] Web: www.metrohotels.com.au Metro Advance Apartments offer a range of accommodation options including Studios, 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments. Located in the CBD, close to Darwin’s major business, restaurant and entertainment precincts, we are suited for business or holiday stays, whether travelling alone, as a group or family. We also specialise in long stay corporate accommodation. Enjoy personalised service at our 4 star property, which also features a meeting room, alfresco BBQ area, swimming pool, secure undercover parking, free WiFi and 24 hour onsite management.
Caravan Parks BIG4 HOWARD SPRINGS HOLIDAY PARK 170 Whitewood Road, Darwin NT 0835 Tel: (08) 8983 1169 Email: [email protected] Web: www.big4howardsprings.com.au Nestled in the tranquil suburb of Howard Springs is our award-winning, family owned, and operated Holiday Park. With plenty of powered and ensuited sites as well as an extensive range of cabin accommodation, we have something to cater for all budgets. Located just 20 minutes’ drive from Darwin and close to Litchfield and Kakadu National Park, make BIG4 Howard Springs your go destination.
50 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 HIDDEN VALLEY HOLIDAY PARK 25 Hidden Valley Road, Berrimah NT 0828 Tel: (08) 8984 2888 Email: [email protected] Wed: www.hiddenvalleyholidaypark.com.au Waiting to be found Just 10 mins from the CBD you will find our Hidden Treasure. Offering multiple accommodation options inc, 1 and 2 bedroom deluxe apartments, family cabins, open plan units and motel style rooms. All air- conditioned & self contained. We have Ensuite Caravan/Camping sites, premium sites and powered/unpowered camping sites. Sites are spacious and situated in close proximity to amenities and park facilities including a camp kitchen and free BBQ’s. Relax and unwind by the pool and enjoy the tropical lifestyle.
DARWIN FREESPIRIT RESORT 901 Stuart Highway, Holtze NT 0829 Tel: (08) 8935 0888 Email: [email protected] Web: www.darwinfreespiritresort.com.au Darwin FreeSpirit Resort, situated 15 minutes drive from the Darwin CBD - is a favourite amongst families. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, wide range of accommodation, caravan and camping sites, myriad of facilities, bar & bistro, activities and entertainment – makes it the perfect base whilst exploring Darwin! The resort is centrally located to experience the magic of Darwin and the Top End with its vibrant sunsets, amazing National Parks and a variety of attractions. Visit us today!
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 P 1800 662 253 E [email protected] www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 51 ACCOMMODATION BUDGET/ BACKPACKERS Backpacker hostels and budget accommodation is available throughout Darwin with most properties situated within or very close to Darwin’s CBD. Many properties have all the facilities one would expect today including, off street parking, swimming pools, spas, internet, communal kitchens, TV lounges, laundry facilities and air-conditioning. You can also choose your accommodation depending on your preference or budget including shared dorm rooms, single and double rooms, family rooms, twin rooms and rooms with ensuites. Whichever you choose, there is a property here in Darwin to suit you. Enjoy the convenience of everything close to your doorstep including attractions, restaurants, supermarkets, cafes, nightlife and much more. 52 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 AFF DA ACC MM DA DARWIN YHA H H A F H C D D 0 D T 08 8 81 oo online valueinn.com.au for best rate availability MELALEUCA ON MITCHELL - DARWIN YHA 52 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8941 7800 Email: [email protected] Website: www.momdarwin.com Located in the heart of Darwin’s vibrant backpacker district! Enjoy some of the best backpacker facilities anywhere in Australia. Chill out on the huge 1st floor sundeck and enjoy 2 swimming pools, waterfall spa & pool bar. A range of air-conditioned rooms to suit all budgets, including 4-6 bed dorms with or without ensuite, private twin/double rooms and a girls only floor. The property also features free off street parking, a lift to all floors, communal kitchen & 24 hour reception.
Awesome Backpacking in the heart of
Darwin city 2 D
52 Mitchell Street Darwin City 08 89 1 7800 info momdarwin.com oo online momdarwin.com
VALUE INN 50 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8981 4733 Email: [email protected] Web: www.valueinn.com.au Central, affordable accommodation that won’t break the budget! All air-conditioned rooms feature a queen and single bed, ensuite, TV, fridge, and tea and coffee making facilities. Free off-street parking, a plunge pool and BBQ area, and 24 hour reception (via Melaleuca on Mitchell next door). DARWIN YHA
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 53 THINGS TO DO IN THE TOP END Whether you are in 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. For those visiting Darwin for just a short stay, there is much to see within the city itself - some local attractions well worth a visit are shown on pages earlier in this guide. For visitors planning on spending more time in the region, the following section of the guide lists a wide range of touring options. For example, on a half day tour from Darwin, witness the famous jumping crocodiles aboard an Adelaide River cruise, or perhaps join a tour to the award-winning Territory Wildlife Park and see native wildlife at close range. Tours range from a full day visiting the attractions at Litchfield National Park, up to five or more days spent exploring the remote regions of Arnhem Land on a four- wheel drive camping safari - the choice is yours. Plan an organised tour to experience the Top End’s most popular attractions, including World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge). If you need any assistance with planning or booking your adventures please contact our friendly adventure specialists at the Tourism Top End Visitor Information Centre at 6 Bennett Street or call 1300 138 886. We offer a free itinerary planning and booking service to suit any budget and time frame. 54 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 55 KAKADU AIR- JABIRU The BEST view of Kakadu - with Kakadu Air Freecall: 1800 089 113 Tel: (08) 8941 9611 Email: [email protected] Web: www.kakaduair.com.au Kakadu is a kaleidoscope of stunning landscapes that are impossible to appreciate from the ground. A Kakadu Air scenic flight is the ideal (only) way to appreciate the amazing contrasts of land forms that is sufficiently diverse to host fauna, flora, and culture of sufficient significance that Kakadu be recognised as a dual world heritage listed national park. A scenic flight will change forever your perception of this timeless land. Flights start at $150, are available every day, and are bookable online. NAUTILUS AVIATION Tel: 1800 88 HELI (4354) Email: [email protected] Web: www.nautilusaviation.com.au A proven helicopter specialist with over 24 years experience and an impeccable safety record, Nautilus Aviation offers one of the best ways to see and explore the Top End’s many treasures! Departing daily, jump on board a scenic flight over city or National Park, cast a line with Helifish, visit ancient rock art galleries, enjoy tours combining airboats and cruises, or for the more adventurous, take the controls and fly yourself! The sky is no longer the limit, it’s now your playground! CORROBOREE BILLABONG WETLAND CRUISES Tel: (08) 8985 5855 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wetlandcruises.com.au Corroboree Billabong is part of the Mary River wetlands, a picturesque habitat teaming with birds and also boasting the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world. We are the “Original” operator here with 17 years guiding experience. Darwin’s closest wetland is a 75 minute drive (105 km), make your own way to the cruise or take our 1 day tour with hotel pick-up (departs 9.00am). Cruises depart 6.45, 8.45, 10.00, 12.45 & 4.30pm. Duration 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 & 2.5 hours ($40 - $75).
• Departs Daily Aviation Heritage Centre • Exclusive Luxury Touring • Kakadu Day Tour • 3 National Parks in 2 Days • Romantic Sunset Getaway DARWIN HELICOPTER TOURS • Darwin City Scenics • Heli Fishing • Heli Pub Tour www.airbornesolutions.com.au 1300 HELI TOUR
56 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 SEALINK CRAB CLAW ISLAND CRUISE + LUNCH Tel: 1300 130 679 Email: [email protected] Web: www.sealinknt.com.au Departs: 10:30am selected Saturdays (Apr – Sept) from Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, returns 5:30pm. 2018 Dates: Apr: 7th, 21st, May: 5th, 12th, 26th, June: 9th, 23rd, 30th, Jul: 7th, 21st, Aug: 4th, Sept: 8th, 22nd Cost: Adults $149, Seniors $129, Children $89 (5-14) Enjoy a relaxing day out cruising the Top End coastline to Crab Claw Island, located two hours from Darwin. At the island resort, enjoy a delicious seafood buffet lunch and free time to relax and have a refreshing swim before cruising back to Darwin. YOU ARE IN CROC COUNTRY
Crocodile danger is real. Don’t risk your life. ● crocs can be found in any Top End waterway ● crocs are dangerous and will attack ● crocs move around ● crocs will see you before you see them To report problem crocodiles Darwin 0419 822 859 Katherine 0407 958 405
becrocwise.nt.gov.au
• Departs Daily Aviation Heritage Centre TOP END DAY TOURS • Exclusive Luxury Touring Tel: 1300 324 914 • Kakadu Day Tour Email: [email protected] • 3 National Parks in 2 Days Website: topenddaytours.com.au • Romantic Sunset Getaway Tour with experienced guides through DARWIN HELICOPTER TOURS • Darwin City Scenics mystical Arnhem Land and enjoy its • Heli Fishing stunning scenery of birds, billabongs and • Heli Pub Tour escarpment country, Arnhem Land is a place where you can experience a unique untouched haven and this tour offers a once in a lifetime experience to interact and learn about the world’s oldest www.airbornesolutions.com.au 1300 HELI TOUR living culture. Visit amazing rock art sites, tour and browse Injalak Arts and Crafts. Choose from the Injalak Hill Day Tour or the Sightseeing Day Tour. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 57 58 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 59 TOP END ITINERARIES Give us one day - five days, we’ll give you the trip of a lifetime The following itineraries give you an idea of some of the great experiences you can have in the Top End. These are a starting point to customise your own individual adventure. For more suggestions and sample itineraries, visit tourismtopend.com.au or call 1300 138 886 or email60 [email protected] Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 DARWIN IN ONE DAY Here on a business stopover or cruising in for the day? Discover all Darwin has on offer…
Option 1 Explore the art, craft and food stalls at one of the many markets. Get up close & personal with a saltwater crocodile. Enjoy the local seafood and culinary fare at one of the many restaurants. Enjoy a night of cinema under the stars.
Option 2 Immerse in the colour, beauty and diversity of the Top End’s Indigenous art in the CBD and Parap. Take a nature walk through the East Point Reserve or George Brown Botanic Gardens. Hand feed the hundreds of Milk fish that come in at high tide. Relax on a lunch or sunset cruise on the spectacular Darwin Harbour.
Option 3 Take a walk to learn about the history of Darwin. View the WWII attractions and learn about Darwin’s war history. Experience Darwin from the air with a scenic flight. Watch a spectacular Top End sunset from a beach side restaurant or café.
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, do a tandem skydive, segway tour, go fishing, crabbing, jump on a scenic flight or do an airboat tour.
For more ideas visit pages 54 - 59 for tours and pages 18 - 25 for attractions in Darwin.
Darwin Waterfront - Wave Lagoon
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 61 DARWIN & SURROUNDS (3 DAYS)
Tiwi Islands, Wildlife and Wetlands Region and The Peninsula Way
Day 1 - Tiwi Islands Take a ferry ride or scenic flight to the Tiwi Islands for a unique cultural experience with the Tiwi locals in an art workshop and join a cultural history guided tour. Visit the Old Mission Church and the art gallery and see the fascinating carvings, painting and beautiful Tiwi fabrics.
Day 2 - Wildlife and Wetlands Region Start the morning with a short drive to the Adelaide River. Jump on a jumping crocodile cruise, relaxing wildlife and wetland cruise or take an airboat ride. Stop in at Window on the Wetlands to view the region from the viewing platform. Stop in and enjoy bushwalking and bird watching at Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve.
Day 3 - The Peninsula Way Check out the famous Bird of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar at the internationally renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop in at Berry Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the natural springs. Make sure to stop and enjoy a tasty home-made mango ice-cream from a farm gate shop.
Crazy Acres Tiwi Islands
62 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 Learn the culture of Aboriginal people with spear throwing and basket weaving. Overlook the region from the viewing platform at Window on the Wetlands. Experience a jumping crocodile cruise, a relaxing wildlife and wetland cruise or take an airboat ride. Stop to see the abundance of native birdlife at Mamukala Wetlands. Visit the Ubirr Aboriginal Art 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 and 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.
Tiwi Islands Day 4 - Pine Creek/Adelaide River/Batchelor/Litchfield Drive 1 hour north to the old gold rush mining town of Pine Creek. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 63 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 a bit to eat.
Day 5 - Litchfield/The Peninsula Way/Darwin While driving into 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 in to Wangi Falls and take a scenic flight. On your way back into Darwin check out the famous Bird of Prey show and Oolloo Sandbar at the internationally renowned Territory Wildlife Park. Stop into the Berry Springs Nature Reserve to cool off in the natural springs.
For more Top End itineraries visit www.tourismtopend.com.au/things-to-do/suggested-itineraries
Florence Falls
#TourismTopEnd
FREE BOOKING SERVICE for all your tours, attractions, accommodation and vehicle hire with unlimited kms call 1300 138 886 [email protected] tourismtopend.com.au
64 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 FISHING THE TOP END Fishing in the Top End 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. Darwin Harbour is full of exotic fish but those seeking #TourismTopEnd adventure can head into Arnhem Land, over to the Tiwi Islands, down to the Victoria or Daly Rivers in the Katherine region or into the Gulf region for a truly unforgettable fishing expedition. Huge wide rivers like the Daly and Victoria are prime barra haunts, as are the networks of beautiful waterways found in World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and the Mary River wetlands. Fishing in the Top End is excellent all year round and while barramundi are most active from March to May, anglers can fish successfully at any time for a range of species. The northern regions of the Top End are also home to an array of other great sport and reef fish, including giant trevally (GT), queenfish, spanish FREE BOOKING SERVICE mackerel, cobia, black jewfish, golden snapper, red for all your tours, attractions, emperor, coral trout, marlin and sailfish. accommodation and vehicle hire with You can hire a boat or bring your own, take a fully- unlimited kms call 1300 138 886 guided fishing safari, stay at a remote fishing lodge or [email protected] charter a mothership - every type of angler and every tourismtopend.com.au type of fishing experience is catered for in the Northern Territory. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 65 REEL SCREAMIN BARRA FISHING Tel: 0427 474 434 Email: [email protected] Web: www.reelscreamin.com.au Reel Screamin Barra Fishing is a locally owned and family operated fishing charter business. Offering half day billabong, barra, Bluewater and mudcrabbing tours - one day Barra and coastal fishing charters and extended fishing safaris. Areas fished throughout the Top End include harbours, billabongs, tidal rivers and coastal areas. Offering family friendly, small group fishing charters with a friendly and professional operator. Experience the Experience with Reel Screamin Barra Fishing today.
OFFSHORE BOATS Darwin, Northern Territory Tel: 0407 212 255 Email: [email protected] Web: www.offshoreboats.com.au Offshore Boats provides quality, offshore fishing charters & boat hire. Their highly experienced fishing guide can incorporate trolling, jigging, casting and/or reef fishing for all species into your fishing charter. If you prefer to skipper yourself, their 250hp, 7.5m Stabicraft is the only boat in the NT licensed for hire outside of sheltered waters (licensed to 30nm offshore) and overnight hire. Book your fishing trip with Offshore Boats and ensure a quality and hassle free adventure on the blue water!
HELIFISH Tel: 1800 88 FISH (3474) Email: [email protected] Web: www.helifish.com.au Darwin based ‘HeliFish’, specialises in helicopter fishing adventures of various durations. Flying over impressive landscapes, fishing guides/pilots target the mighty Barramundi, Salmon, Mangrove Jack and other species. More than just fishing – this tour is a photographer’s dream. Expect to see vast floodplains teeming with wildlife, rivers, wetlands, billabongs, sandy beaches and magnificent coastal red cliffs. Tours are flexible to suit personal requests, fishing skill and groups of all sizes. Helifish is recognised in Tourism Australia’s ‘Great Fishing Adventures’ of Australia program.
BARRA BOAT HIRE & FISHING CHARTERS Tel: 0419 916 638 Email: [email protected] Web: www.barraboathire.com.au Facebook: barra boat hire Offering a selection of great boats to hire and the option of fishing charters as well Barra boat hire is your one stop Darwin fishing destination. We have all the gear you need and all the local knowledge to get you the results! Call us now for a great deal. 66 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886
DARWIN HARBOUR The magnificent and massive natural Darwin Harbour offers so much to see and do. Larger than Sydney Harbour, Darwin Harbour and surrounds has a huge range of recreational activities including: fishing, crabbing, sailing, turtle watching tours, cruising at sunset, bird watching, cycling, fine dining and scenic walks.
The harbour supports a diverse range of marine ecosystems, with over 415 fish species now known, the most popular being barramundi, coral trout, jewfish, golden snapper and threadfin salmon. Darwin Harbour allows the unique opportunity to see dugong’s in the wild as this is where their favourite food can be found. Scenic mangroves and pristine tidal waters surround the harbour and a significant cultural heritage can be discovered. The harbour is also a vital transport hub for Northern Australia. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 67 Things to do in and around Darwin Harbour: • Take a cruise to experience one of the Top End’s glorious sunsets and discover Darwin’s cosmopolitan foreshore. Many cruises depart from Stokes Hill Wharf and Cullen Bay
• Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over the harbour
• Join a fishing charter and get hooked up on some of the tastiest species, many charters depart from Cullen Bay
• Embark the ferry at Cullen Bay Marina and take a trip to Mandorah (20 mins) or Tiwi Islands (2 hours)
• Cool off at the wave pool followed by a sumptuous lunch at the Darwin Waterfront
• Relax under the stars and watch a movie at the iconic open air Deckchair Cinema
• Make sure you visit the iconic Dinah Beach Yacht Club for some great live music
• Learn about the amazing natural eco system of the coral reefs in Darwin Harbour at Indo Pacific Marine, only one of 3 exhibits of its kind in the world
• Join a tour to turtle nesting sites on Bare Sand Island
• Discover one of the many culinary delights overlooking the harbour from Cullen Bay to the sunset precinct encompassing SkyCity, Ski, Sailing and Trailer Boat Clubs along to Pee wee's at the Point
• Visit Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
CAPE ADIEU HARBOUR CRUISES Tel: 0439 893 939 Email: [email protected] Web: www.capeadieu.com.au Enjoy a unique Sunset dining experience aboard a 22m traditional ketch. Operated by NT commercial fishermen specialising in a selection of fresh, wild caught seafood. Dinner includes Fish of the day, Banana prawns, Smoked Spanish mackerel, Coffin Bay oysters and Succulent steaks. Fresh salads, crusty bread and dessert complement the seafood selection. All cruise options include homemade dips, tea/coffee. BYO or fully licensed. Ice, Eskies & Glasses supplied.
68 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 DARWIN HARBOUR CRUISES For bookings call: (08) 8942 3131 Email: [email protected] Web: www.darwinharbourcruises.com.au Experience the best Darwin sunsets on board a comfortable air-conditioned cruise vessel with Darwin Harbour Cruises. Enjoy a 2.5 hour Sunset Dinner Cruise with a delicious Buffet including local seafood and the freshest of NT produce, or simply take in the sites from the Sun Deck with delicious platters. Cruises depart daily close to most inner city Darwin hotels. Pick-ups from accommodation available. This is a must do for every Top End itinerary.
SEALINK CRUISE 45 – 45 MINUTE SIGHTSEEING CRUISE Marina Blvd, Cullen Bay Tel: 1300 130 679 Email: [email protected] Web: www.sealinknt.com.au Departs: Monday to Friday 11:55am (01 April – 30 Sept) from Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal (excluding public holidays) Entry: $37.50 Adults, $32.50 Senior, $20 child. Includes free bottle of water. Come on board for a 45 minute highlights cruise on Darwin’s beautiful harbour. Enjoy live commentary and take in the sights from the open sundeck or the air-conditioned cabin. Departs Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal at 11:55am, tickets can be purchased from 11am. Meets the Darwin Explorer Bus timetable.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 69
PALMERSTON CITY Dubbed one of the fastest growing cities in Australia, the City of Palmerston located just 21 kilometres from the heart of Darwin is a young, vibrant city attracting a plethora of young families, defence personnel and businesses. Palmerston is recognised as the commercial hub of the outer Darwin region.
The city boasts a friendly, relaxed and family orientated lifestyle and is an ideal destination for recreational, leisure and entertainment activities. The three main shopping centres include Woolworths, Big W and Darwin’s only Target, plus 75 specialty shops.
The city is the address for many essential services such as Medicare, Power and Water, Motor Vehicles Registry, all major banks and a large health precinct that is home to a GP Super Clinic, dentists, pathology, medical imaging and other related services.
With more than one hundred suburban parks and extensive recreational facilities, including the state of the art Library and adjacent Palmerston Recreation Centre, plus the very popular Marlow Lagoon Recreation Reserve and Sanctuary Lakes, the city is fashioned for outdoor living and activity fully embracing the Territory lifestyle.
The popular Palmerston Water Park, incorporating a skate park, expands entertainment facilities available to youth, families and visitors alike.
70 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 The Water Park offers a fun way for the whole family to cool off. Featuring a 14 metre high, 100 metre long, six-lane racer water slide and wet play areas for toddlers which includes sprays, water curtains and a shallow wading pool, and for teenagers, water cannons and buckets. Grab something to eat from the café or make use of the barbecue and shaded areas.
Looking to just sit back and relax in air conditioned comfort? Then head for the city’s multi screen CMAX Cinemas or Event Cinemas, with crying rooms for nursing parents, 3D and Vmax screens so guests can feel part of the movie experience.
Quest Palmerston Serviced Apartments and Rydges Palmerston are popular with business travellers undertaking trade in and around the city, or families and couples wanting easy access to our national parks.
Palmerston is a great location to base yourself when visiting the surrounding attractions of the nearby Howard Springs Nature Park with its interactive playground, shallow rock pools for bathing and two aquatic wildlife viewing platforms over the waterhole; as well as the Mary and Adelaide River regions, the Cox Peninsula, Litchfield, Katherine and Kakadu.
A regular bus service (No.8) operates between the Bus terminals at Palmerston and Darwin City.
Palmerston Water Park
To Darwin Skate Park Koulias St Roystonea Ave
To CDU University Ave Cambridge St
City of Palmerston Council Quest Palmerston
The Boulevard Palmerston Bus Library Interchange
POLICE Palmerston Cct
Chung Wah Tce
Maluka DveRydges Palmerston
Temple Tce
Rolyat St
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 71
THE PENINSULA WAY The Peninsula Way encompasses Berry Springs, Dundee Beach and Mandorah travelling west off the Stuart Highway on the Cox Peninsula Road. The Peninsula Way region provides a tantalising taste of the Top End’s most pristine landscapes and unique wildlife within an hour from Darwin City. Locals consider The Peninsula Way as their best kept secret; the perfect getaway for a weekend of relaxing by a spring fed creek, saluting a sunset on an isolated beach or hauling in a big fish within cooee of the pub. The Peninsula Way spoils action lovers for choice with fishing charters, helicopter safaris, quad bike tours and four wheel drive adventures. It is easy to spend a few days or more exploring the Peninsula Way. Berry Springs Nature Park located just 50 kilometres south of Darwin is a favourite relaxation spot for locals and visitors alike. With two large spring-fed pools and a small waterfall fringed by pandanus and monsoon rainforest make for an ideal spot for leisurely barbecues, swimming and walking. Berry Springs is also home to the world acclaimed Territory Wildlife Park, nestled on 400 hectares of natural bushland and showcasing the wildlife of northern Australia in their natural habitats. There are six kilometres of walking trails and a free shuttle train to link the 26 major exhibits. Allow at least four hours to explore the park. Presentations and displays start from 10am daily (entry fees apply). Dundee Beach, a coastal town and popular fishing spot, is 140 kilometres south-west of Darwin and a popular weekend destination for Top End locals. Fishing, boating and long walks at sunset are just some of the activities to enjoy here. Dundee is a great place to target big, hard fighting sports fish. The beachside town of Mandorah is near the Peninsulas tip. Within easy access of Darwin, either by 20 minute
72 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 trip by ferry from Cullen Bay, or 120 kilometres along the Cox Peninsula Road.
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
SandPalms Tropical Motel
65km to Litchfield National Park from the Cox Peninsula Road turn off. eet Pell WWII Monsoon Forest Walk so e Airstrip
War rea Cemetery
Adelaide River Heritage Precinct Nocturnal House erritoriansRobin Falls erritor i i e ar
50 km from Darwin Cox Peninsula Rd, Berry Springs Flight Deck Tel: (08) 8988 7200 www.territorywildlifepark.com.au Open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week Closed Christmas Day Aquarium
River Ray Encounter
TUMBLING WATERS HOLIDAY PARK Cox Peninsula Road, Berry Springs NT 0838 Ph: 08 8988 6255 Email: [email protected] Web: www.tumblingwatersholidaypark.com.au A family friendly tropical oasis just 30 mins from Darwin. An unforgettable experience set amongst 25,000 palms and established tropical gardens. Offering Holiday villas & Cabins, shady powered caravan and camping sites, saltwater pool, fishing, billabong trails and the most delicious menu at our Licensed Restaurant & Café. Regular live entertainment. Numerous complimentary activities including a new outdoor movie cinema, free WIFI, croc feeding. You can even have your own stall at our weekly Sunday market! A highlight for travellers! BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 73
LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK Entrance to this fascinating 143 square kilometre area is just 115 kilometres south of Darwin and 268 kilometres north of Katherine. The natural features of Litchfield National Park, monsoon rainforest, stunning waterfalls, termite mounds, weather-eroded sandstone outcrops and historic ruins, attract over a quarter of a million visitors each year. The park is historically home to the Aboriginal Wagait people. The Finniss Exploration was the first European connection within the area and the park was named after Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of that expedition. For 75 years until the mid 20th Century, the area was the centre for tin and copper mining. It then fell under a pastoral lease until designated as a national park in 1986. All major attractions are readily accessible being linked by sealed roads. Access to the more remote natural attractions requires a four-wheel drive vehicle, with access during the dry season only. Crystal clear swimming holes and pleasant bushwalking trails make the park a favourite among Darwin locals and visitors alike. Meals and refreshments are available within the park at the Wangi Falls Centre. For fact sheets on the Park, please visit nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/find-a-park-to-visit/ litchfield-national-park 74 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Termite Mounds A major attraction seen on driving into the park are the many Magnetic Termite and Cathedral Termite Mounds found on the floodplains and Savannah open woodlands, standing up to two metres in height in a north-south orientation. The configuration acts as a built-in temperature control mechanism, allowing the least possible surface area to be exposed to the heat of the sun.
Buley Rockhole A series of small waterfalls and rockholes that provide the perfect site to simply cool off and relax. For the bushwalker the Florence Creek Walk leads from Buley Rockhole to Florence Falls. Toilet facilities available.
Florence Falls A spectacular double waterfall set amongst monsoon rainforest. There is a 1km walking trail or 160 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 has a campground with showers and toilet facilities. Camping fees apply.
Tolmer Falls The lookout to view these dramatic falls is located 400 metres from the car park. There is no access to the gorge below as it is home to protected rare species of bats, the Orange Horseshoe Bat and the Ghost Bat. However, the Tolmer Creek Walk (1.6km) leads from the Lookout along Tolmer Creek. Note: No swimming or camping permitted at this location.
Greenant Creek to Tjaetaba Falls Allow 1.5 hours for this three kilometre return walk. Picnic tables near the creek provide a good place to take a break before taking the climb to the top of Tjaetaba Falls. At the top, cool off in the deep pools above the falls. The falls and area below are an Aboriginal sacred site - swimming downstream is prohibited. Toilet facilities available - no camping.
Walker Creek Allow two hours for this 3.5 kilometre return walk. The trail leads to a shared picnic area with the opportunity for a cooling swim in a crystal clear pool. Camping spots are available along the trail - these must be booked on the reservation board.
Bamboo Creek Tin Mine Easily accessed, just a short walk from the car park to the ruins of the old tin mine. Tin was mined here on a small scale from 1905, however adverse conditions of transportation and unfavourable wet season rains brought about the closure of the mine in the 1950s.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 75 Wangi Falls The most popular because of its easy access. Information is provided near the car park. An interpretive walk which commences near the pool provides an opportunity for photography. Wangi has a camping ground with all amenities including toilets, showers and free gas BBQs in designated areas and waterfalls surrounding a cool freshwater swimming hole. Meals and refreshments are available from the café at the Wangi Falls Centre. Camping fees apply.
Surprise Creek Falls Accessible by four-wheel drive only. A short walk through a shady monsoon forest leads to a large tranquil pool. A little further, a couple of round rock pools sunk into the rock face towards the start of these small but pleasant falls. A great cooling-off spot after a walk. Camping fees apply. Toilet facilities only. Closed over the wet season.
The Lost City Accessible by 4WD only (during the dry season, May to October) the impressive site known as ‘The Lost City’, reminiscent of the ruins of some lost civilisation, is a formation of sandstone blocks and majestic pillars formed and weathered by the elements. The site is some eight kilometres off the main Litchfield Park Road. No camping.
Blyth Homestead Ruins Blyth Homestead is located just off the Sandy Creek Road. Within the park are the ruins of the old homestead built in 1929 by the Sergeant family. The homestead was eventually abandoned in the 1960s and is now preserved as a popular visitor attraction. No camping. Closed over the wet season.
76 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Tjaynera Falls/Sandy Creek Falls Nestling in an open valley luxuriant with paperbarks, the falls can be accessed by taking the 1.7 kilometre walking trail. After your walk enjoy the usually uncrowded plunge pool. The falls are nine kilometres from the southern access track accessible by four-wheel drive only. Toilet and shower facilities. Camping fees apply. Closed over the wet season.
Cascades A year-round waterhole suitable for swimming, features an all- weather access road to a carpark, grassland viewing platforms and a walking trail from the picnic area to the top of Cascades. Toilet facilities available.
Bushwalking - The Tabletop Track Experience the isolation of the Top End on this long-distance bushwalk. The 39 kilometre circuit is suitable for experienced, fit and well-prepared bushwalkers willing to carry supplies (including water) and camp with minimal facilities. The Track is accessed via one of several link walks which connect to the track at Florence Falls, Greenant Creek, Wangi Falls and Walker Creek. These link walks may be used to take shorter walks on sections of the main Tabletop Track. Bush walkers should advise someone of their intended route and expected return time. It is recommended that you carry a detailed topographic map of the area ‘Australia’s Northern Territory Litchfield National Park’. Copies of the map are available from Tourism Top End and the BP Service Station in Batchelor. Closed between October and June for the wet season and during early dry season for fuel reduction burning. Camping fees apply.
WANGI FALLS CENTRE Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park Email: [email protected] Web: wangifallscafe.com.au Take-away food, coffee & cold drinks Try an Aussie double BBQ sausage sizzle with extras like grilled onion, bacon or tasty cheese, Bad Boy Steakhouse chips, burgers & hot dogs or a House Roasted chicken or lamb & gravy roll. Fresh made toasties - try our favourite – House Roasted Chicken, Local Mango, Tasty Cheese with a Mango/sweet chilli dressing. Indulge in sweet treat from our cake fridge with your coffee. Get refreshed with a House made Iced Coffee or milkshake. Water, soft drinks & icecreams available. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 77 LITCHFIELD SAFARI CAMP 6060 Litchfield Park Road, Rakula NT Tel: (08) 8978 2185 Fax: (08) 8978 2195 Email: [email protected] Web: www.litchfieldsafaricamp.com.au Situated on the western entry into Litchfield National Park, 5 kilometres from Wangi Falls and across the road from the Cascades is Litchfield Safari Camp with grassed, powered and unpowered camping sites, ensuite safari tents, budget beds, licensed convenience store, kiosk, toilet block with family rooms, disabled facilities and washing machines. Evening meal and breakfast can be purchased. The walking track along the permanent creek is great for birdwatching. Above ground swimming pool. Online bookings. Pets are welcome. LITCHFIELD TOURIST PARK 705 Litchfield Tourist Park, Finnis Valley NT 0845 Tel: (08) 8976 0070 Email: [email protected] Web: litchfieldtouristpark.com.au Rates: Unpowered sites from $14pp, powered from $38 (2pax), backpacker rooms from $89 and cabins from $151. The closest Caravan Park to the entrance of Litchfield National Park - the ideal base for your Litchfield adventure. Explore Litchfield’s natural landscapes, swim under cooling waterfalls, discover our local history. This is cattle country with a creek that flows through our backyard, cattle and horses roam freely over our back fence and where native birds and wildlife make their home. Cabins, sites, cafe, swimming pool, guest barbecues, laundry and pet friendly.
litchieldtouristpark.com.au WILDLIFE & WETLANDS 08 REGION 8976 0070 78 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 ADELAIDE RIVER AND 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 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 was a base for workers on the construction of the Overland Telegraph Line, established in 1870. Batchelor Township lies just 100 kilometres south of Darwin. Goyder’s survey party passed through the area in 1869 and in 1874 a roadhouse and the Rum Jungle Hotel were constructed on the supply route. The present township stands on a section of land which was part of a demonstration farm established in 1912 by Mr. E.L. Batchelor. The area began to flourish in 1949 with the discovery of uranium by John (Jack) Michael White. 1952 saw the expansion of the town as it became home for workers employed at the Rum Jungle Uranium Mine (White’s Mine), Australia’s first uranium mine and one of the greatest economic influences on the subsequent development of the Top End. Mining operations ceased in the early 1970's and Batchelor came under the control of the Northern Territory Administration. Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education, in the centre of town, originally occupied the single men’s quarters of the mining company. Adelaide River Township situated on the Stuart Highway 112 kilometres south of Darwin, offers a warm welcome to travellers. The township came to prominence following completion of construction of the Overland WILDLIFE & WETLANDS REGION Telegraph Line, followed by a hotel, police outpost and
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 79 railway station. The town became a popular overnight stopover for travellers and prospectors en-route to Pine Creek following the discovery of gold in 1871. From 1939, with the build-up of WWII military activity, the town took on a major role as the location for a huge military base, with the 119 Australian General Hospital, army camps and thousands of service personnel stationed in the town and surrounding areas. Following the bombing of Darwin in 1942, Australian and American military headquarters were relocated from Darwin to the Adelaide River township. The town is now the site of the third-largest war cemetery in Australia, the resting place for some 63 civilians and 434 service personnel.
MOUNT BUNDY STATION 315 Haynes Road Adelaide River NT Tel: (08) 8976 7009 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mtbundy.com Authentic, Northern Territory, Farm Stay Accommodation, Caravan Park and Campground near Adelaide River, just off the Stuart Highway. Fantastic family stopover and ideal position to explore Litchfield National Park and surrounds. Farm Tours, WWII Tours and the Cheeky Bull Outback Bar. Sealed Road access. Dogs Welcome. Large groups and function facility. See our reviews on WIKI CAMPS. Book online www.mtbundy.com.au
Adelaide River War Cemetery
80 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 WILDLIFE AND WETLANDS REGION The Wildlife & Wetland Region encompasses Mary River National Park, Adelaide River, Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve and Djukbinj National Park. Many believe the vast wetlands of the Mary River are the most beautiful in the Top End and home to an extensive variety of birdlife, some of the biggest barramundi and the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world. Lagoons, canals and billabongs make up the waterways of the wetlands of the Mary River, which runs both north and south of the Arnhem Highway. Mary River National Park incorporates many destinations worthy of exploration. Rockhole, Couzens Lookout, Brian Creek Monsoon Forest Walk, Jimmy Creek Monsoon Forest, Point Stuart Coastal Reserve, Shady Camp, Mistake Creek, Corroboree Billabong and Hardies Four Wheel Drive Track. The Mary River is an angler’s dream. Popular fishing spots include Shady Camp within the national park, as well as Corroboree Billabong to the west of the national park. To book a fishing tour on the wetlands call Tourism Top End 1300 138 886. For the independent traveller, small boats can be hired in Darwin, Point Stuart, Shady Camp, Corroboree Billabong, Rockhole Billabong and Mary River. Guided boat tours are available out of Corroboree Billabong, Point Stuart and Mary River – but remember, be sure to book early! BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 81 Touring the Region Its easy touring the Mary River Region by conventional two- wheel drive vehicle during the dry season even on the unsealed roads. However during the wet season, a four-wheel drive vehicle will open up greater opportunities for you to explore some of the more inaccessible natural attractions. If the idea of driving off-road is not for you, tour companies operating ex-Darwin and Mary River provide a service to relieve you of any driving concerns to enjoy the wonders of the region. Information on vehicle hire with unlimited kilometres and tours in the region is available from Tourism Top End call 1300 138 886 or email [email protected]
Corroboree Billabong Take a leisurely drive from Darwin to Corroboree Billabong, an amazing location which is home to the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world and home to wild buffalo, an abundance of birdlife and the elusive barramundi. Experience the beautiful wetlands on a guided cruise or try your luck at catching a ‘barra’ with a selection of fishing tours or boat hire available. Corroboree Billabong is located 109 kilometres east of Darwin off the Arnhem Highway. Dry season only.
Djukbinj National Park Djukbinj National Park is located off the Arnhem Highway near Leaning Tree Lagoon turnoff. Being a part of the Marrakai Plains, the park contains a portion of the catchment area and drainage for the Adelaide River. Consequently, the abundance of water year-round assures the park’s importance as a favourite feeding and roosting site for a wide variety of waterbirds including magpie geese, egrets and brolgas. Open daily. Free entry. Visitors should be aware that the road to the park may close during the wet season.
Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve 68 kilometres east of Darwin off the Arnhem Highway, Fogg Dam is one of several parks in the lower Adelaide River catchment that provide a haven for wildlife amongst Darwin’s developing rural fringe. These wetlands have international significance because of their beauty, natural eco systems and cultural significance. 82 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 The Limilngan-Wulna Aboriginal people are the traditional owners of the area and their ancestors’ Dreamtime journeys are recorded in the landscape. Tel: (08) 8988 8009 Free Entry.
Shady Camp A popular fishing spot for those hoping to hook a mighty barramundi! A barrage here prevents the saltwater of the Arafura Sea from entering the freshwater of the Mary River system. Upstream of the barrage offers freshwater lagoon fishing for barra and tarpon, downstream is tidal river and the chance to lure some huge barra. Boat ramp and dinghy hire facilities, camp ground, picnic and toilet facilities. Camping fees apply. Access via Point Stuart Road off the Arnhem Highway
Window on the Wetlands Situated at Beatrice Hill, Arnhem Highway 65 kilometres from Darwin. Built in 1994, this interpretive centre provides an insight into this ecological region of the Adelaide River Wetlands. With informative and interactive displays, the centre provides detailed information on the wetlands, the variety of birdlife and animal groups it supports and historical details of local Aboriginal and European settlement. Located on the crest of Beatrice Hill, the Centre’s observation deck offers stunning panoramic views across the wetlands and the opportunity to witness the Top End’s spectacular sunsets. Free Entry.
Point Stuart
Point Stuart Chambers Bay Coastal Reserve
Bamurru Plains Adelaide River MARY RIVER NATIONAL PARK Mary River N
Adelaide River Cruises
Shady Camp
Fogg Dam Mary River Floodplain Conservation Reserve 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 Corroboree Park Tavern Lagoon Mary River NATIONAL PARK Arnhem Highway Point Stuart Road
Bird Billabong Jim Jim Road
Mary River Wilderness Retreat & Caravan Park
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 83 one day wildlife cruise on the adelaide river + Amazi ng wildlife and fantastic photography + Morning Tea and BBQ lunch + Visit Goat Island + NT famous saltwater crocs
P. 0472 786 877 | E. [email protected] www.adelaiderivertours.com.au Pick up Darwin & Palmerston. Additional pick up locations available on request.
(08) 8978 8925 www.maryriverhouseboats.com.au Explore the magnificent Corroboree Billabong on the Mary River system. By the hour in a fishing boat or bbq boat by the day or week aboard a houseboat. Catch a Barra, spot a crocodile and enjoy the great variety of bird life a must for photographers or fishermen alike it’s up to you but the experience will be unique.
84 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 CORROBOREE BILLABONG WETLAND CRUISES Tel: (08) 8985 5855 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wetlandcruises.com.au Corroboree Billabong is part of the Mary River wetlands, a picturesque habitat teaming with birds and also boasting the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world. We are the “Original” operator here with 17 years guiding experience. Darwin’s closest wetland is a 75 minute drive (105 km), make your own way to the cruise or take our 1 day tour with hotel pick-up (departs 9.00am). Cruises depart 6.45, 8.45, 10.00, 12.45 & 4.30pm. Duration 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 & 2.5 hours ($40 - $75)
POINT STUART WILDERNESS LODGE Point Stuart Road, Point Stuart Tel: (08) 8978 8914 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pointstuart.com.au The Lodge is nestled alongside monsoonal vineforest bordering the Mary River National Park in the heart of the Mary River Wetlands. Catering for couples, families, fishing, corporate, and tour groups. The lodge offers air-conditioned modern accommodation, Saloon bar and bistro, caravan sites, safari tents, and swimming pool. The tour desk offers the Mary River Wetlands Cruise, 4wd Sunset Safaris, bird and wildlife Tours, half / full day and extended Barra Fishing Safaris, and boat hire. An outback adventure…TOP END STYLE.
ADELAIDE RIVER CRUISES Phone: (08) 8983 3224 Email: [email protected] Web: www.adelaiderivercruises.com.au Jumping Crocodile and Wildlife Cruise. We are situated on a pristine stretch of the Adelaide River. See territorial crocs, birds and other wildlife up close on our small group cruise (Max.30). Highly recommended on Trip Advisor. Directions - turn left off the Arnhem Highway towards Fogg Dam (Anzac Parade) and follow the signs to the river. Our cruises depart at 9.00am/11.00am/1.00pm/3.00pm. With a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 30 on board. Tour operates from May to October.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 85
KAKADU NATIONAL PARK World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, covering almost 20,000 km, is a place of contrasting landscapes and diverse habitats. Saltwater crocodiles lurk in freshwater billabongs studded 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.
Kakadu’s Aboriginal owners are happy and proud to share this special place with you. Come and discover our World Heritage culture and natural landscapes in Australia’s largest national park. Experience Kakadu’s rich 65,000 year old culture by joining a ranger guided walk through ancient rock art galleries where Dreaming ancestors, Rainbow Serpent and Namarrgon (Lightning Man), are etched into walls. Indigenous guides share traditional stores while you try your hand at weaving and painting. Learn about Indigenous history and kinship at Warradjan Cultural Centre. Discover traditional uses for plants and animals and bush survival skills. Fall in love with nature as you climb looming escarpments and swim in tropical waterholes. Glide over the wetlands on a sunrise cruise, soar above the landscape on a stunning scenic flight and join in at special and annual events held within the park.
There are spectacular fishing spots and vast wetlands and billabongs for boating and great sites to spot some crocs!
“Our land has a big story. Sometimes we tell a little bit at a time. Come and hear our stories, see our land. A little bit might stay in your hearts. If you want more, you come back.” — Jacob Nayinggul, Manilakarr clan
Further information on Kakadu is available from the Bowali Visitor Centre, open daily from 8am to 5pm. Tel: (08) 8938 1120 or parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu Email: [email protected]
86 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Based on thousands of years of Aboriginal knowledge, in Kakadu we recognise six different seasons. No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to see and do.
Suggested Itineraries Dry Season (May - October) is a great time to visit our majestic waterfalls, such as Jim Jim + Twin Falls. Include a trip to Gunlom Falls and climb to the natural infinity pool for a swim you'll never forget. Plan to spend 7 days during the dry season.
Tropical Summer (November - April) brings vivid green landscapes spectacular flooding and electrifying afternoon storms. Explore popular areas such as Nourlangie (Burrungkuy) and Yellow Water or board a scenic flight to see thundering waterfalls in full flow. Plan to spend 3-5 days during the tropical summer.
See parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu for comprehensive itineraries
Kakadu National Park Entry Fees Kakadu National Park has seasonal entry pricing, with lower prices during our Tropical Summer from November to May. Discounted passes are available for families and seniors. Your pass includes entry to the park, ranger guided activities and interpretive materials. 100% of park pass revenue is invested directly back into the park. This helps provide the visitor services and facilities you enjoy, preservation of the natural environment and cultural sites, as well as payments to the traditional owners, supporting their homelands, training, and business development. Purchase your pass before you arrive at Kakadu online at parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu.
East Alligator River / Cahill’s Crossing The East Alligator River forms the north eastern boundary between Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land. There are a number of good walking tracks from the Border Store near Cahill’s Crossing, the tidal and historical river crossing into Arnhem Land. Ubirr is situated 3 kilometres from the store, 38 kilometres north of the Bowali Visitor Centre. For more information on this exceptionally beautiful area contact the Bowali Visitor Centre or Tourism Top End in Darwin.
Gunlom Falls
Gunlom One of Kakadu’s more easily accessible waterfalls, Gunlom has the magical combination of a waterfall and serene plunge pool with a great picnic area surrounded by shady trees. A steep two kilometre return walk to the top of the waterfall offers BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 87 spectacular views and a natural horizon pool, 37 kilometres off Kakadu Highway. Access is seasonal.
Jim Jim Falls / Twin Falls Gorge These falls are two of Kakadu’s most dramatic sights to witness during the height of the wet season. Build-up from the monsoonal rains cascade dramatically from the escarpment to the rock pools below. Scenic flights taking in the spectacular sight during this period depart Darwin, Jabiru and Cooinda. Twin Falls access is by boat shuttle only. Tickets can be purchased for $12.50 per person (16 years and over) from Bowali Visitor Centre and at the boat shuttle itself (cash only). Access subject to weather conditions. For information on seasonal accessibility call (08) 8938 1120.
Mamukala Wetlands Seven kilometres east of the South Alligator River and just one kilometre off the Arnhem Highway en-route to Jabiru, Mamukala birdhide overlooks the wetlands allowing visitors to view the birdlife. A featured graphic display illustrates seasonal changes. Adjacent to the wetlands, a three kilometre nature trail takes visitors on a 1-2 hour walk. Note: Access subject to weather conditions. For further information on seasonal accessibility contact Bowali Visitor Centre on (08) 8938 1120.
Nourlangie (Burrungkuy) A 1.5 kilometre circular walk takes visitors past an ancient Aboriginal shelter and outstanding examples of rock art. A short climb will take you to Gunwarddehwardde Lookout to experience the stunning views over the Kakadu Escarpment. Note: Access subject to weather conditions.
Ubirr View many fine examples of Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr including depictions of aspects of traditional Aboriginal law and learning, and the abundant foods to be found in the area. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views over the surrounding wetlands. A climb to the top of Ubirr affords the opportunity to witness the most stunning sunsets. Access subject to weather conditions.
Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre, situated off the Kakadu Highway en-route to Cooinda, features cultural information as interpreted by Bininj/Mungguy Aboriginal people. Through interactive displays Kakadu’s traditional owners tell their story of a culture that spans more than 50,000 years. Local arts and crafts are available at the Warradjan Gift Shop. Open daily. Admission free.
88 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 World Heritage-listed
A Taste of Kakadu 18-27 MAY 2018 Find out more!
Discover it for yourself
www.kakadu.com.auBOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 89 Tours
Scenic Flight’s Kakadu 08 8979 3432 info scenicflight.com.au www.scenicflight.com.au Kakadu Cultural Tours • Injalak Arts & Crafts • Comfortable 4WD Vehicles • Ancient Rock Art Sites • Experienced Guides Guluyambi Cultural Cruise • Magnificent Flood Plains • Departs daily May - Nov • Towering Escarpment • 100% Aboriginal Owned & Operated On the East Alligator River 1800 525 238 [email protected] • kakaduculturaltours.com.au
Experience the scenically spectacular East Alligator River with an Aboriginal Guide 100% Aboriginal Owned & Operated by Kakadu Cultural Tours 1800 525 238 • [email protected] • kakaduculturaltours.com.au
90 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 KAKADU AIR- JABIRU The BEST view of Kakadu - with Kakadu Air Freecall: 1800 089 113 Tel: (08) 8941 9611 Email: [email protected] Web: www.kakaduair.com.au Kakadu is a kaleidoscope of stunning landscapes that are impossible to appreciate from the ground. A Kakadu Air scenic flight is the ideal (only) way to appreciate the amazing contrasts of land forms that is sufficiently diverse to host fauna, flora, and culture of sufficient significance that Kakadu be recognised as a dual world heritage listed national park. A scenic flight will change forever your perception of this timeless land. Flights start at $150, are available every day, and are bookable online.
Scenic Flight’s Kakadu 08 8979 3432 info scenicflight.com.au www.scenicflight.com.au Kakadu Cultural Tours • Injalak Arts & Crafts • Comfortable 4WD Vehicles • Ancient Rock Art Sites • Experienced Guides • Magnificent Flood Plains • Departs daily May - Nov • Towering Escarpment • 100% Aboriginal Owned & Operated 1800 525 238 [email protected] • kakaduculturaltours.com.au
GULUYAMBI CULTURAL CRUISE Tel: 1800 525 238 Email: [email protected] Web: www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is a unique boat tour on the scenically spectacular East Alligator River in northern Kakadu. Aboriginal guides provide guests with an insight into their culture local mythology, the river’s abundant food chain, traditional uses for many plants and animals as well as bush survival skills. Operating in 25-seater boats this tour ensures a personal experience. Costs: $79 per adult & $52 per child. Departs May to November at 9am, 11am, 1pm & 3pm. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 91 ARNHEMLANDER CULTURAL AND HERITAGE TOUR Tel: 1800 525 238 Email: [email protected] Web: www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au An exceptional Aboriginal Cultural & Heritage Tour into Arnhem Land from Kakadu. 100% owned by the traditional owners of the land that it visits. For this reason you will visit places inaccessible to most. Experience, significant Aboriginal rock art sites, spectacular landscapes, Injalak Arts Centre, wildlife, learn of traditional land management, bush and hunting skills in comfortable 4WD’s with forward facing seats and expert guides. Cost: $273.00 adult, $218.00 Child. Departs Jabiru Daily (May to Nov) 8.00am. Accommodation 08 8979 3144 [email protected] www.kakadu.net.au
• Multi award winning • Central to Kakadu icons • Pool • Bungalows• Multi Award • Ensuitewinning sites • Central to Kakadu icons • Pool • New Seasonal Restaurant • Ensuite Sites • Cabins & Bungalows • Kakadu Touring & Accomodation Packages
Explore Kakadu from an Anbinik shelter
KAKADU LODGE AND CARAVAN PARK Jabiru Drive, Jabiru Tel: (08) 8979 2422 Email: [email protected] Web: www.auroraresorts.com.au Perfectly located in the heart of Kakadu National Park, in the township of Jabiru, less than 3 hours’ drive from Darwin. Studio, 1 and 2 bedroom cabins, lodge rooms, shady grassed, powered sites, unpowered and coach camping, tour bookings and pickups. Gold Plate Award winning bistro and bar overlooking the magnificent lagoon style pool. Central to all Kakadu attractions. Friendly staff. GPS 12.6628 S, 132.8358 E 92 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 HAWK DREAMING WILDERNESS LODGE PO Box 206 Jabiru NT 0886 Tel: 1800 525 238 Email: [email protected] Web: www.kakaduculturaltours.com.au Located in an exclusive and restricted area of northern Kakadu where an abundance of wildlife and a large diversity of the Park’s landscape elements come together. 12 tented cabins with their own ensuites will ensure a comfortable stay. “Glamping”. Explore ancient rock art sites and experience a spectacular sunset on escarpment outliers over the wetlands. Rates include, transfers, three course meal, breakfast and a sunset tour. Open 15th May - 15th Oct. $294 pp twin share $420 single. 3 day 2 night packages (HDWL2TC) available.
ANBINIK KAKADU RESORT 08 8979 3144 83 Jabiru Drive Jabiru NT 0886 [email protected] Tel: (08) 8979 3144 www.kakadu.net.au Email: [email protected] Web: www.kakadu.net.au Anbinik Kakadu Resort offers guests award winning Troppo architect designed accommodation in Jabiru, central to most of Kakadu’s icon attractions. Set in tropical surroundings & situated close to township amenities & the Bowali Visitor Centre. AKR offers a range of accommodation styles - its famous bush bungalows, a/c double • Multi award winning • Central to Kakadu icons • Pool • Bungalows • Ensuite sites rooms, spacious two-bedroom self-contained • Multi Award winning cabins, our new Anbinik Suites with Balinese • Central to Kakadu icons indoor outdoor bathrooms & ensuite van sites. Facilities include resort pool, seasonal cafe, guest • Pool laundromats, barbeques & a tour desk. • New Seasonal Restaurant • Ensuite Sites • Cabins & Bungalows • Kakadu Touring & Accomodation Packages
Explore Kakadu from an Anbinik shelter Situated at Cahill’s Crossing near the East Alligator River and Ubirr Art site
Keep an eye out for our new restaurant at Anbinik in Jabiru! Opening for breakfast and dinner in the 2018 Dry Season Café and restaurant – specialising in beautiful ai food, great home made drinks, iced teas, real fruit crushes and home baked goods and desserts We cater for tour groups, sit down and take-away as well Souvenirs and local art works Local tour bookings Operating seasonally during the peak period May to November (weather permitting) Phone: 08 89792474 See the menu options at www.borderstore.com.au BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 93
ARNHEM LAND
Arnhem Land, one of the last pristine areas in the world, comprises 91,000 square kilometres of unspoiled wilderness located in the middle of Australia’s Northern Coast, bordered by Kakadu National Park, the Arafura Sea and the Gulf of Carpentaria. The region is blessed with wild coastlines, deserted islands, rivers teeming with fish, rainforests, soaring escarpments and savannah woodland. The park protects wetlands of international importance and provides a habitat for abundant wildlife including crocodiles, dugong, nesting turtles and migratory birds.
Its small population is predominantly Aboriginal people, whose traditional culture remains largely intact. For travellers seeking to experience authentic traditional culture, the region is an exciting destination with many tailored indigenous tours on offer. Access to Arnhem Land is restricted and only selected tour operators who have earned the trust of traditional landowners may bring visitors in. It is therefore advised to travel to Arnhem Land on a tour. There are many areas of historic significance including the ruins of an early European colony at Victoria Settlement in Garig Gunak Barlu National Park on the secluded Cobourg Peninsula and the Black Point Cultural Centre displaying Aboriginal, Macassan and European histories of the area. The town of Maningrida, on the north coast of Arnhem Land, is famous for its indigenous art. Gunbalanya (Oenpelli), one of the first stops east of Kakadu National Park, is an Aboriginal community where indigenous artists gather at the Injalak Art and Craft Centre. Note: Day permit required.
The town of Nhulunbuy, located on the Gove Peninsula approximately 1,043 kilometres east of Darwin, is a major service centre providing accommodation and supplies and offers spectacular beaches and great fishing opportunities. 94 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 West Arnhem Land - The Cobourg Peninsula
West Arnhem Land - The Cobourg Peninsula The remote and rugged Cobourg Peninsula is accessible during the dry season by four-wheel drive from Oenpelli via Jabiru or a year round short charter flight from Darwin. On arrival it is essential you report to the Ranger Station. Parks and Wildlife Commission restricts the number of vehicles travelling through Arnhem Land and it is necessary to apply for a permit well in advance of your trip. For information call The Northern Land Council: (08) 8979 0244 or www.nlc.org.au
The region is reputed to offer some of the best fishing in the world with charters to suit individual needs, from an easy half day to extended island safaris. The waters abound with Spanish mackerel, giant trevally, queenfish and coral trout and in the tidal creeks and estuaries, barramundi, mangrove jack and threadfin salmon await the serious anglers. A wonderland of white sandy beaches, azure waters, lush vegetation, temperatures between 28˚and 30˚ and plenty of cooling sea breezes make this the first choice for serious anglers.
The Peninsula is the perfect destination for hiking, birdwatching and a great opportunity to photograph this truly unique landscape. Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, Northern Australia’s first flora and fauna protection reserve and the surrounding Cobourg Marine Park, provides an ideal habitat for many thousands of waterfowl and other bird species.
GARIG GUNAK BARLU NATIONAL PARK Cobourg Coastal Camp Smith MELVILLE Point CROKER ISLAND Cape Minjilang 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
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 95 East Arnhem Land - The Gove Peninsula
East Arnhem Land - The Gove Peninsula East Arnhem Land is one of the last wilderness areas on earth, yet all services can be found on the Gove Peninsula in the town of Nhulunbuy. Around 710 kilometres by road from Katherine and home to about 4,000 people, the town was built on a special-purpose lease by Nabalco in 1971 to service personnel employed at its bauxite mine. Despite initial concern from the Yolngu people, the town is now an intricate part of the region, making it an ideal base from which to explore. The traditional owners of this land, the Yolngu people, have lived in this region for over 40,000 years with recognised land and marine estates. The clans living throughout Arnhem Land hunt fish, bush animals and seasonal bush foods, retaining their traditional cultural and spiritual links to the area.
Travelling to the Region by Road - Dry Season Access Only To reach the Gove Peninsula by road (accessible by four-wheel drive only) take the Central Arnhem Highway. As this requires crossing many Yolngu clan lands, a travel permit is required. Visitors planning to make the trip must first obtain a permit. Contact the Northern Land Council in Nhulunbuy on (08) 8987 2602 or in Darwin on (08) 8920 5100 or www.nlc.org.au
Travelling to the Region by Air Airnorth operates daily jet services to and from Gove from Cairns and Darwin with connections available to destinations worldwide. A shuttle bus service from the airport meets every Airnorth flight for transfers to accommodation in Nhulunbuy at a cost of approximately $10.00 per person each way.
Access to Recreation Beaches and River Areas To visit these areas on the Gove Peninsula you must first obtain a Visitor’s Permit. Severe penalties apply for moving through the region without this official permit and visitors are asked to respect the wishes of the Traditional Owners in this regard. For permits contact Dhimurru Land Management Aboriginal Corporation: (08) 8987 3992 www.dhimurru.com.au/permits
Yolngu Homeland Visits East Arnhem Land 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 Adventures In Culture
96 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. You can visit the Tiwi Islands and experience life in a modern day Aboriginal community learning about the rich and fascinating history and culture of the Tiwi people on an organised tour. One day cultural tours are available as well as one day art tours to Bathurst Island. Visitors either board a small plane in Darwin for the short flight to the islands, or take a two hour ferry journey across the Timor Sea from Cullen Bay. Yolngu Homeland Visits The Tiwi people are known around the world for East Arnhem Land Be welcomed into a Yolngu family their distinctive fabric prints, pottery, sculptures and and learn age-old traditions. carvings. There are several art galleries on both Melville Experience first hand how the Yolngu people have an unwavering bond and connection and Bathurst Islands and visitors are more than welcome to their land and country. to purchase directly from the artists. This is a rare opportunity to experience the life of these unique people as they welcome you Tiwi people are coastal Aborigines with a culture into a culture so powerful, it will change the different to those on the mainland. Their strong way you see the world. traditions, rituals and traditional foods are still a very 5 day escorted homeland visits from $2,399 p/p important part of everyday life today and they appear to have successfully combined both traditional and www.lirrwitourism.com.au Adventures In Culture modern lifestyles. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 97 The Tiwi Islanders are also famous for their love of sports, in particular Australian Rules football. The Tiwi Football Grand Final and Art Sale is held in March and is the one time when you can visit the island without a permit. Permits are only required if you intend to visit outside the main township of Wurrumiyanga, these permits are required before you travel to Tiwi Islands. For information on tours to the Tiwi Islands contact Tourism Top End on 1300 138 886 or visit our website tourismtopend.com.au
Wurrumiyanga
Darwin - Tiwi Islands Ferry
98 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 TIWI ISLANDS
TIWI BY DESIGN DAY TOUR TIWI ISLANDS FERRY Local Tiwi guide Explore the Tiwi Islands at your Traditional Tiwi Welcome ceremony own pace and totem dances Grab a tourist map and museum Informative, cultural walking tour ticket on board the ferry Behind the scenes screen Visit the art centres, museum and printing session church precinct Return ferry transfers and lunch No permit needed! DEPARTS THURSDAY & FRIDAY (Apr–Dec) + MON (Jun–Aug) Call 1300 130 679 sealinknt.com.au Northern Territory
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 99
KATHERINE & SURROUNDS
While its star attraction is undoubtedly the famous Nitmiluk National Park (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 Australian border. Around 300 kilometres south of Darwin, Katherine is set on the banks of the Katherine River.
Katherine was named by explorer John McDouall Stuart in the late 1800s after the daughter of one of his expedition sponsors. The area was renamed ‘Nitmiluk’ - meaning ‘cicada place’ - in 1989 when traditional owners, the Jawoyn Aboriginal people, gained title to the land.
The Katherine River flows through 13 separate gorges that carve their way through the Arnhem Land Plateau. You can canoe or cruise between sheer cliffs to the sandy freshwater beaches of the main gorges, and view ancient Aboriginal rock paintings high on the rock faces. Waterfalls and rock pools are found along over 100 kilometres of walking tracks, beginning at the park’s visitor centre.
Katherine offers a wide range of accommodation, facilities and attractions, including museums, art galleries, character-filled pubs and historic sites. Other attractions within easy reach of the town include the Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park, the Katherine Springs and Leliyn (Edith Falls). 100 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Attractions Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) Just 32 kilometres from Katherine town centre on Gorge Road, the gorge is the major natural attraction in the area - a visitor’s delight - 180,000 hectares of natural wonder. There are 13 gorges in the system, carved out of the rock by the torrential summer rains over millenia. Three of the gorges are readily accessible on an organised tour and boat cruise, alternatively visitors may prefer to hire a canoe, or take a trek. Stunning examples of Aboriginal rock art, many thousands of years old, are to be found within the gorge system. These art sites are amongst the most popular attractions of Nitmiluk National Park. Nitmiluk Gorge is the cultural and spiritual foundation for the first inhabitants of the area, the Jawoyn people, providing food and water for both their spiritual and recreational needs.
Leliyn (Edith Falls) Located on the western boundary of Nitmiluk National Park, the paperbark and pandanus fringed natural pool at the base of the falls is safe for swimming throughout most of the year. The area is also great for bushwalking. Leliyn (Edith Falls) is the finishing point of the 62 kilometre Jatbula Trail, which begins at Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) headquarters. Open daily – subject to weather conditions. Free entry. Camping available, fees apply.
Katherine Springs Located just 5 minutes drive from the town centre on the banks of the Katherine River. This shady, spring-fed thermal creek is a popular swimming area. Please note: Access for wheelchairs is provided off Crocker Street (behind the Riverview Caravan Park). Restrictions: No Pets / No Camping.
Katherine Low Level Nature Reserve The Low Level Nature Reserve, located just five kilometres from the town, is a popular picnic and fishing area for both locals and visitors to the town. The surrounding river banks, with their tall paperbark trees supporting a variety of birdlife, make for excellent picnic spots with gas BBQs, picnic tables, toilets and play facilities. BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 101 Cutta Cutta Caves Located off the Stuart Highway 27 kilometres south of Katherine, Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park covers an area of some 1,499 hectares. Ranger-guided tours of the cave system are conducted daily during the dry season. The caves are also home to the rare orange horseshoe bat and the ghost bat. The Jawoyn Aboriginal people have a long association with this area and evidence of their culture can be found throughout the park.
Katherine Museum The Katherine Museum was originally constructed as an air terminal during WWII and now contains an eclectic collection of artefacts, photographs, maps and pioneer memorabilia in an informative display. Outdoor and undercover exhibits illustrate a rich heritage of ingenuity in rural machinery and household equipment. Entry fees apply.
Nitmiluk Visitor Centre A stop in the Visitor Centre offers visitors the ideal opportunity to discover more about this magical and diverse National Park - to learn about the geology, the landscape, wildlife and native plants, and the history of the Aboriginal inhabitants of this fascinating area. The centre boasts a Bush Tucker Garden, educational and interactive displays, souvenir and gift shop as well as restaurant terrace overlooking the Katherine River as it emerges from the gorge system.
Sabu Sing - The Katherine Icon This magnificent one and a half times lifesize bronze statue, a project of the Northern Territory Cattlemans Association for 2002 - the Year of the Outback, was commissioned as an acknowledgement of our forebears, a salute to those who currently work on the land and to encourage others to cherish the challenges of the future.The role model for the statue is Sabu Peter Sing (1940-1993), A member of the Wardaman tribe, a skilled bushman, horseman and stockman, who represents our courageous pioneers and all who follow the trails they blazed. The work is the creation of Archie Sinclaire, a former Alice Springs pastoralist and helicopter pilot, now based in the United States.
102 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 KATHERINE OUTBACK EXPERIENCE 115 Collins Road, Uralla, NT 0851 Tel: 0428 301 580 Email: [email protected] Web: www.katherineoutbackexperience.com.au Ever wondered how a wild horse is broken-in or a dog trained to roundup cattle? Tom Curtain’s 90-minute show provides a unique window into life on vast cattle stations with real horse-breaking and working dog demonstrations, Australian music (often performed from the saddle), humorous bush tales and the opportunity to interact with the station animals. Engaging, entertaining and educational for all ages. Just 7kms from Katherine. Bookings essential.
LORELLA SPRINGS WILDERNESS PARK Savannah Way, Gulf of Carpentaria between Roper Bar and Borroloola Tel: (08) 8975 9917 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lorellasprings.com Family owned one-million-acre remote coastal property. A unique destination with kilometres of 4WD tracks, swimming in crystal clear water holes, waterfalls and natural hot and cold springs, fishing our many rivers, estuaries and coastline, bird watching at numerous swamps, billabongs and waterways, or take a helicopter flight and discover our spectacular sandstone rock formations and Lost City. Extensive homestead campground with licensed bar, new dining facilities and croc feeding. Accommodation available include air-conditioned cabins and brand new Deluxe rooms. Open from April to October – closed during wet season
Mary River Roadhouse
NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 103 Accommodation PALM COURT BUDGET MOTEL AND BACKPACKERS 11 Third Street, Katherine NT 0850 Tel: (08) 8972 2722 Fax: (08) 8971 1443 Email: [email protected] Web: www.palmcourtbackbudgetmotel.com Friendly place to stay, offering air conditioned dorms, doubles and twin rooms. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms. Located only 5 minutes walk from the CBD, providing the perfect location to meet with your fellow travellers. Our friendly and helpful staff are here to provide you with valuable advice to help you plan your travel itinerary in the Northern Territory. PINE TREE MOTEL 3 Third Street, Katherine NT 0850 Tel: (08) 8972 2533 Fax: (08) 8972 2920 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pinetreemotel.com.au Stay at this comfortable and affordable Katherine Motel. All rooms are spacious and feature wifi access set in a lush tropical garden setting. Business and leisure travellers will enjoy the motel’s close proximity to local shops. The staff at the Pine Tree Motel can also arrange scenic tours of the region. ST ANDREW SERVICED APARTMENTS 27 First Street, Katherine Tel: 1800 686 106 Email: [email protected] Web: www.standrewsapts.com.au St Andrews Apartments the place to stay in Katherine, with 13 two bed room apartments & 1 Studio apartment situated in the heart of town, with easy access to restaurants, bars, shopping centre, tourist attractions & only 35 mins from the iconic Nitmiluk National park (Katherine Gorge). St Andrews is your home away from home surrounded by tropical gardens, pool & BBQ area plus private BBQ areas to 7 apartments, you can relax & enjoy after a day of touring our Great region.
104 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Katherine and Surrounds Douglas and Daly River Region Located midway between Darwin and Katherine off the Stuart Highway, the region is famous for its fishing and boasts hot springs, gorges, bushwalking and an abundance of wildlife. Also known as the Douglas Daly after its two major river systems, the region is a favourite spot for travellers looking to spend time camping, fishing, bushwalking and swimming.
Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs
Pine Creek Established in the late 1800s, Pine Creek is located 92 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, including caravan parks and cabins. Many of the original buildings still stand. The National Trust Museum building is the oldest surviving prefabricated structure in the Northern Territory. Originally the home of the mining warden in Burrundie, it was later moved to Pine Creek and over the years served as a doctors residence, clinic, dispensary, military hospital, post office and exchange. Today it houses the National Trust Museum and town library. Browse through the building and its contents to gain an insight into the gold rush, local Chinese history, buffalo hunters and the Overland Telegraph. The Northern Goldfields Loop Heritage Trail taking you from Pine Creek to Adelaide River, offers a fascinating insight into life during the era.
Pine Creek - Enterprise Pit Mine Lookout
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 105 Mataranka Mataranka township sits on the upper reaches of the Roper River, an hour’s drive south-east of Katherine. The area was made famous in the Jeannie Gunn novel ‘We of the Never Never’ – written in 1908 about nearby Elsey Station. Attractions in the region include the Never Never Museum, Elsey Cemetery, Elsey Homestead replica, Elsey National Park, Bitter Springs and Mataranka Thermal Pool. Daly Waters The Daly Waters Pub is the quintessential outback watering hole famous for its bush hospitality, huge meals and quirky decorations on the walls. Daly Waters, 265 kilometres south of Katherine has the distinction of being Australia’s first international airfield. Borroloola and the Gulf Region The Gulf Region is a popular area for fishing. There is a range of accommodation available at various places in the region and the many attractions to visit and explore. You can access the Gulf Region via the Savannah Way from Katherine or the Carpentaria Highway from the Hi-Way Inn on the Stuart Highway. Borroloola is a fully serviced town and as the region’s popularity as a tourist destination grows, more and more visitors use Borroloola as a base for fishing expeditions further into the region. King Ash Bay, 42 kilometres from Borroloola, is a popular fishing spot, attracting thousands of visitors each year; and Cape Crawford is home to an impressive site known as the Lost City, dotted with towering sandstone formations. Helicopter flights touch down in the Lost City, giving access to the site. Timber Creek and The Victoria River Region Travelling west from Katherine lies the Victoria River Region, covering an expansive area of which Judbarra (Gregory) National Park covers approximately 13,000 square kilometres. Whether it’s a 4x4 trek in the national park, nature watching, fishing and cruising the mighty Vic, hiking and bushwalking or scenic flying - the region offers an experience for you. Larrimah and Dunmarra Larrimah means ‘meeting place’ in the local Aboriginal language. It is a small town 185 kilometres south of Katherine along the Stuart Highway. While in town, stop and enjoy some local hospitality at the Larrimah Museum in the old telegraph building displaying information about World War II activities in the area, the Overland Telegraph Line and the operation of the railway. About 35 kilometres south of Dunmarra is a historic marker to Sir Charles Todd, builder of the Frew Ponds Overland Telegraph Line Memorial Reserve which commemorates the joining of the two ends of the line in 1872.
106 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 TOP END AMBASSADORS
We’re so pleased you have come to visit our Top End! While you are here, take a few moments to have a chat with our friendly Ambassadors – they know the Top End like the back of their hand and are always happy to assist. Tourism Top End Ambassadors are local residents who volunteer their time to meet and greet visitors at the Batchelor Visitor Centre, and those who arrive off cruise ships that dock in Darwin. The Ambassadors are an essential component of our visitor services team and they tirelessly provide a wealth of information on attractions, places of interest, accessibility and the historical aspects of our region.
Disclaimer The information contained in this publication is provided as a guide only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, Tourism Top End disclaim any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of information contained herein.
Advertising material appearing in this publication is supplied by the operator or service provider and the above mentioned Tourism Top End are not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content.
In circumstances where Tourism Top End acts as booking agent, the organisation shall not be liable for any injury, loss or damage arising from the provision of or failure to provide any such service.
Design and Artwork by Tourism Top End. Selected photographic images in this publication kindly provided by: Tourism NT Image Gallery, Darwin Festival, Darwin Waterfront, Jenna King, Darwin YMCA, Aboriginal Bush Traders, Sean Pardy, Palms City Resort, SKYCITY Darwin, Value Inn, Melaleuca on Mitchell, George Fragopoulos, Wharf One, Wildman Wilderness Lodge, Austin Chin, Wildlands Safaris Airboats, Parks Australia and Tash Reichelt.
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 107 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Accommodation Darwin Boomerang Motel & Caravan Park AAOK Lakes Resort & Caravan Park 08 8983 1202 07 4123 6927 Darwin Central Hotel 08 8944 9000 Adelaide River Inn 08 8976 7047 Darwin City Edge Motel & Suites Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront 08 8981 1544 08 8982 9999 Darwin City Hotel 08 79815125 Aileron Hotel & Roadhouse 08 8956 9703 Darwin FreeSpirit Resort 08 8935 0888 Airport Quality Hotel 08 8948 9400 Desert Palms Alice Springs 08 8952 5977 Alatai Holiday Apartments 08 8981 5188 Discovery Holiday Parks - Darwin Alice on Todd Apartments 08 8953 8033 08 8984 3330 Anbinik Kakadu Resort 08 8979 3144 Discovery Parks - Lake Kununurra WA Argus Apartments Darwin 08 8925 5000 08 9168 1031 Argus Hotel Darwin 08 8941 8300 Djakanimbba Pavilions - Djilpin Arts Ashton Lodge 08 8941 4866 Aboriginal Asscociation 08 8977 4250 Aurora Kakadu 08 8979 0166 Double Tree by Hilton Darwin 08 8980 0800 Bamurru Plains 02 9571 6399 Double Tree By Hilton Esplanade Banyan Farm Tourist Park 08 8978 2461 08 8980 0800 Barramundi Lodge 08 8941 6466 Douglas Daly Tourist Park 08 8978 2479 Batchelor Butterfly Farm & Tea House Dundee Beach Holiday Park 08 8984 3280 08 8976 0110 Dundee Beach Sholly Shack 03 9817 4286 Batchelor Holiday Park 08 8976 0166 Edith Falls (Leliyn) Campground & Kiosk Beachlife Apartments Darwin 0450 686 645 08 8972 2884 Beagle Motor Inn 08 8972 3998 Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments WA Berry Creek Bush Retreat 08 8983 1178 08 9169 2010 Big4 Howard Springs Holiday Park Frontier Hotel Darwin 08 8981 5333 08 8983 1169 Goldfields Hotel Motel 08 8962 2030 Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping at Groote Eylandt Lodge 08 8987 7077 Mataranka 08 8975 4838 H Hotel 08 8942 5555 Bluestone Motor Inn 08 8962 2617 H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel Boab Caravan Park 08 8971 2433 08 8946 3000 Bond Springs Outback Retreat Haven Resort 08 8952 4663 08 8952 9888 Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge Bremer Island Banubanu Beach Retreat 08 8938 3202 08 8987 8085 Hi Way Inn Motel 08 8947 0979 Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge WA Hidden Valley Holiday Park 08 8984 2888 08 91669315 Hilton Darwin 08 8982 0000 C2 Esplanade Serviced Apartments Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp 0448 407 172 08 8941 2022 Kakadu Lodge & Caravan Park 08 8979 2422 Casa On Gregory 08 8941 3477 Kalidonis Hospitality Group Pty Ltd Chilli's Backpackers 08 8980 5800 08 8988 0444 Cicada Lodge 08 8971 0167 Katherine Holiday Park 08 8972 3962 City Gardens Apartments 08 8941 2888 Katherine Motel 08 8972 1622 Club Tropical Resort Darwin 0889 448 500 Katherine River Lodge Motel 08 8971 0266 Coconut Grove Holiday Apartments Kimberley Croc Motel WA 08 9168 1411 08 8985 0500 Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park WA Cooinda Lodge Kakadu 08 8922 5904 08 9168 1280 Coolalinga Tourist Park 08 8983 1026 Knotts Crossing Resort 08 8972 2511 Corroboree Park Tavern 08 8978 8920 Kununurra Country Club Resort WA Crab Claw Island Resort 08 8941 2022 08 9168 1024 Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters Kununurra Lakeside Resort WA 08 8950 7777 08 9169 1092 Cullen Bay Resorts 08 8981 7999 Kununurra Resorts WA 08 9169 1995 Curtin Springs Station/Roadhouse Lake Argyle Resort WA 08 9168 7777 08 8956 2906 Lakeview Apartments WA 08 9168 0000 Daly River Roadside Inn 08 8978 2418 Lazy Lizard Caravan Park 08 8976 1019 Daly Waters Historic Pub 08 8975 9927 Lee & Jenny's Bush Camp 0427 030 556 Darwin Airport Inn 08 8920 3333 Litchfield Motel 08 8976 0123 Litchfield Safari Camp 08 8978 2185
108 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Litchfield Tourist Park 08 8976 0070 The Cavenagh Hotel 08 8941 6383 Lorella Springs Wilderness Park The Youth Shack 08 8923 9790 08 8975 9917 Timber Creek Hotel 08 8975 0722 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park Top End Short Stays 08 8921 8811 08 8952 6111 Town Caravan Park WA 08 9168 1763 Manbulloo Homestead 08 8972 1559 Travelodge Resort Darwin 08 8946 0111 Mantra on the Esplanade 08 8943 4333 Tumbling Waters Holiday Park 08 8988 6255 Mantra Pandanas 08 8901 2900 Value Inn 08 8981 4733 Mary River Wilderness Retreat & Vibe Hotel Darwin 08 8982 9998 Caravan Park 08 8978 8877 Walkabout Lodge and Tavern 08 8939 2000 Mataranka Roadhouse 08 8975 4571 Wildman Wilderness Lodge 08 8978 8955 Melaleuca on Mitchell 08 8941 7800 Wiligi Experience Out of Arnhemland Mercure Alice Springs Resort 08 8951 4545 08 8979 0069 Mercure Darwin Airport Resort Woolianna on the Daly 08 8920 3333 08 8978 2478 Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel 08 8979 9000 Air Transport & Touring Metro Advance Apartments & Hotels Darwin Airborne Solutions Darwin Helicopter Tours 08 79792222 08 8972 2345 More Than a Room 08 8942 3012 Airnorth 08 8920 4061 Mount Bundy Station 08 8976 7009 Aviair 08 9166 9300 Nitmiluk Chalets 08 8971 0877 Chartair 08 8920 7777 Nitmiluk Permanent Tents & Campground Darwin International Airport 08 8920 1808 08 8971 0877 Helispirit 08 9168 1101 Novotel Atrium Darwin 08 8941 0755 Kakadu Air Services 08 8941 9611 Novotel Darwin Airport 08 8920 7800 Oaks Broome WA 1300 822 010 Katherine Aviation 08 8971 1277 Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary WA Kimberley Air Tours WA 08 9168 2653 1300 880 861 Kingfisher Tours WA 08 9168 1333 Oaks Elan Darwin 08 8981 0888 Kookaburra Air 08 8945 5475 One 30 Esplanade Serviced Apartments Nautilus Aviation 1800 884354 08 8941 2022 Nitmiluk Helicopters 08 8972 5414 Palm Court Budget Motel & Backpackers North Australian Helicopters (Coolibah Air) 08 8971 9999 08 8972 5600 Palms City Resort 08 8982 9200 NT Air 0434 156 259 Pandanus On Litchfield 08 8976 0242 Outback Ballooning 08 8952 8723 Paravista Motel 08 8981 9200 Qantas Airways 08 8982 3399 Paraway Motel 08 8972 2644 Remote Adventures 08 8947 6724 Perry's on the Daly 08 8978 2452 The Scenic Flight Company 08 8979 3432 Pine Creek Railway Resort 08 8976 1001 Virgin Australia 08 9466 6508 Pine Tree Motel 08 8972 2533 Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge 08 8978 8914 Art & Galleries Quest Berrimah 08 8935 3600 Aboriginal Bush Traders 08 8944 7200 Quest Palmerston 08 8919 4100 Aboriginal Fine Arts 08 8981 1315 Quest Parap 08 8919 8100 ANKAAA 08 8981 6134 Ramada Suites Zen Quarter Darwin Coomalie Art Centre 08 8939 7160 08 7912 5212 Didgeridoo Hut & Art Gallery 08 8988 4457 Riverview Motel & Caravan Park Gallop - Thru - Time Gallery & Framing 08 8972 1011 08 8972 2399 RNR Serviced Apartments 08 79700138 Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Cultural Rum Jungle Bungalows 08 8976 0555 Centre 08 8972 3751 Rydges Palmerston 08 8983 6666 Injalak Arts and Crafts 08 8979 0190 Sandpalms Tropical Motel 08 89782822 Jodi Bilske Photographics 0400 275 202 Savannah Way Motel Borroloola Katherine Museum 08 8972 3945 08 8975 8883 Marrawuddi Gallery 08 8979 2777 Seven Emu Station 08 8975 8307 Mason Gallery 08 8981 9622 Shady Lane Tourist Park 08 8971 0491 MBANTUA Gallery 08 8941 6611 SKYCITY Darwin 08 8943 8888 Mimi Aboriginal Arts & Craft 08 8971 0036 St Andrews Serviced Apartments Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern 08 8971 2288 Territory 08 8999 8163 BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 109 Nomad Art Productions 08 8981 6382 Window on the Wetlands 08 8976 0268 NT Chinese Museum 08 8941 0898 WWII Oil Storage Tunnel Tours Outstation - art from art centres 08 8985 6322 08 8981 4822 Read Back Books & Art Gallery Beauty 08 8981 8885 Avoca Natural Beauty 08 8941 8922 Elements Day Spa 08 8941 1977 Tactile Arts 08 8981 6615 Star Nails Professional Beauty Care Top Didj Cultural Experience and Art Gallery 0455 588 088 08 8971 2751 Waringarri Aboriginal Arts WA Boat Cruises & Charters 08 91682212 Adelaide River Cruises 08 8983 3224 Ahoy Buccaneers 0429 581 579 Attractions & Entertainment Arnhemlander Cultural & Heritage Cruise 08 8938 3202 Alice Springs Desert Park 08 8951 8788 Cape Adieu Harbour Cruises Aquascene 08 89817837 08 8942 2011 Batchelor Museum 08 8976 7006 City of Darwin Cruises 0428 480 090 Breakout NT 0466 976 948 Coral Expeditions 07 4040 9999 Darwin Harbour Cruises 08 8942 3131 Brown's Mart Theatre 08 8981 5522 Guluyambi Cultural Cruise 08 8938 3202 Crocodylus Park 08 8922 4500 Kununurra Cruises WA 08 9168 2882 Crocosaurus Cove 08 8981 7522 Lake Argyle Cruises WA 08 9168 7687 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair 0413 900 785 Mary River Wetlands Cruise 08 8978 8914 Darwin Airport Central 0416945827 Sail Darwin! 0448736492 Sea Darwin 1300 065 022 Darwin Aviation Museum 08 8947 2145 Sealink NT 1300 130 679 Darwin Convention Centre 08 8923 9000 Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Darwin Entertainment Centre 08 8980 3366 08 8978 9077 Darwin Festival 08 8943 4200 Spirit of Darwin 0417 381 977 Streeter Pearl Lugger Cruises Darwin Golf Club 08 8927 1322 0448 675 824 Darwin Ice Skating Centre 0429569321 Top End Houseboats 08 8978 8877 Darwin Kart Hire 0428 486 868 Triple J Tours WA 08 9168 2682 Darwin Military Museum 08 8981 9702 Victoria River Cruises 08 8975 0850 Darwin Symphony Orchestra Inc. Wetland Cruises 08 8985 5855 Wildlands Wetlands Safaris 0448 967 734 08 8946 6488 Yellow Waters Cruises 08 8922 5904 Darwin Turf Club 08 89234222 Darwin Waterfront Corporation Business Consultants 08 8999 5103 Boab Design 08 8941 1799 Deckchair Cinema 08 8941 4377 Business Enterprise Centre (Darwin Flip Out Darwin 1300354768 Region) Inc. 08 8923 6144 Imagine Social Media 0418 564 582 Gardens Park Golf Links 08 8981 6365 Savvy Social 0439 868 748 George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Sharyn Innes Consultancies 08 8942 1395 08 8999 4418 Sprout 08 8980 5700 Indo Pacific Marine 08 8981 1294 Telford Business Solutions 0418 473 853 Jenny's Orchid Garden 08 8983 1641 Treeti Business Consulting & Mediation 08 89671788 Kakadu National Park - Bowali Centre 08 8938 1100 Fishing Katherine School of the Air 08 8972 1833 Anglers Choice Fishing Safaris KJS Entertainment 08 8927 1133 08 8978 1292 Melanie Gray 0437 291 180 Arafura Bluewater Charters 08 8932 3006 National Trust Of Australia (NT) Barra Boat Hire 08 7978 8147 Clearwater Island Lodge 08 8978 3783 08 8981 2848 Cobourg Fishing Safaris 08 8927 5500 Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival 0409292789 Daly River Barra Resort 08 8978 1193 Palmerston Golf and Country Club Darwin Barra and Crab 08 8985 1267 08 8932 1324 Darwin Barra Fishing Tours 08 8931 0031 Parliamentary Education Services Darwin Game Fishing Club 0408 762 544 Darwin Harbour Fishing Charters 08 8946 1414 08 8986 7207 Royal Flying Doctor Tourist Facility Darwin's North Australian Barra Fishing 0889 835 700 08 8932 4219 Territory Wildlife Park 08 8988 7200 Dhipirri Barra & Sportfishing Lodge Timezone 02 9899 8100 Arnhemland 08 8983 3722 Equinox Fishing Charters 08 8942 2199 Top End Bridge 08 89817287 Helifish 1800884354 Johnson River Camp 08 8947 3366 110 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Kakadu Fishing Tours 08 8979 2025 Savannah Guides 0408 772 513 Katherine Boats & Floats for Hire Territory Proud 0419 906 524 0436009200 Tourism Central Australia 08 8952 5199 Leaders Creek Fishing Base Tourism NT 08 8999 3900 08 8983 5009 Melville Island Lodge 08 8947 3366 Hire Vehicles Offshore Boats 0407 212 255 Advance Car Rentals 08 8981 2999 Outback Boat Hire 0400 592 939 Apollo Motorhome Holidays 08 8981 4796 Phil's Affordable Barra Tours Bargain Car Rentals 1300 729 230 02 9838 0667 Britz Campervan Rentals 03 8398 8835 Reel Screamin Barra Fishing Budget Rent A Car 08 8418 7309 08 8927 3782 Europcar 1300 131 390 Reidy's Fishing Lure Factory Maui Motorhome Rentals 03 8398 8835 08 8988 4760 Mighty Campervans and Cars Spring Tide Safaris 08 8981 3664 03 8398 8835 Top End Boat Hire 08 8978 8877 Thrifty NT (Darwin, Alice Springs, Top End Seafaris 0457 209 985 Katherine) 08 8924 0000 Wildcard Luxury Cruises 0428 114 413 Travellers Autobarn 02 9360 1500
Markets General Adelaide River Market 08 8976 0547 Adelaide River Show Society Malak Marketplace 0421 955 282 08 8976 7032 Mindil Beach Sunset Market Association AANT - Automobile Assoc of NT 08 8981 3454 08 8925 5901 Parap Village Markets 08 8942 0805 Australian Hotels Association NT Branch 08 8981 3650 Mechanical Barkly Tourism 08 8962 1281 Acarr Autoair 08 89927703 Belle Models 0413 631 835 BTC Parts & Accessories 08 8932 6777 Chamber of Commerce NT 08 8982 8100 Stuart Hwy Tyres 08 8972 1444 Charles Darwin University 08 8946 7898 Terrys Mobile Auto Electrical and Auto City of Darwin Council 08 8930 0300 Aircon 0407 721 039 City of Palmerston 08 8935 9911 Coomalie Community Govt Council 08 8976 0058 Media & Publications Cullen Bay Marina Management Absolute Media & Marketing Corporation 08 89420400 0438873809 Darwin Presbyterian Church Alex Julius Fishing Media 08 8983 1738 08 8945 7878 Associated Advertising & Promotions Ecotourism Australia 07 3252 1530 08 8942 3388 Edutourism International 0401 126 379 Australian Tourist Publications Enchanted Moments 08 8984 3336 08 8952 2366 Environment Centre NT 08 89017783 Channel Nine Darwin 08 8981 8888 EPIRBhire Australia Wide 0499 806 178 Coleman Printing 08 8982 4000 Explore Augmented Reality 360 Country Wide Publications 08 9324 1574 0447 055 155 Darwin Digital Television 08 8927 4410 Flash Camp - Pop Up Tents 1800 113 640 Darwin Life Magazine 08 8981 2600 Fusion Exhibition & Hire Services Hot 100/Mix 104.9 FM/92.3 Top Country/ 0437 983 706 Classic Rock Digital 08 8941 9999 Group Training NT 08 8941 2112 Image Offset 08 8947 1168 Hire for Baby (NT) 08 7912 5111 Imparja Television 08 8941 6124 HPA Helping People Achieve 08 89470681 John Batman Group - The Hospitality Industry Skills Advisory Council NT Supermarket 03 9879 8588 (ISACNT) 08 7913 7507 Lane Print Group 08 8179 9900 Katherine Visitor Information Centre Let's Go Kids 0407 012 940 08 8972 2650 NT News 08 8944 9710 Kidsafe Northern Territory 08 89418234 Off The Leash 08 8941 7413 Knight Frank 08 8982 2500 Ontime Publications 0400 473 200 Moore Marketing & Distribution Southern Cross Broadcasting 08 8981 1933 08 8941 5777 Northern Territory Athletics Inc. Zip Print 08 8947 0179 0447 717 556 Northern Territory Seafood Council Medical 08 8981 5194 Territory Medical Group 08 89484333 NT Beverages Group 0439 579 819 Goodlife Dental Studio 08 79793246 Pace Insurance 08 8948 1222 Palmerston Regional Business Association 0488 869 653 Paradise Outdoor Advertising 07 4758 4626 Parks & Wildlife Commission of the NT 08 8999 4561 BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 111 Pets Coca-Cola Amatil (Aust) 1300666120 A1 Kennels & Cattery 08 8988 1793 Coolalinga Central 0437 961362 Dogtainers 08 8988 5673 Creative Jewellers 08 8941 1233 Helga's Pet Resort 08 8983 1717 Croc Stock & Barra 0499 991 405 i-vet (Gove Veterinary Services) Darwin in the Wet 0408 428 221 1300 080 806 Darwin Laundries 0419 199 299 Darwin Tours 08 8985 6322 di CROCO 08 8941 4470 Restaurants, Cafe & Bars Dragonfly Fabrics 08 8948 0691 Barrel & Cruse Bistro 0431216199 Ensign 08 8981 7488 Berry Springs Tavern 08 89886186 Eva Valley Meats 0419662052 Boost Juice Bars 0451 850 515 Kimberley Fine Diamonds WA 08 9169 1133 Border Store 08 8979 2474 Louise Denton Photography 0406 811 479 Char Darwin 08 8981 4544 Mitchell Centre 08 8981 5688 Crazy Acres 08 8988 6227 Murray Oakley Discounts 08 8947 4844 Crustaceans on the Wharf 08 8981 8658 Paspaley Pearls Pty Ltd 02 9775 1024 Darwin Fish Markets 08 8941 2522 Paul Arnold Bush Photo's 08 8941 6062 Darwin River Tavern 08 8988 6104 Paperbark Woman 08 89417142 Darwin RSL 08 8981 5437 Peterpans Adventure Travel 08 8941 4861 Darwin Sailing Club (The) 08 8981 1700 Shine Gifts and Fashion 0407612570 Darwin Ski Club 08 8981 6630 Splash on Knuckey 08 8981 4550 Darwin Trailer Boat Club Inc. 08 8981 6749 Territory Jerky 08 89527332 De La Plage 0415914727 The Australian Opal & Diamond Collection Dinah Beach Cruising Yacht Association 08 08 8211 9995 8981 7816 Top End Tackle World 08 8932 3006 Eat-A-Pizza 08 89410963 Frying Nemo 08 8981 2281 Tours Hanuman Restaurant 08 8941 3500 AAT Kings Darwin 08 8923 6555 Hibiscus Tavern Dollys Bar 0889276388 Adelaide River Transfers 0438 946 444 Hotel Darwin 08 8941 7947 Adelaide River Tours 0472 786 877 Karen Sheldon Catering 08 8945 6048 Adventure Tours Australia 08 8309 2277 Katherine Country Club 08 8972 1276 Art.Walk.Eat 0409 015 951 Little Miss Korea 08 89817092 Ask Darryl In Darwin 08 8927 9939 Monsoons 08 8941 7171 Aussie Adventures 08 8923 6523 Noonamah Tavern 08 8988 1054 Bombing Of Darwin Heritage Tours Oka Teppanyaki 08 8941 5453 0432 041 132 One Mile Brewing Company 0423 534 122 Brookes Australia Tours 08 8948 1306 Oyster Bar Darwin 08 8981 2242 Bungle Bungle Guided Tours WA Pee Wee's at the Point 08 8981 6868 1800 899 029 Piper Collective 1300174737 Cutta Cutta Caves 08 8972 7800 Rachael's Seafood Shack 0407 722 422 Darwin Bike Tours 0487 453 488 Rum Jungle Tavern 08 8976 0811 Darwin Chinese Tours 02 8378 0633 Seafood on Cullen 08 8981 4666 Darwin Explorer 0416 140 903 Shenannigans 08 8981 2100 Darwin Photography Tours 0403545982 Six Tanks Brewing Co. 0889 239 780 Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris Stone House Wine Bar & Kitchen 08 8979 0413 0419 139 966 Ethical Adventures 04 8844 2269 Tandoori Vibes 0402 798 994 Kakadu 4WD Safaris 1300 525 238 The Bell Bar & Bistro 08 7917 8926 Kakadu Cultural Tours 08 8938 3202 The Chantilly Kitchen Tea Room Kakadu Dreams 1800 813 269 0417 140 496 Kimberley Adventure Tours 08 9191 2655 The Foreshore Restaurant & Café Katherine Outback Experience 08 8948 4488 0428 264 030 The Katherine Club Inc 0889721250 Kimberley Offroad Adventure Tours The Precinct 08 8941 9000 0447740880 The Tap on Mitchell 08 8981 5521 Kimberley Outback Tours 08 9169 1995 Trampoline Gelato 0411884655 Kimberley Wild Expeditions 08 9193 7778 Wangi Falls Centre 08 8978 2077 Kimberley Wilderness Adventures Wharf One - il Lido 08 8941 9000 1800889389 Wisdom Bar & Café 08 8941 4866 Lirrwi Yolngu Tourism Aboriginal Corporation 07 5539 8231 Shopping Litchfield Dreams 08 8981 3266 American Express Currency Exchange 1300 Litchfield Escapes 0456 893 160 139 060 Lords Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris Batchelor General Store 08 8976 0045 0438 808 548 Caryota Book Exchange 0455 747 220 Luridgii Tours WA 08 91682704 Casuarina Square 08 8920 2306 Marksie's Stockman's Camp Tucker Night Central Business Equipment 08 8947 4950 0427 112 806 Charlotte's Web Chocolate Factory 0468 615 608 Mary River Wilderness Retreat Tours City Savvy 0889416060 08 8978 8877 112 Tourism Top End - Visitor Information Centre 1300 138 886 Mulgas Adventure Tours 08 8952 1545 Nitmiluk Tours 08 8971 0167 North Tours Australia 0416 976 882 NT Adventure Park 0468 615 608 NT Bird Specialists 0421 651 122 NT Day Tours 08 8947 5383 OFFROAD DREAMING 0408799029 Offroad Rush WA/NT 0417 957 504 Outback Camp Tours 0427 111 071 Outback Elite Tours 0429 263 437 Outback Floatplane Adventures 08 8981 4881 Outback Spirit 1800688222 Outback Tour Services 08 8950 9900 Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours 08 8984 9282 Sacred Earth Safaris 08 8555 3838 Segway Tours 0417 781 178 Southern Cross Motor Bike Tours 08 8985 1681 Spirit of Kakadu Adventure Tours 08 8922 5904 Spirit Safaris 08 8120 0366 Star Safaris 0417 847 967 Sugarbag Safaris 0407 250 370 Territory Expeditions 08 8988 3222 Territory Experiences 0428 142 724 Territory Wild Tours Darwin 0427 474 434 The Darwin History and Wartime Experience 0455998346 The Rock Tour 08 8953 1008 Tiwi Tours 08 8923 6523 Top End Day Tours 0456 375 264 Top End Tandems 0417190140 Tour Tub 08 8985 6333 Travel North 08 8971 9999 Uluru Camel Tours 08 8956 3333 Uluru Segway Tours 0889 563 043 Venture North 08 8927 5500 Walk Darwin 0428 183 444 Wallaroo Tours 08 8981 6670 Wayoutback Desert Safaris 1300 551 510 Wildman Wilderness Lodge Tours 08 8978 8955 Willie Creek Pearls WA 08 9192 0000 Willis's Walkabouts 08 8985 2134 Woolah Tours WA 0423371926
Transport ATG Downunder 08 8952 5688 Buslink 08 8947 0577 Coach Charters Australia 08 8988 1447 Darwin City Airport Shuttle Service 08 8947 3979 Darwin Radio Taxi 08 8985 0704 Grand Touring 08 8981 0300 Spinway Northern Territory 0414 296 196
BOOK ONLINE tourismtopend.com.au 113 MAP A - DARWIN CITY Attractions in Darwin City 1 Aboriginal Fine Arts 17 MBANTUA Gallery 2 Aboriginal Bush Traders 18 Mindil Beach Sunset Markets 3 Aquascene / Doctors Gully 19 Parliament House / NT Library 4 Breakout NT 20 Paul Arnold Bush Photos 5 Brown’s Mart 21 Read Back Books & Art Gallery 6 Burnett House – Myilly Point 22 Stokes Hill Wharf 7 Chinese Temple and Museum 23 Survivors Lookout 8 Crocosaurus Cove 24 The Cenotaph 9 Darwin Amphitheatre 25 The Royal Flying Doctor Service 10 Darwin Convention Centre Darwin Tourist Facility 11 Darwin Entertainment Centre 26 USS Peary / USAAF Memorial 12 Deckchair Cinema 27 Wave Lagoon, Darwin 13 Government House Waterfront Precinct 14 Indo Pacific Marine 28 WWII Oil Storage Tunnels 15 Leichardt Memorial 16 Mason Gallery Hotels / Motels / Apartments 1 Argus Hotel 17 Hilton Darwin 2 Alatai Holiday Apartments 18 Kalidonis Village 3 Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin 19 Mantra on the Esplanade 4 Argus Apartments 20 Mantra Pandanus 5 Beachlife Apartments Darwin 21 Metro Advance Apartments 6 C2 Esplanade Serviced Apartments 22 Novotel Atrium Darwin 7 City Gardens Apartments 23 Oaks Elan Darwin 8 Cullen Bay Resort 24 One 30 Esplande Serviced Apartments 9 Darwin Central Hotel 25 Palms City Resort 10 Darwin City Edge Motel & Suites 26 Ramada Suites Zen Quarter 11 Darwin City Hotel 27 RNR Apartments 12 Double Tree by Hilton 28 SKYCITY Darwin Hotel Darwin (#122) 29 The Cavenagh 13 Double Tree by Hilton 30 Travelodge Resort Darwin Hotel Esplanade (#116) 31 Value Inn 14 Frontier Hotel 32 Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront 15 H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel 16 H Hotel Hostels / Backpackers - Bed & Breakfast in Darwin City 1 Barramundi Lodge 3 Melaleuca on Mitchell-Darwin YHA 2 Chillis Backpackers 4 The Youth Shack Harbour Cruise & Fishing Charter Departure Points 1 Stokes Hill Wharf - Dock 1 2 Stokes Hill Wharf - Dock 2 3 Stokes Hill Wharf - Dock 3 4 Cullen Bay Marina
Visitor Information Darwin Cinema Place of Worship
General Post Office Police Station Library
ATM - Auto Teller Darwin Bus Terminal Supermarket
Internet Café Transit Centre Darwin Bus
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