Destination Top End

DESTINATION TOP END

CULTURE & TRAVEL THROUGHOUT THE TOP END

Just moments from the City, in a world of its own set amongst tropical gardens by the Arafura Sea, our Resort delivers the ultimate premium accommodation experience to the Top End.

Leave the ordinary world behind and indulge in 5-Star luxury with the picturesque surroundings of our beautiful Lagoon pool, swim-up bar, and private white-sand beach.

Escape the everyday, any day, at Mindil Beach Casino Resort.

T op END

I simply love the Top End of Australia. I am regularly travelling throughout the Pacific and across Australia and by far, this is one of my most endeared places.

Apart from the raw earthen colours that abound the region, the Top End is full of culture, history and just plain fun.

For me, the diversity is what makes me love this unique region. Whether its the Aboriginal art, the amazing fishing or the deep night skies filled with stars, the Northern Territory is one of the most diverse regions on the planet.

Visitors to the Top End indulge themselves in the diversity of multicultural markets, wonderful foods, fantastic shopping, fishing, history, culture and so much more.

The Top End is particularly attractive to me because I can choose to stay a while in the welcoming capital of Darwin, or I can drive just an hour up the road and experience what feels like the middle of nowhere.

If I want to get right out of the way, I can drive as little or as far as I like and hide out at little places like Mary River, Timber Creek or Arnhem Land.

The people in the Top End are probably amongst the most friendly and relaxed that you will find anywhere and although visitors sometimes find adjusting to the slow pace a challenge initially, they soon learn to slow down and enjoy life for a while.

What amazes me most about the region is how the entire landscape changes as you travel here.

In Kakadu check out Yellow Waters, and be absorbed in the lakes, the waterways and the low-grounds or head to Litchfield where you will find fantastic waterholes and wonderful bushwalks.

Across the Savannah Way to Arnhem Land and you will feel immersed in the local culture which is thousands of years old.

Katherine and Pine Creek are really interesting and I simply love meeting the locals who live here. Always ready for a chat and happy to share fishing secrets, cultural information or just a talk about life, people in this part of the world are just enjoyable to be around. Everyone smiles and sees the funny side of life and nobody sweats the small stuff.

The hot springs at Mataranka and Katherine are particularly enticing and locals often gather here with their families for a fun soak and then onto a cold beverage afterwards.

Whether you are driving, taking a bus, helicopter or scenic flight, the Top End of Australia will offer you a life experience that you will struggle to find in many other parts of the world.

Enjoy the Top End and remember that Life is for Adventure!

Rodger Milston JBG Executive Adventurer

Rodger

A crocodile at Top End Safari Camp, Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo

Venture North into Arnhem Land, Image: Tourism NT/James Fisher

Mural at Murrawuddi Arts & Culture Gallery , Image: Tourism NT

Couple at Mindil Beach Sunset Markets Darwin, Image: Tourism NT | Woman walking through the tropical forest towards Florence Falls, Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo | Woman swimming at Florence Falls, Image: Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter & Hayley Anderson | Woman relaxing at Sandy Creek Falls, Image: Tourism NT/Stephanie Lai | Aerial view in Keep River National Park, Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott | Couple enjoying a drink at Daly Waters Pub, Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr | People enjoying the Esplanade Darwin, Image: Tourism NT | Floating at Bitter Springs, Image: Tourism NT/ Backyard Bandits

DARWIN

Aerial view of Mindil Beach, Image: Tourism NT | Sunset over Cullen Bay, Image: Tourism NT | Group enjoying the view Cullen Bay Marina, Image: Tourism NT | Fireworks at Mindil Beach | Darwin Waterfront Wharf

DARWIN

Situated on the edge of a picturesque harbour, Darwin is a fascinating melting pot of people and cultures. It prides itself on its unique and friendly laidback lifestyle.

While a sophisticated, modern city in its own right, Darwin is also steeped in a history that has endured many hardships on its way to establishing itself as the gateway to Asia.

Darwin is the home of Northern Territory commerce and business and, with its world-class natural and cultural attractions, it is also a thriving hub of activity in terms of tourism, nightlife and retail.

Some great annual Territory events that are not to be missed include the exhilarating V8 Supercar Challenge, The Bass in the Grass concert - Darwin’s own version of the Big Day Out, the Darwin Cup Carnival - six weeks of horse racing, and the Darwin Festival, just to name a few.

The “must see” attractions in Darwin include the open-air weekend markets at Parap, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek. During the Dry, the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets operate on Thursday and Sunday evenings, and the Palmerston Markets operate on Friday nights. These markets are rich in delicious foods as well as local artisan products and entertainment.

Make sure you set sail on the magnificent Darwin Harbour aboard one of the many sunset harbour cruises that operate out of Cullen Bay Marina and Stokes Hill Wharf.

The harbour is also great for fishing as are many of the beautiful inland billabongs, big tidal rivers and mangrovelined estuaries. If you don’t have your own boat and fishing gear then jump on board one of the fishing charters that know all the good spots and specialise in all types of fishing including barramundi, reef and deep sea. Your guide will even fillet your fish so you can take it with you and cook it straight on a barbecue.

To appreciate and enjoy the seasonal changes in the Top End, remember that the Wet is from November through to April and the Dry is from May to October.

And while the Dry is the most popular for holidaying in the Top End, the Wet delivers the Northern Territory its most beautiful scenery – waterfalls, rivers and creeks – which meld into giant floodplains and lush tropical growth. Not to mention that the Wet gives you the perfect excuse to retire on the balcony with an ice-cold beer or a chilled white wine and watch the storms roll in over the ocean.

Darwin waterfront, Image: Tourism Australia

View of Darwin CBD from Cullen Bay, Image: Tourism NT OPPOSITE PAGE: Couple admiring Darwin Street Art, Image: Tourism NT

D ARWIN F ESTIVAL

The Darwin Festival is a highly anticipated local event celebrating the cultural and creative vein of Darwin. Enjoy theatre, music, visual arts, cabaret, dance, and more. It’s all here, in 18 jam-packed days of festivities.

The festival was founded nearly 50 years ago and encompasses what Darwin locals love best: an outdoors lifestyle combined with indigenous and modern cultures. But it’s not just about seeing great performances. The festival also brings together great food and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Darwin Festival caters to all tastes, from family-friendly entertainment to upbeat cabaret to edgy theatre. It’s all about relaxing and enjoying everything that Darwin has to offer.

Occurring in August, for more information about the festival and events, visit www.darwinfestival.org.au

Darwin Festival, Image: Darwin Festival/Duane Preston

Darwin Festival, Image: Image by Tourism NT/Nick Pincott

THINGS TO

SEE & DO IN DARWIN

NT ADVENTURE PARK

Just 50 minutes from Darwin, NT Adventure Park offers up more adventure than you can muster. Enjoy a range of activities including Outback Quad Adventures, Outback Buggy Adventures, Camping and Dining Under the Stars and more. For more information, call 0468 615 608 or visit www.ntadventurepark.com

AQUASCENE

Aquascene is a fish feeding sanctuary located at 28 Doctors Gully Road in Darwin. Each day, the high tide attracts schools of friendly wild fish close to the foreshore. Visitors can feed the fish (bream, barramundi, milkfish, batfish and catfish) with fresh bread. Opening hours on high tide.

DARWIN AVIATION MUSEUM

The Darwin Aviation Museum, previously known as the Australian Aviation Heritage Centre, features an impressive collection of the Territory’s aviation history. There’s a massive B52 Bomber; F111, Mirage and Sabre jets; a Spitfire replica; and Wessex and Huey Cobra helicopters. Open daily from 9am - 5pm, entry costs $16 for adults, $12 for seniors, $8 for children (free under 5), $12 for students and $36 for family pass (2 adults & up to 5 children).

BURNETT HOUSE

Built in the late 1930s, Burnett House is a heritage-listed National Trust property and an excellent example of early tropical architecture. Open 10am - 1pm Monday to Saturday, and afternoon tea is served on Sundays between 3pm - 5pm.

CASUARINA COASTAL RESERVE

Located in the city’s northern suburbs, this coastal reserve is a great place for a walk along the beach to catch a sunset from the Dripstone Cliffs or enjoy a picnic in the shady recreational areas. For the naturists among our visitors, a section of the beach has been set aside for their use.

Darwin Aviation Museum

Burnett House, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Cliffs at Dudley Point, East Point Reserve, Image: Tourism NT

Aquascene, Image: Tourism NT/Aquascene

CHARLES DARWIN NATIONAL PARK

Just a short drive from the city, this park was developed to show visitors the rich mangrove habitats of Darwin Harbour. Relics of Darwin’s involvement in WWII can be seen here. These reinforced concrete bunkers were used for safe storage of munitions during the wartime action. Open 8am - 7pm and camping is prohibited.

CROCOSAURUS COVE

Crocosaurus Cove is a unique attraction that enables visitors to acquaint themselves with Australia’s very own saltwater crocodile. Showcasing the largest array of Australian reptiles in the world, Crocosarus Cove is fun for the whole family. Open daily 9am - 5pm, except for Christmas Day.

CULLEN BAY MARINA

Cullen Bay Marina features an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafés and gift shops. The marina is also home to beautiful privately-owned boats, as well as many of the sunset harbour cruises and fishing tour operators. Vessels must pass through a double-action loch to access the sea, established to protect the marina.

DARWIN WHARF PRECINCT

This precinct has many historical and modern attractions. Here you can catch a cruise to explore the harbour, relax and enjoy the seasonal live entertainment or drop a line from the fishing platforms. Visitors can also do a spot of shopping, pamper themselves with day spa treatments or gather some information on Darwin day tours. For more information, visit www.waterfront.nt.gov.au

DECKCHAIR CINEMA

Located at the Waterfront Precinct, this is Darwin’s iconic open-air cinema open 6pm nightly. Dinner is available every night for patrons to enjoy on a balmy dining deck overlooking Darwin Harbour and fringed by tropical garden. Arrive early to enjoy a refreshing sunset beverage from the fully licensed kiosk, then kick back to enjoy the movie under the starry sky. Deckchair Cinema is closed during the Wet. Films cater to a variety of tastes.

EAST POINT RESERVE & LAKE ALEXANDER

This recreational area has extensive walking and cycling paths, relaxing picnic areas with free barbecue facilities and safe, year-round swimming in Lake Alexander. The reserve is also home to Darwin’s East Point Military Museum and Defence of Darwin Experience. Open daily, admission to the reserve is free.

FANNIE BAY GAOL

Opened in 1883, the Fannie Bay Gaol was the major detention centre in Darwin for almost 100 years and is now open to the public as a historic site. Located along East Point Road in Fannie Bay, the precinct still conveys the oppressive atmosphere for which it was originally intended. Open Saturday 10am - 2pm. Free entry.

GEORGE BROWN BOTANIC GARDENS

These gardens span 42ha and showcase the flora of northern Australia and other tropical habitats around the world. The Wesleyan Church, located within the gardens, houses Eva’s Cafe.

George Brown Botanical Gardens

Deckchair Cinema, Image: Tourism NT/Friederike Franze

Crocosaurus Cove, Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo

Darwin skyline from Charles Darwin National Park

MUSEUM & ART GALLERY OF NT

The museum, located at 19 Conacher Street, Bullocky Point, features collections of the region’s art, natural science, history and culture. Encompassing cultural artefacts, maritime archaeology and Northern Territory history, the museum also houses a great Cyclone Tracy exhibit and the chance to meet Sweetheart, the Top End’s most famous crocodile. Open daily 10am - 4pm and admission to the museum is free.

NT PARLIAMENT HOUSE & NT LIBRARY

Free guided tours of NT Parliament House are available. 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. NT Parliament House is open to the public Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am - 5pm, Wednesday 10am - 8pm, Saturday & Sunday 1pm - 5pm.

USS PEARY MEMORIAL

Salvaged from the wreck of the USS Peary, the gun, now situated on The Esplanade, serves as a memorial dedicated to the officers and crew who lost their lives when the vessel was attacked and sunk during the first air attack on Darwin by the Japanese during WWII. Also honoured here is Lt. Robert Buel, a US Airforce pilot who lost his life on February 15, 1942, in a heroic attack on a Japanese aircraft during a bombing raid over Darwin City.

WWII OIL STORAGE TUNNELS

Located on Kitchener Drive, these 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. Open Sunday to Friday 9am - 2pm. Entry is $8.50 for adults, $5.50 for children and $7.50 for seniors.

Ground Floor | Hilton Darwin | 32 Mitchell Street

Image by Shaana McNaught/Tourism NT

The Parliament House, Darwin

USS Peary Memorial

WWII Oil Storage Tunnels

MARKETS

ACROSS THE TOP END

Wherever you go in the Top End, you can be sure there’s a market packed with culure, unique wares and amazing food not too far away!

KATHERINE COMMUNITY MARKET

KATHERINE

Located behind the Visitor Information Center at the Lindsay St Complex, the markets run through the dry season and are held every Saturday from 8:30am – 12:30pm

PINE CREEK SUNDAY MARKET

PINE CREEK

Located at Heritage Park every Sunday during the Dry Season, the markets are open from 8am to 1pm.

JABIRU MARKETS

JABIRU

First Saturday of the month from 9am.

NHULUNBUY COMMUNITY MARKETS

NHULUNBUY

Run most months throughout the year and are generally held at the Nhulunbuy Town Hall or Town Centre on Saturday mornings between 9am-12pm.

ADELAIDE RIVER MARKET

ADELAIDE RIVER

Held at Glen Huitson Park, the markets are open during the Dry Season from 8am on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Wednesday.

DARWIN MARKETS

BERRY SPRINGS MARKET

Cox Peninsula Road, Berry Springs

Last Sunday of every month from 8am to 12pm

COOLALINGA RURAL MARKET

Fred’s Pass Reserve, Stuart Highway Saturdays from 8am to 1pm all year round 30 mins drive from Darwin

MALAK MARKETPLACE

Malak at Chambers Crescent Car Park, Saturdays from 4pm to 9pm, April to October

MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKETS

Mindil Beach, Thursdays and Sundays 4pm to 9pm. Last Thursday in April to last Thursday in October

NIGHTCLIFF VILLAGE SUNDAY MARKET

Progress Drive, Nightcliff, Sundays from 8am to 2pm all year round, 20 mins drive from Darwin

PALMERSTON & RURAL MARKETS

Goyder Square, Palmerston Friday nights, 5pm to 9pm, April to October

PARAP VILLAGE SATURDAY MARKETS

Parap Shopping Village, Parap Saturdays from 8am to 2pm all year round

RAPID CREEK PRODUCE MARKET

Trower Road, Rapid Creek, Sundays from 7am to 2pm all year round, 20 mins drive from Darwin

FRED’S PASS RURAL MARKET

Corner of Bees Creek Road and Stuart Highway. Held each Saturday throughout the year from 8am to 1pm, offering a varied selection of fresh produce, food stalls and local craft items.

Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin

TOP END GALLERIES

The entire Top End is literally scattered with truly amazing galleries.

Indigenous galleries are prolific and almost all of them offer genuine product that is locally sourced and made. Readback Gallery in the mall, Mbantua Gallery, Sister 7, Aboriginal Fine Arts, Paul Johnstone Gallery, Mason Gallery are all amongst the most well known galleries in Darwin.

Aboriginal Fine Arts is one of the Territory’s most established galleries and visitors here can chat to a local and purchase from a massive range. The gallery is a little tricky to find and is upstairs on the corner of Knuckey and Mitchell Street. It is a very large gallery and there are literally thousands of pieces of art on display.

Sister 7 is another treasure and is focussed on local female artists who spend time in the gallery painting and sharing their stories through the medium of art. Here you are welcome to come in for a chat and browse the gorgeous paintings that are being created right in front of your eyes, or on the wall for you to enjoy.

The Museum and Art Gallery Of The Northern Territory (MAGNT) is highly regarded and is without doubt the best museum in the Northern Territory.

Heavily influenced by the ancient culture of the Top End, MAGNT does what hundreds of galleries around the globe are unable to do and that is that it connects on a local level as well as offering a spectacular showcase in a worldclass facility.

For art lovers, MAGNT is a must and provides multiple exhibitions every year, many of which are free. Located in the Gardens beside Mindil Beach, if you visit Darwin, be sure to check this out.

Tactile Arts is a particularly interesting pick too and is run by the Crafts Council of the NT which was amalgamated with the Craft Council of Alice Springs and Katherine. The facility was set up to support local artists and craftspeople and offers an eclectic variety of activities. Tactile Arts holds 12 exhibitions each year, showcasing Top End and other selected interstate artists. The public can join any of the 40-50 workshops held each year and get creative with all sorts of crafts with the most popular being the ceramic studio.

There are multiple studios at the Tactile Arts Centre which include ceramic, print/textile (on both paper and fabric) as well as glass and jewellery. Join the many artists who come to teach and interact with those interested in all things creative.

Songlines Gallery in Stuart Park is a wonderful find too for those that are looking for an experience which connects developing countries from all over the globe. Visitors to Songlines can find unusual knickknacks from countries such as Papua New Guinea, remote parts of Africa and even Vietnam. Books, rugs, crockery, cutlery are all found here and all presented in a gorgeous display that makes the time spent in this shop a true experience. Longlines isn’t just international and does offer some hand selected aboriginal art.

The Top End is a massive region and art can be discovered right across the area. In Katherine there are loads of choices too including Mimi Arts Top Didj and Gallop Thru Time to name a few. Mimi Aboriginal Arts and Crafts is a wonderful place to stop and chat about history and learn some culture.

The Top End is the home of the didgeridoo, so here you can learn some really interesting facts surrounding the use of this timeless instrument which is used by men to share stories. Choosing a didgeridoo is something that buyers should consider carefully. Thought should be given to the fact that this instrument is for men only and when you purchase a didj, you need to remember that it is a sacred instrument to the local people. Always take the time to ask about the instrument and explain what you are doing with it. Gallery owners and staff will be sure to guide you through the significance of each piece. A good choice of didj means that you will have an item to treasure for a lifetime.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Shopping for Aboriginal art, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught | Aboriginal artwork at Nomad Art, Image: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott | Art collection at Djilpin Art Gallery, Image: Tourism NT/Elise Derwin | Artwork at Aboriginal Bush Traders, Image: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott | Aboriginal art in the Katherine region, Image: Tourism NT/Felix Baker | Admiring artwork at Mbantua Gallery, Image: Tourism NT/Elise Derwin | Couple enjoying an art exhibition at Araluen Art Centre, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught | Mason Art Gallery, Image: Tourism NT/Mason Art Gallery

ABORIGINAL FINE ARTS GALLERY

AUTHENTIC ART WITH PROVENANCE

Aboriginal Fine Arts operates the largest Aboriginal Art gallery in Darwin, upstairs Cnr Mitchell and Knuckey Streets, Darwin. Browse around a range of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art and craft from Arnhem Land and the Central Western desert regions and more. Works on bark, hand-woven baskets, carvings and a huge selection of authentic handmade DIDGERIDOOS. Delivery door to door, worldwide.

www.aaia.com.au

Phone: 08 8981 1315

ABORIGINAL ART

Dot paintings, deep ochres and bright yellows are what we think of when we think about indigenous art. The beauty of the way that the colours and lines intertwine is fascinating to the eye and a great talking point, but the art is so much deeper than just a few colours.

Dot paintings heed mostly from Central and Western Desert regions and although they are readily for sale in Darwin, the cross hatching or x-ray styles are more in keeping with the Top End.

Writing about Indigenous Art could go on forever, because the designs have evolved over thousands of years. The Dot paintings of Central Australia are truly amazing, because they could be overlayed with any of the landscapes around the MacDonnell Ranges and from the air, you probably wouldn’t notice a difference. The amazing thing is that these paintings were created by people who could never get a birdseye view and who instinctively knew how the landscape would look as they patiently drew their pieces of art.

The cross hatching of the Top End is used to represent reptiles and sea creatures which are often referred to in the Dreamtime stories passed on from generation to generation. These cross hatchings are often done with reed strands or actual hairs and were traditionally used in ceremonial paintings.

Aboriginal art in the Katherine region, Image: Tourism NT/Felix Baker

Aboriginal art in the Katherine region, Image: Tourism NT/Felix Baker

ART Sp o TS

ABORIGINAL FINE ARTS GALLERY

11 Knuckey St, Darwin www.aaia.com.au

SISTER7 GALLERY

6/56 Smith Street Opposite Raintree Park, Darwin www.sister7.gallery

PAUL ARNOLD GALLERY

Shop 6/27, The Mall, Darwin paularnold.com.au

KAREN BROWN FINE ART GALLERY 24 Mitchell Street, Darwin www.karenbrownfineart.com

MUSEUM & ART GALLERY OF NT

19 Conacher Street, Bullocky Point www.magnt.net.au

SONGLINES AUSTRALIA

55 Stuart Highway, Stuart Park, Darwin songlinesaustralia.com

MASON ART GALLERY

Shop 7, 21 Cavenagh Street, Darwin www.masongallery.com.au

PAUL JOHNSTONE GALLERY

Shop 2, 2 Harriet Place, Darwin pauljohnstonegallery.com.au

NORTHERN CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART

Vimy Lane, Parap Shopping Centre, Parap nccart.com.au

TACTILE ARTS GALLERY & STUDIOS

19 Conacher Street, Darwin tactilearts.org.au

INJALAK ARTS

Lot 383, Gunbalanya injalak.com

MIMI ABORIGINAL ARTS & CRAFTS

34 Katherine Terrace, Katherine mimiarts.com

MANINGRIDA ARTS & CULTURE

Lot 725, Maningrida maningrida.com

DIDGERIDOO HUT & ART GALLERY

1 Arnhem Highway, Humpty Doo www.didgeridoohut.com.au

GODINYMAYIN YIJARD RIVERS ARTS AND CULTURE CENTRE

Lot 3238 Stuart Highwayy, Katherine East gyracc.org.au

DJILPIN ART GALLERY

2 Cameron Road, Beswick djilpinarts.org.au

MURRAWUDDI ARTS & CULTURE GALLERY

2 Gregory Place, Jabiru marrawuddi.com.au

WARRADJAN ABORIGINAL CULTURAL CENTRE

Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Cooinda Road, Kakadu kakadutourism.com/trip-planning/culture

BUKU LARRNGAY MULKA CENTRE

138 Tuffin Road, Yirrkala yirrkala.com

GAPUWIYAK CULTURE & ARTS

Lot 131 Marrangu Road, Gapuwiyak Community gapuwiyak.com.au

BULA’BULA ARTS

19 Warrk Road, Ramingining bulabula.com.au

MILINGIMBI ART & CULTURE CENTRE

Lot 53 Gadapu Road, Milingimbi milingimbiart.com

ANINDILYAKWA ARTS

Alyangula anindilyakwaarts.com.au

ELCHO ARTS

Ganapay Parade, Galiwin’ku

ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS

Aboriginal Bush Traders is a 100% not-for-profit organisation committed to selling ethically sourced and sustainable products that directly support local Indigenous communities.

Located at Lyon’s Cottage on the beautiful Esplanade in Darwin CBD, the bushfood inspired café, vibrant retail shop and gallery exhibition space will ignite your imagination and tastebuds.

D ARWIN B OUTI q UE s HOP p ING

Ironically, when people think of boutique shopping, they think of Sydney, New York, London, Milan. However, these cities have nothing on Darwin, which may not be the home to Louis Vitton, but is the home to companies like Paspaley Pearls, RM Williams, Delaney’s Store and more.

Paspaley proffers a wonderful history of rags to riches by an immigrant Greek family which made its mark in the Top End and is today, one of the world’s leading brands of pearls. The Paspaley gallery can be found at the bottom of the Smith Street mall and is definitely worth a look if you are shopping for one of the world’s most beautiful natural products, or just wanting to see how the other half live.

Stores like RM Williams and Delaney’s provide shoppers with the chance to purchase boots, jackets and other clothes that will last a lifetime. Originally made for outback folk, the gorgeous boots, unique leathers and hard wearing lines are not found easily in other parts of the world.

Be sure to wander down the Smith Street Mall and into little shops like Embella where you can find inexpensive trinkets and pieces of handmade jewellery.

Bread Boutique is a good find and provides top line garments and shoes which surpass even the finest goods found in the more famous cities. Jeanette, the owner serves all customers personally and is always in for a good yarn.

The Rugby Shop is another unique Top End retail experience where enthusiasts can find all things rugby.

You will find a few stores selling didgeridoo around Darwin and more so in Katherine where this instrument is used more by the locals. Remember that the didgeridoo is a sacred instrument and not a toy. In local culture it is forbidden for a woman to play didgeridoo as it will render her sterile. Notable places to purchase Didgeridoo include the local stalls at the Mindil Markets, the Didgeridoo Hut in Humpty Doo and Mimi’s Arts in Katherine.

Larger style shopping centres include Casuarina Square, The Gateway in Palmerston and the Coolalinga Shopping Centre in Coolalinga.

Casuarina and the Gateway are by far the largest in the region and both offer a multitude of stores including large chain stores as well as some local brands. All centres have foodcourts and on a hot Darwin day, most locals head to the shops to stay cool and while away the hours.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Couple shopping at Paspaley Pearls in Darwin, Image: Tourism NT | Admiring items at The Local, Parap, Image: Tourism NT/Elise Derwin

Woman trying boots in Delaneys Country & Western Store in Darwin, Image: Tourism NT | Smith Street Mall, Image: Tourism NT/Chris Frankenfeld

Delaneys Darwin, Image: Tourism NT

NIGHTLIFE IN DARWIN

Ask anyone and they will tell you that Darwin is a party town. The obvious haunts are Mitchell Street and the CBD and where you will find a hub of activity every day of the year.

Mitchell Street is traditionally the go to for backpackers, but is unusually also surrounded by big brand hotels such as the Hilton , the H Hotel , the Rydges and the Novotel to name a few.

Visitors can literally pub crawl up and down Mitchell Street and the surrounding hidey holes for a big night out, or just a quiet beer in a casual bar.

Try Shenanigans or The Cav for a fun time where you can chat to loads of different people from different cultures.

Further down Mitchell Street, you will find Six Tanks Brewery and then onto Monsoons for a party night into the small hours.

A great little hidden gem is Charlies Bar which is upstairs. Enter from Knuckey Street but you will need to go into the little alley way outside of where Charlies is and then into a lift and up. Its not easy to find, but definitely worth the effort. Fantastic cocktails, great beer and good food are all at Charlies.

If you prefer a quiet beer in an afternoon, then head over to the Ski Club or the Sailing Club where you can sit and enjoy the gorgeous breeze and seriously beautiful sunsets that you couldn’t ever purchase on a postcard. Offers great meals and a casual ambience.

Another little place that is tucked away is the Dinah Beach Sailing Club at Tipperary Waters. You need to sign in as a guest. The meals are great, the music is fun and the drinks are well priced and one thing that is guaranteed you will have a good time. Just be mindful that parking is a little tight and you may need to park outside if things get busy.

Some great little tucked away restaurants which are scattered around Darwin include The Bat in Coconut Grove (casual

dining, jazz music and woodfired pizza), the Taj in Nightcliff. The Taj is well priced and you can BYO which is not common in the NT.

The One Mile Brewery at Berrimah is also a fantastic find for visitors. You would never stumble across this unless you were trying and it’s a great little place which hosts an Oktoberfest each year.

One Mile is run by a couple of mates who just love entertaining and who make you feel like you have dropped into their backyard for a bit of a session with some old friends.

For a stunning night view of the harbour in all its glory visit the cocktail lounge on the top floor of The Ramada Suites Wyndham

Darwin really is a city of food and fun and the list of places to enjoy is almost endless, despite the boutique size of the city. The waterfront is full of casual dining, cocktail bars, fun and music on almost every night of the year.

Stokes Hill Wharf, Darwin, NT, Image: Tourism Australia

DINING IN DARWIN

Darwin’s diversity of cultures is evident all over the city. Being so close to Asia, there is a very strong influence on foods from that continent, however there is also heavy influences from other parts of the world as a result of the arrival of people seeking to make Australia their home.

While Mitchell Street is the place well known for food and entertainment there are some hidden gems around Darwin that offer really high quality.

The CBD is famous for world class restaurants including Moorish , Meraki’s, Pepperberry, Hanuman’s, Char and the Darwin Club but the list goes on and there are many great places to try in the city.

The Waterfront is another great place for dining and has multiple restaurants, but make sure you book, particularly in the Dry because these restaurants are always filled to capacity.

Near the Waterfront is the Darwin Jetty, which is home to some spectacular eating places such as the Jetty Restaurant Sit and enjoy the gorgeous sunsets, the fish swimming and the warmth of Darwin as you sip on a glass of wine or a cold beer.

The entire area of Mindil Beach is inspiring when it comes to food and beverage, the markets, the Casino, the Ski Club and the Sailing Club all represent fantastic food. Just remember that if you are planning on grabbing something at the markets, that you need to take your own alcohol as it is not sold there.

For those looking for a more upmarket experience, then try Pee Wee’s at the Point on East Point.

For beer lovers, try One Mile Brewery in Winnellie or take a drive to Noonamah , Humpty Doo or Berry Springs and enjoy some cold amber fluid in one of the hottest cities in Australia.

Casuarina Club, Buffs Club, Cazaly’s Club and Good Times Bar & Grill offer some great bistro meals at reasonable prices. The Cav The Tap Shenanigans Six Tanks are all in Mitchell Street and most of them offer live music, a wide range of drinks and classic meals. A word of warning though, the lively atmosphere in Mitchell Street is very alluring and visitors often find themselves out until the small hours of the morning.

Char Restaurant, Image: Tourism NT

Dining at the Darwin Sailing Club, Image: Tourism NT/Adrian Brown

DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade Darwin, Image: Tourism NT/Christopher Nayna

CULLEN BAY

Cullen Bay is less known for its cuisine, but it is probably one of the best places to go for a meal. It is not as busy in Cullen Bay, so visitors can wander in, look at the menus and ask for a table.

Phat Joint , Yot’s, Ebb and Flow and Damsquino’s are all names synonymous with quality dining.

Ebb and Flow offers plant based delicious meals and offers live music, sun lounges and wine on a quiet and relaxing afternoon.

Lola’s is also a well known venue, but it can be noisy if you are looking to enjoy a quiet lunch or dinner.

The most famous restaurant in Cullen Bay is Seafood on Cullen and is a massive seafood restaurant which has direct sunset views, an outdoor verandah and great quality food. Kids are very welcome here too and can go out and play on the grassed area while parents can see them from the verandah.

Enjoying a meal at Cullen Bay Marina , Image: Tourism NT

Cullen Bay Marina Aerial, Image: Tourism NT

Dining at Lola’s Pergola, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Looking out on to Cullen Bay Marina

The marina boardwalk

THE TOP END

JUDBARRA

65 TH o USAND y EAR s OF HI s TOR y

The Larrakia people are the traditional owners of the Darwin region which encompasses the Adelaide River in the east and the Cox Peninsula in the west. Like other indigenous cultures, the Larrakia people have a strong connection to the land, and in this case the sea, with a heritage that spans many thousands of years.

In fact, the Darwin region has a longer history of Aboriginal habitation than originally thought. Recent archaeological discoveries near Kakadu National Park indicate that humans arrived to Australia at least 65,000 years ago, fifteen years earlier than previously recorded. Artefacts such as a sharpening tool and stone axes unearthed at the Madjedbebe rock shelter were a landmark find for archaeologists.

Aboriginal people are also said to be the world’s first astronomers. The Emu in the Sky is an Aboriginal constellation that relates to a dreamtime story about a

man who kills and banishes the spirit of an emu to the Milky Way because it killed his wife. The Emu in the Sky extends its heavenly body all the way across the glittery Milky Way to the Southern Cross constellation. Not only do dreamtime stories impart rich life lessons to indigenous people, they also explain the trajectory of planets and celestial bodies which have a practical link to the seasons.

In traditional practice, the Larrakia people follow six seasons which relate to the availability of bush foods: Gudjewg (January to February), Banggerreng (March and April), Yegge (May), Wurrgeng (mid June to mid August), Gurrung (August to October) and Gunumeleng (October to December).

Indigenous culture is celebrated through the Darwin region’s many Aboriginal galleries, cultural events and guided tours. Be sure to immerse yourself in this fascinating and ancient culture.

When travelling in the Northern Territory, visitors are reminded to obtain the appropriate grants to travel on Aboriginal land. Always check with local authorities or tourism operators and ensure that you obey signs.

Ubirr, Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr | Couple talking to Artist at Murrawuddi Arts & Culture Gallery, Image: Tourism NT | Kakadu Cultural Tours, NT, Imgae: Tourism Australia | Cultural experience at Pudakul, Image: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott | Lords Kakadu and Arnhemland Safaris, Image: https://www.lords-safaris.com

Kakadu Cultural Tours, NT, Image: Tourism Australia

CRAB CLAW ISLAND & RESORT

Crab Claw Island is a magnificent part of the Northern Territory located on the Cox Peninsula, just 135km southwest of Darwin by road, 15 minutes by air, or two hours by quick boat. Truly unique, it is an island accessible by road except on extreme high tides. It is surrounded by 2500km 2 of pristine waterways which include Bynoe Harbour, salt water estuaries and fresh water creeks and rivers.

Crab Claw Island is home to Crab Claw Island Resort. Nestled on the water’s edge, Crab Claw Island Resort is a relaxing escape from the everyday. The complex has elevated cabins overlooking a white sandy beach connected by walkways through the trees and palm gardens, refreshing swimming pools, an open air restaurant and bar with views across the harbour, private boat ramp to access the fabulous fishing, all surrounded by wildlife and pristine natural beauty.

Crab Claw caters for those who love the outdoors. You can go bushwalking around the island, hunt for monster mud crabs, go for a dip in one of the two refreshing pools or – when in season – watch the turtles lay their eggs on a nearby beach. However, Crab Claw’s main attraction has got to be fishing. The island is a fishing dream. A popular way to spend the day is to fish until dusk, and then eat your catch. With over 30 species of fish in the harbour, including Barramundi and crab, you’re spoilt for choice when baiting dinner.

Star of National Geographic’s hit TV show Outback Wrangler, Matt Wright’s unique outback lifestyle and knowledge of helicopters, boats and airboats has led him to develop some of the most unique tourism experiences in the world.

TOURS

Matt Wright Explore the Wild has a range of tours on offer which include:

• Top End Safari Camp Day Tour

• Top End Safari Camp Overnight Tour

• Darwin Airboat Tours

• Tiwi Island Retreat

www.mattwright.com.au

BUCKET LIST ADVENTURE AT TOP END SAFARI CAMP

The Top End Safari Camp Day Tour and Overnight Tour are bucket list outback adventures that tick all the boxes. Situated in an exclusive location on the edge of a billabong in the Litchfield region, we showcase the best activities and experiences the Top End has to offer.

Guests will see the majestic river systems from above in a scenic helicopter flight and spot crocodiles, birds and even buffalo on a thrilling airboat ride through the channels and into the rainforest. The cruise boat takes guests along the lagoon for a slower pace perfect for birdwatching whilst tucking into a gourmet meal.

The floating pontoon has Australia’s only nature-based croc safe pool where guests can take a dip and get face to face with a wild saltwater crocodile. Finish off on a high with an exciting feeding and exhibition with one of the rescue monster crocodiles caught by National Geographic’s Outback Wrangler, Matt Wright himself. Guests on the Day Tour then return to Darwin via airconditioned bus transfer.

Guests who have booked the Overnight Tour return to the Sky Deck to soak up an incredible Top End sunset over the floodplains followed by a gourmet BBQ dinner, star gazing around the fire pit and an unforgettable, bespoke outback glamping experience with a delicious cooked breakfast.

• Scenic Flights & Helipub Tours

• Helifishing & Deep Sea Fishing

• Custom Tours & Matt Wright

P: (08) 8983 4017

E: bookings@mattwright.com.au

DAY TOUR AND OVERNIGHT TOUR INCLUSIONS

Crocodile encounter and feeding

• Airboat rainforest cruise

• Croc-safe swimming cage

• 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over floodplains

BBQ late lunch

• Billabong boat cruise

• Airconditioned return bus transfers from Darwin

ADDITIONAL INCLUSIONS FOR THE OVERNIGHT TOUR

• Cheese board and nibbles (instead of the BBQ late lunch)

• Gourmet BBQ dinner and dessert on our open star deck

Overnight outback glamping experience staying in Deluxe Lotus Belle Tent equipped with Double Bed and fresh rainwater shower

• Cooked breakfast on day two

The Day Tour operates all year round and is $395 per adult and $345 for children with the tour running for approximately 7-hours from pick up to drop off in Darwin.

The Overnight Tour runs from April-October and prices start at $595 per adult and $395 for children with the tour running for approximately 23 Hours (including 1 night overnight stay) from pick up to drop off in Darwin.

For more information go to: www.topendsafaricamp.com.au or call the Bookings Office on 08 8983 4017 and checkout our awesome reviews on TripAdvisor to see for yourself why you don’t want to miss this once in a lifetime experience!

U p CL os E WITH WILDLIFE

The wildlife parks in the Territory offer what is no doubt the best experiences with nature and natures wonders in the world.

In Darwin itself visitors can visit Crocodylus Park and which offers a full, family day of entertainment.

Although the park offers the visitor a complete, interactive experience with local animals including dingos and kangaroos there is even lions, baboons and more.

The park offers a jumping crocodile cruise but for those that don’t want to be that close, there is also crocodile feeding and complete shows providing you with detail about the idiosyncrasies of all the animals at the park.

Crocodylus is world renowned, because it doesn’t just show animals, it protects them through its conservation and research scheme.

Crocodylus Park is a must do for visitors to Darwin and is less than 20 minutes from the Darwin CBD and is open from 9am to 3pm every day of the year apart from Christmas day.

The Territory Wildlife Park is another must do in Darwin and is located about 45 minutes out of the Darwin CBD.

The Territory Wildlife Park, an initiative of the Northern Territory Government, was opened in 1989 as an opportunity for visitors experience the three main habitat types found in the Top End, and the Wildlife that calls these habitats home.

The Park consists of a number of constructed and natural exhibits that show of an array of really diverse species.

The Nocturnal House features some cryptic creatures including Narbalek (a small rock wallaby that is only found in Arnhem Land), the Northern Savannah Glider and the Ghost Bat, a predatory species with big ears that lives in caves or mine shafts.

Reptile oddities such as the Northern Knob-tailed Gecko, Northern Spiny-tail Gecko and the Black Headed Python are also on display within the Nocturnal House.

The Monsoon Forest habitat has a plethora of birdlife and the aviary sequence concludes with a huge, walk-though, domed aviary which is one of the biggest in the southern hemisphere.

The Park’s aquarium boasts over 20 exhibits and are stocked with native plants and animals and species include Fresh and Saltwater Crocodiles, Whiprays, Pig-nosed Turtles, Barramundi, Saratoga, Rainbow Fish, Glassfish and more.

With Wedge-tailed eagle shows, roaming emu, jabiru and owls, the day is fun filled for the whole family.

The Territory Wildlife Park is open every day of the year except Christmas Day, from 9am-4pm during the dry season and 9am-3pm during the wet season.

Kingfisher blue-winged Kookaburra on a tree branch at Katherine gorge

Agile wallaby encounter, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Salt Water Crocodiles sunning themselves

SPECTACULAR JUMPING CROCODILES

The famous Northern Territory jumping crocodile tour that you’ve been hearing about!

Operating for over 30 years on one of the most croc-packed stretches of the Adelaide River, Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles is less than 60 minutes from the centre of Darwin city.

Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises is the only aboriginal owned cruise on the Adelaide River. This means you are not just getting a croc cruise; you are introduced to the floodplains ecosystem, it’s history, wildlife and a peek in to over 40,000 years of human interaction with this stunning environment.

Every tour is safe, comfortable and undercover, so you can enjoy the cruise no matter what level of fitness or mobility. After all, everyone should be witness to power of the mighty Australian Estuarine (Saltwater) Crocodile.

There’s no cages and no perspex boxes here. Just you, the team and 100% wild crocodiles in their natural environment, doing what they already do naturally when feeding.

A GREAT DAY

Visiting the Top End is a chance to spend six days or six months. It doesn’t really matter as there are always things to do.

Just over an hour out of Darwin is the Daly River Tourist Region and here you can camp, walk or just drive. The scenery is breathtaking and typifies the rawness of the outback.

From Darwin, drive south to Adelaide River, where you can call into the Adelaide River Inn, which is a great little spot and where there is often Sunday afternoon entertainment. There are motel rooms, caravan sites too, plus a couple of service stations and it all sits alongside the river, giving visitors the chance to kick back, have a cold beer or wine and just enjoy.

Adelaide River was created at around the time of Pine Creek and the gold rush there. During the wet season, access was difficult and crossing the river was nigh on impossible. Adelaide River was created as a point where exchanges could be made and eventually a train station just a year after the construction of the bridge in 1888.

Today, train lovers or people who are interested in history can stop by the Train Heritage Precinct at Adelaide River and soak up all the stories of the past.

Heading south from Adelaide River, turn right and go via the Douglas Hot Springs. The road is pretty windy and there are no barriers, but the drive is really unique with small hills and parched countryside.

Although there is plenty of camping, visitors should be careful to stop at campgrounds. The land is all privately owned and camping is not permitted unless it is within the approved zones. Turn off to Robin Falls where visitors can camp, but there are no fires allowed and all rubbish must be taken home. There are no toilets or showers, so camping is very much grass roots, but this is worth a night or two if you are prepared to try it. The night skies are crystal clear and the environment is virtually untouched.

You can take a walk at George Creek, an easy 20 minute hike to the large waterhole which is usally empty in the dry seasons. Keep heading south towards Pine Creek and turn off to the Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs. Be mindful that the springs are open seasonally and it’s a good idea to call ahead if you are going to make the trip.

At the hot springs, you will see a multitude of birdlife, as well as interesting mammals and gorgeous fauna.

Camping is allowed at the hot springs, but always check with NT Tourism before deciding to make the journey if you are wanting to stay a while.

Daly River, Image: Tourism NT/Peter Eve

Robin Falls

Yellow Water Billabong, Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr

Aerial view of the Adelaide River in the wet season

KAKADU

Extending over 19,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is a landscape of contrasts. This iconic park boasts a number of awe-inspiring attractions which reflect upon a rich Aboriginal heritage.

The drive to Kakadu is a step into remote Australia. Driving in you are likely to see dingo, wallaby, maybe a camel or even a wild donkey just wandering around this amazing landscape.

Some must do sights along the way include the Purple Mango Café and Brewery, where you can get wood-fired pizza and craft beer all made onsite. The turn off is a little deceiving and the road is dirt, but just for a short stint and definitely worth the trip. Camping is available and although the facilities are basic, the hospitality and ambience is really special.

There are a couple of notable stops for a cold beer, a good feed or general supplies at Corroborree Park Tavern and Bark Hut Inn and which are easily found on the main highway between Humpty Doo and Jabiru.

Located 110kms east from Darwin city, and half way between Kakadu and Darwin, a visit to the Mary River wetlands is another must do. Mary River is almost unknown outside of the Territory but is one of the most beautiful and diverse places on the planet.

Local Territorians know and love Mary River, where visitors can experience amazing wetlands, wild crocodiles, floodplains and world class fishing. Barramundi is plentiful here and the region attracts thousands of local visitors every year. Mary River is a must do, but as always in these areas, be crocwise. Can be done as a half day or part of a Kakadu or Litchfield Park trip.

The region is home to over 280 bird species and numerous other animals including water buffalo, wallabies and dingos. Large areas of the wetlands are traditionally only accessible from mid April to late November, with the low lying wetlands inundating and replenishing each Wet season creating a huge freshwater habitat that acts as an engine room for the flora and fauna of NT.

One of the best ways to experience the region is on one of the many cruise options within the region or a self drive through the Mary River National Park road network. The area is a photographer’s paradise, but care is to be taken at all times while travelling through the region.

The township of Jabiru is a great little place too and here you can enjoy world class hotel accommodation, fantastic caravan parks, a supermarket and a township of friendly locals. Fuel, food, accommodation is readily available, but it is wise to call ahead or book before hand just to make sure that it isn’t booked out. In the dry season, visitors from all over the globe come to this very famous town which is in the heart of Kakadu.

Spectacular scenic flight in Kakadu, Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott | Feral water buffalo, Kakadu National Park, Image: Andrew Bower | Kakadu waterhole, Image: Tourism NT/Johan Lolos Kakadu Tourism, Image: Tourism Australia | Kakadu Cultural Tours, Image: Tourism Australia | Kakadu Cultural Tours, Image: Tourism Australia

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK ENTRY FEE

A fee applies to all interstate and international visitors aged 5 years and over. All Northern Territory residents with proof of identification are exempt. For more information on the cost of park passes, please visit www.kakadu.com.au

BOWALI VISITOR CENTRE

Open daily. Free entry. Before exploring Kakadu National Park, get familiarised by exploring the Bowali Visitor Centre.

GUNLOM PLUNGE POOL

4WD only. Check seasonal access. Free entry.

Gunlom, located along Waterfall Creek, is the magical combination of a waterfall and serene plunge pool, with shady gums cooling the picnic areas.

JARRANGBARNMI (KOOLPIN GORGE)

4WD only. Check seasonal access. Free entry. Visitors to the beautiful Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge) must apply for a permit at least 7 days in advance.

JIM JIM FALLS

4WD required. Check seasonal access. Free entry. Whether the falls are raging with water or just trickling, this majestic waterfall is a sight to behold.

MAMUKALA WETLANDS AND BIRD HIDE

Check seasonal access. Free entry. Displays the spectacle of thousands of migratory magpie geese congregating to feed.

MAGUK (BARRAMUNDI GORGE)

Check seasonal access. Free entry. A 1km walk through monsoon rainforest leads to the base of a beautiful plunge pool.

NOURLANGIE ART SITE

Open daily. Free entry. The rock walls at Nourlangie have served as both a shelter and canvas for Aboriginals for thousands of years.

TWIN FALLS

4wd only. Check seasonal access. Tour fee applies. Access the falls via a boat shuttle up the gorge, followed by a moderate walk over boulders and sand, then along a boardwalk.

UBIRR

Check seasonal conditions. Free entry. Ubirr is one of Kakadu’s two most famous rock art galleries. An experience you’ll always remember.

WARRADJAN ABORIGINAL CULTURAL CENTRE

Open daily. Free entry. Spend some time at the Warradjan Cultural Centre learning the stories that inspired Aboriginal laws.

YELLOW WATER BILLABONG

Open daily. Check seasonal conditions. Yellow Water is one of Kakadu’s best known landmarks. Take a cruise through these wetlands and experience the lush scenery and thriving wildlife that inhabits the region. If you’re a keen angler, book a fishing tour to try your hand at catching Kakadu’s resident barramundi.

Get familiarised at Bowali, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Maguk, Image: Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter & Hayley Anderson

Yellow Water Billabong, Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr

Gunlom, Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo

MAR y RIVER

A visit to the region will immerse you in iconic outback scenery and wildlife that Australia is famous for.

Located 110kms east from Darwin city, and half way between Kakadu and Darwin, a visit to the wetlands can be done as a half day or part of a Kakadu or Litchfield Park trip. The region is home to over 280 bird species and numerous other animals including water buffalo, wallabies and dingos. Large areas of the wetlands are traditionally only accessible from mid April to late November, with the low lying wetlands inundating and replenishing each Wet season creating a huge freshwater habitat that acts as an engine room for the flora and fauna of the Northern Territory.

One of the best ways to experience the region is on one of the many cruise options within the region or a self drive through the Mary River National Park road network. The area is a photographer’s paradise, but care is to be taken at all times while travelling through the region.

L ITCHFIELD

Litchfield National Park is just an hour and a half drive from Darwin and features a range of diverse environments.

You can drive into Litchfield from either Berry Springs, or Batchelor and either way will give you a great sense of the landscape and depth of culture.

Although less known globally, Litchfield National Park has a beauty and diversity which is equal to Kakadu and with its close proximity to the Territory’s capital city, is a very convenient and easy way to get into the heart of the country. Swimming waterholes abound and travel to the area is easy, with made road the entire way.

Accommodation in the region is plentiful and bookings can be made at the Tourism Top End office, online or by phone. Locals here are friendly and easy going and you will not find it difficult to organise, but like many parts of the NT, be sure to try to get in early. The dry season is very busy and many accommodation venues will be full if you just show up without a booking.

BATCHELOR

Batchelor falls into what is called the Rum Jungle region and was named after a bullock wagon loaded with Rum was bogged on its way to construction gangs and the drivers of the bullock train drank its booty.

The town was named officially during the war years and became notable when in 1933 the airstrip was expanded through plans to protect southern Australia from the pending Japanese invastion.

There is a wonderful little museum in Batchelor as well as a visitors centre and a Butterfly Farm. Supplies at the Litchfield Resort are plentiful and meals can be purchased at the Butterfly Farm or the resort.

BAMBOO CREEK & WALKER CREEK

2WD accessible. Relics of the mining era can be seen at Bamboo Creek Tin Mine. The Walker Creek Walk, which is two hours in duration, is also worth checking out.

BLYTH HOMESTEAD

4WD only. Check road conditions. Open daily. The historic Blyth Homestead is the location of an old tin mine and serves as a reminder of the tough conditions faced by pioneers in remote areas.

BULEY ROCKHOLE

2WD accessible. Open all year round. Buley Rockhole is a series of waterfalls and rock-holes, where you can find your own spot to swim and relax. Camping is available with toilet facilities and fees apply.

FLORENCE FALLS

2WD accessible. Open all year round. Free entry. The spectacular Florence Falls cascades into a plunge pool, which sits within a pocket of monsoon forest.

GREENANT CREEK WALK

2WD accessible. Greenant Creek Walk tracks through rainforest to another attractive plunge pool.

MAGNETIC TERMITE MOUNDS

2WD accessible. Open all year round. Free entry. One of the park’s unique sights is the many termite mounds standing up to two metres in height.

SURPRISE CREEK FALLS

4WD only. Check road conditions. Surprise Creek Falls is a place to relax and enjoy a swim in an uncrowded waterfall.

TOLMER FALLS

2WD accessible. Open all year. No swimming. Tolmer Falls cascades over high escarpments into a deep plunge pool.

THE LOST CITY

4WD only. Check road conditions. These impressive freestanding sandstone blocks and pillar formations bring to mind the ruins of a long-forgotten civilisation.

TJAYNERA FALLS (SANDY CREEK)

4WD only. Check road conditions. Free entry. Nestled in an open valley, the falls can be found by walking along a 1.7km trail.

WANGI FALLS

2WD accessible. Open all year round. Free entry. An interpretive walk to the top of the falls commences near the pool. An art centre and café are also available.

Relaxing at Buley rockhole, Image: Tourism NT/Evelien Langeveld

Lost City at Abner Ranges near Borroloola, Image: Tourism NT/Kate Flowers

Wangi Falls, Image: Tourism NT/Jason Charles Hill

Florence Falls, Image: Tourism NT/Ashley Dobson

EAST ARNHE m LAND

(INCLUDING THE CENTRAL ARNHEM ROAD)

East Arnhem is one of the last pristine tropical paradises in Australia with over 60,000 years of rich cultural heritage, magical beaches and incredible biodiversity. The scenery is beautiful and diverse, with rugged coastlines, remote islands, rivers teeming with fish, lush rainforest, towering escarpments and savannah woodland.

The earliest history of East Arnhem Land is recorded in the paintings, dances and songs of Yolŋu, the traditional owners of the East Arnhem region. These stories tell of creation ancestors bringing lands and waters, people, animals and plants into being.

Immerse yourself in Yolŋu culture by visiting one of a number Yolŋu homelands welcoming visitors. Guests learn about Yolŋu history and culture and the ongoing connection Yolŋu maintain with their Country.

The Yolŋu calendar consists of six seasons based on thousands of years of weather patterns detected across their Country. Each season is marked by subtle variations of the weather and signal when bush foods are ready for harvesting. The content and activities that take place during cultural immersion tours align with the seasons and change depending on the time of year.

Buku Larrŋgay Mulka Centre, located in Yirrkala, is one of Australia’s premier Aboriginal art centres, supporting Yolŋu artists from over 20 homelands across the East Arnhem region. The Centre has a large gallery space and hosts a museum displaying history from across the region.

GOVE PENINSULA

The Gove Peninsula is at the north-eastern corner of Arnhem Land. The vibrant community of Nhulunbuy operates as a service and business hub for the Gove Peninsula and East Arnhem Land, and many visitors choose to base themselves in and around Nhulunbuy to explore the beautiful region and its many recreational areas.

The Gove Peninsula is serviced by direct daily flights from Darwin (1 hour 10 minutes) and Cairns (1 hour 40 minutes ) with Airnorth (Qantas codeshare available).

DHIMURRU RECREATIONAL AREAS

A visitor access permit is required to access Dhimurru Recreational Areas. For more information on the cost of a Dhimurru visitor access permit, please visit dhimurru.com.au

Camping (additional fee) should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

DHIMURRU HIGHLIGHTS

East Woody Beach: Located on the outskirts of Nhulunbuy. Well known for spectacular sunsets. Dhimurru visitor access permit required.

Roy Marika Lookout: Lookout over Nhulunbuy township and the Arafura Sea. Dhimurru visitor access permit required.

Wathawuy (Goanna Lagoon): Shady freshwater recreational area. Day use and overnight camping. 4WD access only. Dhimurru visitor access permit required.

Banambarrŋa (Rainbow Cliffs): Peaceful beachside recreational area. Day use and overnight camping. 4WD access only. Dhimurru visitor access permit required.

Wanuwuy (Cape Arnhem): Breathtakingly beautiful peninsula on the Eastern tip of East Arnhem Land. Overnight camping only. 4WD access only. Dhimurru visitor access permit required.

Dhimurru Coastal Walking Trail: A series of three short walks linking the Binydjarrŋa (Daliwuy Bay), Garanhan (Macassan Beach), Ŋumuy (Turtle Beach) and Bariŋura (Little Bondi) recreational areas. Dhimurru visitor access permit required.

CENTRAL ARNHEM ROAD

Starting 50 kilometres south of Katherine and ending in Nhulunbuy, the Central Arnhem Road runs 675 kilometres through Australia’s vast, untouched wilderness. The road is predominately unsealed dirt with a few small river crossings along the way. As one of Australia’s most iconic adventure drives, the Central Arnhem Road is a journey where adventures are made, and unforgettable experiences are had.

Travellers are recommended to be prepared for the journey with an adequate four-wheel drive. A free Transit Permit, available online from the Northern Land Council, is required to drive the road.

Tropical paradise in East Arnhem Land, Image: Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter

Adventures In Culture East Arnhem land

Small Group Aboriginal Homeland Tours

Gululu – “Welcome to our Country”. Welcome to Yolŋu Country, region of Miwatj. Explore our land, walk with us, sit with us, hear our stories. Come with us to experience our culture, history and country.

Day Tours & Multi-Day Tours Departing Gove & Nhulunbuy www.lirrwitourism.com.au | tours@lirrwitourism.com.au

Venture North into Arnhem Land, Image: Tourism NT/James Fisher

Tropical paradise in East Arnhem Land, Image: Tourism NT/Mark Fitzpatrick

Tropical paradise in East Arnhem Land, Image: Tourism NT/Hayley Anderson

Tropical paradise in East Arnhem Land, Image: Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter

KATHERINE (INCLUDING NITMILUK GORGE AND MATARANKA)

Driving through Katherine, many people think they are just passing through another outback town, but don’t be fooled. Katherine has quite a bit going on. It boasts some great eating places (try Kumbidgee Restaurant on the Gorge Road for world class quality and which is priced within the normal range), plus some of the best quality Aboriginal art you are likely to find anywhere. There are no real preferences to the shops or galleries but a must do is Mimi Aboriginal Art Gallery which is run entirely by local people. Even for those not wanting to buy, it’s a great place to drop in for a yarn and learn about the local culture first hand.

Katherine is a region that encompasses the township of Katherine as well as the renowned Nitmiluk National Park. In the 1800s, explorer John McDouall named the Katherine River after the daughter of the man who sponsored his expedition. Her name was, in fact, spelled with a ‘C’ but this typographical error was never amended. The region and township followed suit. The Jawoyn people, the land’s traditional owners, renamed the region ‘Nitmiluk’ in 1989, which translates to cicada place.

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is world famous and visitors can expect one of the most interesting experiences they are likely to find. The Gorge is the land of the Jawoyn people (pronounced “jar-whn”) and employs locals, with the money going back into the community. Since returning to traditional ownership only a few years ago, the visitors centre at the Gorge has been developed to a world class facility offering a newly created, interactive museum which was hand made by local artists.

Located 45 minutes from the township of Katherine, boasts unique and unforgettable landscapes which can be travelled and explored on foot, by water or from a bird’s-eye view.

The Nitmiluk Visitor Centre should be your first port of call. Situated at the entrance of Nitmiluk Gorge, the centre has a Display and Heritage Museum that provides a history lesson on the park to whet your appetite for things to come. Enjoy

refreshments from the cafe and buy a memento to remind you of this wondrous region or pick up your ticket for one of the famous gorge cruises, which often includes a swim in the cool, fresh waters.

Cruises should be booked well in advance and are a must if you are planning a visit to Katherine. You can find this online and which is often better than calling as the telephones are sometimes not available.

The Katherine River bends and winds through 13 spectacular gorges in the park, a feat of nature which makes this destination a much loved one for Australians and overseas visitors alike. The Jatbula Trail which extends 58 kilometres through the park offers an awe-inspiring hike that traverses monsoon rainforest, stunning waterfalls and Jawoyn Aboriginal rock art. Both the Northern and Southern Rockholes are the perfect place to cool off on a hot day while you watch their mesmerising waterfalls.

Experienced trekkers and lovers of walking trails are likely to already know about the Jatbula Trail because it is one of the top five walks in Australia. Every dry season, visitors plan this walk which is 4 nights and 5 days starting close to the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre and then ending at Edith Falls.

The longest leg is 17km between 17 Mile Falls and Sandy Camp and the shortest is 11km on the first day as you depart and head towards Biddlecombe Cascades

Walkers depart every day and can enjoy stunning fresh water to swim in throughout the trek and even some basic composting, toilet facilities which are regularly maintained. Although safe to drink, it is suggested that water taken from the track be boiled or have purification tablets added.

The hiking season runs from 1st of June to 30th September each year and bookings are taken from November the year prior. Look online at nt.gov.au for more information on the Jatbula.

Edith Falls, Nitmiluk National Park, Image: Tourism NT/Let’s Escape Together

KATHERINE AVIATION

Explore Katherine and Kakadu like never before.

Take to the skies with the Northern Territory’s leading charter and scenic flight company. Offering three scenic tours out of Katherine covering the region plus Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Park, guided by our pilot’s extensive knowledge of the areas.

KAKADU SCENIC FLIGHTS FROM $130PP

30 Minute Kakadu Scenic Flight

60 Minute Kakadu Scenic Flight (Wet Season)

Kakadu Super Scenic Flight

KATHERINE SCENIC FLIGHTS FROM $195PP

40 Minute Scene it in Katherine

105 Minute Scene it up to Kakadu

4-5 Hour Scene Everything (includes the Yellow Water Cruise)

Join us for a scenic flight over some of the best country the NT has to offer. Book now at www.katherineaviation.com.au

Bitter Springs, Mataranka, Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr

Baruwei Lookout, Nitmiluk National Park, Image: Tourism NT/Let’s Escape Together

CUTTA CUTTA CAVES

Formed millions of years ago, the caves are located in an area covering 1499 hectares and is a limestone wonderland. The caves form part of the rich, local culture and today, visitors can pay a small entry fee and experience this unique, natural wonder.

The Cutta Cutta Caves are a tropical cave system and are therefore full of wildlife including different bat species and 170 species of birds including the endangered Gouldian Finch.

The caves are located 27km south of Katherine and on the way to Mataranka. Although the park is quiet and seems remote, the caves are a highly regarded attraction and bookings are essential as tours sell out.

Part of Jawoyn country, the locals will take you through the caves and provide you stories of a wonderful, deeply cultured history.

ELSEY NATIONAL PARK

Covering an area of over 13,000ha, Elsey is a wonder of the world. With the Roper River extending from Korowan (Mataranka Falls) to the gorgeous Mataranka Thermal Pools, visitors can spend days in the region just exploring and discovering unique fauna and fantastic history.

There are some strict rules about swimming in the park and these days swimming is only allowed at Bitter Springs and Mataranka Thermal Pool. Remember that like many places in the NT, crocodile danger is omnipresent and visitors should always be cautious near waterways.

Walking trails include Bitter Springs, the Riverside Walk, Mataranka Thermal Pool, Stevie’s Hole, the Botanic Walk, Korowan and sheep dip. Most of these walks are realitively easy walks but remember that temperatures are hot and its important to carry some hydrating tablets and a bottle or two of water.

The Mataranka Thermal Pool is great for the family, with manmade steps and a waters that boast 34 degrees all year round and visitor entry is easy. Accommodation options include high quality hotel style to cabins and both powered and unpowered sites.

Exploring the Cutta Cutta caves, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Near Bitter Springs, Elsey National Park, Image: Tourism NT/Tess Leopold

Relax in the thermal pool, Image: Tourism NT/Tess Leopold

PINE CREEK

Pine Creek is an interesting little town and boasts a look out over the lake that keeps the town green and watered. Originally established as a gold town and which boasted a bustling immigrant community. Imagine a town in the late nineteenth century which was steeped in culture, diverse language and rags to riches wealth.

Later, the town became a key location in the Second World War, when an airfield and hospital were constructed to protect the Japanese invasion from the rest of Australia.

Today, Pine Creek is more of a cool hang out for passers-by who are wanting to enjoy a cold beer, a slow pace and just a great ambience.

Visitors should be sure to look out for the goldrush festival complete with the NT Gold Panning championships and Didgeridoo Jam. The Pine Creek Rodeo is usually held in August and is a must do for those of lovers of all that is famous in the Territory.

Great Aussie outback pub.

One of the mOst iconic spots on the drive between Alice springs and Darwin.

stOp by fOr a cOlD one, a feeD, enjOy the entertainment and check out the items travellers hAve left behinD.

16 stuart street, Daly waters nt 0852

t| (08) 8975 9927 e| Dalywaterspub@cArtersretail.cOm

DALY WATERS PUB

A true blue Aussie outback pub - the Daly Waters Pub is a colourful historic pub, clad in corrugated iron, draped with bougainvillea’s and crammed with decades of memorabilia.

The popular pub is on the old droving track and began as a watering hole for the drovers as well as travellers since the 1930’s.

The extensive menu includes a range of salads, steaks, lamb, chicken, and fresh local territory barramundi and threadfin salmon. The world famous beef and barra meals, with a selection of salads and hot damper, are served every night during the dry season.

Grab a cold beer, put your feet up and soak in the outback hospitality and happy go lucky feel of the pub. Bookings are essential.

Find us right in the middle of Whoop Whoop!

Stuart Street, Daly Waters, Northern Territory, 0852, Australia

Travelling south from Darwin approx. 600kms. Turn right off the Stuart Highway 3kms to the pub. Travelling north from Alice Springs approx 900kms. Turn left off the Stuart Highway.

Miner`s Park in Pine Creek

TIMBER CREEK & TRAVELLING WEST

(JUDBARRA GREGORY NATIONAL PARK AND THE KEEP RIVER)

The Nackeroo Monument is a memorial to what is also known as Curtains Cowboys, which were soldiers that were stationed in the area to protect northern Australia from invasion during the second world war.

Driving from Katherine you can access fuel and accommodation at the Victoria River Roadhouse, which is alongside the stunning Victoria River and 194km from the town.

4WD tracks around Victoria River are amazing as the landscape changes from bush scrub to stunning rock formations and interesting flora and fauna. The Judbarra/ Gregory National Park is one of the most unique and gorgeous places on the planet. The remoteness and stunning landscapes are awe inspiring.

Barramundi fishing is extremely popular in the area and particularly as you head in towards the Timber Creek region. Just remember that these rivers do have crocodiles and caution is always mandatory.

Timber Creek is a great place to stop and stay for a while and although the town is tiny, it has a medical centre, supermarket, hotel and various accommodation options as well as free camping at Big Horse Creek Campground on the Victoria River.

Be sure to go and see the Timber Creek Police Museum which reminds us of the atrocities that were dealt to local aboriginals particularly between the years of 1908-1935. Gruesome stories tell of cruelty dealt out to the locals in an effort to eradicate the area and which included torturous acts such as being tied up under the full sun for days at a time.

Birdwatching in this area is regarded as some of the best in the world and when country borders are open, hundreds of avid bird watchers come from all over the globe to spot some of the remarkable bird life found here. There is only a handful of professional bird watching guides for the area, so it is worth doing some research before you head to Judbarra/Gregory National Park. Ask at the Timber Creek Hotel, which is very much the hub of the town.

Hiking, birdwatching and fishing are the most popular activities in the area and in April or May each year, hundreds of ladies show up for the famous Alure Ladies Fishing Classic where the fishing is taken very seriously in a catch and release competition that lasts for two days.

Travel on further west and just 48km before the Western Australian border you can turn off to Keep River National Park. Despite appearances, Keep isn’t a fishing place, but it is an awesome look at the outback. Bushwalks are gorgeous, but the hidden gem is the famous Aboriginal Rock Art.

Camping in the Keep is permissible although there is limited drinking water and facilities are basic. It is advised to contact the ranger if you plan to spend more than a passing day in the Keep (08 9167 8827).

Travelling from Katherine across to the WA border sees a real change in the landscape.

Judbarra / Gregory National Park, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Sandy Creek Falls (Tjaynera Falls), Image: Tourism NT/Ashley Dobson

Judbarra / Gregory National Park, Image: Tourism

Bushwalk in Keep River National Park, Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott

FISHING TOP

Whether you’re a weekender or serious game fisher the Top End offers incomparable sports fishing at its best.

Inland billabongs, mighty tidal rivers, mangrove estuaries, pristine ocean waters and island reefs are teeming with fish just waiting to be caught. This is why the Northern Territory and Darwin are known across Australia and the world as a first class fishing destination. A flourishing fishing tourism industry now supports many top class Darwin fishing guides, camps, lodges and fishing charters.

After months of heavy rains the flood-plains are full and, towards the end of the Wet, the flood-plains start to drain back into the sea. This time of year is known locally as the ‘Run off’ which means it’s time to get into some serious barramundi fishing! There are many reputable fishing operators with years of experience to help you haul in that perfect catch.

The mighty barramundi is the most famous and keenly sought fish in these waters. ‘Barra’ is prolific throughout the rivers and creeks, and are caught in good numbers around fallen trees, gutters, creek mouths, rock bars and sand flats.

POPULAR TOP END FISH

BARRAMUNDI

Size: Up to 20kg, can be more

When: All year round except for the Wet; April to May exceptional fishing

Bait: Mullet

BLACK JEWFISH

Size: Usually 8–15kg, can be up to 30kg

When: All year round. Prime is Dec to Jan

Bait: Squid and fish baits. Also known to take an artificial lure

BLUE SALMON

Size: Usually 1–3kg, can be up to 8kg

When: All year round. Prime is Jun to Aug

Bait: Garfish, herring, poddy mullet and prawn

CORAL TROUT

Size: Up to 8kg

When: All year round

Bait: Fish flesh, hardiheads, live minnow, pilchard, squid

GIANT TREVALLY

Size: Up to 45kg

When: All year round

Bait: Fish flesh, garfish, hardiheads, pilchard, prawn, squid

GOLDEN SNAPPER

Size: Up to 10kg

When: All year round and build up in the wet season

Bait: Crab, fish flesh, garfish, mussel, octopus, pilchard, pippi, prawn, slimy mackerel (blue), squid, tuna

GOLDEN TREVALLY

Size: Usually 2–5kg

When: All year round

Bait: Bonito, crab, fish flesh, garfish, octopus, pilchard, poddy mullet, prawn, squid, yellowtail scad (yakka)

LONGTAIL TUNA

Size: Up to 15kg

When: All year round

Bait: Slimy mackerel (blue), yellowtail scad (yakka)

MANGROVE JACK

Size: Usually 8–15kg, can be up to 30kg

When: All year round

Bait: Fish flesh, hardiheads, herring, poddy mullet, prawn

PIKEY BREAM

Size: 1–1.5kg

When: All year round

Bait: Cicadas, crickets, grasshoppers

QUEENFISH

Size: Usually 7–9kg, can be up to 14kg

When: All year round

Bait: Garfish, hardiheads, herring, poddy mullet, prawn

RED EMPEROR

Size: Up to 8kg

When: All year round

Bait: Crab, fish flesh, herring, octopus, pilchard, prawn, squid

SADDLE TAIL SNAPPER

Size: Up to 12kg

When: All year round

Bait: Crab, fish flesh, garfish, mussel, octopus, pilchard, pippi, prawn, slimy mackerel (blue), squid, tuna

SPANISH MACKERAL

Size: Usually up to 12kg, can be up to 35kg

When: All year round

Bait: Fish flesh, garfish, herring, pilchard, tailor, tuna, yellowtail scad (yakka)

THREADFIN SALMON

Size: Usually up to 8kg, can be up to 15kg

When: All year round

Bait: Mullet, herring, river prawns

TRICKY SNAPPER

Size: Up to 6kg

When: All year round

Bait: Squid and fish baits. Also known to take an  artificial lure

Fishing Yellow Water Billabong, Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

W AR H IST o RY

During WWII, the first Japanese raid on Darwin occurred on the 19th of February, 1942. Lasting approximately 40 minutes, the raid is often referred to as Australia’s Pearl Harbour as a near identical task force attacked Pearl Harbour just ten weeks earlier. While the attack saw nearly twice the amount of bombs dropped on Darwin compared to its predecessor, the casualties were far less.

With an arsenal of 188 aircrafts which included 36 zero fighters, 71 “Val” divebombers and 81 “Kate” level bombers, the Japanese ambushed Darwin Harbour from the south east having circled around from the north west. Around nine ships were sunk during the raid, with another two going down outside the harbour. Darwin’s loss, however, didn’t end there. In addition, 30 aircrafts were destroyed, and nine out of ten American planes were shot down. Eighty-eight men also perished onboard the USS Peary which was anchored in the harbour at the time. In total, around 235 people were killed during the raid which included the Darwin Postmaster and his family.

With no time to recover, Darwin experienced a second raid just an hour later which lasted around 25 minutes. This time the Japanese attacked with 54 land based Mitsubishi bombers which flew in from Ambon Island and Celebes (now known as Sulawesi Island) located in Indonesia. During the fighting, Australian wing commander Archie Tindal was killed at the RAAF base when he was hit while manning a ground-based machine gun. He was the first Royal Australian Airforce member to be killed on Australian soil.

At the time, it was believed the raids were a preliminary measure by the Japanese to take control of Australia. In actual fact, it was a strategy to quell Australia’s resistance to the Japanese invading Timor the very next day.

It’s difficult to fathom that Darwin experienced another 62 raids within a 21 month period, a tactic used by the Japanese to suppress Allied forces to help in the occupation of South East Asia. The final raid occurred on the 12th of November, 1943.

A re-enactment of the first raid on Darwin and a memorial service to commemorate those who died during the event occurs every year on the 19th of February at the Darwin Esplanade. The Darwin History and Wartime Experience offers war history tours, one of which explores the Darwin Military Museum and Defence of Darwin Experience.

For more information on tours, visit www.dhwe.com.au

THE DARWIN HISTORY & WARTIME EXPERIENCE

The Darwin History and Wartime Experience offers a fun and informative tour through and around the city of Darwin in a genuine WWII army truck. This is a great introduction to Darwin with a comprehensive overview of the city and its history.

See historic sights such as: Government House, Fort Hill Wharf & Harbour, Parliament House, Charles Darwin National Park, Ammunitions storage bunkers, East Point Gun Battery & Military precinct, Anti-aircraft gun emplacements and the 1934 QANTAS hangar.

The museum boasts WWII relics and memorabilia, while the Defence of Darwin Experience provides an enthralling and interactive showcase of Darwin’s war history. Learn about pre-war Darwin, the WWII bombing of Darwin, the devastation of cyclone Tracy and the colourful characters of the past that made Darwin what it is today. Located at East Point Reserve.

Uniform display at the Military Museum, Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott