LetsGoKids 2019 Northern Territory Edition

e to

The No. 1 Family Guid

ril 2019 to March Northern Territory - Ap

2020

Out & About In Darwin Darwin Waterfront Palmerston Darwin’s Rural Area Batchelor Katherine Roper Gulf Alice Springs

Eat Shop Play Watch Stay Wot’s On

“Get off the couch and get out there!”

Darwin’s ultimate urban wildlife experience!

Voucher p.xx

Wot's On - Games - Vouchers - www.LetsGoKids.com.au

Northern Territory 2019 Help Me, Help Me - I’m a parent?!?!?!?

Running out of ideas with the holidays fast approaching, or the weekend is coming up and you have the dreaded birthday party to organize?

Stress city - Not to worry – we have all the answers for you.

At LetsGoKids we’ve been around and done the hard yards in finding the best places to eat and play, where to shop, what to see and even where to stay! We’ll let you know what’s on and where, how much it is and try to help the budget with some special deals and vouchers! We’ve even got games, puzzles, competitions and birthday party ideas as well.

Travelling somewhere else???

Don’t worry – we have the answer to that too!

Check www.letsgokids.com.au to find out all the things to do for families in VIC, WA,TAS, Sydney & NZ (Canberra - coming in July).

There is a distribution list online to show you where you can get your hands on a copy, or order a book online to be posted out to you!

The LetsGoKids smartphone app is here!!! Take us with you everywhere you go!

Loaded with all the latest events, deals, vouchers for discounts and GPS mapping to get you there! It’s free to download for Android or iOS at the Google play store or the Apple store.

Want more tips and ideas? Then follow us on

Instagram &

Contents Out & About Darwin

4

Darwin Waterfront

16

Palmerston

18

Batchelor

21

Darwin’s Rural Area 22 Katherine

36

Roper Gulf

39

Alice Springs

42

Eat

24

Shop

26

Play

27

Watch

45

Stay

48

Wot’s On

50

Facebook

Also, make sure you sign up for our FREE monthly E-newsletter at www.letsgokids.com.au It has great tips and events, stories, reviews, competitions, giveaways and games.

Advertiser’s Index Darwin

Aquascene Crocosaurus Cove City of Darwin Mini Melts

Crocodylus Park Freds Pass Rural Show Mindil Beach Sunset Markets Italian Festival Aviation Heritage Centre Darwin Military Museum

5 6, 7 8 9 10, 11 13 13 14 15 12

Darwin’s Rural Area

Wetland Cruises Basecamp Wallaroo Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises

Eat Palmerston Tavern Frying Nemo

15, 16 17

Palmerston Palmerston Library Palmerston Shopping Centre

Batchelor

Batchelor Butterfly Farm Batchelor Holiday Park

18, 19 20 21 21

24 25

Shop Karama Shopping Centre

Darwin Waterfront WWII Oil Tunnels Indo Pacific Marine

22 23 23

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

27 28 30 31 31 31 33 34 35

36 37 37 38

Roper Gulf Roper Gulf Council

Alice Springs

26

Play Playgroup NT YMCA Top End Planet 10 Pin Bowling Flight Path Golf Playshack NT Timezone Darwin Basketball Association Hockey NT NRL NT

Katherine Top Didj Ibis Katherine The Katherine Club Katherine Town Council

Alice Springs Cinema Alice Plaza Shopping Centre School of the Air Visitors Centre Mac Donnell Range Holiday Park

39, 40, 41 42 43 43 44

Stay DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Argus Darwin Quest Berrimah

48 49 49

General

Haileybury School Inside Front Cover NT Catholic Education Back Cover

1

Really really important stuff Time:

The NT is on Australian Central Standard Time (ACST). It is ½ an hour behind The Eastern States and doesn’t have daylight savings time so become 1½ hours behind from October to March. The NT is on the same time as Adelaide (except during D.S.) and is always 1 ½ hours ahead of Perth.

Public Holidays 19 Apr Good Friday 20 Apr Day Following 22 Apr Easter Monday 25 Apr Anzac Day 6 May May Day Show Day Holidays 23 Mar Borroloola 5 Jul Alice Springs 12 Jul Tennant Creek School Holidays Mid-Semester Break 15 Apr – 18 Apr Semester Break 1 Jul – 19 Jul

Important phone numbers:

10 Jun 5 Aug 25 Dec 26 Dec 1 Jan

Queens Birthday Picnic Day Christmas Day Boxing Day New Years Day

19 Jul Katherine 26 Jul Darwin Mid-Semester Break 9 Sep – 11 Oct Christmas Holidays 16 Dec – 24 Jan 2020

Police, Fire & Ambulance ............................................................... 000 Kids Help Line ............................................................... 1800 55 1800 Darwin Airport ......................................................... (08) 8920 1811 Alice Springs Airport ............................................. (08) 8951 1211 Interpreter Service............................................... (08) 8999 8506

Alice Springs Airport

alicespringsairport.com.au

Qantas fly daily to Darwin, Melbourne, Ayers Rock, Sydney, Cairns, Perth, Adelaide and weekends to Brisbane.

Virgin fly to Darwin Melbourne Adelaide Air North fly to Tennant Creek, Darwin & Katherine

Darwin Airport

darwinairport.com.au Jetstar fly daily to Melbourne, Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide Bali and five days a week to Taipei Qantas fly daily to Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Alice Springs, Perth, Sydney, and Cairns.

Virgin Australia fly to Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Alice Springs, Sydney and Melbourne.

Air North fly to Timor Leste, Broome, Perth, Alice Springs, Townsville, Groote Eylandt, Elcho Island, Maningrida Tiger Airlines fly to Brisbane

Public Transport

Adult $3 for 3 hours, $7 daily, $20 weekly or a Flexi trip:10 three-hour max trips for $20.

All students (primary to university), children under 5, pensioners/seniors travel free. Concession $1 for 3 hrs.

Timetables for Darwin, Palmerston & Alice Springs routes are available at .......... nt.gov.au/driving/public-transport-cycling Ph: (08) 8924 7666.

2

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

BARNESON STREET

CAREY ST

DRIV E

HA

STREET

SMITH ST

HUGHES AVE

THE MALL WEST LANE

DARWIN WATERFRONT

PLANADE RVO IS R ES JE D

R ST

KI

T

PA CK LA AR RR D AK EY AH TC E

EE

Lameroo Beach

Caravan Park

Toilet

Boat Ramp

Hospital

Shopping Centre

DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE

AUSTIN LANE

A

Larrakeyah Defence Force Base Information Restricted access

OAD LR HIL

DARWIN WHARF PRECINCT

DR

Bicentennial Park

ES

ER

ESPLANADE

S TO K

RRY CHAN

KITCHENER

EDMUND ST

STREET

ST

McMINN STR EET

HERBERT ST

MOTT CRT

SHADFORTH LA

BENNETT

FOELSCHE ST

CARDONA CT

MANTON ST GARDINER ST

SEARCY ST

WHITFIELD ST

LINDSAY

BRIGGS ST

STREET

STREET

SHEPHERD STREET

McLACHLAN STREET

McLACHLAN ST

VIE MA

LL

E AR M

PLACE

STREET

STREET

MITCHELL

DR IV E

LITCHFIELD STREET

PEEL

BAROSSA STREET

SCHULTZE ST

SMITH

McLACHLAN ST

STREET

DALY

PACKARD ST

STREET

PEARY ST

DASHWOOD CR MAUNA LOA ST

MITCHELL

MORINDA ST

SMITH

REET

STREET

KNUCKEY

RO AD

H AC

DUKE

STREET

LLE ST M E LVI

TON ST

LAMBELL TCE

STREET

CAVENAGH

HOUS

BA

AVE

BURN

WOOD

DASHWOOD PLACE

Fishermans Wharf

NA FRAN N CE S DR IVE

Y

ST

CAS HMA N BUF FA ST CRT LO

McMINN

EN

L SP

HARVEY STREET

NA

FINNISS ST

BR

AN ERM

BE

H FIS

A

RO AD

DINAH

Y GHWA HI

AVENUE CULLEN BAY MARINA MANDORAH FERRY & FISHING CHARTER TERMINAL

MB EE

Gardens Park Golf Links

E AV

KA

MIR

GILRUTH

G ARDE NS

Frances Bay

T

TIGE R

RT UA ST M

GE

CRES HILL ENS

E NU CH

T PL ET

IN HL

E RE ST

NIU RA ST

GARD

E AV AN QU IN RD

CASINO DRIVE

Mindil Beach

- Darwin

DOCTORS GULLY

H UT LR

George Brown Botanic Gardens

STREET

GI

Out & About

TCHE N

FORT HILL WHARF CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL

DARWIN HARBOUR BEAGLE GULF

DISTANCE FROM GPO TO: Airport .................................................. 12 km Berrimah .......................................... 12.5 km Casuarina Shopping Centre .......... 13 km Cullen Bay ............................................. 2 km Mindil Beach ........................................ 3 km Hospitals .............................................. 15 km Leanyer Recreation Park ................ 16 km Palmerston ...................................... 21.5 km

Taxis

They can be hailed from the street, or booked in advance. Most major hotels have taxi ranks.

Darwin Blue Taxi Company - 138 294 or (08) 8981 3777 Darwin Radio Taxis - 131 008

Get out of town!

FANNIE BAY

The Ghan (1800 703 357) is the long distance train service in the NT. The Ghan operates a weekly service from Adelaide to Darwin and services between Adelaide and Alice Springs.

Darwin

Several coach companies operate services within the NT.

4

CULLEN Cullen BAY Bay

Greyhound Australia (1300 473 946) have services between Darwin and Alice Springs, with stops in Katherine and Tennant Creek.

AAT Kings (1300 228 546) has services between Alice Springs, Katherine Region and Darwin.

FRANCES BAY DARWIN HARBOUR

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Darwin -

Out & About

Darwin is the capital cIty of the Northern Territory and Australia’s most northern city. It is often referred to as our national “gateway” to Asia. It is dynamic, different, diverse and constantly changing.

Darwin is a friendly, cosmopolitan and growing city where locals and visitors enjoy the unique and enviable laidback tropical lifestyle, highlighted by its many exciting ethnic cultural festivals and weekly food and craft markets all over the city.

Of course, Darwin’s traditional owners, the Larrakia people, also bring their own history, culture, beliefs and customs to the mix.

The end result is an ever changing, ever evolving community that accepts and welcomes everyone.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The warm, tropical climate of Darwin and its surrounding area is characterised by two distinct seasons with tell-tale titles: the ‘Wet’ and the ‘Dry’.

The Wet season, spanning from November until April, is characterised by high levels of humidity followed by monsoonal rains and storms. The ‘Dry’ season, from May until October, is characterised by warm, dry sunny days and cool nights.

The Build Up, is the time of year at the beginning of the Wet Season when the humidity levels sky rocket. The Build Up can drive even the toughest Territorian to “GO TROPPO”.

But, when the rain finally arrives locals breathe a sigh of relief, things cool down and the chorus of the Green Tree Frogs is deafening. The thunderous clouds and lightening shows are spectacular, and everything turns vibrant green - literally overnight.

It doesn’t get cold in Darwin, ever!

#

LetsGoKids

Darwin

Voucher

#

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

5

adult In the heart of Darwin City

$36 $23

CHilD

(4-15 ye

ars)

HolD a baby CroC

FisH For CroCs Meet tHe reptiles

swiM witCHs tHe Cro

Crocs in the City!

Home to the Cage of Death & the World’s Largest Collection of Australian Reptiles!

Enjoy our 9 reptile shows daily including the Big Croc Feed Show at 11:30am & 2:30pm 58 Mitchell St, Darwin City.

08 8981 7522 Book online @ croccove.com

Darwin On 19 February 1942 an unprepared Darwin was devastated by Japanese bombing.

Despite 58 further raids, Darwin rose to the challenge, becoming a major forward base for the Pacific Campaign.

Out & About

Crocosaurus Cove

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Crocosaurus Cove, located in the heart of the city, is Darwin’s ultimate urban wildlife experience! It boasts the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles, and some of the biggest Saltwater Crocodiles in the Country.

Crocosaurus Cove is now offering a fun behind-the-scenes tour designed especially for kids: Junior Reptile Rangers!

This fully guided 2 hour program gives children between the ages of 7 and 12 the opportunity to hold, feed, and learn more about some of the Top End’s most unique reptiles.

In total, Darwin was attacked 64 times during the war and 243 people lost their lives; it was the only place in Australia to suffer prolonged attack.

You can learn about the history of Darwin’s experience in the war at various significant sites around the city, as well as the highly informative Defence of Darwin Experience, the adjacent Darwin Military Museum (p.12), the Aviation Heritage Centre (p.15), and the Cenotaph overlooking Darwin Harbour.

WORTH A LOOK!

Amid the breezy dry season air on Thursday and Sunday evenings, Mindil Beach Sunset Market hosts street performers, musicians, craft stalls and a large collection of international food stalls on a stretch of parkland behind Mindil Beach. Arrive early (about 6pm) to beat the crowds.

This one of a kind experience is offered exclusively during the School Holidays, and includes a souvenir lanyard and free photo with a baby crocodile to take home for only $60 per child!

For program availability and to book, visit www.crocosauruscove.com or call 08 8981 7522.

#

LetsGoKids

In the heart of Darwin City

20% Discount

*Only valid on presentation of this voucher or by booking online using promo code LGK2019. Valid till 31/3/20

58 Mitchell St, Darwin City | p: 8981 7522

#

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

info@croccove.com Book online @ croccove.com

Darwin

Voucher

on Adult & Child Admission

7

Fun activities, games and story time for children 0 to 5 years old Every weekday from 9.30am - 11.30am Outdoor park locations during April - November Indoor venues during December - March

Water play, arts and crafts and large games for children 5 to 12 years old Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am - 12.30pm Operates during the school holidays Outdor and indoor venues - check our website for more details

Out & About

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Darwin -

Darwin has been almost entirely rebuilt twice, once due to the air raids during the War and again after being devastated by Cyclone Tracy in 1974.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Consequently, Darwin is now one of Australia’s most modern capital cities.Visit the grand Government House, (which does boast some free open days and events) to wander indigenous art galleries, discover wonderful street sculptures and enjoy the informative Heritage & Cultural Trail there’s plenty of free heritage stuff to get your teeth stuck into.

The City of Darwin provides a wide range of recreational facilities where families, young people and children can all enjoy Darwin’s outdoor lifestyle.

Check out the play section on p.27.

DID YOU KNOW

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Litchfield National Park is only an hour’s drive from the city. Crystal-clear waterfalls, swimming holes, four-wheel driving and easy-going bushwalks are just the start.

You can also visit such icons of the Top End, including the Tiwi Islands, Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks, Adelaide River, Mary River, Arnhem Land and the Katherine Region.

Darwin

Public tennis courts are located in Parap, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek.

They can be used free of charge and are only available for daytime use.

The City of Darwin has three swimming pools located at Parap, Nightcliff and Casuarina.

Darwin is also the entry point to some of the world’s greatest natural and cultural attractions, that are located within a two to three hour drive from the capital. They can be experienced year round, although the ‘wet’ means they are inaccessible at times.

9

Darwin -

Out & About Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

30 Things to Do (on the cheap).

Not much money? Times are tough?

Don’t let that stop you from getting out there and experiencing what the great city of Darwin has to offer.

Let LetsGoKids show you how to spend a day or even a week in and around the city, where you can see and do lots ... And spend nothing!

(Or just a little). So what are you waiting for?

5. Stroll along the Darwin Heritage Walk on a self-guided tour of all the significant historical sites. It comes complete with interpretive plaques.

Pamphlets available at Darwin City Council.

Round up a posse, pack a picnic and get out there!!

1. First stop is (p.50) of this book!

Find out what’s happening and where.

Check out festivals, markets and all the events.

2. Download our App (p.3) to find out all the up to date news for families in the NT, (and get all the vouchers to use again!)

3. Check out the new exhibits at the State Library (cnr Bennett & Mitchell St). They change regularly and they’re not just about books!

4. Spend an afternoon checking out the George Brown Botanical Gardens.

There is a visitor centre that has maps and info.

Check out the dedicated childrens play area.

6. The NT Museum and Art Gallery has great indigenous artefacts, arts and demonstrations. The recreation of the noise and power generated by Cyclone Tracy has to be experienced.

7. Go for a walk along the Esplanade and check out the amazing views as the sun sets.

A million dollar view!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

8. Laze by the lagoon at the Waterfront.

Build a sandcastle, go for a swim.

9. Take a tour of Parliament House at 9am and 11am on Saturday mornings during Feb-Nov. An extra 10.30am tour is added on Wed (May-Sept).

10. Darwin Waterfront is always organising FREE activities for families. www.waterfront.nt.gov.au for upcoming events.

11. See what harsh prison life was like at Fannie Bay Goal. Open daily 10-3. FREE. East Point Rd.

#

LetsGoKids

Darwin

Voucher

# LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

11

Out & About

- Darwin 16. Make your next Free activity the Palmerston Water Park. OMG huge FREE speed slide, BBQs, picnic area, water play area and our favourite – The Big Tipping bucket – The kids will love it!!

17. Take a hamper to Jingili Water Gardens and enjoy a picnic in the shady confines of a great nautical themed playground.

Check out the new skate park next door

12. Palmerston holds Friday markets during the dry, Parap Village has markets weekly on Saturday mornings and Nightcliff markets on Sunday mornings. The food is great!

13. Grab a bike and explore Darwin on some of the dedicated cycle trails. The trails run all the way from Darwin to Palmerston. Ride one way and catch the bus back! Maps are available from Darwin & Palmerston Councils.

18. Visit East Point and Lake Alexander.

Go swimming without fear of being eaten!

It has a great undercover playground, BBQ area and shady picnic spots.

19. Mindil Beach Markets (p.13) on Thurs nights and Sun afternoons offer entertainment, great atmosphere and a killer sunset viewing spot.

Allow 2-3 hours and grab something to eat or BYO! One of the world’s great markets! Apr - Oct.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

14. Take your bathers, your bike, your skates and a picnic and enjoy the brilliant facilities at Leanyer Recreation Park. Only 15 minutes from the city in Vanderlin Drive or Bus 9 from Casuarina or Palmerston. There are FREE waterslides, swimming pools, cycling & skate paths and a skate park. It’s awesome!

15. Get the full story of the Darwin bombings at the Darwin Military Museum (p.12).

12

LetsGoKids

#

Darwin

Voucher

#

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Darwin -

Out & About

100+ Arts & Crafts Stalls Showcasing: Over 60+ food stalls from all Fairy Jill Jewellery over the world Micks Whips - have a try Clothes Try some local or or watch the show Homewares international cuisine Fire Shows Health & Beauty Barramundi, crocodile, laksa, Ba Circus Acts Souvenirs satay, seafood, tropical fruit Live music Just to name a few! juices & so much more!

4-9PM

25th APRIL to 31st OCTOBER 2019 Ph: 8981 3454

Darwin

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

13

Out & About

- Darwin 24. Check out the display of civilian and military aircraft on display at the Darwin Aviation Museum (see below). You’ll be amazed at some of the planes flown in the war! Cool!

25. Do what everyone else does - Go Fishing!!

26. Visit the historic WWII Oil Tunnels (p.15) for a glimpse of war time Darwin.

27. Check out the awesome FREE new kid’s play area at Howard Springs - It’s a beauty!

Water play areas, flying foxes and more!

20. The Stokes Hill Wharf precinct has free entertainment and give-aways (wet season) with your nightly meal. Kids will love seeing the huge fish swimming around underneath them you may even see a shark or a ray.

21. Visit Aquascene (p.7) where at high tide you can hand feed HUGE fish. A unique experience.

The littlies will love it. (costs a little).

22. Take the family to Indo Pacific Marine (p.17) and let them get up close and personal with the local marine life.

29. Check out the beachside playgrounds at Mindil, Kahlin, Bill Bell Park and Nightcliff Jetty.

Fun with a sunset!

30. Head to Livingstone Recreation Reserve on Friday Night and enjoy a cheap casual meal in a down to earth setting.

About as “Aussie” as it gets!

Darwin

23. Take the 45 minute drive to Berry Springs and have a swim and picnic at the remodelled park.

28. Buley Rockholes in Litchfield National Park is only a 60 minute drive from Darwin and is one of the best places in the Top End to go swimming.

It is a series of rock pools that has water cascading through them, and is a perfect place to swim with the kids.

14

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Darwin -

Out & About

# LetsGoKids Voucher

#

# LetsGoKids

Darwin

Voucher

#

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

15

Out & About

- Darwin Waterfront

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Just a short 5 minute stroll from the Darwin CBD, the Waterfront Precinct is a popular destination with a variety of free community events, seaside promenades and parklands, tourist attractions, hotels and all day alfresco dining.

It is a fresh new destination for locals and visitors alike, who want to relax, cool off with a swim, meet with friends over coffee, catch a movie or enjoy a family picnic.

The Waterfront Precinct is connected to the heart of Darwin city by a Sky Bridge and the Smith Street East Walkway, both offering their own unique experiences with wheelchair access via lifts and ramps.

The Sky Bridge offers panoramic views of the Darwin Waterfront Precinct and harbour beyond, with a glass-lined elevator taking visitors to the retail precinct and promenades below.

The old favourites in the area such as Indo Pacific Marine (see opposite) and the World War II Oil Tunnels are still there (see below), but they have been joined by an exciting bunch of newcomers in the last few years.

HANDY HINT The Darwin Waterfront has FREE parking for two hours in the multi level car park next to the Vibe Hotel - Perfect access to the whole precinct.

The area now boasts THREE great aquatic playgrounds. The Wave Lagoon, Sea Water Recreation Lagoon and The Big Buoy Water Park!

The inviting crystal blue waters of the Wave Lagoon draw everyone to the centre of the precinct.

Offering safe year-round swimming the Wave Lagoon is open daily and is a great spot to cool off, relax in the toddler pools or ride a wave.

Suitable for the whole family, the lagoon creates 10 different wave patterns with the highest wave reaching 1.7m.

Open 10am - 6pm seven days a week.

Open all year round (except Christmas Day.) The cool, aquamarine water of the nearby Recreation Lagoon laps at a sandy beach perfect for sand castles, a place to relax under the shady trees or enjoy a safe swim to escape the tropical heat.

The Recreation Lagoon is patrolled by experienced lifeguards from 9 am to 6 pm seven days a week.

16

Voucher

LetsGoKids

#

Darwin Waterfront

#

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Darwin Waterfront -

Out & About

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Big Buoy Water Park is the NT’s very own inflatable water park for thrill seekers aged 6 and up. This is a challenging and fun water sports activity with a climbing cube, multiple slides, launching pillow and more. Stand Up Paddleboards are also available for hire.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

All three areas are lifeguard patrolled and the carpark under the Vibe hotel has FREE parking for 2 hours.

The nearby World War II Oil Storage Tunnels were built during WWII by the Civil Construction Corps. They were reopened in 1992 to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin.

Indo Pacific Marine (see below) will enlighten you on the amazing natural eco-system of the coral reefs of the Darwin Harbour.

Showcasing displays of living coral ecosystems and the diversity of animals associated with coral reefs, such as sea horses, clown fish and butterfly fish.

It offers a great insight into the sealife of the area.

The new precinct has a great selection of places to eat or grab a drink such as The Precinct, Wharf One and Chow Asian Restaurant.

Crustaceans is a great value seafood restaurant that cater for families in an awesome setting, perched right on the end of the wharf!

The value and the view can’t be beaten!

DID YOU KNOW There is an interpretative trail to the wharf beginning at the top of Harry Chan Drive and winding its way down the hill to the start of the wharf. It tells the story of arriving into Darwin by sea in days gone by.

#

Voucher

Darwin Waterfront

LetsGoKids

# LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Across the water at Stokes Hill Wharf, there is a “foodies” paradise awaiting every night.

Local and international foods - Crocodile, Barra, Emu and all the Aussie fares as well as Chinese, Thai, Indonesian and all your favourite Asian flavours.

17

Stay

Out & About

- Palmerston

The many kilometres of well-kept bike paths are well worth a visit for eager riders looking to explore the region. The city has a network of approximately 32 km of bicycle paths, most of which are lit for night-time usage.

DID YOU KNOW

There is a walking/bicycle path designed for you to stop off at all the outdoor recreation spots.

So pick up a map to help you get around by simply popping into the Civic Centre in Darwin or the Civic Plaza in Palmerston!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The City of Palmerston is ideally located, being only 20 minutes from Darwin and 45 minutes from Litchfield National Park. It has one of Australia’s youngest communities, and it is set up with a plethora of new facilities and activities to keep the whole family busy.

Palmerston has over 100 parks, complete with playgrounds and barbeques, which are offered at popular meeting and picnicking spots, such as Marlow Lagoon and Sanctuary Lakes, as well as loads of other spots that offer the opportunity to see birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.

A must-see for families the City’sDAY water park, A FREE FUN is FAMILY OUT! which is free to use. Take on the six-lane speed slideWOT’S challenge, or enjoy thewww.letsgokids.com.au toddler’s wet area ON • GAMES • VOUCHERS with a shallow wading pool and water activities.

Teenagers will also love the refurbished skate park conveniently located next door.

There are also BBQ and picnic facilities as well as a Kiosk.

The City of Palmerston Library offers entertainment for children of all ages.They’re not just about books - let your children’s imagination run wild with DVD’s, CD’s, magazines and comics, or enjoy fun and engaging story time sessions for little ones or holiday programs for school kids (p.18).

The library also runs Code Club on Saturday’s; a fun and creative way of learning through exploring the world of coding.

Palmerston

PALMERSTON SHOPPING CENTRE is your one stop shopping destination. Target, Coles, Eateries & Speciality Stores right in the heart of Palmerston.

20

62

“Get off the couch and get out there!”

1st Monday of the Month, 10am FREE Kids Activities & Entertainment Storytime & Music FREE Healthy snack for the kids and coffee for the parents 10 TEMPLE TERRACE, PALMERSTON PH: 08 8932 1998 WWW.PALMERSTONSHOPPINGCENTRE.COM.AU

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Batchelor -

Out & About

Batchelor, a small town which once serviced the uranium mines of nearby Rum Jungle, today marks the entrance to Litchfield National Park, one of the Northern Territory’s most beautiful and untouched parks.

The Park contains several types of typical Top End habitats including lush monsoon forests, magnetic termite mounds, unusual rock formations, numerous waterfalls (Florence, Tolmer and Wangi Falls) are definitely worth seeing and having a swim in.

Buley Rockholes is a must do!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Situated 98 kilometres south of Darwin, just off the Stuart Highway, Batchelor is an excellent base from which to explore the park.

The Batchelor Butterfly and Bird Farm (see below) is also well worth a visit.

As well as showcasing a unique range of butterflies and birds in a pleasant waterfall garden, the farm offers budget accommodation and has a licensed restaurant on site.

The most popular attraction is the Litchfield National Park.

Batchelor

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

21

- Darwin’s Ruaral Area

In the rural areas surrounding Darwin to the south east you will find some great recreational activities, sporting facilities, natural features and heaps of picnic opportunities. The areas of Humpty Doo, Berry Springs and Howard Springs are close to the CBD (35 minute drive) but are much different in feel and character to the Capital City!

Howard Springs Nature Park The Nature Park includes facilities that will provide visitors and families with hours of fun.

There are shallow rock pools where you can cool-off in an attractive setting and a playground which uses existing trees as features.

The playground includes a slide, flying foxes and a tree-house. There is also a toddler pool and monsoon forest walk.

You can enjoy the shady picnic areas with views to a beautiful spring-fed waterhole.

Livingstone Recreation Reserve Treat Mum and Dad to a relaxed meal at the “34 Mile Bistro” while the rest of the family play a game of footy or volleyball.You can also watch the equestrian club take the horses through their paces or go for a walk in surrounding bushland and start a bird watching list. Open every Fri night.

DID YOU KNOW

Berry Springs is also the home of 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.

Beyond Berry Springs, the Peninsula Way region has pristine landscapes and unique wildlife (Darwinites come holidaying here!) Take a tour of Mandorah and visit the WWII sites, wetlands, termite mounds and finish off with a beautiful beach sunset on an isolated beach.

Darwin’s Rural Area

Wetland Cruises at Corroboree Billabong is the closest wetland cruise to Darwin. It is only an hour and a quarter drive, and much closer than going to Kakadu to see the same things.

Berry Springs Recreation Reserve Located on Cox Peninsula Rd, it 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 it make for an ideal spot for leisurely barbecues, swimming and walking.

There are playgrounds, an oval, tennis and basketball courts and plenty of open space.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Out & About

22

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Darwin’s Rural Area -

SPECTACULAR

Out & About Special LetsGoKids Offer

Receive a family pass for two adults and two children (third child at 50%) PLUS receive a Crazy Acre 210g Ice Cream for The BEST possible way to witness the $2 per child!! natural behaviour of these amazing Australian Saltwater Crocodiles!

JUMPING CROCODILE CRUISES

Our Crew include award winning wildlife guides and their passion for these animals is clearly evident.

Our cruises operate daily at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Each one hour cruise will amaze you with how close in proximity you are to these wild animals and provide you with invaluable information about the intriguing Saltwater Crocodile and astonishing bird life found on the Adelaide River.

Book online www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au or phone 0889789077

urs Just an ho drive from the ity on Darwin C ighway H Arnhem e Follow th signs w llo ye

08 8978 9077 www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au

Arnhem Highway, Middle Point (behind the Windows on the Wetlands Visitors Centre) - Look for us on Google maps

Darwin’s Rural Area

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

23

Eat Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Food, glorious food!!! Darwin has lots to offer families looking for a quick bite to eat or a sit down meal.

The cuisine is heavily influenced by the proximity of Asia, with lots of different spices and produce used in the cooking. What is the local speciality?

Seafood of course, and in particular, Barra!

This beautiful eating fish is everywhere. Grilled, fried, as a burger, in a curry, with noodles or rice, even the kids will love the taste. You’ll also find other authentic NT cuisine like mud crabs, buffalo, kangaroo, camel and crocodile. You will see these on the menu wherever you go, so give em a try!

Stokes Hill Wharf is set out over Darwin Harbour.

It is a fun dining experience! There are tables and chairs along the huge pier, so you are literally dining out in the harbour!

HANDY HINT Picnics and outdoor eating are a way of life in Darwin, and the city foreshore parks have free gas barbecues. Pick up some fresh barramundi fillets from the fish market or pack a picnic

24

The Darwin Waterfront complex has restaurants and take away to suit all tastes. Hot Tamale Mexican Restaurant, Wharf One Food and Wine and the Precinct Tavern are worth a look. Or get your fix of Pho at the modern family friendly Chow Asian Restaurant.

The meals at Fiddlers Green are huge!

Some of the best food in Darwin is at its many markets, where cross-cultural influencess and abundant tropical produce are everywhere.

The Nightcliff Market is a big hit for families, as it has a friendly neighbourhood feel and is open all year.

Frying Nemo Fish and Chips (see opposite) has a tranquil setting overlooking the water at Tipperary Waters Marina.

The best fish and chips in Darwin!!

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

The Darwin Sailing Club and the Trailer Boat Club in Fannie Bay have million dollar views as the sun goes down and you can sit on the shady grassed area overlooking the water. Casual bistro setting.

The food is great, the setting even better.

Lolas Pergola looking over the marina in Cullen Bay is a whimsical circus themed restaurant.

The atmosphere is fun and colourful. There are retro carousel ponies and old style carnival memorabilia toys to play on. There is even a tiny merry-go-round that works!

The menu is American diner inspired.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Eat

25

Shop

There are three major shopping centres, in the City, at Casuarina and at Palmerston with many other shopping centres located throughout the suburbs. These centres boast a huge array of both large and specialty shops form major supermarket chains through to small boutiques.

Casuarina contains groups of shops, offices, banks and other buildings including Casuarina Shopping Square.

Palmerston has several medium size centres ocated within a short walk of each other including Palmerston Shopping Centre (p.20) and Palm City Oasis. The Palmerston bus exchange makes this a busy area.

Darwin’s famous markets proide a wonderful alternative for shopping and relaxing.

At the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets (p.13), held on Saturdays and Thursdays from April to October.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Shopping in Darwin is diverse and is spread among the ever increasing multi-level malls with all national chain stores and the traditional suburban shopping strips that feature lots of niche specialty shops not contained in the big malls.

Sample international cuisine from some 60 food stall - Sri Lankan, Turkish, Greek, Cambodian, Japanese - and eat on the beach as the sun sinks into the ocean.

After dinner, find the perfect gift among stalls of art and craft, then relax with a local ice-cream or mango smoothie as fire twirlers, musicians and street performers entertain the crowds.

Mix it with locals and travellers and feel the buzz of arts, crafts and music.

The markets are your chance to really find out what makes the Top End tick. You will also find them in Nightcliff on Sunday morning, Parap on Saturday morning, Rapid Creek on Sunday morning and Palmerston on Friday night.

1st Tuesday of the Month, 10am

FREE

Kids Activities & Entertainment Storytime & Music FREE Healthy snack for the kids and coffee for the parents

37 KALYMNOS DRIVE KARAMA PH: 08 8945 0138 WWW.KARAMASHOPPINGPLAZA.COM.AU

26

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Play

There also are plenty of activities (both inside and out) to keep everyone busy after school, on weekends or vacations...

So no matter whether you want to play, walk, run, swim, ride or picnic, Darwin has it all!

Here are a selection of our favourites: The Esplanade – Beautiful Bicentennial Park runs the length of the Esplanade and a walking/cycling track goes from Doctors Gully in the north to the Wharf Precinct in the south.

There is an excellent children’s playground halfway along the park, an eagle’s nest lookout at the northern end and a Cenotaph honouring our war heroes.

Sunsets from here are spectacular.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Darwin has an amazing outdoor lifestyle and so much to see and do for families in the local parks and beach areas, as well as the nearby National Parks and nature reserves. Everything from birthdays and weddings to outdoor theatre can be seen in the open spaces as people make the most of a friendly climate.

East Point Reserve A special place for the people of Darwin and is one of the most popular recreation areas for both locals and visitors.

Rich in history and biodiversity, East Point is easy to access as it is close to the city and has an abundance of facilities and attractions for everyone.

With two playgrounds, a lake, exercise stations, walking trails and more, East Point Reserve has always been a popular place for gatherings, events and recreational activities. During school holidays the kids are further treated to clowns, jumping castles, mobile discos and face painting.There is safe year-round saltwater swimming at Lake Alexander, located within East Point and has a range of barbecue and picnic facilities in a landscaped environment and an excellent undercover playground.

Join us today at Playgroup Northern Territory!

Playgroups are informal and relaxed weekly get-togethers of mums, dads, grandparents, carers, children and babies.

Have fun Make friends Learn through play Get ready for school

FREE CALL 1800 171 882 LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

playgroupnt.com.au admin@playgroupnt.com.au

27

Play

Darwin Waterfront Wave Lagoon Has a sensational wave pool and a stinger netted swimming lagoon. Both are lifeguard patrolled.

There is also plenty of shade cover to relax on the lush lawns.

Leanyer Water Park You won’t believe all the facilities on offer, especially when we tell you it’s free!! It won’t cost you a cent to enjoy three giant waterslides, a large toddler pool and an amazing array of contraptions designed to ensure everyone gets very wet and has lots of fun. There is plenty of shade on offer and lots of dry playground areas.

DID YOU KNOW

Many smaller parks are also dotted through the suburbs. The Darwin City Council has upgraded equipment on 18 parks recently, which makes them even better for families.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Yanyula Park A popular park for family picnics, bbqs and is a regular location for the Fun Bus mobile playgroup.

One of three Regional Playgrounds, Anula is a modern accesible playground that caters for a range of ages and abilities. It include a large undercover area for young children, a flying fox and climbing structure for older children.

Jingili Water Gardens One of the most popular parks in Darwin.

Containing lily ponds, BBQs, a large shaded playground and a skate park - it really does have something for the whole family.

The Skate Park was completely redeveloped in 2015. While it is suitable for skaters, scooters and BMX riders of all ages and abilities, it is targeted mainly at novice–intermediate skills, with a number of elements to challenge and entertain.

Located within the Water Gardens, the Community Orchard is a place for the community to come together to learn about growing fruit. Each tree planted in the orchard has information about how it can flourish in the tropical environment. Community members can help themselves to the fruit in the orchard.

Free feed!!

2019 Northern Territory Word Search S W L D N C R E E K C V R R S

K T A Y Y B A L L A W I B D G

B E N T E M G A R Q A R Z S U

A N U R E A N C I K B M C P V

R O A A N R I I R O O R G I Y

N L F P N K H P O E R T Y R I

H C N I R E S O L P I T O I K

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

E Y D D B T I R L L G T P T U

M C N Q T K F T C E I Z G S L

K A T H E R I N E R N U A W I

N Z C L A N D S R F A L R T M

B O W L I N G E T I L A D T T

G O P A R K T R D B M Y E N I

B B F Z L A V I N R A C N L N

G S I C A S U A R I N A S Y D

ABORIGINAL ARNHEM BOWLING CARNIVAL CASUARINA CREEK CYCLONE FAUNA FISHING GARDENS KATHERINE LAND MARKET NITMILUK PARK RAPID SPIRITS TERRITORY TROPICAL WALLABY WATERHOLE

29

Play

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Nightcliff Foreshore Situated off Casuarina Drive with plenty of car parking facilities, a footpath along the foreshore of Nightcliff is used for walking and cycling, particularly in the evenings after work.

Along the footpath there is Nightcliff Jetty, Nightcliff Beach and Nightcliff Swimming Pool. The foreshore itself incorporates access to mangrove communities and the beach, along with links back to WWII historical sites. It is a popular recreational green space, complete with outdoor exercise equipment, a pool, café and even food trucks and open air restaurants.

DID YOU KNOW Darwin has acess to 2 world class water parks.

The Palmerston Water Park has a huge speed slide, water play area, big water tipping bucket, changerooms, BBQ’s and its FREE!! Also FREE is Leanyer Waterpark. It has a water playground, water slides, childrens playground, skate park, basketball courts, bike track, swimming areas and changerooms. Pack a picnic!

#

LetsGoKids

Voucher

Casuarina Coastal Reserve Located in the city’s northern suburbs, this coastal reserve is a great place for a walk along the beach, and to catch a sunset from the Dripstone Cliffs. The red sunset glow from sandstone cliffs makes a perfect setting for an evening picnic.

If the cook needs a holiday, baked potatoes, pizzas and hamburgers are usually available from stalls along the cliff tops on weekends or public holidays.

Definitely one of the most popular Darwin parks.

# 30

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

# LetsGoKids

Shop 7, 3 Maluka Street HUB COMPLEX, PALMERSTON (ADJ. Basement carpark)

PH: 08 8931 0400 Find us on Facebook ‘The Playshack’ Website: www.theplayshack.com.au

Voucher

$8.50

TRADING HOURS

TUES - FRI 8.30am – 2pm* SAT 9am – 5pm & SUN 10am – 4pm

*extended trading hours during school holidays

$9.50

WEEKDAYS WEEKENDS Kids under 1yrs FREE Fully catered from $22.50 per child! see website for details and offers

Play

1

COFFEE

or hot drink of choice* VALID UNTIL 30/3/20.

*MUST PRESENT VOUCHER TO REDEEM NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH OR REFUND

# #

#

LetsGoKids

#

Voucher

LetsGoKids Voucher

# LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

31

Play NEARBY NATIONAL PARKS 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. Although it has picnic facilities and walking tracks, this is a natural bush park set aside to protect important areas of mangroves and woodlands. Relics of Darwin’s involvement in WWII can also be seen here.

Indoor Activities

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Litchfield National Park The 1,500 sq km2 park is an easy 1 1/2 hr from Darwin. It contains several types of typical Top End habitats including lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls and cascades. During monsoon season, four major waterfalls thunder from the cliffs to tropical rock pools metres below. During the rest of the year the waterfalls flow more gently, making the waterholes perfect spots for a cool dip.

LetsGoKids

Voucher

Kakadu National Park - Australia’s Largest It is situated 250km from Darwin on the Arnhem Highway. Renowned internationally for its natural and cultural wonders, Kakadu has one of the highest concentrated areas of Aboriginal rock art sites in the world.

The Playshack Playcentre (p.31) Birthday parties, discos, climbing and play equipment Tue-Fri 8.30am-2pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. Closed Monday The Hub Complex Palmerston, 08 8931 0400 Flight Path Mini Golf & Archery (p.31) Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 8am-7pm. www.flightpathgolf.com 08 8947 1257 The Planet Ten Pin (p.30) Mon 9am - 7pm,Tue-Thur 9am - 9pm, Fri 9am 9.30pm, Sat 9am - 10.30pm, Sun 10am - 7pm.

69 Progress Drive, Nightclif, 08 8985 4416 Flip Out Mon- Sun 9am – 7pm.

1/11 Osgood Drive, Eaton 1800 683 547 Timezone Casuarina (p.31) Sun-Thurs 10am – 10am, Fri – Sat 10am–11am Casuarina Square, 08 8945 6174 Kingpin Darwin Mon-Wed 11am – 10pm, Thur 11am – 10pm, Fri 11am – 12am, Sat 9am – 12am, Sun 9am – 10.30pm 1 Neale St, Darwin Darwin Ice Skating Mon 9.30am - 9.30pm,Tue 9.30am - 7.30pm, Wed/Thur 9.30am - 7pm, Fri/Sat 9.30am - 9.30pm, Sun 9.30am - 5pm Osgood Drive, Darwin, 0431 053 968

#

32

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Darwin Basketball Association 220 Abala Road, Marrara 08 8945 4666 darwin.basketball.net.au

AUSSIE HOOPS Aussie Hoops is Basketball Australia’s official junior game development program for 5-10 year olds and their families.

It is a national program that introduces children to basketball in a structured and accredited environment and connects our game at the grasroots through to the elite level.

Aussie Hoops is all about participation and fun!

DB Aussie Hoops entres run an 8 week program parallel All DBA with the School Terms. www.aussiehoops.com.au

JUNIOR BASKETBALL

- Games for boys and girls from Under 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 23 and under.

- Most grades are broken up into Divisions (1, 2 and sometimes 3).

- Under 16, 18 and 23 play weeknights from 6pm.

- Saturday games Under 10, 12 and 14.

- Games commence at 9am through until 5pm with 2 seasons per year.

- Season runs May to September and then October to April with breaks over school holidays.

SENIOR BASKETBALL

- Games for Men and Women are played wek nights.

- Mens competition includes Divison 1-5, and the Womens Competition, Divsion 1-4. The competition also includes Masters Men and Women (35 yo+) - All clubs have teams or individual teams are welcome to join.

- Registrations and payments are all online.

DBA PREMIER LEAGUE

International, National and local players battle it out for the Darwin Premier League Title.

Seasons run from April/May to September and from September/October through to March/April.

Games are played on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights.

Admission is FREE!! Bar and food is available!

CLUB CONTACTS

HIRE FACILITIES

- 2 Full Size Air Conditioned basketball courts.

- 3 Full Size basketball courts with height adjust able rings - Spectator seating for 400+ people - Hospitality area (seating and serving of food and drinks) - Toilets and showers - Licensed bar and canteen facilities available - Large outdoor area with BBQ available

Play Darwin’s weather (especially the wet season) makes it hard to have a party at the beach or park, but no need to stress because we have some awesome places to try for your next party.

Playshack in Palmerston is Party Central - All sorts of packages available for that special day (p.31).

Plenty of space to play, great food, clean and aircon! Parking is available directly underneath.

Crocodylus Park in Berrimah offer a party with a difference (p.10). Kids love to jump and Flip Out Tramp park near the airport is another option when planning that next birthday celebration.

Flight Path Mini Golf and Archery (p.31) take care of those looking forward to having a bit of friendly competition at their special event.

Definitely one for the sports minded!

YMCA TOP END YMCA Top End believe in the benefits of physical activity, empowering young people and building community connections. This commitment is what they have been about since they first opened their doors in the Northern Territory in the early 1970’s, and they are proud to continue to help Territorians lead healthier and happier lives.

Nearly 300 staff and volunteers work at multiple locations across the Territory in the areas of health and fitness, swimming, childcare, recreation parks, accommodation, community programs and youth services, delivering accessible programs so that more people have the opportunity to get active and involved.

At Timezone (p.31) a party will never be dull, with party rooms, unlimited ticket games and simulators for everyone to enjoy. You even get free party invitations!

Celebrate with a special Ten Pin Bowling Party at Planet Ten Pin (p.30), where you can design your own party package with bowling and use of the playcentre.

34

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Play Darwin Sporting Associations and Venues Arafura Athletics Stadium (08) 8945 1796 | 40 Abala Rd, Marrara

Marrara Hockey Centre Ph: (08) 8945 0302 | Abala Rd, Marrara

Palmerston Tennis Pro Ph: (08) 8932 8911 | 16 Bonson Trc, Moulden

Baseball NT Ph: (08) 8927 4788 | 2/ 8 Budgen St, Moila

Marrara Indoor Sporting Complex Ph: (08) 8922 6888 | 10 Abala Rd, Marrara

Royal Lifesaving NT Ph: (08) 8981 5036 | 77 Ross Smith Ave, Parap

Darwin Basketball Association Ph: (08) 8945 4666 | 220 Abala Rd, Marrara

Northern Territory Cricket Ph: (08) 8944 8900 | 155 Abala Rd, Marrara

Darwin Golf Club Ph: (08) 8927 1322 | 5 Links Rd, Marrara

Northern Territory Rugby Union Ph: (08) 8945 1444 | 71 Abala Rd, Marrara

Darwin Gymnastics Club Ph: (08) 8927 3040 | 10 Abala Rd, Marrara

NRL NT Ph: (08) 8947 0485 | 1/5 Goyder Rd Parap

Darwin Netball Association Ph: (08) 8927 8877 | 235 Abala Rd, Marrara Darwin Squash Association Ph: (08) 8945 7362 | 6 Marrara Dve, Marrara Darwin Turf Club Ph: (08) 8923 4222 | Dick W Drv, Fannie Bay Flight Path Golf & Archery Ph: (08) 8947 1257 | Vanderlin Drv, Berrimah Freds Pass Reserve Ph: (08) 8983 1522 | 20 Bees Ck Rd, Freds Pass Gardens Park Golf Links Ph: (08) 8981 6365 | Chin Quan Rd, Darwin

Swimming NT Ph: (08) 8945 3578 | Angelo St, Casuarina TIO Stadium Ph: (08) 8980 4801 | 10 Abala Rd, Marrara

Top End Sports Centre Ph: (08) 8942 3366 | 7 Bishop St, Stuart Park Palmerston Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre Tracy Village Sports Club Ph: (08) 8932 3474 | 31 Tilston Ave, Palmerston Ph: (08) 8980 4777 | 28 Tambling Terrace, Lyons Gardens Tennis Darwin Ph: (08) 8981 2181 | 47 Gilruth Ave The Gardens Palmerston Indoor Sports Centre Ph: (08) 8983 2911 | Cnr Tulagi Rd & Stuart Hwy, Yarrawonga Palmerston Recreation Centre (YMCA) Ph: (08) 8935 9922 | 11 The Boulevard, Palmerston

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

35

Out & About

- Katherine

Nitmiluk National Park is owned by the local Jawoyn people and Katherine Gorge is the main attraction of the park. It is a series of 13 deep sandstone gorges carved out by the Katherine River on its journey from Arnhem Land to the Timor Sea. Swim in cool waterholes, have a traditional camp dinner under the stars, discover diverse wildlife or learn more about the traditional owners.

HANDY HINT

Open in the dry season - from April to November each year - Katherine Hot Springs are natural thermal pools on the banks of the Katherine River. Surrounded by native vegetation and open 24 hours a day, the Hot Springs are the perfect place to warm up. Best of all, entrance is free and the springs are just on the edge of town.

Katherine

Meals are available at reasonable prices at the Katherine Club (see opposite).

Open 7 days and they cater for families too! It houses a huge trampoline pillow where the kids can play while you watch them as you dine.

Located 30km out of Katherine, the magnificent gorges offer walking, swimming, canoeing, boating and even flying through them. Tours are available.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Stunning Katherine Gorge offers several options for you to explore - whether by foot, canoe, boat or helicopter you’ll be impressed by the ancient sandstone walls which lead you through the 13 gorges.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Katherine is the Territory’s fourth largest town and is situated 312km south east of Darwin on the Stuart Highway and is the entry/departure point for travellers heading to WA, Queensland and Adelaide. It is perfectly situated on the cross roads for use as a base to explore what the area has to offer.

36

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Katherine -

Out & About

HANDY HINT The Katherine Visitor Information Centre is a hub of information and the local staff will be able to assist you with tour and accommodation bookings as well as some great spots to visit in the area.

The town itself has great facilities for families to enjoy, including an Olympic size swimming pool and kid’s water park/play area with picnic facilites.

A great playground is nearby.

There are also plenty of other things to do around town including visiting the Katherine Museum, Old Train Station, School of the Air and Springvale Homestead. Stop at Top Didj (see opposite) to learn about the local Indigenous art and culture.

Katherine

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

37

Out & About

- Katherine WORTH A LOOK! 1 hour drive south of Katherine is Mataranka - home of the Bitter, Rainbow and Thermal pools - all free.

45 minutes north of Katherine is Edith Falls and the refreshing plunge pool.

In nearby Mataranka, you can watch the famous “Feed the Barra Show” at Territory Manor or soothe your aches and pains in the warm waters of Mataranka Thermal Pools.

Just 30 kilometres south of Katherine is the Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park, a system of stunning limestone caves formed millions of years ago. The caves sit 15 metres below the surface, with affordable guided tours taking you through the ancient formations.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Knotts Crossing is the site of the “Overland Telegraph Line” crossing and also the original horseback crossing from bygone era. Situated at the rear of the Katherine Hospital, it is also a great spot to relax with the family with many secluded spots within walking distance downstream.

The Caves are home to a variety of native wildlife, including the brown tree snake and the rare orange horseshoe bat. The park is open year-round, but the caves are occasionally closed due to seasonal conditions.

Katherine

Council’s Library is a fantastic resource for books, graphic novels, DVDs, music CDs, spoken word and magazines.

Located in Katherine Terrace and open Tuesday to Saturday, why don’t you pop in – we’re sure to find something you’ll love!

38

Wriggle & Rhyme: for 0-2 year olds Thursdays 10.30am-11.00am Story Time: for 3-5 year olds Wednesdays 10.30am—11.30am

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Roper Gulf -

Out & About

Three main road routes pass through the Roper Gulf region, and many of the best tourist sites in the region are easily accessible for travellers using these largely unsealed roads, and the three east-west roads form the boundaries of distinct sub-regions.

The Roper Gulf region is the heart of the Top End and Gulf Savannah. It covers an area from the southern border of Kakadu National Park to the northern edge of the Barkly Tablelands, and from the Gulf of Carpentaria and Northern Territory/ Queensland border to the Stuart Highway.

Put simply, this spectacularly diverse region covers about the same land area as the entire state of Victoria.

The “top road”, the Central Arnhem Highway, is one of the truly great road journeys of the NT, and the only road to Nhulunbuy.This four-wheel drive road passes through sandstone-capped hills, rolling grassland, dry forests, remnant rainforests and rivers, and through small Indigenous communities.This is not a road for the faint hearted, or suitable for conventional caravans.

Within the region there are majestic rivers, over 700 kilometres of untouched coast and islands, sweeping savannah plains and lines of sandstone cliffs, mesas and hills that offer a breathtaking look at ancient landscapes.

A trip from Darwin to Katherine and Mataranka is an easy one-day drive.

The highway links Katherine and the communities of Manyallaluk, Barunga, Beswick and Bulman with the coastal town of Nhulunbuy, and the almost1000km Savannah Way, the grand tourist route between Cairns and Broome.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

HANDY HINT Be Crocwise - Saltwater crocodiles are common in waterways across the region. Always follow the instructions of warning signs and speak to locals and Parks and Wildlife Commission NT rangers before dipping your toes.

Roper Gulf

Mataranka, the centre of the Never Never, is 100 kilometres south-east of Katherine on the Stuart Highway. The small, friendly town is famous for its thermal pools. The sparkling limestone aquifer water, which is consistently 34 degrees, refreshes the swimming pools in beautiful tropical settings.

This is an absolute delight any time, but especially on a hot day.

The Jurmurark (12 Mile) camping ground, 17km from Mataranka, provides a tranquil bushland environment close to the Roper River and Korowan (Mataranka Falls).

With a stretch of your imagination from the Jurassic Park lookout, on top of the range of hills 50km beyond Beswick, you can almost see dinosaurs grazing below. Well, maybe not, but you will see a buffalo or two.

The “middle road”, the Roper Highway, links the Gulf Coast town of Numbulwar and the Roper River town of Ngukurr with the Stuart Highway, near Mataranka.

39

Out & About

- Roper Gulf CALENDAR OF EVENTS

17th - 19th May Never Never Festival - Mataranka The Never Never Festival embraces and celebrates the diversity of the Never Never.

The family friendly festival will be full of culture, music, food, art, dance and sport.

The growth towns are at the end of the unsealed road, the recent completion of new bridges spanning the Roper and Wilton Rivers opens up these towns and the greater region. From the intersection at Roper Bar, you can travel to Borroloola along the unsealed Nathan River Road through Limmen National Park to meet the Carpentaria Highway near Borroloola. Borroloola is renowned for its fishing and boating, a short holiday on a houseboat, or a charter trip to Centre Island. Don’t forget to try the local mud crab.

Forty kilometres east is the well-known fishing village of King Ash Bay and the nearby Bing Bong Bay loading facility for the McArthur River Mine.

The “bottom road”, the Carpentaria Highway, links the Stuart Highway, near Daly Waters, with Borroloola and Cape Crawford, and the roads to the Gulf of Carpentaria. The region’s modern history is rich in early exploration - the Overland Telegraph, railways, commercial aviation, mining and World War II. The human history is over 40,000 years old and Indigenous culture remains strong in all communities.

Roper Gulf

HANDY HINT

40

In Mataranka, you can watch the famous “Feed the Barra Show” at Territory Manor or soothe your aches and pains in the warm waters of the Mataranka Thermal Pool.

7th - 9th June Barunga Festival This much-loved Territory festival attracts many people from all over the world who descend upon the small remote community to camp and take part in a program of music, sport, traditional arts and cultural activities over the 3-day long weekend in June each year, welcomed by the traditional owners.

21st - 23rd June Yugul Mangi Festival in Ngukurr A family weekend of culture, community games, arts and crafts, muscial entertainment, bunggal and much more!

The feast of Indigenous culture, music and sporting festivals held in the dry season, like the iconic Barunga Festival, held annually on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, are an experience you will never forget.

Allow your imagination to step back to another time by visiting the old Maranboy tin mine, the Elsey cemetery or the Elsey homestead, built for the filming of We of the Never Never.

Local museums at Mataranka, Borroloola and Larrimah are must-visit destinations.

The historic Daly Waters area has a pub that showcases some of the characters of the region and Australia’s first international airport.

Many marked World War II sites bring to life the wartime history of the NT.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Roper Gulf -

Out & About

Please be aware that permits are required to travel on some roads in the Roper Gulf region located on Aboriginal land. The Northern Land Council is responsible for administering the permit system for traditional owners in the Top End. For more information about obtaining a permit to explore the region, go to www.nlc.org.au.

The Roper Gulf region is remote, but its small towns are welcoming, and the unique environments and links to the distant and recent past make it an exciting and rewarding place to visit.

Whether you want a once-in-a-lifetime holiday for the kids, a unique landscape, the best fishing and birdwatching the NT has to offer, an amazing night under the stars or a chance to learn more about a culture tens of thousands of years old, the Roper Gulf region has it all. For more information, go to www.ropergulf.nt.gov.au.

Must-dos in the Roper Gulf Region • • • • • • • •

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Roper Gulf

• • • • • • •

Swim in the sparkling thermal pools around Mataranka, or in the wild river pools at Leliyn (Edith Falls).

Take a boat trip or canoe the Katherine River in Nitmiluk National Park.

Explore Elsey and Limmen Nationals Parks.

See the Cararbinini Conservation Park and the Lost City by helicopter.

Take a walk to the unique Korowan (Mataranka Falls).

Fish some of the best barramundi-producing waters in the country.

Watch real Territory cowboys in action at the annual rodeos at Mataranka, Daly Waters and Borroloola.

Immerse yourself in an ancient culture at one of the community festivals held across the region each year, including the famous Barunga Festival and Ngukurr’s Yugul Mangi Festival Learn about the history of the Mataranka region at the Never Never Festival.

Go back in time at the Elsey cemetery and homestead.

Visit the historic precincts of Larrimah and Daly Waters.

Explore the art centres at Beswick, Ngukurr and Borroloola.

Take a break at the iconic Daly Waters and Larrimah pubs.

Grab a fishing charter on the McArthur River.

Grab a bird guide and see how many unique species you can spot.

41

- Alice Springs

So, whether you want to immerse yourself in Australia’s rich Indigenous or European history, or if you want to find out more about contemporary Aussie Outback culture, a visit to ‘Alice’ is a must.

It is located smack bang in the middle of Australia, halfway between Darwin and Adelaide.This is why it is often reffered to as Australia’s “heart”.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Alice is an intriguing place that hosts a calendar jam packed with quirky events and celebrations (check p.50 for more details).

Alice is located in a land of extremes – from scorching summer days to winter nights where temperatures can fall well below zero and frost covers the ground. Rainfall patterns here are also extremely variable – from long dry periods of no rain at all, to flash floods that send frothing torrents along ordinarily dry river beds.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Alice Springs, the unofficial capital of Australia’s Red Centre, has plenty to offer any kind of traveller. From diving into hidden waterholes in the desert landscape to getting your adventure or animal fix, there’s something for everyone in Alice.

This ruggedly beautiful town is shaped by its mythical landscapes, vibrant Aboriginal culture and tough pioneering past. The stories of Australian history and heritage overflow in Alice Springs, with it being the home of The Royal Flying Doctor Service,The School of the Air (see opposite) and The Overland Telegraph Line.These all played major roles in the development of the outback and Australia in general.

You are able to take tours of all of these.

The Royal Flying Doctor Museum is located in the original Radio Station House. Here, you can find out what it is like to be inside one of the aircraft and what it was like to communicate before telephones were invented.

WORTH A LOOK! Pick up a town map from the Tourism Central Australia on Gregory Terrace, or from your hotel reception, and head to Anzac Hill at the northern end of the CBD. You can’t miss it! Access is from Schwarz Crescent up a moderately steep gradient to the war memorial at the top. It’s a good place to get your bearings and gives you a full 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the town and surrounds.

#

42

Voucher

FREE

SMALL POPCORN & DRINK! For what’s on at the cinema visit www.alicespringscinema.com.au Join our movie club first ticket is FREE!

11 TODD MALL, ALICE SPRINGS

#

Alice Springs

Exchange this coupon for a

FIND US ON 08 8953 2888 LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

LetsGoKids

Out & About

Alice Springs -

Out & About

School of the Air Visitor Centre

Sun & Public H’Days 1.00pm to 4.30pm Last Tour 4pm Closed Good Fri, 25 Dec - 1 Jan

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

www.assoa.nt.edu.au visitorcentre@assoa.nt.edu.au

Alice Springs

Join a lesson in the world’s largest classroom, covering 1.3 million square kilometres. World leading innovated education since 1951.

Open All YeAr 80 Head St Alice Springs Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm 08 8951 6834

43

Out & About

- Alice Springs

The Alice Springs School of the Air (p.43) provides an insight into a little known but crucially important aspect of Outback life. The School is the worlds largest classroom. There are plenty of families in Australia’s sparsley populated middle and the School of the Air is an essential service which ensures there are no gaps in learning between the country and the cities.

Learn about daily lessons, how educators have embraced satellite technology to improve the education experience and how the skilled teachers keep the kids entertained and well behaved across great distances.

DID YOU KNOW

Loads of tourists use Alice as a staging post to visit one of the wonders of the natural world Ayers Rock or Uluru to the locals. It is about 5 hours drive on a modern paved road.

There are an abundance of tours to the Rock, the Olgas & King’s Canyon from Alice.

For desert scenery drive into the West MacDonnell Ranges. Make the time to walk a section of the Larapinta Trail to see the gorges, cliffs and chasms, waterholes and mountains of this extraordinary range.

Simpsons Gap sports a permanent pool and rock wallabies live in the gap’s rocky ridges. Standley Chasm lights up in fiery colours reflected by the overhead sun at midday. Picturesque swimming holes such as Ellery Creek Big Hole Omiston George, Glen Helen Gorge and Redbank George offer refreshing relief on a scorching day.

Alice Springs

The Larapinta Trail is one of the most stunning walking trails that Australia has to offer, snaking along the West MacDonnell Ranges for more than 223 kilometres. There are both short hikes and longer treks with overnight camping on offer, as well as plenty of guided walks over the Larapinta Trail.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The Old Telegraph Station used to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide, and gives a particular and fascinating glimpse of the town’s European beginnings.

44

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Watch TIO Stadium Darwin NRL 2019 Fixture

The Territory is the most relaxed place in Australia and the locals love their leisure time - In this section, whether it be watching or being actively involved.

If it is cheering on the AFL stars at TIO Stadium in Alice or the NRL’s Eels at Marrara, or kicking back at an open air movie or actively participating with your local club, in this section we will tell you Wots On and where!

Rnd

15

Match

1 June

Melbourne v. Adelaide Crows

TIO Stadium - Alice Springs AFL 2019 Fixture Rnd

Date

18

Match

21 July

Melbourne vs. West Coast Eagles

NT Thunder

The Territory’s own team does battle in the NEAFL. Come and see the upcoming stars of tomorrow as they take on AFL listed players!

NRL – The Territory’s own Parramatta Eels return to Darwin’s TIO Stadium this year in a blockbuster clash with the nation’s capital’s team, the Canberra Raiders. Come and see a host of superstars like Josh Hodgson, Jarrod Croker and Jordan Rapana taking on Mitchell Moses and Clint Gutherson.

What a match it promises to be!

Date

Time

Opponent

Venue

6 APR

6:30pm

Brisbane Lions

TIO Stadium, Darwin

4 MAY

6:30pm

Gold Coast Suns

TIO Stadium, Darwin

18 MAY

6:30pm

Aspley

TIO Stadium, Darwin

25 MAY

6:30pm

Canberra

TIO Stadium, Darwin

1 JUN

3:30pm

Redland

TIO Stadium, Darwin

22 JUN

6.30pm

Aspley

TIO Trager Park,Alice Springs

6 JUL

6.30pm

Sydney Swans

TIO Stadium, Darwin

13 JUL

6.30pm

GWS Giants

TIO Stadium, Darwin

27 JUL

6.30pm

Redland

TIO Stadium, Darwin

10 AUG

6:30pm

Sydney University

TIO Stadium, Darwin

17 AUG

6.30pm

Southport

TIO Stadium, Darwin

AFL – The Territory loves its AFL and this year

the big league comes to Darwin on June 1st and Alice Springs on July 21st.

The Melbourne Demons, who want to continue on from their finals berth last year, take on two of the powerhouses of the competition as they look to make it deeper into finals this year.

The Darwin match will be a beauty as the super exciting Eddie Betts and the Adelaide Crows journey up from Adelaide, to prove they will be a finals contender this year.

In Alice, the reigning premiers make the trip across the desert. The Eagles will be wanting to show why they are the big dogs.

Come along and see them flex their muscle, against a Dees team full of stars like Max Gawn, Nathan Jones, Angus Brayshaw and new recruit Steven May. Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Eels vs. Raiders

Date

11

Top level professional sport comes to the Territory again in 2019 with Darwin hosting both AFL and NRL games for premiership points.

The beautiful TIO Stadium in “The Alice” will also see AFL regular season action again this year.

The NTFL runs from October to March each year and games are played all over Darwin.

NTFL headquarters at Marrara Oval often hold double and triple headers on Saturdays during the season. The kids can even get on the field at the breaks and have a kick!

It’s a great family day out.

Match

29 June

TIO Stadium - Darwin AFL 2019 Fixture Rnd

So whatever your speed - Go on Get Out There!!

DID YOU KNOW

Date

45

Watch Optus Stadium AFL 2019 Fixture

CINEMA

Rnd

CMAX Cinemas Palmerston The Hub, 3 Maluka St

(08) 8931 2555

Alice Springs Cinema Todd Plaza 11 Todd St

(08) 8953 2888

BCC Cinemas Darwin 76 Mitchell St

(08) 8981 5999

Casuarina Cinemas Casuarina Shopping Centre

(08) 8945 7777

Deckchair Cinema Darwin 61 Jervois Dr

(08) 8981 0700

Katherine Cinema 3 20 First St

(08) 8971 2522

Theatres Brown’s Mart Theatre Darwin 12 Smith St

(08) 8981 5522

Darwin Entertainment Centre Darwin Plaza

(08) 8980 3333

Araluen Arts Centre 61 Larapinta Dr, Araluen

(08) 8951 1122

The Gabba AFL 2019 Fixture Rnd

5 7 9 11 15 18 20 21 22

Date

18 APR 4 MAY 18 MAY 1 JUNE 30 JUNE 20 JUL 4 AUG 10 AUG 17 AUG

Match

Brisbane Lions v. Collingwood Brisbane Lions v. Sydney Swans Brisbane Lions v. Adelaide Crows Brisbane Lions v. Hawthorn Brisbane Lions v. Melbourne Brisbane Lions v. North Melbourne Brisbane Lions v. Western Bulldogs Brisbane Lions v. Gold Coast Suns Brisbane Lions v. Geelong Cats

Metricon Stadium AFL 2019 Fixture Rnd

4 6 8 10 12 16 17 19 23

Date

14 APR 27 APR 11 MAY 25 MAY 8 JUN 6 JUL 13 JUL 28 JUL 23 AUG

Match

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Date

7 APR 13 APR 19 APR 27 APR 4 MAY 12 MAY 17 MAY 26 MAY 2 JUN 15 JUN 20 JUN 30 JUN 6 JUL 12 JUL 20 JUL 27 JUL 3 AUG 11 AUG 17 AUG 23 AUG

Match

Fremantle v. St Kilda West Coast Eagles v. Fremantle West Coast Eagles v. Port Adelaide Fremantle v. Western Bulldogs West Coast Eagles v. Gold Coast Suns Fremantle v. Richmond West Coast Eagles v. Melbourne Fremantle v. Brisbane Lions West Coast Eagles v. Western Bulldogs Fremantle v. Port Adelaide West Coast Eagles v. Essendon Fremantle v. Carlton Fremantle v. West Coast Eagles West Coast Eagles v. Collingwood Fremantle v. Sydney Swans West Coast Eagles v. North Melbourne Fremantle v. Geelong Cats West Coast Eagles v. Adelaide Crows Fremantle v. Essendon West Coast Eagles v. Hawthorn

SCG AFL 2019 Fixture Rnd

4 6 8 10 12 14 15 17 19 23

Date

11 APR 27 APR 10 MAY 24 MAY 9 JUN 21 JUN 29 JUN 13 JUL 28 JUL 24 AUG

Match

Sydney Swans v. Melbourne Sydney Swans v. GWS Giants Sydney Swans v. Essendon Sydney Swans v. Collingwood Sydney Swans v. West Coast Eagles Sydney Swans v. Hawthorn Sydney Swans v. Gold Coast Suns Sydney Swans v. Carlton Sydney Swans v. Geelong Cats Sydney Swans v. St Kilda

THE NEWLY COMPLETED NETBALL NT INDOOR STADIUM AT MARRARA!!

Gold Coast Suns v. Carlton Gold Coast Suns v. Brisbane Lions Gold Coast Suns v. Melbourne Gold Coast Suns v. Geelong Cats Gold Coast Suns v. North Melbourne Gold Coast Suns v. Richmond Gold Coast Suns v. Adelaide Crows Gold Coast Suns v. Essendon Gold Coast Suns v. GWS Giants

UNSW Stadium AFL 2019 Fixture

46

Rnd

Date

Match

5 7 21

20 APR 4 MAY 9 AUG

GWS Giants v. Fremantle GWS Giants v. St Kilda GWS Giants v. Hawthorn

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Watch AFL 2019 Fixture - For All Melbourne Venues July 5

Round 16 Hawthorn v. Collingwood

MCG

July 6 July 6 July 7

Essendon v. Sydney Swans Western Bulldogs v. Geelong Carlton v. Melbourne

MCG Marvel Stadium MCG

July 13

Round 17 Essendon v. North Melbourne

Marvel Stadium

July 14 July 14

Richmond v. GWS Giants Western Bulldogs v. Melbourne

MCG Marvel Stadium

July 20

Round 18 Richmond v. Port Adelaide

MCG

July 20

Carlton v. Gold Coast Suns

Marvel Stadium

July 21

St Kilda v. Western Bulldogs

Marvel Stadium

July 26

Round 19 Collingwood v. Richmond

MCG

July 27

Carlton v. Adelaide Crows

MCG

July 27

St Kilda v. Melbourne

Marvel Stadium

July 28

Western Bulldogs v. Fremantle

Marvel Stadium

Aug 2

Round 20 North Melbourne v. Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium

Aug 3

Essendon v. Port Adelaide

Marvel Stadium

Aug 3

Melbourne v. Richmond

MCG

Aug 4 Aug 4

Collingwood v. Gold Coast Suns Carlton v. West Coast Eagles

MCG Marvel Stadium

Aug 10

Round 21 Melbourne v. Collingwood

MCG

Aug 10

Essendon v. Western Bulldogs

Marvel Stadium

Aug 11

St Kilda v. Fremantle

Marvel Stadium

Aug 11

Richmond v. Carlton

Round 4 Date Apr 12

Match Collingwood v. Western Bulldogs

Venue MCG

Apr 13

Essendon v. Brisbane Lions

MCG

Apr 13

North Melbourne v. Adelaide Crows

Marvel Stadium

Apr 14

St Kilda v. Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium

Apr 19

Round 5 North Melbourne v, Essendon

Marvel Stadium

Apr 20

Melbourne v. St Kilda

MCG

Apr 20

Richmond v. Sydney Swans

Marvel Stadium

Apr 21

Western Bulldogs v. Carlton

Marvel Stadium

Apr 24

Round 6 Richmond v. Melbourne

MCG

Apr 25

Essendon v. Collingwood

MCG

Apr 27

St Kilda v. Adelaide Crows

Marvel Stadium

May 3

Round 7 Collingwood v. Port Adelaide

Marvel Stadium

May 4

Melbourne v. Hawthorn

MCG

May 4

Western Bulldogs v. Richmond

Marvel Stadium

May 5 May 5

Carlton v. North Melbourne Geelong v. Essendon

Marvel Stadium MCG

May 11

Round 8 Carlton v. Collingwood

MCG

May 11

St Kilda v. West Coast Eagles

Marvel Stadium

May 12 May 12

North Melbourne v. Geelong Hawthorn v. GWS Giants

Marvel Stadium MCG

May 18

Round 9 Collingwood v. St Kilda

MCG

May 18

Essendon v. Fremantle

Marvel Stadium

May 19

Richmond v. Hawthorn

MCG

May 25

Round 10 Western Bulldogs v. North Melbourne

Marvel Stadium

May 25

Richmond v. Essendon

MCG

May 26 May 26

Melbourne v. GWS Giants St Kilda v. Carlton

MCG Marvel Stadium

May 31

Round 11 North Melbourne v. Richmond

June 1

Collingwood v. Fremantle

June 2

Essendon v. Carlton

June 7

Richmond v. Geelong

MCG

June 8

Carlton v. Brisbane Lions

Marvel Stadium

June 10

Collingwood v. Melbourne

MCG

June 14

Round 13 Essendon v. Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium

June 15

Carlton v. Western Bulldogs

Marvel Stadium

May 27

Hawthorn v. West Coast Eagles

Etihad Stadium

June 22

Round 14 Melbourne v. Fremantle

MCG

June 22

St Kilda v. Brisbane Lions

Marvel Stadium

June 23

Western Bulldogs v. Collingwood

Marvel Stadium

June 27 June 29 June 29 June 30

Round 15 Essendon v. GWS Giants Hawthorn v. West Coast Eagles Collingwood v. North Melbourne St Kilda v. Richmond

Marvel Stadium MCG Marvel Stadium Marvel Stadium

MCG Round 22

Aug 16

Melbourne v. Sydney

Aug 17

Carlton v. St Kilda

MCG MCG

Aug 17

North Melbourne v. Port Adelaide

Marvel Stadium

Aug 18

Richmond v. West Coast Eagles

MCG

Aug 18

Hawthorn v. Gold Coast Suns

Marvel Stadium

Marvel Stadium

TBC

Round 23 Richmond v. Brisbane Lions

MCG

MCG

TBC

Collingwood v. Essendon

MCG

MCG

TBC

Hawthorn v. Geelong Cats

MCG

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Round 12

47

Stay Darwin and the NT have a really diverse range of accommodations to suit all family budgets.

Darwin - CBD Hotels Hilton Doubletree (see below) and the Argus Hotel (see opposite) have family rooms in the heart of the action. Travelodge has hotel rooms and apartments, with a great pool area for kids and a true tropical feel. Quest Berrimah (see opposite) is located close to all attractions and has the comforts to make you feel right at home.

Waterfront The Adina Apartments and Vibe Hotels at the Waterfront Precinct are a perfect fit for families.

For those looking for kid friendly Holiday Parks Howard Springs Big 4 is a great option.

Litchfield - Batchelor Butterfly Farm (p.21) has cabins and also a homestay option in amongst the beautiful butterflys. Batchelor has the Batchelor Holiday Park (p.21) with onsite cabins, camping sites and pool. Both are situated only 20 minutes from the bautiful rockholes and waterfalls.

48

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Whether it be hotels, resorts, motels, holiday parks or the good old bush camping site, we’ve sourced them for you, based around their family friendliness, special deals or features for kids!

Katherine - The Ibis Styles (p.37) has hotel rooms and camp sites and Knotts Crossing has a range of options in a tropical setting. St Andrews Apartments offer a spacious self contained option that has a great BBQ/pool area and a homely feel.

Alice Springs - You can’t go past MacDonnell Range Caravan Park (p.44) and its FREE pancake breakfast. They also run Movie Nights during the school holidays!!

Another great option is Alice Springs Tourist Park for its location and closeness to town.

The Hilton Doubletree is the town’s premier accommodation option - close to the casino, golf course and botanical gardens with great pool area.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Stay

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

49

Wot’s On We’re calling the whole family – kids, mums, dads, aunties, uncles, sisters, brothers, grandma and grandpa – even you!

The Northern Territory is alive and happening all year round with family events and activities, shows, movies, concerts and sport. Don’t forget the old favourite – the weekend market!!

There is enough to keep everyone entertained – AND BEST OF ALL?? Most of them are FREE!!!

To keep up to date with everything our advertisers have going on, go to the “Wot’s On” button on our website at www.letsgokids.com.au and while you’re there, sign up for our great monthly e-newsletter and download our new app.

All Year Every Tuesday and every Thursday

50

Storytime - Off The Leash Say goodbye to quiet libraries - this is when things get noisy!

Join in and sing, dance, listen to stories and engage with puppets at these fun and interactive Storytime sessions.

Sessions are suitable for children aged 1-5 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

93 Mitchell St, Darwin

Every Tuesday

Gadgets & Games Club Learning + Games = FUN! Is your child aged 5-12 years and do they enjoy hands-on, problem based learning activities?

Gadgets and Games is based around STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) learning activities and games for fun City of Palmerston Library, Goyder Square, Palmerston.

Every Sunday

Aqua Fitness in the Wave Lagoon Take a splash each Sunday morning with an aqua fitness class in the Wave Lagoon at the Darwin Waterfront. A dedicated instructor will guide you through a body conditioning, pool based aerobic program. Program is suitable for all fitness levels including beginners.

Darwin Waterfront.

Every Saturday

Parap Markets Even before the sun is up the food stalls are busily preparing exotic and local dishes. Flavours of Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and Indonesia come to life. Choice abounds with delicious crepes, zesty salads, fruit smoothies, ice treats for the kids and gourmet coffee.

Browse the diverse range of fresh produce and enjoy locally grown vegetables, herbs and fruits.

Discover a precious collection of Territory crafts including clothing, jewellery and gems, artworks, beauty products, decor, specialist crafts, souvenirs, potted plants and cut flowers, massage techniques from around the world, tarot and much much more.

8.00am - 2.00pm, Parap Markets,Vickers St, Parap.

Every Friday from April - October

Palmerston Markets Every Friday evening the markets provide live entertainment, ranging from multicultural dancers, country and western bands, mainstream bands and a DJ who entertains the kids with their favourite music. Clowns also put on a show with games and competitions and lots of prizes to give away.

6pm. Goyder Square, Palmerston City. Free event. 0459 384 103

Every Saturday from February December

Katherine Community Market Locals and visitors alike enjoy the opportunity to purchase something truly local and Territory made.

A wide range of fresh produce, locally made fine food, arts and craft, all genuinely derived from either the materials or the productive work of locals.

Dry season 8am-1pm,Wet season 8am-12pm. Held at the Lindsay St Complex. 0408 099 227

Every Sunday from March December

Todd Mall Market Todd Mall comes alive with the Todd Mall Markets.

There is a wide range of stalls selling crafts, clothing, art, food, jewellery, wellbeing products, dog products, honey, hat, mats, books and more.

Discover one of a kind treasures, have something to eat, or just chat with the stallholders and locals.

Todd Mall, Alice Springs.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

Wot’s On April 15 - 16th April

Alice Springs Sports School Holiday Program Red Centre sports are combining to offer an exciting School Holiday Clinic. The clinic is open to children aged 5-13 to develop a love for movement in a variety of different sports including AFL, Basketball, Netball, NRL & Tennis.

9am-2pm. Alice Springs Tennis Court, 5 Traeger Ave, Alice Springs.

20th April

Easter Celebrations Visit Mr & Mrs Easter Bunny in their majestic Bunny Burrow, take a photo and get a free chocolate egg and balloon. There’ll be plenty of fun for children of all ages with two jumping castles, two water slides, inflatable obstacle course, live kids’ DJ, balloon twisting, festival glitter artists, sand art station, circus workshop, giant bubble play, Easter art and craft, giant garden games, come ‘n’ try hockey with Hockey NT and more!

Darwin Waterfront.

20th April

Alice Springs Turf Club Family Day 2019 Family Day at the Alice Springs Turf Club is a highlight for every young racegoer.

Join us for Day 2 of the 2019 Ladbrokes Alice Springs Cup Carnival and enjoy a special day full of family fun.

Dress the kids up in their best racing attire and come enjoy some great activities, plus the first-class racing.

With many prizes to be won, the Kids Best Dressed Competition is always a crowd favorite.

Family Day will also feature plenty of kids activities for all ages, including face painting, balloon twisting, mechanical bull, a parent and child race around the mounting yard and of course the great racing action on the track.

May 2nd - 19th May

Heritage Festival - Top End Celebrate the great Australian pioneering spirit during the annual Heritage Festival - Top End. This year’s theme is “Connecting people, places and the past”.

Find out more about the Darwin region’s intriguing and varied heritage and and culture enjoy a spooky night time ghost walk through the Old Goyder Road Cemetery, lectures, quiz night, historical walks and so much more.

Various events happening at various locations across the city.

11th May

Darwin Italian Festival The much-anticipated Darwin Italian Festival will be held on with more on offer than ever before.

Since 2013, the Italian Festival has continued to grow with more than 20 000 people attending the festival in 2017.

It recreates the true essence of Italy right here in Darwin with the best of Italian culture, food, wine, art and music from the local NT community.This year’s festival includes medieval flag throwing, a spaghetti eating contest, an Italian pop idol comp and an Italian-flavoured entertainment line-up hosted by actor and comedian James Liotta.

Saturday 11 May from 12pm until late at Civic Park

18th - 19th May

Freds Pass Rural Community Show The Freds Pass Rural Show 2019 will see a Ruby Red celebration of this significant milestone.

The show is known for its strong rural theming with a vast range of equestrian events, livestock judging, animal displays, an exhibition hall showcasing the communities many talents, wood chopping exhibition, side show alley, Music talent quests, NT Young Rural Achiever Awards & a the vast array of poultry and produce. It has truly become an annual event where ‘urban meets rural’, the popular Paddock to Plate marquee is a dedicated space where we invite local producers to offer tastings and talk about how their product is made & chefs to stage cooking demonstrations using some of the local produce on offer. Children are not forgotten as free children’s activities run on both days of the show. Saturday and Sunday feature exciting entertainment acts focusing on utilising local talent wherever possible. On Saturday night there are spectacular fireworks display, and then party on to great live entertainment under the stars.

25th May

Alice Springs Telegraph Station Open Day and Market Play some of the variety of games on offer, browse the markets stalls or enjoy a bite to eat while enjoying the ambience of the old Telegraph Station. Explore old building usually closed buildings and imagine what it would have been like cooking in the kitchens. Visit members of the Morsecodian Fraternity in the old Telegraph post office and have a go at morsecode.

Free entry for all! 10am - 1pm. 8952 1013 Telegraph Station Historical Precinct

31st May - 2nd June

Pine Creek Goldrush Step back in time at the annual Pine Creek Goldrush weekend. It’s hard to resist the appeal of panning for an elusive gold nugget and dancing under a starry sky. If this sounds appealing, then head down to Pine Creek for the Goldrush Festival. Gold is not the only attraction however, with festivities, a damper-making competition, nugget hunt, food and bar stalls and much more.

Located Railway Terrace, Pine Creek, (08) 8976 1391 or email erin.dunbar@vicdaly.nt.gov.au

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

51

Wot’s On June 7th - 9th June

July 1st July

25th - 27th July

August 8th - 25th August

17th August

Barunga Festival This much-loved Territory festival attracts people from all over the world who descend upon the small remote community to camp and take part in a program of music, sport, traditional arts and cultural activities over the 3-day long weekend in June each year, welcomed by the traditional owners.

Open from 10am Friday. 8941 8066 or email info@barungafestival.com.au.

Territory Day For one day only the Territory lights up in a rainbow of rockets, bangers and Roman candles.

Celebrating the anniversary that self governance was handed down to the Territory by the Commonwealth Government, Territorians and visitors alike gather for public fireworks shows. They also compete with one another to produce the most brilliant pyrotechnics display on the only day of the year where people are allowed to light fireworks.

Mindil Beach is a popular vantage point to watch the spectacular. With delicious food from the markets, people can picnic on the sand as they watch the fireworks burst and sparkle over the Timor Sea. Royal-Darwin-Show IT’S SHOWTIME. The Territory’s oldest and largest community event will offer show goers young and young at heart the opportunity to experience a real taste of the Territory. Enjoy 3 fun-filled days of thrilling showrides and games in sideshow alley, animals, exhibits, loads of free entertainment with live music and performances for everyone, as well as arts and crafts, cookery, fireworks spectacular and so much more.

Darwin Showgrounds, Tate Place, Winnellie. 08 8984 3091.

Darwin Festival The Festival combines warm outdoor festivities with a program rich with local, national and international talent.

Cabaret, theatre, dance, visual arts, outdoor concerts under the stars and fun family events transform Darwin for 18 dazzling days and nights.

Relax in the balmy festoon-lit surrounds of Festival Park with a tasty dinner and drink from the iconic bamboo food stalls and pop-up bars as you listen to the soundtrack of local heroes on the Bamboo Bandstand.

Or prepare to dance the night away to the hottest contemporary bands in the Festival’s iconic open-air big top, The Lighthouse. Glimmering with lights and sounds, The Lighthouse is one of the hottest tickets in town each August.

Darwin Festival celebrates the quintessential spirit and energy of Darwin, with its laidback, friendly lifestyle.

Join in the fun of hot August nights and spend a tropical winter at Darwin Festival.

Rotary Henley on Todd Regatta The Rotary Henley on Todd Regatta is a fun, quirky and eclectic ‘boat’ race held annually on the dry sandy bed of the Todd River in Alice Springs, - the only dry river boating Regatta in the world. Festival attendees compete in ‘boat’ races in the style of the Flintstones: holding a metal frame and running for the finish line.The finale of the day is a battle of three motorised battleships with flour bombs and water cannons.

Event attendees are encouraged to join in and participate in a wide variety of events on offer during the Regatta.

Events range from solo event, thru to teams of ten.

10:30am start. Adults $22 and Children $5.50. Contact Dale 0417864085.

Snow Kenna Park,Wills Terrace, Alice Springs

Ok this is toooo boring for kids…

LetsGoKids Pty Ltd - ABN: 85 122 538 103 95 Chapel Lane, Doreen, VIC 3754 Advertising & Listings (Print, Web & App) Jim Croeser Email: ntoffice@letsgokids.com.au | Ph: 0425 255 581 Graphic Design The LetsGoKids in house studio led by Cassie Wilson can design and produce graphic art for your advertising needs, whether it be print, web or app. For a no obligation and highly competitive quote, email Cassie at letsgokidsgraphics@gmail.com Special Thanks / Contributors Tourism NT Visual Library, Nagalakshmi Thyagarajan, Terry Wilson and Cassie Wilson Download advert & listing specs from our website www.letsgokids.com.au © Copyright 2019

52

Photos Uncredited photographs used are owned by LetsGoKids or Tourism NT Visual Library (and used with permission) unless otherwise stated. All photos & logos for listings supplied by individual business owners. Unauthorised use of images or text will be subject to legal action.

Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for errors or omissions in the LetsGoKids publication. Vouchers and discount expiry dates are up to the discretion of individual business owners unless otherwise stated.

Indemnity Listing photographs/logos/text and advert artwork, have been supplied to LetsGoKids by business owners or their Advertising Agencies, Graphic Designers or representatives.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2019

1 2 3 4 5 6