LetsGoKids 2020 Northern Territory Edition

Out & About In

de to The

The No. 1 Family Gui

2020 Northern Territory -

Darwin Palmerston Darwin’s Rural Area Batchelor Katherine Alice Springs

Eat Shop Play Watch Stay Wot’s On

“Get off the couch and get out there!”

Voucher p.11

A Wild World ...Full of Fun!

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

Northern Territory 2020 Contents

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 ACT/South Coast/Wollongong & NZ - Adelaide 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!

GET OUR APP - 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 &

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Out & About Darwin

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Palmerston

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Darwin’s Rural Area 20 Batchelor

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Katherine

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Alice Springs

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Shop

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Eat

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Play

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Watch

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Stay

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Wot’s On

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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 Mindil Markets City of Darwin Crocodylus Park WWII Oil Tunnels Darwin Military Museum Australian Aviation

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

Palmerston Adventure Land Play Centre Quest Palmerston Palmerston Shopping Centre Palmerston Library

Darwin’s Rural Area

16 17 17 18, 19

Territory Wildlife Park 20, 21 Wetland Cruises 22 Basecamp Wallaroo 23 Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises 23

Batchelor

Batchelor Butterfly Farm Batchelor Holiday Park

Shop

Karama Shopping Centre Frying Nemo

Eat

24 24 25 27

Play Playgroup NT Gymnastics NT Netball NT Rugby NT Darwin Kart Hire Planet 10 Pin Bowling Flight Path Golf Playshack NT

General

28 29 30 30 31 32, 33 33 33

Haileybury Rendall Inside Front Cover Catholic Education NT Inside Back Cover Causarina Square Back Cover

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Katherine Katherine Town Council Katherine Outback Experience The Katherine Club Ibis Katherine

Alice Springs

Alice Springs School of the Air Alice Springs Cinemas Mac Donnell Range BIG 4

35 36 37

38 39 40

Stay DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Argus Darwin

26,44 45

Watch Darwin Entertainment Centre

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Wots On Freds Pass Rural Show

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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 10 Apr Good Friday 11 Apr Day Following 13 Apr Easter Monday 25 Apr Anzac Day 4 May May Day Show Day Holidays 26 Jun Borroloola 3 Jul Alice Springs 10 Jul Tennant Creek School Holidays Mid-Semester Break 14 Apr – 17 Apr Semester Break 29 Jun – 17 Jul

Important phone numbers:

8 Jun 3 Aug 25 Dec 26 Dec 1 Jan

Queens Birthday Picnic Day Christmas Day Boxing Day New Years Day

17 Jul Katherine 24 Jul Darwin Mid-Semester Break 28 Sep – 9 Oct Christmas Holidays 21 Dec – 29 Jan 2021

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.

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

OUT NOW!!

Have LetsGoKids in your pocket at all times with our fantastic updated app!

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Lee Point Village Resort

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Marrara Sports Complex

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Optus Oval

MARRARA Athletics

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NT Institute of Sport Arafura Stadium

Football Oval

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Clay Target Club

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Dar win Golf Course

Soccer

NT Hockey Association

NORTH LAKES Malak Caravan Park

Marrara Cricket Ground

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Dar win Airport Resort

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DARWIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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Richardson Park (Rugby League HQ)

RAAF BASE

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Fannie Bay Race course (Dar win Turf Club)

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George Brown Dar win Botanical Gardens

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Darwin

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AMBULANCE

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

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FANNIE BAY ROSS SMITH

CULLEN Cullen BAY BayCULLEN BAY

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

MC MILLANS RD

BBQ

FANNIE FannieBAY 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.

Several coach companies operate services within the NT.

Leanyer Recreation Park

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Get out of town!

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EAST POINT MILITARY MUSEUM

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

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

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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

ALAWA WAGAMAN

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DISTANCE FROM GPO TO:

LEANYER

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DARWIN HARBOUR BEAGLE GULF Beagle Gulf

Lee Point Village Resort

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Caravan Park

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DARWIN WHARF PRECINCT ARIN AB

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Larrakeyah Defence Force Base Information Restricted access

DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE

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AUSTIN LANE

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RRY CHAN

KITCHENER

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George Brown Botanic Gardens

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Out & About

Frances Bay FRANCES BAY

DARWIN WHARF PRECINCT

FORT HILL WHARF

STOKES HILL WHARF

THE GHAN - Railway Station

BERRIM

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

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

Darwin is the ‘capital’ of northern Australia and is closer to Jakarta than it is to Canberra and closer to Singapore than it is to Melbourne, so it’s no surprise that Darwin looks outward to Asia as much as it looks inland to the rest of Australia.

Darwin is a truly tropical city with a monsoonal climate and two distinct seasons - the Wet Season (Nov - April) and the Dry Season (May - Oct).

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”.

DRV

VANDERLIN

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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. (It doesn’t get cold in Darwin, ever!)

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ENJOY HAND FEEDING OUR LOCAL & FRIENDLY WILD FISH!

This unique sh sanctuary, located in the heart of Darwin, is a fun, safe and magical experience for all to enjoy!

Open only on the high tide.

See Them, Feel Them, Touch Them For sh feeding times visit: www.aquascene.com.au or call: 08 8981 7837

Present day Darwin was founded in 1869.

The harbour had been discovered back in 1839 by John Lort Stokes aboard the Beagle, who named it Port Darwin after former shipmate, Charles 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.

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Darwin

Voucher

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Don’t miss Crocosaurus Cove’s Junior reptile ranger program!

A fully guided 2 hour program just for kids exclusively offered Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays throughout the NT school holidays.

- Go behind the scenes with our reptile handlers - Learn how to prepare food and feed our reptiles - And meet our cutest critters!

Visit croccove.com for more details.

58 Mitchell Street, Darwin City p: 08 8981 7522 e: info@croccove.com | w: croccove.com

In the heart of Darwin City

HoLD A bAby CroC FIsH For CroCs

Crocs in the City!

Home to the Cage of Death

meet tHe reptILes swIm wItCHs tHe Cro

& the World’s Largest Collection of Australian Reptiles!

Enjoy 9 reptile shows daily including the Big Croc Feed Show at 11:30am & 2:30pm

Adult

$36

CHILD

(4-15 ye

ars)

$23

# LetsGoKids

In the heart of Darwin City

20% Discount

on Adult & Child Admission

Voucher

*Only valid on presentation of this voucher or by booking online using promo code LGK2020. Valid until 31/03/2021

58 Mitchell St, Darwin City | p: 8981 7522

info@croccove.com Book online @ croccove.com

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Out & About

- Darwin

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, the Aviation Heritage Centre, and the Cenotaph overlooking Darwin Harbour.

Darwin also has many playgrounds throughout the city which are free to access and provide varying levels of activity challenge. The one at Lake Alexander is a beauty and the other major suburban playgrounds are located in Anula, Jingili and Leanyer.

Having been almost entirely rebuilt twice, once due to the air raids during the War and again after being devastated by Cyclone Tracy in 1974, Darwin is now one of Australia’s most modern capital cities. From the grand Government House, which does boast some free open days and events, to wandering indigenous art galleries, discovering wonderful street sculptures and enjoying the informative Heritage & Cultural Trail, there’s plenty of free heritage stuff to get your teeth stuck into.

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.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Just a short five 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.

Darwin

Darwin’s parks are excellent venues for everything from family get-togethers and festivals to open air meetings, functions and other corporate and community events.

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Over 60+ food stalls from all over the world Try some local or international cuisine Barramundi, crocodile, laksa, Ba satay, seafood, tropical fruit juices & so much more!

4-9PM

100+ Arts & Crafts Stalls Showcasing: Fairy Jill Jewellery Micks Whips - have a try Clothes or watch the show Homewares Fire Shows Health & Beauty Circus Acts Souvenirs Live music Just to name a few!

30th APRIL to 29th OCTOBER 2020 Ph: 8981 3454

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Free

« Fun Bus Mobile Playgroup providing fun, educational activities for children from birth to 5 years « Every weekday from 9:30am - 11:30am « Storytime daily at 10:30am « Season indoor and outdoor program «See ‘friends of Fun Bus’ Facebook page for up to date information https://www.facebook.com/groups/friendsoffunbus/

« Fun activities, arts and crafts for children 4 to 12 years « Operates Monday, Wednesday, Friday during school holidays at different locations across Darwin « Seasonal indoor and outdoor programs « See City of Darwin website for more details darwin.nt.gov.au

Discount voucher p.11

Darwin 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 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 draws everyone to the center 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.

Out & About

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.

Modern day Darwin has developed into a thriving, vibrant place but it 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.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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, Kakadu National Park, Adelaide River, Mary River, Arnhem Land and the Katherine Region.

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.

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.

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.

DID YOU KNOW A large part of Darwin’s history is that it has been the home of many aviation pioneers. It was also a check point for the London to Melbourne Centenary Air Race in 1934. The Darwin Aviation Heritage Centre gives tourists and locals alike a look into this amazing and interesting history of the port city of Darwin.

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LetsGoKids

Darwin

Voucher

# LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

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Out & About

- Darwin 5. Check out the new exhibits at the State Library (cnr Bennett & Mitchell St). They change regularly and they’re not just about books!

Times are tough? Not much money ... or ...you might just be a little bit tight!

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

6. Get the full story of the Darwin bombings at the Darwin Military Museum (p.15). The Defence “35 Things To Do On The Cheap in Darwin” of Darwin at Fannie Bay is a captivating interactive exhibition space telling the WWII history in the Top So what are you waiting for? Pack a lunch, End. Make sure you download the app before you go.

grab some friends and GO, GO, GO!!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

1. First stop is (p.46) 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. 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.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

7. Visit the historic WWII Oil Tunnels (p.13) for a glimpse of war time Darwin.

8. 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.

Learn about the Northern Territory’s history and sciences, peruse Aboriginal art or enjoy the outside harbour views. Don’t miss seeing “Sweetheart”, a five-metre crocodile captured in 1979 after a series of attacks on fishing boats.

4. Take a tour of Parliament House 9am and 11am on Saturday mornings Feb-Nov and an extra 10.30am 9. See what harsh prison life was like at Fannie Bay tour is added on Wednesdays (May to Sept).

Goal. Open daily 10-3. FREE. East Point Rd.

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Darwin -

Out & About

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

16. Spot wildlife at East Point Reserve. A favourite for the locals, you can walk, ride or drive through East Point. The reserve covers almost 200 hectares and features military history, nature walks and the opportunity to spot wallabies at dusk. Go swimming without fear of being eaten! It has a great undercover playground, BBQ area and shady picnic spots.

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

Stroll the gardens which are close to the city; wander through monsoon forests, coastal fore-dunes, mangroves and woodlands. Spot native birds and discover traditional uses of local plants on a self-guided walk. There is a visitor centre that has maps and info and an awesome children’s playground.

10. Laze by the lagoon at the Waterfront.

Build a sandcastle, go for a swim.

11. Delve into Darwin’s WWII history. For a state of the art virtual reality experience of the bombing of Darwin, the Royal Flying Doctor Tourist Precinct at Stokes Hill Wharf is a must.

13. Visit Aquascene (p.5) where at high tide you can hand feed HUGE fish. A unique experience. The littlies will love it. (costs a little).

14. 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!

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

Fun with a sunset!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

18. Grab a bike and explore Darwin on some of the dedicated cycle trails. The trails run all the way 12. Visit Lyons Cottage, on the Esplanade, also from Darwin to Palmerston. Ride one way and known as the British Australian Telegraph House, one catch the bus back! Maps are available from Darwin of the oldest buildings in Darwin; it contains displays & Palmerston Councils. on a variety of things like pearling, the early police force and the telegraph system.

19. 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!!

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Darwin

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# LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

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Out & About

- Darwin

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

20. 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!

21. 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.

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

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

Water play areas, flying foxes and more!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

26. 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!

23. Mindil Beach Markets (p.8) on Thursday nights and Sunday 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 greatest markets! April until October.

28. Have dinner and drinks at the Trailer Boat Club or Sailing Club. Super casual and perfect for families, you get a front row seat for the famous Darwin sunset.

You gotta eat, right? (costs a little).

29. Catch a movie under the stars at the Deckchair Cinema—a Darwin institution. The whole family will enjoy lying back on a their comfy chairs and watching a family movie during the dry season as the sun sets over the ocean. Hot food and drinks are available.

Kids under five are free, and there are family tickets.

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

27. Catch the ferry from Cullen Bay across to Mandorah. Take your fishing rod and cast a line from the jetty in Mandorah. A great fishing spot.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Darwin -

Out & About

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LetsGoKids Voucher

# 30. Check out the art galleries. There are several galleries in Darwin’s CBD including Mason Gallery, Mbantua Gallery and the Aboriginal Fine Arts Gallery.

Take a short trip to the inner-city suburb of Parap and visit NCCA Art, Outstation Gallery and Nomad Art.

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

33. Sit back on the beach or relax at one of Darwin’s waterfront venues as the sky turns on brilliant colours and the sun disappears into the ocean. Mindil Beach, Cullen Bay and East Point Reserve are all hot spots to get the most spectacular view of the day.

35. Subscribe to our e-newsletter to find out all the up-to-date news for families in the NT at www.letsgokids.com.au

Darwin

31. Pack a picnic or some meat to barbecue and head to Berry Springs Nature Park, a hugely popular day trip an hour from Darwin.

Swim from one pool to the next via a pretty pandanuslined creek and take your goggles to spot small fish and other aquatic life that live in the clear pools.

32. Spend a day experiencing this region’s best-known natural swimming pools at Litchfield National Park, an hour and a half from Darwin. Glide through the clear pools of Wangi and Florence Falls to thundering double waterfalls, soak in the tiered cascades at Buley Rockholes - a series of rock pools that has water cascading through them, and is a perfect place to swim with the kids.

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Out & About

- Palmerston

Palmerston is the sister city of Darwin, located just 17 kilometres away.

The city boasts more than 45,000 residents, three shopping centres, a well utilised library, a swimming and fitness centre in Moulden, a recreation centre in the city centre, a number of sporting grounds dotted in and around the city and a water park, proving it has come a long way since welcoming its first resident 35 years ago.

A must-see for families is the City’s water park, which is free to use. Take on the six-lane speed slide challenge, or enjoy the toddler’s wet area with a shallow wading pool and water activities.

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

DID YOU KNOW Council has coordinated the installation of four ‘exersites’ in the city’s local parks.

More commonly described as outdoor exercise equipment, the sites are located at Confalonieri Park, next to the Gray Community Hall President Park, Driver Durack - Woodlake Blvd, corner of Pritchardia Joan Fejo Park, Duwan Road, Rosebery.

These free to use facilities have been designed to be within easy walking distance of each other, creating a fitness trail for residents. Best of all, they’re available for everyone to use so you can get a great workout, at your own pace, at any time.

The City of Palmerston Library is also part of the Connect NT network which means you can borrow from any other public library in the NT using your City of Palmerston Library card.

Palmerston also provides a green retreat, with a wealth of picturesque open spaces providing the ideal location for a quiet BBQ or leisurely morning walk. The many kilometres of well-kept bike paths are well worth a visit for eager riders looking to explore the region.

The City of Palmerston Library is located in the City Centre at Goyder Square. Discover the library’s wide range of items for loan including books, magazines, dvd’s, comics, ebooks and emagazines.

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The Library offers an unlimited number of loans to members on all physical items.

The intention is to provide a network of cycle paths that will allow cyclists to traverse the municipality fully. Maps of cycle paths are available online.

Most paths are lit for night use. Whether you want to walk or ride for fun, fitness or even as a means of active transport, there are many shared paths to enjoy.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Palmerston -

Out & About

Palmerston

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Out & About

- Darwin’s Rural Area

Darwin’s Rural Area encompasses the towns of Humpty Doo, Howard Springs and Berry Springs.

WORTH A LOOK!

It covers the area beyond Palmerston and is situated in and around the Stuart and Arnhem Highways.

They are all located approx. 30-45 mins drive from Darwin CBD and offer some great recreational activities, sporting facilities, natural features and heaps of picnic opportunities.

Windows on the Wetlands Visitor Centre is perched on Beatrice Hill, one of the highest points on the Adelaide River floodplan. Approx 60km from Darwin along the Stuart and Arnhem Hwys, you’ll easily see the upswept line of the Visitors Centre roof, from the road.

Howard Springs Nature Park has been a recreational Humpty Doo, with a population of over 5,000 and a venue for the people of Darwin since World War II. location only 38 km from the centre of Darwin, has The Nature Park includes facilities that will provide effectively become a commuter town on the road to visitors and families with hours of fun.

Kakadu National Park.

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Located in the heart of Humpty Doo, opposite Taminmin College is the Humpty Doo Village Green.

Have fun in the skate park, children’s play equipment or unwind with a picnic or BBQ’s.

At McMinns Lagoon Recreation Reserve you can step back in time and enjoy the natural wonders of this very special place. If you have species on your bird watching list that you have not crossed off, this is the place you will find them! McMinns Lagoon is also well known for the many butterflies that flutter by.

Livingstone Recreation Reserve is located on Livingstone Rd, just off the Stuart Highway, approximately 50 kms from Darwin City.

Amenities include a large open hall, playground, oval, beach volleyball court and picnic area.

The ‘34 Mile Bistro’ is open Friday nights serving meals from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

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Darwin’s Rural Area

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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.

Its diverse habitats include monsoon forests and extensive woodlands, providing a valuable wildlife habitat.

Expires 31/03/21

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Hungry

Colourful

Cute

Prickly

Scaly At the Territory Wildlife Park, not only do you see wildlife up-close in their natural habitats, you meet them walking through tree top aviaries, strolling around a natural lagoon and even get to interact with them during daily presentations.

Wise Shy

TERRITORY WILDLIFE PARK Just 45 minutes from Darwin City Cox Peninsula Rd, Berry Springs Tel: (08) 8988 7200 Open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week Closed Christmas Day www.territorywildlifepark.com.au

Fussy

Darwin Palmerston Territory Wildlife Park

Humpty Doo

Out & About

- Darwin’s Rural Area

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Beyond Berry Springs, the Peninsula Way region has pristine landscapes and unique wildlife.

(Darwinite’s come holidaying here!)

Dundee Beach This relaxed coastal town and popular fishing spot is 140 kilometres south-west of Darwin and a popular weekend destination for Top End locals. Fishing, boating and long walks at sunset are just some of the activities to enjoy here. Dundee is a great place to target big, hard fighting sports fish.

Mandorah The beachside town of Mandorah is near the Peninsula’s tip. Within easy access of Darwin, either by a 20 minute ferry trip from Cullen Bay, or 128 kilometres along the Cox Peninsula Road.

There are excellent beaches, creek and blue water fishing opportunities and convenient boat ramp access at Mandorah.

Berry Springs Recreation Reserve is located on Cox Peninsula Rd, and is a favourite relaxation spot for locals and visitors alike.

With two large spring-fed pools and a small waterfall You can explore natural springs, wetlands and fringed by pandanus and monsoon rainforest it termite mounds rivalling those near Litchfield. makes for an ideal spot for leisurely barbecues, swimming and walking.

Visit historic World War II sites including the There are playgrounds, an oval, tennis and basketball Liberator Memorial - the crash site of a WWII Liberator bomber and the WWII bunkers, a courts and plenty of open space. submarine defence cable anchor site.

Berry Springs is also the home of the world acclaimed Territory Wildlife Park, nestled on 400 hectares of natural bushland and showcasing the Wetland Cruises at Corroboree Billabong wildlife of Northern Australia in their natural habitats. is the closest wetland cruise to Darwin. It is There are six kilometres of walking trails and a free only an hour and a quarter drive, and much shuttle train to link the 26 major exhibits. Allow at closer than going to Kakadu to see the same least four hours to explore the park. things.

Presentations and displays start from 10am daily.

Darwin’s Rural Area

DID YOU KNOW

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Darwin’s Rural Area -

SPECTACULAR

JUMPING CROCODILE CRUISES

Out & About Special Mates Rates Offer

Bring an interstate mate and get 1 Mate - 25% OFF your ticket 2 Mates - 50% OFF your ticket 3 or more mates ONE FREE Cruise

The BEST possible way to witness Proof of address may be asked *Offer valid for a limited time* the natural behaviour of these amazing Australian Saltwater Crocodiles!

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

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Out & About

- Batchelor

Batchelor marks the entrance to Litchfield National Park, one of the Northern Territory’s most beautiful and untouched parks.

Covering an area of 143 sq km it was proclaimed as a National Park in 1986. Today more than 250,000 people each year make the journey to the Park where they inspect the sandstone pillars of the Lost City; explore the monsoon rainforest; swim in the spring-fed streams; admire the waterfalls; and inspect the unusual magnetic termite mounds which point north-south to minimise heat retention.

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 pleasant waterfall garden, the farm offers budget accommodation and has a licensed cafe on site.

Batchelor

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Wangi Falls are Litchfield’s most popular attraction.

The Falls are beautiful; flow all the time; and tumble into a large swimming hole which is usually warm and pleasant. There is a 3.2 km (round trip) walking trail through rainforest to the top of the falls.

There is a large picnic area and kiosk where the ambience is that of a tropical paradise.

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Shop Darwin’s shopping experience of choice is the good old fashioned open air market!

There seems to be markets everywhere that sell clothes, jewellery, art & craft, provide massages and of course, sell food!

This is your chance to really find out what makes the Top End tick. You will find them in Nightcliff on Sunday morning, Parap on Saturday morning, Rapid Creek on Saturday & Sunday mornings and Palmerston on Friday night.

At the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, (held on Sundays and Thursdays from April) sample international cuisine from some 60 food stalls 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 smoothie as fire twirlers, musicians and street performers entertain the crowds.

Mix it with locals and travellers and feel the buzz!

There are four major Shopping Malls located in the City, Casuarina, Palmerston and Yarrawonga.

These centres boast a huge array of both large and specialty shops from the major national chains through to small boutiques, supermarkets, and they are airconditioned!

The original Darwin CBD area is centred around the Smith St Mall, with new Coles and Woolworths supermarkets only a stone’s throw away.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Food malls, clothes, a newsagent, chemists and tourist orientated shops dominate this area.

There are also shopping strips in; Parap (Parap Rd), Rapid Creek (Trower Rd), Nightcliff (Progress Dve & Dick Ward Dve), Karama Plaza (Koolinda Cres), Stuart Park and Winnellie Central along the highway in Winnellie.

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

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Eat Darwin has an abundance of casual eateries and “food experiences” that are perfect for a relaxed family meal.

DID YOU KNOW

Stokes Hill Wharf has an amazing food hall that is open nightly. You can sit alfresco or With around 75 different nationalities living in under cover and the kids will love the huge Darwin, the multicultural flavour of the Territory is batfish (and sometimes a shark) being well represented in its dining experiences. You only attracted by the lights and swimming around need to take a trip to one of the Darwin markets the wharf.

(Mindil Beach, Parap, Nighcliff or Rapid Creek) to see their influence in the many food stalls serving great value meals and snacks.

You’ll also find other authentic NT cuisine like The cuisine is heavily influenced by the proximity of mud crabs, buffalo, kangaroo, camel and crocodile.

Asia, with lots of different spices and produce used in You will see these on the menu wherever you go, so give em a try! the cooking. What is the local specialty?

Seafood of course, and in particular, Barra!

Stokes Hill Wharf is set out over Darwin Harbour

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

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.

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!!

Dip & Dine At DoubleTree Indulge in a sumptuous buffet breakfast at Aqua and Poolside restaurants and get free access to our outdoor swimming pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

LOCALS OFFER

$23 per adult

Kids under 12 - half price

Planning a kid’s party, adult function or corporate event?

Learn more about our onsite and offsite catering packages and contact our Events team on 8901 792 or email: meetinthent@hilton.com

For bookings, call 8980 0800 or visit our social media pages: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Darwin

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@doubletreehotelsdarwin

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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 2020

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Eat

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Play Charles Darwin National Park Just a short drive from the city, this park was developed to show visitors the rich mangrove habitats of Darwin Harbour.

Relics of Darwin’s involvement in WWII can also been seen here. These reinforced concrete bunkers were used for safe storage of munitions during the There is something for all tastes, no matter what the wartime action. season!!

Kakadu National Park -

Kids of all ages love to play. Darwin has some great parks, playgrounds and gardens where the whole family can walk, run, swim, climb, ride or picnic, get up close and personal with animals or just sit still and watch the world go by.

Whether its playing sport, visiting parks or the beach, petting an animal or ‘tearing it up’ at an awesome playground.

Here is a selection of places for you to try!

PARKS

The largest in Australia. 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.

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Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Litchfield National Park The 1,500 sq km2 park is an easy 1.5 hours 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 Northern Territory 2020

Start Here, re Go Anywhe

Katherine High School Grevillea Rd, Katherine

YMCA, Sadadeen Road, Alice Springs

Wills Terrace, Alice Springs

Marrara Sporting Complex 10 Abala Road Marrara

69 Progress Drive, Nightcliff

32 Toupein Road, Yarrawonga

Nhulunbuy Highschool Flinders Way, Nhulunbuy

426 Stuart Highway Winnellie

Play

rugby

Juniors | Seniors | Women’s | Men’s | 7s | XVs

P: 8945 1444 | E: info@ntrugby.com.au | W: ntrugby.com.au 32

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Play PLAYGROUNDS

Mindil Beach Playground Located at the parkland near Mindil Beach, this playground will offer plenty of fun and excitement.

Two slippery slides, climbing frames, and a noughts and crosses game can be found at this playground. Little ones and big kids can play and have fun and do their outdoor exercise at the same time.

Playground at the Darwin Waterfront The playground is situated between the Coffee Club and Trampoline Gelato, surrounded by a lush green lawn.

It has a big shade area and also big trees around it.

There are some benches around and a bike rack provided close by. The play equipment caters for children between two to eight years of age with a slide, tunnels, a mini climbing wall, a pod swing and a balance trail.

This playground complements the existing water recreation facilities, free Wi-Fi and numerous surrounding businesses including restaurants, cafes, takeaways and retailers around The Darwin Waterfront.

Children Play Area at George Brown Botanic Garden There is hidden nature play area for children at George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens.

It is located beside Eva’s Cafe and hidden behind the green bushes and big trees. What makes this playground different is they use nature as a play area and the play equipment, such as small bush, bamboo trees and big rocks.

It has a maze built from small bushes. This maze is more suitable for little ones as big children might not feel challenged enough.

The big kids might enjoy a game of hide and seek amongst the bamboo trees. What makes this playground stunning is the 3 storey cubby house, that is made from an old fallen tree as the base. There is a slippery slide at the bottom of the first cubby house.

The Quarter - Casuarina Square Shopping Centre The children’s play area features a tunnel, slides, climbing wall, percussion music instruments and sensory activities.

The Quarter also has a small performance space and kids activities area nearby where you can join Free Toddler Sessions every Tuesdays starting 9.30am until 11.00am. Local artists will accompany children with songs, stories and other activities. You can stay updated with the Free Tuesdays Toddler program on their website.

An interactive water playground can also be found here with a water play maze, large granite spinning ball and water fountain.

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Play Want to learn to bowl?

Ask us how.

At The Planet, we have lanes, virtual reality movie rides, an indoor playground, pool tables, arcade games and a licensed café with good coffee and all your favourite snacks.

The Planet is a great place to meet up with friends or family with activities for all ages and abilities.

Looking for a venue for your event? We host birthday parties and events on our lanes and kids parties in the playground. We can create a space for you or you can hire out our whole centre – call us to talk more about your event needs.

69 Progress Dr, Nightcliff - (08) 8985 4416 info@planettenpin.com.au - www.planettenpin.com.au

Bicentennial Park Play Space- The Esplanade It is an innovative play space for kids of all ages with loads of great features for different ages and abilities.

Pit Stop Playground in The Mall As part of the Vibrant Darwin initiative, the Pit Stop Playground has 2 separate play spaces complete with a giant fan to tackle Darwin’s hot weather.

The giant fan above the playground is not only helping make the play area cooler but also this giant construction has a wow factor for the little ones.

WATER PARKS

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.

Rapid Creek Waters Gardens – A great place to take the family for a day out.

Kids can explore the beautifully landscaped tropical gardens with ponds and water features or go on an adventure on the shaded boat themed playground.

Take bikes for a ride along the many paths or hit the skate park with skateboards or scooters.

Darwin Waterfront Wave Lagoon Has a sensational wave pool and a stinger netted swimming lagoon. Both are lifeguard patrolled and have change facilities with toilets. There is also plenty of shade cover to relax on the lush lawns.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The breathtaking feature of this play space is a 10 metres high custom climbing net with sky cabin at the top and slippery slide from the sky cabin to the ground.

There is a colourful cubby house, net twister, multispiner, tele tubes, flying fox and more.

There is a water play area which includes a big pump that will fill up a bucket and spin the spinning blades as the water runs through.

There is also a lower water play area set for the little ones. Darwin weather allows you to enjoy this water play area almost all year long.

Muirhead Playground Such an amazing playground! It has a brilliant waterplay section where kids can pump water and it flows through various sections, wheels and dams - It has soaring shade sails and grassy areas and picnic tables. It also has some soft mounds and concrete climbing walls and a huge rope web area.

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Palmerston Water Park There are also two wet play areas. The play pad for children 10 years and under features sprays, water curtains and a shallow wading pool.

The splash pad for children six years and above features more active water cannons, buckets and high intensity interactive play. The centrepiece of the park is a six lane racer water slide that Top End locals and visitors will be able to enjoy.

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Buy one full priced game of bowling, virtual reality ride or entry into the playground and receive the second game, ride or entry FREE! 69 Progress Dr, Nightcliff, Darwin - P. (08) 8985 4416 LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

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Play PARTY

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.33).

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.11). 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.33) take care of those looking forward to having a bit of friendly competition at their special event.

Definitely one for the sports minded!

At Timezone 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.33), where you can design your own party package with bowling and use of the playcentre.

Check out Palmerston’s newest addition for Kids, Adventure Land Playcentre (p.16).

Indoor Activities

The Playshack Playcentre (p.33) 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.33) Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 8am-7pm. www.flightpathgolf.com 08 8947 1257 The Planet Ten Pin (p.33) Mon 9am - 7pm,Tue 9am - 8pm, Wed-Fri 9am 9.30pm, Sat 9am - 10pm, Sun 10am - 7pm.

69 Progress Drive, Nightclif, 08 8985 4416 Flip Out Mon & Wed 9am – 6pm.Tue,Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun 9am - 5pm. 1/11 Osgood Drive, Eaton 08 7915 1099 Timezone Casuarina Sun-Thurs 10am – 10am, Fri – Sat 10am–11am Casuarina Square, 1300 421 567 Kingpin Darwin Mon-Thur 11am – 10pm, Fri 11am – 12am, Sat 9am – 12am, Sun 9am – 10.30pm 1 Neale St, Darwin Darwin Ice Skating Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Fri 9.30am - 7pm, Sat 9.30am 9.30pm, Sun 9.30am - 5pm Osgood Drive, Darwin, 0431 053 968

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

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

Gymnastics Northern Territory Phone 08 8927 9262 I www.gymnt.com.au

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

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

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

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Katherine The outback meets the tropics in Katherine, a big country town three hours’ drive south of Darwin on the mighty Katherine River.

The jewel of this area is the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, but there’s so much more to see and do.

Katherine and its surrounds has great fishing, hidden natural wonders and a rich indigenous and pioneering history.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The Gorge sees the Katherine River flows through 13 separate gorges that carve their way through the Arnhem Land Plateau.

Out & About

Waterfalls and rock pools are found along more than 100 kilometres of walking tracks, beginning at the Park’s visitor centre.

As well as Nitmiluk, Katherine offers a wide range of accommodation, facilities and attractions, including museums, art galleries and historic sites.

Join a two-hour cultural experience at Top Didj.

Learn the Rarrk painting (cross hatch) technique and paint your own artwork to take home.

You’ll learn how to light a fire from sticks and try your hand at throwing a boomerang and a spear.

Afterwards, wander through the Katherine Art Gallery, which has one of the area’s best Aboriginal art collections.

WORTH A LOOK!

You can canoe, cruise and swim between sheer cliffs to the sandy freshwater beaches of the main gorges, and view ancient Aboriginal rock paintings high on the rock faces.

Dine under the stars on a true Aussie bush tucker dinner at Marksie’s Stockman’s Camp, in the grounds of the Katherine Art Gallery.

Meet ‘Marksie’, a true Territory character whose stories will have you in stitches. Enjoy a traditional camp oven meal by the camp fire and be entertained by great Aussie humour, a campfire sing-along, a ‘damper on a stick’ (the bush version of an ice-cream) and a billy spinning competition.

Katherine

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Out & About

- Katherine Housed in an original World War II air terminal, the charming Katherine Museum preserves a wide and eclectic collection of Aboriginal artefacts, photographs, furniture, maps, tools and pioneer memorabilia.

A short drive south of Katherine, go underground at the Cutta Cutta Caves. Take the winding boardwalk down through the Cutta Cutta Caves, one of Australia’s only tropical limestone cave systems,

Take the raised walking path to a viewing platform where you can see the source of the spring water, which is a constant average of 32 degrees—perfect for swimming in all year round.

Comprised of a series of clear pools, the sparkling blue springs are framed by native vegetation. There is also a walking track that takes you from the springs to a nature reserve. The grassed surrounds offer shady spots aplenty – just right for a picnic.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Take in the Katherine Outback Experience with award-winning country music artist and horseman Tom Curtain.

This 90-minute show will give you a taste of life on a real outback Australian cattle station. Watch Tom break-in a wild horse and see how his clever working dogs muster cattle. During the show, Tom performs his country music and tells colourful stories about the bush.

See the Overland Telegraph display of objects dating back to 1872, the planetarium made by a Russian peanut farmer and the first flying doctor, Dr Clyde Fenton’s De Havilland Gypsy Moth plane he flew in the 1930s.

After a busy day exploring, relax your muscles in the clear water of Katherine Hot Springs on the banks of the Katherine River, just outside the Katherine township.

See fascinating stalactites of all shapes and sizes sprouting from the ceiling and crystals that look like spun sugar adorning the walls.

Katherine

The caves shelter the rare ghost bat and horseshoe bat. Guided one-hour tours run daily.

The caves are 30km south of Katherine.

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Katherine -

Out & About

Knotts Crossing is the site of the “overland telegraph line” crossing and also the original horseback crossing from an era gone by.

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 town has several great accommodation options for families including the Ibis (see opposite) and Knotts Crossing or St Andrew’s Apartments.

When looking for somewhere to eat the Katherine Club (see below) has kids’ menus AND a huge playground with a jumping pillow.

WORTH A LOOK! Take a one-hour drive to the township of Mataranka for a swim in the famous sandybottomed Mataranka Thermal Pool or in the nearby Bitter Springs. Bitter Springs is an unexpected and largely secret treasure within Elsey National Park. Nestled amongst palm forest and water lilies, it’s also a heavenly place to unwind after a long day of driving.

Katherine

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

39

Out & About

- Alice Springs

Alice is often referred to as the “heart” of Australia. It is basically smack bang right in the middle of our vast country and 1500km from any capital city! (This means to go to the beach is a very, very long drive!!)

WORTH A LOOK!

To finish off the day, make the most of the clear skies in the Red Centre and gaze at the thousands of stars overhead at the Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre. Learn how to navigate and identify the zodiac and constellations in the night sky and hear ancient Aboriginal stories of creation.

It is the town that everybody associates with “The Outback” and is Australia’s most famous outback town.

“Alice” is an intriguing place that hosts a jam-packed calendar of festivals, celebrations and quirky events like Finke Desert Race, the Alice Springs Beanie Festival, the Henley-on-Todd, the Camel Cup and the Alice Desert Festival.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Alice Springs Desert Park is a ‘must see’ for everyone visiting Alice Springs. By visiting the Desert Park, kids get to know many secrets of Central Australia.

The park is divided into 3 separate habitats – Desert Rivers, Sand Country and Woodland – each offering unique plants and wildlife to its visitors. Children will especially enjoy the Desert River habitat where they can get to walk among a herd of kangaroos.

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.

This ruggedly beautiful town is shaped by its mythical landscapes, vibrant Aboriginal culture and tough pioneering past.

Alice Springs

School of the Air Visitor Centre

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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 MArch - nOveMber 08 8951 6834 Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm

Sun & Public H’Days 1.00pm to 4.30pm Last Tour 4pm DeceMber - FebruArY Mon- Friday 8.30am-4.30am Sat 1pm-4.30pm, Sun & PH Closed

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

Closed Good Fri and 25 Dec - 1 Jan

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Alice Springs -

Out & About

#

LetsGoKids Voucher Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

It is the home of The Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The School of the Air (see below) 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.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

#

The stories of Australian history and heritage overflow in Alice Springs, with a rich cast of characters, including Afghan cameleers, flying doctors and outback explorers. Today it is possible to visit memorials to their efforts at various sites around the town.

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

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.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

The Alice Springs School of the Air (p.38) provides an insight into a little known but crucially important aspect of Outback life.

The School is the world’s largest classroom. There are plenty of families in Australia’s sparsely 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.

Take a tour and 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.

Alice Springs

The Royal Flying Doctor Service, informally known as The Flying Doctor, is one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organizations in the world. It provides emergency and primary health care services for those living in rural, remote, and regional areas of Australia.

It is a not-for-profit organization which provides health care to people who cannot access a hospital or general practice – due to the vast distances of the Outback.

Built along the Overland Telegraph Line in the 1870s, the Telegraph Station continued to operate until 1932.

Now, the building has been faithfully restored.

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- Alice Springs

DID YOU KNOW 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.

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 Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge and Redbank Gorge offer refreshing relief on a scorching day.

Alice Springs

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The Museum of Central Australia contains a Natural History collection and recalls the days of “megafauna” when hippo-sized wombats and 3 metre/10 feet tall flightless birds roamed the land. Among the geological displays are meteorite fragments and fossils.

42

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Out & About

Watch So you’ve had enough playing and now it’s time to kick back, catch a movie, see a show or go along to the ground and cheer on your favourite team.

Local AFL, Rugby League and Union competitions run year round and this year the pros hit town on 24th April with the Parramatta Eels taking on the Brisbane Broncos at TIO Stadium in Darwin.

On May 17th in Alice Springs for the seventh year in a row the Melbourne Demons will continue their association with the Territory as they battle the Adelaide Crows. This is followed on the 13th June by the Gold Coast Suns v St Kilda Saints in Darwin.

So whatever your speed – Go on, get out there!

CINEMA Gateway Cinemas 1 Roystonea Avenue, Yarrawonga eventcinemas.com.au

(08) 8932 5169

Alice Springs Cinema Todd Plaza 11 Todd St alicespringscinema.com.au

(08) 8953 2888

Casuarina Cinemas Casuarina Shopping Centre eventcinemas.com.au

(08) 8945 7777

Deckchair Cinema Darwin 61 Jervois Dr deckchaircinemas.com

(08) 8981 0700

Katherine Cinema 3 20 First St katherinecinemas.com.au

(08) 8971 2522

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Theatres

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Brown’s Mart Theatre Darwin 12 Smith St brownsmart.com.au

(08) 8981 5522

Darwin Entertainment Centre Darwin Plaza yourcentre.com.au

(08) 8980 3333

Araluen Arts Centre 61 Larapinta Dr, Araluen araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

(08) 8951 1122

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Watch The Gabba AFL 2020 Fixture Rnd

4 6 8 10 14 15 17 19 21 23

Date

9 Apr 25 Apr 8 May 23 May 19 Jun 25 Jun 11 Jul 26 Jul 8 Aug TBC

Match

Brisbane Lions v. Collingwood Brisbane Lions v. Sydney Swans Brisbane Lions v. Richmond Brisbane Lions v. Gold Coast Suns Brisbane Lions v. Melbourne Brisbane Lions v. Hawthorn Brisbane Lions v. Geelong Cats Brisbane Lions v. St Kilda Brisbane Lions v. West Coast Eagles Brisbane Lions v. Essendon

SCG AFL 2020 Fixture Rnd

4 5 7 10 12 14 16 18 21 23

Date

12 Apr 18 Apr 3 May 22 May 6 Jun 18 Jun 4 Jul 18 Jul 8 Aug TBC

Match

Sydney Swans v. Carlton Sydney Swans v. GWS Giants Sydney Swans v. North Melbourne Sydney Swans v. Geelong Cats Sydney Swans v. Fremantle Sydney Swans v. Collingwood Sydney Swans v. Western Bulldogs Sydney Swans v. Port Adelaide Sydney Swans v. Gold Coast Suns Sydney Swans v. Hawthorn

Metricon Stadium AFL 2020 Fixture Rnd

Date

3 5 7 9 12 16 18 20 22

5 Apr 18 Apr 2 May 16 May 6 Jun 5 Jul 18 Jul 2 Aug 15 Aug

Rnd

Date

Match

Gold Coast Suns v. Sydney Swans Gold Coast Suns v. Melbourne Gold Coast Suns v. Adelaide Crows Gold Coast Suns v. West Coast Eagles Gold Coast Suns v. Hawthorn Gold Coast Suns v. Carlton Gold Coast Suns v. Richmond Gold Coast Suns v. Fremantle Gold Coast Suns v. Brisbane Lions

Optus Stadium AFL 2020 Fixture Rnd

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

7

24 April

Eels vs. Broncos

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, Bronwyn Wilson and Cassie Wilson.

Download advert & listing specs from our website www.letsgokids.com.au Š Copyright 2020

44

4 Apr 11 Apr 17 Apr 26 Apr 3 May 9 May 17 May 24 May 30 May 11 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jun 5 Jul 12 Jul 18 Jul 26 Jul 1 Aug 8 Aug 14 Aug TBC

Match

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

GIANTS Stadium AFL 2020 Fixture Rnd

Date

Match

8 9 11 15 17 19 22

9 MAY 16 MAY 30 MAY 27 JUNE 11 JULY 25 JULY 15 AUG

GWS Giants v Collingwood GWS Giants v. St Kilda GWS Giants v Adelaide Crows GWS Giants v Richmond GWS Giants v Essendon GWS Giants v Sydney Swans GWS Giants v Fremantle

Rnd

Date

TIO Stadium - Darwin AFL 2020 Fixture 13

13 June

Match

Gold Coast Suns vs. St Kilda

TIO Stadium - Alice Springs AFL 2020 Fixture

TIO Stadium Darwin NRL 2020 Fixture Match

Date

Rnd

9

Date

17 May

Match

Melbourne vs. Adelaide Crows

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 2020

Watch AFL 2020 Fixture - For All Melbourne Venues July 2

Round 16 Essendon v Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium

July 4 July 4 July 5

Collingwood v Brisbane Lions Richmond v Port Adelaide North Melbourne v GWS Giants

MCG Marvel Stadium Marvel Stadium

July 10

Round 17 Richmond v Collingwood

MCG

July 11 July 11 July 12

Melbourne v St Kilda Western Bulldogs v Fremantle Carlton v Sydney Swans

MCG Marvel Stadium Marvel Stadium

July 17

Round 18 Collingwood v Geelong Cats

MCG

July 18

Hawthorn v GWS Giants

MCG

July 18 July 19 July 19

St Kilda v. Western Bulldogs Essendon v North Melbourne Carlton v Brisbane Lions

Marvel Stadium MCG Marvel Stadium

July 25

Round 19 Carlton v West Coast Eagles

MCG

Marvel Stadium

July 25

Essendon v Adelaide Crows

Marvel Stadium

Richmond v GWS Giants

MCG

July 26

Richmond v Western Bulldogs

MCG

May 2

Western Bulldogs v. Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium

May 3

Essendon v Melbourne

MCG

Aug 1

Round 20 Essendon v Collingwood

MCG

Aug 1

St Kilda v Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium

Round 4 Date Apr 10

Match North Melbourne v Western Bulldogs

Venue Marvel Stadium

Apr 11

Richmond v Adelaide Crows

MCG

Apr 11

Essendon v GWS Giants

Marvel Stadium

Apr 12 Apr 13

St Kilda v Melbourne Geelong v Hawthorn

Marvel Stadium MCG

Apr 18

Round 5 Collingwood v Port Adelaide

MCG

Apr 18

Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions

Marvel Stadium

Apr 19

Hawthorn v Carlton

Marvel Stadium

Apr 24

Round 6 Melbourne v Richmond

MCG

Apr 25

Collingwood v Essendon

MCG

Apr 26 Apr 26

Carlton v North Melbourne St Kilda v Adelaide Crows

MCG Marvel Stadium

May 1

Round 7 Collingwood v St Kilda

May 2

Round 8 May 9

Geelong v Essendon

MCG

Aug 1

North Melbourne v Carlton

Marvel Stadium

May 9

St Kilda v Carlton

Marvel Stadium

Aug 2

Melbourne v Sydney Swans

MCG

May 10 May 10

Melbourne v Port Adelaide North Melbourne v Hawthorn

MCG Marvel Stadium

Aug 8

Round 21 Collingwood v Melbourne

MCG

May 15

Richmond v Geelong

MCG

Aug 9

Carlton v Richmond

MCG

May 16

North Melbourne v Essendon

Marvel Stadium

Aug 9

Western Bulldogs v North Melbourne

May 16 May 17

Hawthorn v Sydney Swans Carlton v Collingwood

MCG MCG

Round 9

St Kilda v Fremantle

Marvel Stadium

May 23

Essendon v Richmond

MCG

May 24 May 24

Melbourne v Western Bulldogs Collingwood v North Melbourne

MCG Marvel Stadium

May 29

Round 11 Hawthorn v Melbourne

MCG

May 30

Richmond v Sydney Swans

MCG

May 30 May 31 May 31

Western Bulldogs v Carlton Essendon v Gold Coast Suns Collingwood v West Coast Eagles

Marvel Stadium Marvel Stadium MCG

June 6

Round 12 Carlton v GWS Giants

Marvel Stadium

June 7

Richmond v North Melbourne

MCG

June 7 June 8

St Kilda v Port Adelaide Melbourne v Collingwood

Marvel Stadium MCG

June 12

Hawthorn v Geelong

June 13

Western Bulldogs v GWS Giants

Round 13 MCG Marvel Stadium

Round 14 June 20

Essendon v St Kilda

Marvel Stadium

June 21

Richmond v West Coast Eagles

MCG

June 26 June 27 June 27 June 28 June 28

Round 15 Western Bulldogs v Essendon Melbourne v Gold Coast Suns Carlton v Geelong Collingwood v Adelaide Crows St Kilda v Sydney Swans

Marvel Stadium MCG Marvel Stadium MCG Marvel Stadium

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Aug 15

Melbourne v Carlton

MCG

Aug 15

Essendon v Sydney Swans

Marvel Stadium

Aug 16

St Kilda v Geelong

Marvel Stadium

Aug 16

Richmond v Hawthorn

MCG

TBC

Round 23 Western Bulldogs v West Coast Eagles

Marvel Stadium

TBC

Carlton v St Kilda

Marvel Stadium

TBC

Collingwood v Gold Coast Suns

MCG

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Round 10 May 23

Marvel Stadium

Round 22

Looking for tickets to the game?

Ticketek - Adelaide, SCG, Metricon, MCG. 13 28 49 Ticketmaster - Optus, Gabba, Marvel.

13 61 00

45

Stay Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Whatever your budget, families are really well catered for in the NT. From Darwin right down to Alice, there are hotels, motels, family apartments, holiday parks, B&B’s and even the good old bush camping sites available everywhere.

The accommodations listed below have been chosen by our researchers for their family friendliness, special deals or features for kids.

LetsGoKids will get it right!!!

Darwin - CBD Hotels -

Litchfield - Batchelor Butterfly Farm (p.24) has cabins and also a homestay option in amongst the beautiful butterflies. It is situated only 20 minutes from the gorgeous rock holes and waterfalls.

Travelodge has hotel rooms and apartments, with a great pool area for kids and a true tropical feel.

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.

Hilton Doubletree (see below) and the Argus Hotel (see opposite) have family rooms close to everything.

Quest Berrimah is located close to all attractions and has the comforts to make you feel right at home.

Quest Palmerston offers self contained rooms with all amenities and is a great place for basing yourself to explore Darwin’s Rural Areas and the City.

If you are looking for a Holiday Park, Howard Springs has FREE Wi-Fi, a new playground and jumping pillow and a great pool area.

Alice Springs - You can’t go past MacDonnell Range Caravan Park (p.40) and its FREE pancake breakfast. They also run Movie Nights during the school holidays!!

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

Dip & Dine At DoubleTree Indulge in a sumptuous buffet breakfast at Aqua and Poolside restaurants and get free access to our outdoor swimming pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

LOCALS OFFER

$23 per adult

Kids under 12 - half price

Planning a kid’s party, adult function or corporate event?

Learn more about our onsite and offsite catering packages and contact our Events team on 8901 792 or email: meetinthent@hilton.com

For bookings, call 8980 0800 or visit our social media pages: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Darwin

46

@doubletreehotelsdarwin

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Stay

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

47

Wot’s On The Territory is alive and happening all year round with family events and activities.

We want YOU! Yes, YOU! We want you and your family to take advantage of all these great family events, activities, shows, movies, concerts and sporting events that we have listed.

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, head to the “Wots 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 app for info, vouchers and up to date news, events and offers. HAVE FUN! All Year Every Tuesday and Thursday

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Rhyme Time For ages 3 to 24 months and their grownups. These sessions are suitable for the age ranges specified. If you have older children also, please consider one of our other programs for your family. Clap and move to our Rhyme Time sessions. We’ll explore rhymes, songs and finger play. Interact with your baby to nurture the pre-literacy, language and social skills. This is a ticketed program 10am Tuesday - Karama Library. 10am Thursday - Nightcliff Library

Every Friday from April - October

Palmerston Markets Fresh fruit and veg, local arts, entertainment and a range of delicious cuisine from around the globe - Are an experience for the senses! Held at Goyder Square every Friday night during the dry, the Markets are a cornerstone of the City’s unique culture.

From 5.00pm, stop by and grab dinner on your way home, pick up your weekly fruit and veggies, or simply sit back and enjoy the local entertainment and performers - the Markets cater to the entire community.

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

Every Saturday

Katherine Community Market Live entertainment, kids activities, and plenty of shade to sit under to soak up the community atmosphere.

Come down and support local small business, check out some of Katherine’s best arts and crafts talent, stock up on fresh produce, and fill up on yummy food and drinks.

Dry season - Saturday from 8am – 12:30pm at the Lindsay St Complex.

Every Saturday

Family Story Time Our weekend Story Time includes songs, rhymes and stories which celebrate reading, books and using the library with your family. All ages are welcome to attend. No tickets are needed for this event.

10am Saturday - Casuarina Library. 10am Saturday - Darwin City Library

Every Saturday

Parap Markets Every Saturday morning the Parap Village Markets entice and delight with bustling colourful 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 available at market prices and enjoy locally grown vegetables, herbs, asian greens and exotic fruits the likes you’ve never seen.Wander through the markets to 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. 8am - 2pm (rain or shine). Parap Village Shopping Centre (itself a local treasure!), Parap Road, just five minutes from the CBD.

Every Sunday from March to December

Todd Mall Markets An annu­al out­door mar­ket held on Sun­days in the Todd Mall, , between mid-March and ear­ly Decem­ber, fea­tur­ing local pro­duce, arts, crafts and food. 9am – 1pm. 93 Todd Street Alice Springs.

Every Sunday

Aqua Fitness in the Wave Lagoon Make 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.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

Wot’s On April 11th April

11th April

29th April

May 9th May

Easter Saturday Extravaganza Mr & Mrs Easter Bunny will be nestled in their majestic Bunny Burrow, giving children the opportunity to 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 and an inflatable obstacle course. Dance the day away with a live kids’ DJ on the lawns playing festive songs to get you in the Easter spirit. Hyper the Clown will be moulding and making balloon twisting fun and Yenz Entertainment will be sprinkling about their face glitter and sand art magic.

Fairy Jill’s Enchanted Entertainment will entertain with a free circus workshop and giant bubble play and The Burning Circus will get kids crafting at their Easter art station.

Enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch from the surrounding Waterfront retailers, pack a picnic and settle in for a day jam packed with fun or grab a sausage sizzle and stroll between the festivities.

From 10am. 7 Kitchener Drive , Darwin Waterfront.

Alice Springs Cup Carnival Event Join us for a day of fash­ion, fun, enter­tain­ment and qual­i­ty rac­ing with the stun­ning Mac­Don­nell Ranges as the backdrop. Coun­try rac­ing nev­er looked better.

11:00am - 6:00pm. Alice Springs - Pioneer Park Racecourse My Robot When Ophelia moves with her family to the seaside, she’s not impressed. She doesn’t like the beach, misses her old home and thinks the people in this town are pretty strange. While unpacking her room she discovers a mysterious box full of gadgets, parts and pieces, and a strange note that reads ‘You. Make. Me.’ Her curiosity gets the better of her and she spends all night assembling the objects into Olivetti, a robot with a typewriter chest and an alarm clock heart. Made up of pieces, but more than the sum of her parts.

Children will discover that we’re all just made from pieces and that when we feel less than whole we can find – or make – a part that fits.

11.00am and 6.00pm. Darwin Entertainment Centre, Studio Theatre Full Price: $25.00, Members: $20.00, Concession: $20.00, Child 3-15: $15.00, Family: $72.00 Big Day Out in Harmony The Alice Springs Town Council and Multicultural Community Services of Central Australia invite you to celebrate the rich and diverse community of Alice Springs with music, cultural dance, ethnic foods, henna hand painting, hair braiding, Ethiopian coffee ceremony, Taekwondo and lots of activities for children.

12:00pm - 4:30pm. Alice Springs Town Council Lawns

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

49

Wot’s On June 5th - 7th June

5th - 8th June

Tatts Finke Desert Race Cars and Bikes tack­le the 230km track in the first day of rac­ing, from Alice Springs to Finke, in Aus­trali­a’s FASTEST and ULTI­MATE Desert Race. Com­peti­tors pass through 4 check­points sit­u­at­ed along the track with 12,000 spec­ta­tors camped along the track to wit­ness some of the tough­est and most gru­elling rac­ing in out­back Australia. ​“Finke” as it is com­mon­ly known, is one of the biggest annu­al sport­ing events in the North­ern Ter­ri­to­r y has the rep­u­ta­tion of being one of the most dif­fi­cult offroad cours­es in one of the most remote places in the world. Finke is unique and the most fun you can have with a hel­met on.

Finke Desert Race Start Finish Line Precinct.

26th - 29th June

Alice Springs Beanie Festival The biggest Beanie Fes­ti­val in the world. Over 500 beanie mak­ers cre­at­ing 6800 incred­i­ble bean­ies come togeth­er from around the globe for a fab­ul­ous, inspir­ing week­end full of tex­ture, colours, warm and joy. With live enter­tain­ment, 30 tex­tile work­shops includ­ing some host­ed by remote Indige­nous Art­sits from Cen­tral Aus­tralia, chil­dren’s craft and the Inter­na­tion­al Beanie Com­pe­ti­tion show­cas­ing some of the wildest head­wear ever created. Araluen Arts Centre

July 1st July

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.

3rd - 4th July

Alice Springs Show 2020 The Alice Springs Show is com­mit­ted to bring­ing the best of our com­mu­ni­ty togeth­er for blue rib­bon com­pe­ti­tions, enter­tain­ment, stalls and so much more. Sup­port­ing the agri­cul­tur­al and pas­toral enter­pris­es of the region since 1960, the Alice Springs Show is the largest com­mu­ni­ty based event in Alice Springs.

Come and see your old favourites, and dis­cov­er some­thing new. Blatherskite Park Showgrounds

23rd - 25th July

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.

August 2nd August

6th - 23rd August

50

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, welcomed by the traditional owners.

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

Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta This iconic annual family fun event of Darwin was established in 1974 and is an event for all to use your imagination to design a vessel from cans as well as plastic bottle or milk carton as long as it floats. There is plenty of activities for the kids and a fun day out at the beautiful Mindil beach. There are prizes including cash to be won. Register your boats and teams in the ‘packages’ and increase your chances of being rewarded with great cash prizes. The day includes sandcastle competitions, running races, thong throwing competitions, kayaking races, team events, and of course the big finale event ‘The Battle of Mindil’. Entry Gold Coin Donation.

Darwin Festival 2020 Darwin 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. 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.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2020

# BeDifferent BeDarwin

@casuarinasquare facebook.com/cassquare casuarinasquare.com.au _CASSQUARE FREE WiFi

Discover over 200 stores at Casuarina Square, the number one fashion, dining and entertainment destination in the Northern Territory.

Offering families a variety of fun-filled events all year round including free school holiday activities, Shopping Festivals, our Water and Kids Play and much more!

Visit casuarinasquare.com.au for details