NT Life_Layout 1 15/05/12 10:08 AM Page 1
Photo courtesy of Paul Arnold
“T he Nor t her n Te r ritor y - las t of the g re at frontier s - beauti f u l , n atu r al , vas t�
Kakadu National Park
Contents 8. Wel c om e: You have chos e n to v is it the Northe r n Te r ritor y, o n e o f th e mo s t rem arkabl e and unique places in the world and we welcome yo u . 10. Or ien t at ion: Unique, majes tic and multicultural, the No r th e r n Te r r i to r y showc ases t he t r ue e s s e nce of Aus tralia. 17. Dar w in: Dar win is the g ateway to s ome of the world’s g re ate s t ad ve n tu re pl ayg rounds. 34. F ish in g in t he Top End: T he pris tine coas tal water s are wh e re s o me o f th e best t ropic al sportfis hing action in the world tak e s place. 36. A bor iginal Culture: T he Ter ritor y ’s norther n reaches e n co mp as s a cu l tu re r ich in ar t ist ic h eritage. 41. C uisine: Dar win's cuis ine re f le cts its dive r s e mixture of mo re th an 6 0 n at ional it ies an d of fe r s ye ar- round wate rfront dining to s uit al l mo o d s an d budget s. 55. S hopping: T he Darwin s hopping s ce ne is boutique in s ty l e an d e cl e cti c. 82. K akadu: World Heritage - lis ted K ak adu National Park is a l an d s cap e o f c on t r ast s. 87. K at h er in e: T h e r e g i o n o f f e r s g r e a t f i s h i n g , h i d d e n n a t u r a l w o n d e r s a n d a rich indigenous and pioneering history 94. A l ic e S pr in gs : T he re are a numbe r of attractions located i n Al i ce Sp r i n gs t h at w il l provide you with a good under s tanding of life in th e Re d Ce n tre.
NTLIFE is a publication by DarwinLife Pty Ltd Shop 2/48 Cavenagh Street, Darwin NT 0800 t: 8981 2600 e: ntlife@darwinlifemag.com www.darwinlifemag.com
T h a n k y o u t o To u r i s m N T
P hot o c our t e s y o f P a u l A rn o l d - N i g h tc l i ff Jetty
A WARM
WELCOME Yo u h a v e c h o s e n t o v i s i t t h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y, o n e o f t h e m o s t remarkable and unique places in the world and we welcome you. T here is so much to do, see and experience during your time here. Fr o m d i s c o v e r i n g l i v i n g A b o r i g i n a l c u l t u r e r i c h i n t r a d i t i o n s m o r e than 50,000 year s old, to wandering through our bright and c o l o u r f u l c i t i e s , t h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y i s j u s t w a i t i n g f o r y o u t o explore. T h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y i s A u s t r a l i a ’ s r e a l O u t b a c k a n d h o m e t o the iconic natural wonder s of K akadu National Park in the north a n d U l u r u / Ay e r s R o c k i n t h e R e d C e n t r e . O u r s p e c t a c u l a r f l o r a and fauna varies dramatically between the deserts of Central A u s t r a l i a a n d t h e t r o p i c s o f t h e To p E n d ; i t i s a p h o t o g r a p h e r s dream and an adventurers playg round. The NT is filled with fascinating characters, awe-inspiring landscapes and singular experiences. Do you imagine your self in a remarkable and unique destination filled with culture, colour a n d a d v e n t u r e ? Yo u d o n ’ t h a v e t o i m a g i n e i t ; y o u a r e a l r e a d y h e r e .
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P hoto cou rtesy o f Paul Ar nold - Ubir r Suns et
ORIENTA
TION
Parliament House - Darwin
T h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y i s s i t u a t e d i n t h e N o r t h o f A u s t r a l i a n e s t l e d b e t w e e n We s t e r n A u s t r a l i a , S o u t h A u s t r a l i a a n d Q u e e n s l a n d . I t i s often called the Doorway to Asia due to its close proximity to Indonesia and beyond.
Photo courtesy of Paul Arnold
U n i q u e , m a j e s t i c a n d m u l t i c u l t u r a l , t h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y s h o w c a s e s t h e t r u e e s s e n c e o f Au s t r a l i a . Wi t h a n a bu n d a n c e o f n at u r a l resources, a thriving population and a positive outlook for the future, the NT is home to an amazing ar ray of people, places and adventures. Fr o m w a t e r f a l l s t o d e s e r t s , f r o m r i v e r s t o w i l d e s c a r p m e n t s , f r o m m a j e s t i c b i rd s t o c r a z y c ro c o d i l e s t h e N T d i s p l ay s n at u re at i t ’s f i n e s t . Tr a v e l t h e l e n g t h a n d b r e a d t h o f t h e Te r r i t o r y a n d y o u w i l l e x p e r i e n c e a n a d v e n t u r e l i k e n o o t h e r. V i s i t I n d i g e n o u s c o m m u n i t i e s and discover the traditions and customs of the oldest living race in t h e w o r l d . Wa n d e r t h r o u g h o u r c i t i e s a n d t o w n s a n d t a l k w i t h t h e locals. Enjoy our arts and culture, our sport and events, our unique way of life. T h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y h a s i t a l l . D i s c o v e r, e x p e r i e n c e a n d e n j o y.
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Beer Can Regatta Mindil Beach
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DARWIN D a r w i n i s t h e N o r t h e r n Te r r i t o r y ’s c a p i t a l ; a m o d e r n , t ro p i c a l ci t y t h at s i t s on a ha rb ou r twice the s ize of Syd ney’s. Conside re d Australia’s most culturally diver se city, more than 60 nationalities m a k e u p D a r w i n’s p o p u l a t i o n , i n c l u d i n g t h e a re a ’s t r a d i t i o n a l i n d i g e n o u s l a n d o w n e r s. T h e re ’s l i t t l e w o n d e r L o n e l y P l a n e t pi ck e d D a r w in a s one of the top ten cities in the world t o visit in 2012. D a r w i n i s t he g ateway to s ome of the world ’s g reat e st adve nt ure pl ayg ro un ds. Su r rou nd ed by the wond er s of Litchfie ld Nat ional Pa rk , Wo rl d H e r i t a g e - l i s t e d K a k a d u , re m o t e A r n h e m L a n d a n d t h e T i wi I s la nd s, natu re s ee p s into ever y p ore of t he c it y.
THINGS TO DO IN DARWIN Tro p ic a l Ma r ke t s D a rwi n i s a v i br a nt mix of cu ltu res, a nd ever y one of t he m has a st all at t h e o pe n a i r m a rk e ts. G et to Mind il Bea ch in time for sunse t (T hur sdays a n d S un day s, M a rch to Novemb er) g ra b s omething ta s t y, st are out t o se a a n d yo u’ ll s e n s e As ia ju s t over the horizon. O n week end m or nings all ye ar ro u n d t h e exo t i c p ro d u c e, l o c a l w a re s a n d f r i e n d l y f a c e s m ove t o Pa r a p, N i g h t c li f f a n d R a pid C reek .
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Fe e d t h e fi s h Since the ea rly 1950 s a unique and
Fe st iva ls a nd E ve n t s In Aug us t , D a rwi n Fe s t iva l ig nites t h e c i t y wi t h lo c a l a n d i n t er n at i o n a l pe r fo r ma nces. D on’t m i ss t h e Be e r C a n Re g atta , D a rwin B l u e s Fe s t i va l a n d D a rwin Frid g e Fest i va l . I n M a rch , h o p over to the Ti w i I s la n ds fo r a un i q u e ins ig ht i n t o t h e c o m mun i t y ’s t win p a s s ions : a r t a n d A FL fo o t y.
natu ra l p henomena oc c ur s on t he high tid e a mong s t the tranquil t ropic al w at e r s of D a rwin’s D octor s Gully. H undre ds of f riend ly loca l wild fish sw im t o t he s ha llow s horeline in se arch of a g rat uit ous mea l of f res h b rea d. Ove r t he c our se of this end u ring 60 p lus ye ar t radit ion, t he f is h have s hed their nor m al shyne ss and a re willing ly ha nd -fe d t o t he de light of thou s a nd s of f a s cinat e d loc als and t ourist s ever y yea r. 20 NTLife
Wo n d e r t h r o u g h t h e Bota nic Ga rd e ns A ne twork of paths connect the mai n f e atu re s o f th e b e au ti f u l Ge orge Brown Botanic Garde ns. Mar ve l at th e tro p i cal o rch i d s, brome liads, other exotic plants an d s p e ci al s e as o n al d i s p l ay s. T he Garde ns has an impre s s ive c o l l e cti o n o f Cycad s, 4 5 0 Pal m Species, a Rainfore s t Gully and Ch i l d re n’s E vo l u ti o n ar y playg round.
Ke ep i n g yo u r C o o l T he Te r ritor y s ure doe s lik e it ho t! Mak e s u re yo u alway s car r y e nough wate r with you when walk i n g aro u n d i n th e h e at o f th e day. Wearing s uns cre e n is a mus t, eve n d u r i n g th e We t Se as o n o f the Top End and the coole r day s exp e r i e n ce d i n Ce n tr al Aus tralia. O ur s un’s s ting does n’t d i s cr i mi n ate ! W hy n o t bu y a big f loppy holiday hat and big s u n n i e s to l o o k th e p ar t?
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He r it a g e Avi a t i o n C e n t re
Wa r Relic s On 1 9 Fe brua r y 1 9 4 2 a n u np re p a red D a rwin wa s d eva s tat e d by Japane se bom bing. De s pi t e 5 8 fur t h e r r aid s, D a rwin ros e to the cha lleng e, b e c om ing a m ajor forw ard b a s e fo r t h e Pa c i fi c Ca mp a ig n. D is cover W W II s tories in t he ruins at t he East Point M i li t a r y M us e um a nd the O il Stora g e Tu nnels. Plu s d rop int o t he H e rit age Aviat ion Ce n t re fo r a up c lo s e a nd p er s ona l look at p la nes d u ring t he w ar ye ar s.
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S p e c t acul ar Jumpi ng Crocodile Cr uis e More than 80,000 Saltwater Crocodiles now roam the waterways of Norther n Au st rali a, ye t t h ey a re r a re l y eve r s e e n. T he c ro c o di l e i s a c o l d b l o o d e d a n i m a l , t h ey b a s k i n t h e s u n d u r i n g t h e c o o l e r months o f Ju n e, Ju ly, an d e arl y Aug us t . M o s t o f t he t i m e i t ' s w a r m , C rocod ile s are bu ri e d i n t h e mud, unde r t he t re e s i n t he s ha de. H e re o n t h e A d e l a i d e R i ve r, t h e c ro c o d i l e s k n o w o u r b o a t s, t h ey leave thei r p lac e o f h i d i n g, know i ng t hey m ay be fe d. T hi s ha ppe ns a l l ye a r ro u n d ! ! O u r c r e w w i l l e n s u r e yo u a r e e q u i p p e d w i t h t h e k n o w l e d g e yo u n e e d t o s u r v i ve yo u r s t a y i n Au s t r a l i a ' s N o r t h e r n Ter ritor y. Did you K now ? S alt w at e r C ro c o di l e s a re m o re l i k e l y t o be fo und in fres hw at e r. Jo i n u s t o le ar n m o re ! !
Lit c h f ield Na t io n a l Par k Li t ch f i e ld N at i o n a l Pa rk is only a n hou r’s d rive f rom the city. Cr yst al- c le ar w at e rfalls, sw i m m i n g h o le s, fo ur- wheel d riv ing a nd ea s y -g oing bu s hwa lk s are just t he st art . Enjoying t h e p l e n t i ful s h a de a n d ref res hing rock p ools at F lorence Fa lls w ill m ake you w ant t o c o m e b a ck fo r mo re.
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Dec k c h a ir O u t d o o r C i n e ma I t ’s be e n a D a rwin tra d ition s ince the 1920s bu t now t he se c re t ’s out . E ve r y eve n i n g from A p ril to Novemb er, loca ls g ather by t he shore s of D a rwi n Ha rbo ur to lou ng e in d eck cha ir s a nd watch f lic ks unde r t he st ar s. C o me e a rly, g ra b s ome food a nd wine, a nd watch the sun se t be fore t he m ov i e s t a rt s.
T h e Wa t erf ro n t Darwin’s newest hang-out is the Waterfront precinct, in the heart of the city. T h e w ave p o o l a n d s w i m m i n g l a g o o n a re s u r ro u n d e d by ch i l l e d - o u t c a f Ê s, b a r s, s h o p s a n d re s t a u r a n t s. Fo r a s t ro l l , a d r i n k a n d a ch o i c e o f p l a c e s t o e at , t h e Wat e r fro n t ma k es a rela xed a lter native to bu zzing M it che ll S t .
Eyeb al l a gi an t c r o c A d ela id e River, 70k m d rive f rom the cit y c e nt re, is pe rfe c t habit at for Sa lties. Seeing one of thes e 4.5m giant s jum ping from t he w ater rig ht next to you r b oat is s omething e lse. S o is sw im m ing in t he ‘C a g e of D eath’ in D a rwin’s C BD. Or for t he faint - he art e d, m eet Sweethea rt - 5m long a nd s a f ely st uf fe d - at t he M use um and Art G a ller y of the NT.
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Territory Wildlife Park The Northern Territory is a fascinating and diverse region affected by extreme seasonal changes. At the Territory Wildlife Park visitors will find the various habitats and wildlife characteristic of the northern tropical region. Within the space of a few hours visitors will have the opportunity to take a journey through a top end river system at the aquarium and come face to face with a 3.5m salt-water crocodile, be immersed in one of the largest walk-through aviaries in the southern hemisphere and to discover many of the Territory’s elusive animals in the nocturnal house. Visitors can travel on shuttle trains along a 4km road or wander along 6km of bush trails that link all major exhibits. Discover close-up, native Territory wildlife like the magnificent raptors at the Flight Deck, stroll past bird aviaries in a natural monsoonal forest, encounter reptiles, explore the wetlands and simply find a shady spot to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Special presentations are held throughout the day including the famous Birds of Prey presentation and the opportunity to get up close and personal with Freshwater Whiprays at the Oolloo Sandbar. Facilities include a kiosk, free shuttle train linking all exhibits, picnic facilities, wheel chair and stroller hire, children’s playground and gift shop. Located only 45 minutes drive south of Darwin at Berry Springs the Park is open daily from 8.30am-6.00pm, last entry 4.00pm. A visit of four hours is recommended. For further information contact telephone: 08 8988 7200, visit our website at www.territorywildlifepark.com.au or like us on Facebook. 33 NTLife
NTfishing F i sh i n g i n t h e N o rt h e r n Ter ritor y is excellent a ll yea r rou nd and while bar ramundi a re m o s t a c t i ve fro m Ma rch to May, a ng ler s ca n f is h s u cce ssfully at any t im e for a r an g e o f s pe ci e s. T h e norther n reg ions of the Ter ritor y a re also hom e t o an ar ray of other g reat sport and reef fish, including giant trevally (GT), queenfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, black jewfish, golden snapper, red emperor, coral trout and marlin a n d s a i l fi s h . Yo u c a n h i re a bo at or b ring you r own, ta k e a f u lly -g u id ed fishing safari, st ay at a rem o t e fi s h i n g lo dg e or cha rter a mother s hip - ever y ty p e o f ang le r and eve r y t ype o f fi s h i n g ex pe ri e n ce is catered for in the Norther n Ter rito r y. T h e re a re i n t e r n at i o na l f is hing op erator s who only u s e the Nort he r n Te r rit or y for Au s t ra li a n fi s h i n g, which is tes ta ment to the q u a lity. T he Nort he r n Te r rit or y is t he p e r f e c t f i s h i n g d e s t i n a t i o n , b e c a u s e d u e t o i t s c l o s e p rox i m i t y, k e e n a n g l e r s c a n expe ri e n ce a re a l ch a lleng e while other s in the travelling p art y c an re lax and e njoy t h e at t r a c t i o n s o f t h e ma inla nd .
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Aboriginal Culture
in the Top End
T h e Te r ri t o r y’s n o rt h e r n re a che s e nc o m pa s s a c ul t ure r i ch i n a rtis tic he rita g e. A b o ri gi n al art f ro m t h e To p E nd re f l e c t s t he i nt i m at e c o nne c tion be twe e n the pe o p le an d t h e lan d . Ve nt ure i nt o t he re m o t e a r t re g i o ns o f K a k a du, K athe rine a nd A r n h e m Lan d an d u n c ove r t he t e chni que o f t r a ns fo r m i ng c re ation s torie s into a rt. In d i ge n o u s f e st i vals a re he l d a c ro s s t he N o r t he r n Te r r i t o r y t ypica lly from May thro u gh Oc t o b e r. Co m muni t i e s o pe n t he i r do o r s, dro p t he pe r mits a nd we lcome tr ave lle r s t o sh are t h e i r s t o r y. A c t i v i t i e s i nc l ude a r t s a l e s a nd a uctions, tra ditiona l mu si c an d d an c e, bu sh t uc k e r di s pl ay s w i t h t a s t i ng s a nd, s o m e time s jus t to a dd to the exc i t e m e n t , a sp or t i ng eve nt . A m o n gst t h e ab o ri gi na l c ul t ure i n K a k a du t he re a re hundre ds of dif fe re nt lan gu age s, c u st o m s and l aw s, e a ch wove n t o g e t he r t o t e l l a s tor y that is more tha n 50 , 0 0 0 ye ar s o ld . S h a r i ng a nd l e a r ni ng a bo ut a bo r i g i na l a r t a nd culture is ce ntra l to t h e K akad u exp e ri e nc e. K akad u N at i o n al Park i s ho m e t o o ne o f t he wo rl d’s l a rg e s t c olle ctions of A b o ri gi n al ro c k art w i t h N o url a ng i e a nd Ubi r r be i ng s o m e o f the mos t nota ble rock a rt g alle r y si t e s i n t h e Pa rk . A t N a ng ul uw ur yo u w i l l s e e t he fir s t re cords of Eu ro p e an c o n t ac t p ai nt e d o n t he ro c k s. For m o re i n fo r m at i o n v i s i t : t r ave l N T. c o m
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I nd igeno us A r t S c ul pt ure, we av i ng, p rints, p a inting s - a ll a re on s how - and on sale, at pri c e s yo u wo n’t f ind els ewhere. Tr y the g a lleries in Parap, visit t he M us e um a n d A rt G a ller y of the NT or wa lk the s hore line in t he c om pany o f a L a r ra k i a g ui d e to s ee this cou ntr y throu g h ind ig e nous eye s.
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Darwin's cuisine ref lects its diverse mixture of more than 60 nationalities and offers year-round waterfront dining to s u it a ll mood s a nd bu d g ets. Choose fine dining at t he award winning Char Restaurant on the Esplanade, one of ma ny f u nk y eateries on the Culle n Bay board w alk, t he family friendly Trailer Boat Club, fish and chips on Stokes Hill Wharf or g rab some food and cook it yourself on the barbecues located on the foreshore. D a rwin is f a mou s for its loc al produc e, part ic ularly t he seafood. From the oceans and rivers come succulent mud cra b s, f res h b a r ra mu nd i a nd praw ns as we ll as popular eating fish such as snapper, jewfish and salmon. You can order all of these off a menu, or sample them all at one of the seafood buffet restaurants overlooking the water.
Fine D ining a t C h a r Since the doors opened in 2006, Char has firmly established itself in the hearts, minds and palates of the people of Darwin. Along with awarded Brisbane sister restaurant Cha Cha Char, Char has revolutionised the perception of a steak restaurant; by not just selling a cut of meat, but offering a master class on beef. If you will, from the animals origin, age and feeding regime and a ‘breed, age and feed’ specific cooking technique showcasing the flavours and textures that Australia’s best beef has to offer. In 2011, Char revolutionised the Darwin dining scene, by not just being a steak restaurant that serves Darwin’s best steak, but by also offering a specialised fish and seafood menu. Following the 2011 Brisbane Floods that devastated Brisbane sister restaurant Jellyfish, owner John Kilroy, decided to bring his pioneering fish specialty restaurant, jellyfish to the top end, along with former award winning Cha Cha Char Brisbane Head Chef Richard Brown, set about rewriting the rules by showcasing a steak specialty menu on one side and a fish specialty menu on the other, truly a menu the like of which Darwin has never seen. The response from
Darwin has been absolute and assured: Jellyfish is here to stay! All this and a wine list displayed in a woven fabric folder and offering an extensive selection of your favourites in amongst a carefully selected boutique bunch, including an extensive hand picked cellar selection, individual bottles from champagne to dessert wines, to rival any list in Australia. We are confident there is not a palate we cannot please! The history of Admiralty House, and the way it is woven into the very fabric of this city, demands a standard of care to the maintenance and preservation of the house and grounds. The history of Admiralty House sets the tone at Char, with palm trees and frangipanis planted by respected botanist Florenz Bleeser over fifty years ago providing beauty and shelter in the outside paved areas, and the classic Darwin B style house, designed by renowned government architect BCG Burnett, harking back to pre-Cyclone Tracey. The glass doors on the lower level are designed to work with Darwin's seasons; closed and cool during the wet, open and flowing during the dry when outside transforms into a beautiful al fresco atmosphere under the stars during the dry.
O n th e co r ne r of T h e Esplan ade an d Knu ckey Str eet i n Da r w i n. 42 NTLife
Admiralty House
We focus on providing a high level of customer service, but one that is also friendly, welcoming and relaxing. Our floor staff are trained to a standard fitting a fine dining establishment, but with a friendliness suited to the Darwin lifestyle. You will always be greeted with a smile, your napkin will always be placed on your lap, and we will endeavour to meet your every request. Char is truly one of the only restaurants in the Northern Territory that offers fine dining or informal alfresco, yet all delivered in a relaxed and warm environment. Char can be a place for an intimate dinner for two, a function that caters for 70 people, an environment for your perfect wedding or just a place to have a glass of perfectly chilled wine and enjoy our ‘to be shared’ menu with your friends. Char can be whatever you need it to be, with a private dining room and a function room with its own fully functional bar and professional team that prides themselves on offering every guest the space to create memories that will stay with them forever.
Where did you learn to cook? From my Grandmother I learnt about different spices. I also completed a Bachelor degree in Hotel and Catering Management specialising in Indian cuisine at the University of Madras, Chennia. After I finished my degree I worked in the Park Sheraton Hotel Madras, a 5 star Hotel. What is your signature dish? Saffrron Butter chicken and the Saffrron Kulfi are our signature dishes, however you could also say the Snake Bean Poriyal and the Barramundi Mooli are signature dishes as they are also very popular and will always be on our menu. Where do you source your ingredients? We source our produce locally - vegetables from Rapid Creek Market and the seafood is Territory caught. What are your most popular dishes on the menu? Every thing on the menu –the most popular is Butter chicken. What do you love about the Territory? I met my wife Jo here in the Territory. Like most people who live in the Territory they do so because of the casual life style, climate and the easy going people.
In Darwin, we love nothing more than sharing exotic food! We caught up with Selvam of Saffrron Restaurant in Parap, to find out more about the story behind this incredibly unique and ecofriendly establishment... What type of cuisine do you have on offer at Saffrron? INDIAN CUISINE(SOUTH INDIAN-TANDOORI-NORTH INDIAN) Dine in or Take away. What makes Saffrron unique? Our eco-friendly aspect of the business and our food of course. How long have you been in the Territory? 12 years.
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A Taste of Greece in the Top End! Darwin has an abundance of international cuisine, and at Manoli's Greek Taverna, you will experience some of the best of Greek traditional fare. Tempt your tastebuds and satisfy your appetite in true Greek style from a lovingly crafted menu of meat and seafood, with a dessert menu to satisfy the fussiest sweet tooth. Manoli's signature dish - their scallops - offer a combination of wonderful unique flavours. The watermelon forms the base of the dish, soaked in mint dressing, topped with fresh pan-fried scallops and a drizzle of mint and feta dressing. Some of their other favourites include char grilled octopus, cheese balls and crunchy fresh greek salad with plenty of soft tasty feta. Their dessert menu is amazing - so you won't be disappointed - it's the "choosing" which is the hard part. So if you are looking for a great meal in a family friendly and relaxed atmosphere, then check out Manoli's Greek Taverna - a true Greek experience, right in the heart of town.
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Du c ks Nut s B a r a nd G r i l l
Nektar
Ducks Nuts Bar and Grill has been a faithful meeting point for locals and visitors for years. Along with Tzars Vodka Bar, Ducks Nuts has everything you need for a great night out – fantastic food, grooving live acts, DJs and of course great drinks. The designer interior with muted colours, clean lines, polished boards and cement floors, creates the perfect venue for sitting back with a cool cocktail, a bottle of wine or dancing the night away with your favourite party people. Big screens around the bar let you catch all the sport you need. Get your mates down, grab a beer, a snack and get into the action. Looking for something completely different? Then why not try a house-infused vodka from Tzars Vodka Bar. Try the chilli for a surprise punch or the bubblegum inspired sensation. To complete the perfect experience wander into our café Bar Espresso. Awarded for the best barista and coffee in Darwin, Bar Espresso offers a unique blend of coffee along with a range of sweet sensations from the patisserie. Interested in doing some people watching? Great. Just head out to a sidewalk seat and watch the passing parade.
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iousʼ c reation
s
Traile r B oa t C lub L o c at e d on t he shores of beautiful Fannie Bay in Darwin, the Tr a i l e r B o at Cl ub boast s a g reat tropical atmos phe re ideal for the e n ti re f a m il y. Wit h fac il it ies for me mber s and bona fide gue s ts, t h e c l u b i s t he per fec t dest inat i on for a day of activ ity on the w ate r o r rel ax in g aft er n oon l ook ing out ove r the s e a. T he Blue M a rl i n B i st ro open ever y day for lunch and dinne r has a g reat r a n g e o f dishes from l oc al seafo od and s alads to burger s, s te ak s a n d p i z z a s. T h e re i s alw ays som et hing t o d o at this iconic club with regular b o ati n g a nd fish in g t r ips an d entertainment throughout the ye ar. E n j oy a c o l d g l ass of beer or wine unde r the palm trees and w atch a n ot h er per fec t sun set ove r the bay. T he Trailer Boat Club i s t h e p l a ce t o visit dur in g your s tay in Darwin.
Laksa at the Deck Bar
ON THE LAKS A T R A I L ( O R T HE QUE S T FO R T HE PERFEC T LAKSA T HI S SIDE OF M A LAYS IA ) Nes tled right on As ia's door s te p, the Top End has amazing choices when it come s to fantas tic As ian cuis ine. H owever there is one dis h that has become the local favourite - the humble Lak s a. T his mouth wate ring s picy noodle s oup from our norther n ne ighbour s is a complex blend of s pice s, me ats, noodles and coconut milk . T he re are numerous mark et s talls, cafe s and re s taurants acros s the Top End claiming the title of the 'Be s t Lak s a in Darwin'. Wit h sec ret rec ipes and ing redie nts beh in d each st eam ing bowl of
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de licious nes s, e ach h as th e i r own ap p e al . O bv ious ly it is a matte r o f tas te, s o yo u be the judge. Ta k e a wan d e r an d i n d u l ge in “ Lak s a heaven � as yo u h i t th e h o ts pots acros s Da r wi n . Hi n t - W h i te s h i r ts are a no- no. T h e Crowd Pl e ase r - Mar y 's Lak s a at Parap Mark ets, Par ap. Lo o k fo r th e big ges t queue at th e mark e ts o r s i mp l y as k to be pointe d i n th e r i gh t d i re cti o n by a frie ndly local . T h e Lo cal s H a ngo ut - Re n d e zvo u s i n Star Village, Smi th St Mal l . Ar r i ve e arl y at lunchtime to avo i d d i s ap p o i n tme n t. T his no frills caf e alway s ge ts a me n ti o n in the g reate s t Lak s a d e b ate. T h e Pl easant S ur pr i se - T h e D e ck B ar - Mitche ll St. Yo u wo u l d as s u me th i s popular wate rin g h o l e o n Mi tch e l l St would s e rve mo re 'p u b g r u b ' th e n As i an cuis ine, h owever th e D e ck B ar s e r ve s u p a huge de liciou s b owl o f Lak s a fo r b o th lunch and dinne r.
Ca suarina S qu a r e i s Bu r s t i n g w i t h L i fe love the rustic Ubirr Rock fur niture bench, showcasing the stunning Kakadu landscape. Opening hours are Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.30pm, Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 9am to 3pm. Visit Casuarina Square online at www.casuarinasquare.com.au or at www.facebook.com/cassquare.
Casuarina Square Shopping Centre is bursting with brands and the best shopping in the Top End. With over 180 stores including iconic Australian retailers Country Road, RM Williams, Veronica Maine, Cue, Rip Curl and City Beach, a visit to Darwin is not complete without a visit to Casuarina Square. Major retailers are Big W, Kmart, Woolworths, Coles and Birch Carroll and Coyle Cinemas. The Centre provides a wide range of dining options including a 15 outlet 850 seat food court and numerous cafés and restaurants from which to tempt your tastebuds. Check out the iconic fur niture installations and lush tropical plantings which are truly ref lective of the beauty of the Top End. We particularly
The Centre offers undercover parking, a taxi rank and a bus interchange facility, together with a City to Casuarina Square Visitor Shopper Shuttle Service from 1 June to 30 September. Check with your hotel concierge for details of pick up and drop off locations and times. With the Dry Season upon us, there has never been a better time to visit the Top End and the Territory’s premier shopping destination – Casuarina Square!
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T h e D a rwi n s h o pp ing s cene is s ma ll bu t eclectic. Vis it or s are sure t o co m e a cro s s s o me exotic f ind s if they d elve a little d ee pe r. T he CBD a re a h o l ds c ut t i n g -ed g e f a s hion a nd lif es ty le homewa re s. You w ill ce r t a i n ly fi n d qui rk y f a s hion f ind s blend ed with p ieces from M e lbo ur n e Fa s h i on Week . K nuc k ey a n d C avena g h Streets b oth have hig h-end b out ique st ore s. E n j oy t h e r a n g e of hig h-end s wimwea r, s tatement jewelle r y and e dg y f lat s a n da ls s ui t e d to D a rwin’s trop ica l v ib e.
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T h e a rca de s o f f Smith Street Ma ll a re trea s u re troves holding de c ade nt ch o c o l at e s t o s t r i k ing d res s es, s o you will not b e d is a p point e d. P ink H ill bo ut i que i s n e s t l e d in the Vic Arca d e. Pink Hill is s u re t o ple ase eve n t he mo s t di s ce r n i n g fa s hionis ta s with lea d ing Au s tra lia n a nd int e r nat ional de s i g n e r s. T h e Bu ng a low a ls o ha s s trik ing f a s cinator s and dre sse s. Pa r a p s h o ppi n g Villa g e is 10 minu tes f rom the city a nd hom e t o t he fa m o us Pa ra p M ark ets held ever y Satu rd ay mor ning. Parap Village has s o m e g la mo ro us l if es ty le a nd child ren’s b ou tiq u es. For t hose e njoy re t ail t h e r a py i n a ma ll atmos p here, C a s u a rina Shop p ing C ent re is only 15 mi nut e s dr i ve fro m the C BD. Pa s pa ley i s t h e c rème d e la crème of the p ea rling ind ust r y and an asse t t o D a r w i n’s h e r i t a g e. Ste p into the op u lent s howroom at t he Sm it h S t re e t M a l l a n d be c a pt i vated by s tu nning p ieces with u nrivalle d qualit y. Pa s pa ley s o urce s the lu s trou s Sou th Sea Pea rl f rom the Nort he r n Aus t ra li a n co a s t to the world ’s f a s hion hou s es.
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M e a n d er d own to Shine G if ts at the Waterfront . T he Bout ique h a s a ra ng e of u niq u e jeweller y a nd eleg ent hom e w are t o suit a ll t a s t es. Shine G if ts is the p erf ect p la ce to find gift s. T he Wat e rf ront is a ls o a g reat p la ce to have lu nch and im m e r se yo ur s elf into the rela xed p a ce of the D a rwin life st yle. O n t h e way to C u llen Bay, s top in at Ha r riet P l a c e to v is it C ros s C ul t ura l Art Excha ng e. T h e g aller y exhib its, pro m otes, nu rtu res a nd e n c o ura g es Ind ig enou s Aus t ra lia n, Au s tra lia n a n d As ia Pa cif ic a rtis ts. Ga l l e r y hou r s a re 1 0 - 5 pm Tu es d ay to Fri day a nd 10-2p m S at urday.
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PAU L A R N O LD Pa u l A r n ol d is a phot og r ap he r with pas s ion. Exploring the Aus tralian bu s h fo r th e p as t 2 0 ye ar s, Pa u l has fol l owed t h is pass ion and captured many me morable images d u r i n g h i s tr ave l s. Fo r h i m p h o tog r aphy is al l about l ight and capturing a pe rfect ins tant in time th at Mo th e r N atu re h as c re ated. Di s c over ing t h e l andsc ape, colour s and the people of the Norther n Te r r i to r y d u r i n g th e i r tr ave l s, Pa u l an d h is w ife Jul ie were s educe d by it all. T hey continue their NT exp l o r ati o n to th i s d ay wi th Pa u l pur suing h is quest t o capture the beauty and unique world that i s th e N o r th e r n Te r r i to r y.
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L o c al s and visit or s sh op here for Aboriginal art, locally m a d e jewel l er y an d t ropical clothing. Re lax and enjoy the c o o l am bienc e at one of the many al fre s co café s. Fre e WI F I is avail abl e in the mall s o you can s it in a s hady s p o t whil st sending your env ious friends and re lative s your h o l iday sn aps. Do n’t forget t o visit T h e Bung alow whils t in the Mall and p i c k up a beaut iful l y c r afted crocodile handbag or s ome eye -c at ching jewel l er y.
D r e s s f r om The B ungal ow
Smit h St reet M a ll - The h ub of Dar w i n’s CBD
RELAX & U N W I N D
S o yo u h ave a r r i ve d at you r d es tination a f ter travelling for what se e m s an e t e r nit y. Yo u n e e d t o re ch a rg e you r b atteries, rela x, u nwind a nd enjoy som e ‘m e ’ t im e b efore g o i n g o f f o n t he next a d ventu re. W here to g o? W hat t o do? What you ne e d i s a l o ca l t o h e lp yo u f ind ju s t what you ’re look ing for, ju s t what you’re ne e ding. Do n’t wo r r y h e re a re s ome id ea s to help you ...
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D a rw i n
Te n n an t Creek
Wa nd e r d ow n t o Casu ari na B e a ch a nd D rip st o n e Cave s an d e n j oy a l o ng w a l k by t he sea . On yo u re t u r n why n o t g e t s o m e p ampe ri n g i n at Casu ari n a Vi l l a g e H a i r Stu d io - E xc e lle n c e i n c u t t i ng, c o l o ur i ng & p er mi n g t h ey are o p e n 7 day s a we e k . For the ki d s ge t d ow n t o L e a nye r Wat e r Pa rk – a f re e re c re at i o n al p ark w i t h po o l s, s l i de s, p layg ro u n d s an d skat e p a rk s. Need m o re p am p e ri n g an d t he ul t i m at e i n relaxat i o n ? Yo u c an’t go pa s t E l l a B a ché . T heir f ac i als an d b o dyc are t re at m e nt s w i l l p u t yo u i n a st at e o f bli ss a nd have yo u buf f ed an d p o li sh e d t o p e r fe c t i o n! How ab o u t so m e oyst e r s a nd a chi l l e d bo t t l e of wine o n t h e b e ach w atchi ng t he s uns e t – the pe rf e c t w ay t o e n d t h e day.
Go t o t he I nfo r mation C e ntre in the middle o f t ow n a nd g e t s ome bus h wa lk ing ma ps. I f t hat i s a l l t o o much a nd you jus t ne e d a cool be e r a nd re a d a book , why not g o to the M e m o r i a l C l u b a nd re la x . Fe e l i ng a l i t t l e hot a nd bothe re d? Te nna nt C re e k ha s a l oca l public s wimming pool to c o o l o f f i n.
Katherine Feel li ke a b i t o f ge n t le exe rc i s e ? H ow a bo ut the K at h e ri n e Co u n t r y C l ub fo r a ro und o f golf o r a g am e o f law n b ow l s. T he lo c al p u b i s alw ays an i nt e re s t i ng pl a c e to go t o ge t a m e al an d b e s ur ro unde d by t he charac t e r s t h at m ake u p t he t ow n.
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Alice S prin gs Fe e l i ng l uc k y ? Gre at. L a s s e te r s C a s ino is the pl a c e fo r yo u. W hat a bo ut A lice Spring s Golf C lub, cla s s e d a s o ne o f t he top10 de s e rt cour s e s in the wo rl d. A l i c e S pr i ng s ha s a g re at s e le ction of a rt g a l l e r i e s a nd re s ta ura nts a nd ca fe s to choos e fro m . Pe r fe c t for unwinding, re la x ing a nd i ndul g i ng.
KEEP I NG YO U C OV E R E D W h e n we’re far from hom e and on holiday s e n j oy ing our sel ves, t he l ast thing we wor r y about i s o u r h eal t h or h avin g an accide nt. Some times th o u gh, you do n eed som e help, s o here is a lis t th at wil l kee p you c overed. Jus t in cas e… In th e Dar w in region we are luck y to have two D e n tal Cl in ic s c om pl et el y d e dicated to the health a n d wel l bein g of your t eet h. Able Dental Care a n d Pal m er st on Dent al S urger y tak e care of the wh o l e fam il y an d are ready and available in the eve n t of an em ergenc y. T he he lpful s taf f will e n s u re you’re l ooked aft er and back into holiday m o d e as soon as possibl e.
D ar win D e n tist : A bl e Dent al C are : 8932 6882 Pa l m er st on Den t al Cl in ic : 8932 1544 P hy s i ot her apist : Te r r i tor y S por t sm edic ine Phy s iotherapy 8 9 4 1 5970 C h i ropr ac t or : T h e Chiropr ac t ic Pl ac e: 89 41 3135 O p t om et r ist : H e l e n S um m er s Opt om et r is t: 8981 1399 Me d i c al Cl in ic : To p E nd M edic al Cen t re: 8 927 1033 H o s p it al : Roya l Dar w in H ospit al : 89 22 8888
K ath er i ne De ntis t: M Carus i: 8972 1 4 2 2 Phy s iothe rapis t: BT P hy s iotherapy Cl i n i c: 8 9 7 1 2 5 0 5 Chiropractor: Chiropractic He al th Ce n tre o f K ath e r i n e 8971 1711 Me dical Clinic: Kintore Clinic: 89 7 2 1 6 7 7 Hos pital: K athe rine Hos pital : 8 9 7 3 9 2 1 1 Tennant Cr eek Hos pital: Te nnant Creek Ho s p i tal : 8 9 6 2 4 3 9 9 Alice S pr i ngs De ntis t: Alice Springs Dental Su rge r y : 8 9 5 2 3 5 3 3 Phy s iothe rapis t: Alice Springs P hy s i o th e r apy & Sp o r ts In j u r y Clinic8952 1666 Chiropractor: Alice Springs Chi ro p r acti c: 8 9 5 2 3 3 3 3 O ptome tris t: O PSM Alice Sprin gs : 8 9 5 2 8 2 7 7 Me dical Clinic: Central Clinic: 89 5 2 1 0 8 8 Hos pital: Alice Sp r i n gs Ho s p i tal : 8 9 5 1 7 7 7 7
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DARWIN &
SURROUNDS
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Heading south along the Stuart Highway, traveller s can
pools and rockholes on the drive through, but to really experience the true beauty of Litchfield it’s best to camp over night.
stop at the small townships of Batchelor and Adelaide River. At Adelaide River
Melville and Bathur st Islands, known
you will find the Adelaide River War
collectively as the Tiwi Islands, lie 80
Cemetery, which is Australia’s largest and
kilometres north of Darwin, an easy day
a sombre reminder of
the Norther n
trip from Darwin via boat or light aircraft.
Ter ritor y’s role in WWII. Board a croc-
The Tiwi people are world famous for their
jumping cruise on the Adelaide River and
art, extending from the traditional forms of
see massive crocs leap from the water for
paintings on bark and canvas to wood
bait.
carvings, distinctive silk screened cloth, woven accessories and pottery. There are
Next stop, Litchfield National Park, just
several art galleries on both Melville and
an hour-and-a-half drive from Darwin,
Bathurst Island and you are more than
features a myriad of diverse environments
welcome to purchase directly from the
including rugged sandstone escar pments,
artists. The Tiwi Islands are also famous for
perennial spring-fed streams, monsoon
their love of sports, in particular Australian
rainforest,
mounds,
Rules Football. The Tiwi Football Grand
waterfalls and historic ruins. You can
Final held in March is a must-see if you
spend as little as one day in the park,
are in the area at the time.
magnetic
ter mite
taking a quick dip in each of the plunge
KAKADU
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World Heritage-listed K akadu National Park is a landscape of contrasts. Beneath water s d o t t e d w i t h l o t u s f l o w e r s, s a l t w a t e r c ro c o d i l e s l u rk . Ja g g e d p e a k s o f t ow e r i n g escar pments hide pockets of monsoon rainforests. Waterfalls cascade into pools fringed w i t h p a p e r b a rk s, p a n d a nu s a n d c yc a d s. Yo u c a n v i e w t h e s p e c t a c u l a r J i m J i m Fa l l s, b rows e t h ro ug h a n at ura l g a ller y of a ncient Ab orig ina l rock art at Ubir r or Nourlangie Ro c k , o r ex p l o re t h e s c e n i c Ye l l ow Wat e r, a b i l l a b o n g t e e m i n g w i t h w i l d l i f e. A ro u n d 1 , 0 0 0 d i f f e re n t p l a n t s p e c i e s, a q u a r t e r o f a l l Au s t r a l i a n f re s h w at e r f i s h s p e c i e s, a n d ove r o n e - t h i rd o f Aus tra lia n b ird s p ecies ca n b e fou nd in t he Park. K a k a d u i s s h a p e d by w a t e r, b e i n g t h e c a t ch m e n t a re a f o r t h e S o u t h A l l i g at o r, E a s t A l l i g at o r, K at h e r i n e, Rop er a nd D a ly river s. From Novembe r t o M ay, w at e rfalls are at t h e i r mo s t s pe c t a cul ar a nd the lowla nd s a re f lood ed , attrac t ing m illions of m ig rat or y b i rd s. T h e un i que a n d d iver s e av ia n lif e in K a k a d u inclu d e s jac anas, az ure kingfishe r s, c u ck o o s, r ufo us ow ls, ma g p ie g ees e, ja b iru s a nd more. K ak a du N at i o n a l Pa rk is a p la ce of ru g g ed es ca r p ments, l ush we t lands and c asc ading w at e r fa lls cove r i n g over 19,000 s q u a re k ilometres. T he Nature ’s Way t ourism drive is a g re at w ay t o ex pl o re the p a rk , which ru ns a long the Ar nhe m H ighw ay t o Jabiru, t he n t h e K a k a du H i g h w ay to Pine C reek .
A nu m b e r o f A b o r i g i na l c l a ns st i l l re s i d e w i t h i n t h e p a rk . K a ka d u i s ho m e t o o ne o f t he l a rg e s t c o n c e n t r at i o n s o f A b o r i g i na l ro c k a r t i n t he wo rl d w i t h g a l l e r i e s at s i t e s l i k e U b i r r a nd N o u rl a ng i e Ro c k. O t h e r s p e c t a c u l a r l a n d m a rk s i nc l u d e J i m J i m Fa l l s, Tw i n Fa l l s, M a g u k ( B a r r a mu n d i G o rg e ) , Ja r r a ng b a r nm i u ( Ko o l p i n G o rg e ) a n d G u n l o m ( Wat e r f a l l C re e k) . T he re a re m a ny e s t a bl i s h e d w a l k i n g t r a c k s w i t hi n t he Pa rk, w i t h a se l e c t i o n s t i l l a c c e s s i bl e d u r i n g t h e we t se a so n. A t t he c e nt re o f t he p a rk i s t he s m a l l m i n i n g t ow n s h i p o f Ja b i r u , whi ch o f f e r s a r a ng e o f ser v i c e s a n d a c c o m m o d at i o n . A no t he r se t t l e m e nt , C o o i nd a , a l s o o f f e r s a c c o m m o d at i o n , a nd i s l o c at e d o n t he b a nks o f Yel l ow Wat e r, a b i l l a b o n g t e e m i ng w i t h m i g r at o r y b i rd s, sal t w at e r c ro c o d i l e s a n d o t h e r w i l d l i f e. C r u i se s o n Ye l l ow Wat e r d e p a r t d a i l y. A v i s i t t o K a ka d u i s b e st st a r t e d at t he B ow a l i Vi s i t o r s C e n t re n e a r Ja b i r u o r t he Wa r r a d j a n A b o r i g i n a l C u l t u r a l C e n t re n e a r C o o i nd a . T he re i s a w i d e r a ng e o f a c c o m m o d at i o n i n K a k a d u . A l o n g w i t h ho t e l s a nd re so r t s a re so m e n e w p ro p e r t i e s, i n c l u d i n g H aw k Dre a m i ng, a sa f a r i c a m p wh e re o p e r at o r s h ave t h e exc l u si ve p e r m i ssi o n f ro m t r a d i t i o n a l ow n e r s t o b r i n g v i s i t o r s o nt o t he i r l a nd a nd sha re a n a u t h e n t i c c u l t u r a l ex p e r i e n c e. A no t he r o f K a ka d u ’s f e at u re s i s t h e G a g u d j u H o t e l – a c ro c o d i l e - sha p e d c o m p l ex t hat i s q u i t e a m a z i n g wh e n v i e we d f ro m t he a i r. Re so r t - st yl e a c c o m m o d at i o n i s a l s o ava i l a bl e at C o o i nd a , a vi l l a g e o n t he f a m o u s Ye l l ow Wat e r B i l l a b o n g. Fa m i l y f r i e nd l y re so r t s a re l o c at e d i n Ja b i r u a s we l l a s at t h e e nt r a nc e t o K a ka d u o n t he S o u t h A l l i g at o r R i ve r. 79 NTLife
Magpie Geese, Yellow Water Billabong
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Must do: C r u i s e t h e p a l m - f r i n g e d Ye l l o w Wa t e r Billabong and spot birds, animals and big crocodiles. Ta k e t o t h e a i r i n a l i g h t a i r c r a f t d u r i n g t h e Tr o p i c a l S u m m e r ( N o v e m b e r – March) for a breathtaking view of K a k a d u ’ s m a j e s t i c Tw i n a n d J i m J i m waterfalls. H e a d t o G u n l o m Fa l l s i n t h e s o u t h e r n end of the park where it feels like you’re standing on the edge of the world. Ta k e a c u l t u r a l c r u i s e o n t h e E a s t A l l i g a t o r R i v e r. Birdwatch at Mardugal Billabong or try t h e M a r d u g a l B i l l a b o n g Wa l k . Vi s i t t h e B ow a l i Vi s i t o r C e n t re fo r t h e latest infor mation on Kakadu and how best to experience it.
S U R RO U N D S ARNHEM LAND Arnhem Land is a region of pristine wilderness - 100,000 square kilometres of protected l a n d re g a rd e d a s Au s t r a l i a ’s l a s t f r o n t i e r. A b o u t t h r e e t h o u s a n d A b o r i g i n a l Pe o p l e l i ve i n Arnhem Land today and it is one of the few areas in Australia where they still live a traditional life and maintain a strong sense of cultural i d e n t i t y. To h e l p p r o t e c t t h e land and the fragile culture it preserves, anyone visiting Ar nhem Land must obtain a per mit in advance from the Northern Land Council. A r n h e m L a n d ’s m a i n a c c e s s point is Gove (Nhulunbuy) - an hour and 20 minute flight east of Darwin. Commercial flights are also available from Cair ns. Gove has a population of around 4000 and is a stronghold of traditional Aboriginal art and craft. T h e C o bu r g Pe n i n s u l a ( C a p e Don) is home to the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park and offers visitors stunning scenery with abundant wildlife and birdlife. T he azure water s around both the Gove and Coburg
Pe n i n s u l a s o f f e r s o m e o f t h e best reef and tropical sports fishing in the world. 4x4 access to both regions is possible during peak season (May to October). In the Gove Pe n i n s u l a , i t ’s w o r t h t a k i n g a tour to visit the town lagoon – Gyngaru, the Nabalco Bauxite Mine and Alumina Plant, Nambara Arts and Crafts Centre a n d Yi r rk a l a B u k u - L a r r n g ay Mulka Arts and Cultural Centre. Of particular interest i n t h e C o bu r g Pe n i n s u l a i s t h e B l a c k Po i n t C u l t u r a l C e n t r e a n d Vi c t o r i a S e t t l e m e n t . F i s h i n g t h e mang rove-lined billabongs for b a r r a mu n d i , M a n g rove Ja c k a n d other sport fish are hugely popular pastimes in this area. Vi s i t o r s t o A r n h e m L a n d h ave a wide choice of accommodation o p t i o n s. Aw a rd - w i n n i n g S eve n S p i r i t B ay Wi l d e r n e s s L o d g e i s located in the remote northern tip of Arnhem Land and is the ultimate escape to relaxation and adventure. A favourite h a n g o u t o f l o c a l s , t h e G o v e Ya c h t C l u b h a s s e e n m a n y a traveller take in the sunset with their well-ear ned beverage.
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KATHERINE
The Douglas and Daly Rivers region is located midway between Darwin and K atherine, an easy scenic drive f ro m b o t h d e s t i n at i o n s. W h i l e i t ’s focal point is the main centre of K atherine, the whole region is known a s t h e Te r r i t o r y ’ s p l a y g r o u n d . T h e re g i o n o f f e r s g re at f i s h i n g, h i d d e n natural wonders and a rich indigenous a n d p i o n e e r i n g h i s t o r y, s t r e t c h i n g from the Gulf of Car pentaria to the We s t A u s t r a l i a n b o r d e r. K atherine was named by explorer Jo h n M c D o u a l l S t u a r t i n t h e l a t e 1800s after the daughter of one of his expedition sponsors. The area was renamed 'Nitmiluk' - meaning 'cicada place' - in 1989 when traditional ow n e r s, t h e Jawoy n A b o r i g i n a l p e o p l e, g a i n e d t i t l e t o t h e l a n d a n d n o w, Nitmiluk National Park is a Te r r i t o r i a n f a v o u r i t e . The Katherine River flows through 13 separate gorges that carve their way t h r o u g h t h e A r n h e m P l a t e a u . Yo u c a n 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 r o c k f a c e s . Wa t e r f a l l s a n d r o c k p o o l s are found along over 100 kilometres of walking tracks, beginning at the p a rk ’s v i s i t o r c e n t re.
KATHERINE
SURROUNDS Reaching further from Katherine is the Gulf
four main indigenous language g roups, includes
country; a huge area that sweeps east of
many large Australian cattle stations. Fishing
Katherine to the Queensland border. In the Gulf
and camping remain a way of life for locals and
country you will find some of Australia’s most
travellers chasing barramundi. King Ash Bay, a
remote and unspoilt waterways, making it an
g reat fishing spot 50 kilometres from Borroloola,
exciting fishing destination. The Savannah Way
also attracts thousands of visitors each year and
tourism drive that links Cair ns and Broome
a fishing competition is usually held on the long
offers drivers ever-changing soaring landscapes.
Easter weekend.
Cape Crawford’s Heartbreak Hotel is worth a
Barranyi (North Island) National Park, located
stop for a coldie and a chat with the locals; this
in the Sir Ed ward Pellew Group of Islands is a
is 100 kilometres south-west of Borroloola, an
haven for wildlife. The park provides a home to
area surrounded by savannah woodland, rock
nesting turtles and mig ratory birds and provides
escar pments, waterfalls and waterholes.
good reef fishing where red emperor, coral trout
Borroloola is a remote fishing community on the
and parrot fish can be caught. Access to the
McArthur River in the Gulf of Car pentaria.
islands is limited, and you must contact Parks
Once a frontier town, Borroloola is now the
and Wildlife NT before making the jour ney.
capital of the Gulf region. The area, home to
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Cape Craw fo rd i s a re m o t e s t o p, ho m e o f t he fa m o us H e a r t bre a k Hote l, at the junction of th e Car p e n t ari a an d Ta bl e l a nds H i g hw ay. D e s pi t e t he fi r s t pa rt of its na me, C a pe Craw fo rd i s si t u at e d ap prox i m at e l y 1 2 0 k i l o m e t re s fro m t he o c ea n a nd is s o na me d b ecau se i t i s si t u at e d at t he no r t he r n ex t re m i t y o r ‘ c a pe ’ o f t he Abne r R a ng e s, which were f i r st ‘ d i sc ove re d ’ by drove r L i nds ay C r aw fo rd i n 1 8 8 0 . T h e Abne r R a ng e s a re hom e t o an i m p re ssi ve fo r m at i o n k now n a s t he L o s t C i t y. T he Los t C ity cove r s a n a re a of ab o u t e i gh t sq u are ki l o m e t re s a nd i s do t t e d w i t h t owe r i ng s a nds tone for mations. T he se n at u ral p i llar s re m i nd m a ny o bs e r ve r s o f s k y s c r a pe r s, a nd a re we ll worth a v is it. Helic o p t e r f li gh t s wh i ch l a nd i n t he L o s t C i t y give ac c e ss t o fo u r wh e e l dr i ve t o ur s t hro ug h the san d st o n e fo r m at i o ns. Su r ro u n d e d by go ld e n g r a s s l a nds, ro c k esca r p m e n t s, w at e rf alls a nd w at e r ho l e s, C a pe Craw fo rd i s w i t h i n e asy re a ch o f L i m m e n Nati o n al Park. T h e are a i s ho m e t o a mag n i f i c e n t ar ray o f n at i ve w i l dl i fe. A no t he r must - se e d e st i n at i o n i s Po ppy ’s Po o l s. L o c at e d on t h e S avan n ah Way n e a r C a pe C r aw fo rd, t he Poo ls are su r ro u n d e d by qua r t z - r i ch s a nds t o ne and mu d st o n e, gi vi n g t he ro c k s a ha rd po l i s he d surfac e. Locat e d 2 8 5 ki lo m e t re s we s t o f K at he r i ne, Gre g o r y N at i o na l Park is the Northe r n Ter r i t o r y' s se c o n d large s t N at i o na l Pa rk , c ove r i ng 1 3 , 0 0 0 s qua re k ilome tre s be twe e n tropi c al an d se m i - ari d re g i o ns o f t he N o r t he r n Te r r i t o r y. T he Pa rk e ncompa s s e s spec t ac u lar ran ge s, e sc a r pm e nt s, g o rg e s, e uc a l y pt wo o dl a nds a nd dis tinctive Boa b Tre e s that c an b e exp e ri e n c e d o n t he s eve r a l w a l k s o r fo ur- whe e l dr i ve tra ck s running throug h the p ark. In ad d i t i o n t o t he awe s o m e s c e ne r y, t he hi s t o r i c s i t e of Bullita Home s te a d give s vi si t o r s a lo o k i n t o t he a re a ’s pa s t o r a l pa s t . T he A bo r i g i n a l s a cre d s ite at G re go r y’s Tre e c an b e e nj oye d fro m t he e nc o m pa s s i ng bo a rd w alk .
Nit milu k (K a t h erine ) G o r ge N i t mi l uk ( K at h e rine) G org e ha s b een ca rved ou t of the sandst one c lif fs t h at l i n e t h e K atherine River creating 13 d is tinct g orge s – e ach w it h i t s ow n s t un n i n g natu ra l f eatu res a nd la nd ma rk s a nd e ach st e e pe d in t h e cul t ure a n d the loca l Ind ig enou s p eop le - the Jawoyn. Wi t h i n t h e r i ve r s y s tem, Ba r ra mu nd i a nd tu rtles live, and t he s a n dba n k s reve a l the tra ck s of f res hwater crocod iles. Wat e r buf falo a n d wi l d brum bi es come d own f rom the p la ins to the rive r t o drink a lo n g wi t h a n a bu nd a nce of b ird s ma ny of which a re unique t o t his a re a . C rui s i n g the G org e s y s tem u nd er the s oa ring s andst one c lif fs a n d pa s t i n di g e nou s rock a rt d ating b a ck more tha n 30,000 ye ar s v i s i t o r s t o K at h erine lea r n to a p p reciate the a ncient powe r and ma j e s t y o f t h i s l a nd .
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N i t mi l uk Go rg e a n d t he K atherine Ri ve r a re t h e h e a rt o f K atherine bu t by n o m e a n s t h e o n l y re as on to v is it. As o n e o f t h e o l de s t a n d la rg es t inla nd set t le m e n t s i n t h e N o rther n Ter ritor y, K at h e r i n e h a s a ri ch and la s ting h i st o r y. I t w a s a n i n t e g ra l p a rt of the f a m o us O ve rl a n d Te l e g ra p h a nd is a m a j o r s t o p o n t h e g re at ra il line which n ow l i n k s n o rt h t o s o u th. Tod ay K atherine has a t hriving t ourism ind u s tr y p rima ril y c e nt e re d around Nitmilu k G org e but also inc luding t he s tu nning Ed ith Falls; t he old gold m ining town s hip of Pine Cre e k; t he A de laide River Wa r C emete r y; Cut t a Cut t a Cave s Natu re Pa rk ; Sp r ingvale H om e st e ad, t he old es t s tation hom e st e ad in t he Nort he r n Ter ritor y a nd much m ore.
Photo courtesy of Paul Arnold
Central Australia
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SPRINGS PICTURE A LANDSCAPE WHERE DEEP CHASMS AND GORGES CARVE THOUGH TOWERING RANGES, WHERE THE VAST DESERT SURROUNDS A PALM-FRINGED OASIS, AND THE CULTURE OF ITS ANCIENT PEOPLE SPANS MORE THAN 40,000 YEARS. LOCALS SIMPLY CALL IT “THE ALICE.”
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Bustling cafés
l i n e t h e To d d
Street mall in the centre of town, station cowboys in wide-brimmed hats saunter the streets and Aboriginal paintings splashed with ochre and vibrant colours ador n gallery walls. Combined, this for ms and melds the vibrant character and outback char m of this unique Central Australian town. It defies the expectations of a desert town, combining a strong sense of its own h e r i t a g e w i t h a l l t h e c o nve n i e n c e o f m o d e r n f a c i l i t i e s a n d a c t i v i t i e s. T h e re ’s a wide choice of quality restaurants and cafés, and traveller s can even enjoy a meal accompanied by an Aboriginal dance perfor mance. T he town has a s t r o n g f e s t i v a l s a n d e v e n t s p r o g r a m t h r o u g h o u t t h e y e a r.
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Attractions and Touring T here are a number of attractions located in Alice Springs that will provide you with a good under standing of life in the Red Centre. T he Alice Springs Desert Park, Araluen Cultural Precinct and the Royal F lying Doctor Service are just a few. If you want to get up close and per sonal with some scaly friends you can visit the Re ptile Centre. If you’re interested in histor y the Heritage Walk including the Hartley Street School, the National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame or T he Residency might be more your style. Visiting these attractions will add value to the experiences you will have while travelling within our regions. Alice Springs of fer s a wide range of touring options that will include these attractions and many more on their itineraries. You can do a ‘hop-on, hop-of f ’ town tour with Alice Wanderer or explore further afield with Tailor made Tour s and AAT Kings. Ride a camel at the Pyndan Camel Far m, experience the outback on a quad bike at Undoolya Station or get a bird’s eye view of Alice Springs and sur rounds from a hot air balloon or helicopter – the options are endless! A full range of attractions and touring options are presented in our Product Director y.
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Sig h t s eeing Alice Springs is nestled b e t w e e n t h e E a s t a n d We s t MacDonnell Ranges, and is 440 kilometres north-east of U l u r u . T h e To d d R i v e r winds through the town but rarely sees water and is home to the quirky annual
Events and Fun Alice Springs is known for its unique and sometimes a little bit wacky events. Where else can you see camels racing, cheer on the winner s in a boat race up a dr y river bed or choose one of 4,000 spectacular beanies to be your ver y own. Check out our Events Calender and plan your visit to Alice Springs around one of these unique experiences. You will be sure to have a stor y or two share with your friends!
H e n l e y - o n - To d d ‘ b o a t r a c e ’ . T h e f a m o u s Roy a l F l y i n g Doctor Service is based
Finke Desert Race The Finke Desert Race is Australia's premier off-road racing event that attracts bike, car and buggy entries from
here and provides an aerial
around Australia and overseas. It is a multi-terrain, two-day race through desert country from Alice Springs to the
medical service to outback
small Aputula (Finke) Community and is reputed to be one of the most difficult off-road races in one of the most
r e s i d e n t s . S i m i l a r l y, t h e Alice Springs School of the Air broadcasts lessons over the radio to students living in remote areas of Northern Te r r i t o r y. T h i s ‘ c l a s s r o o m ’ cover s an area big ger than several European countries.
remote places in the world. The Finke, as the event is commonly known, is run along sections of the Old Ghan Railway service track, adjacent to the railway line, along a winding corrugated track, which snakes through typical outback terrain of red dirt, sand, spinifex, mulga and desert oaks.
Henley-On-Todd Regatta The Henley-On-Todd Regatta is a day of fun where teams and individuals race 'boats', in the dry bed of the Todd River in outback Alice Springs. Have fun and enjoy the hilarity as you watch seemingly sane people race in 5
5850 -
585
5
5
5
6
when Reg Smith, an Alice Springs local, and his work colleagues proposed holding a regatta based on the famous Henley-on-Thames. The idea was taken up by the Rotary Clubs of Alice Springs and the fact that the town was 1,500 kilometres from the nearest large body of water was never seen as a problem. So the ASSA ABLOY Henley-On-Todd was born. 98 NTLife
The Camel Cup While camels may have a reputation as dedicated 'ships of the desert', these magnificent beasts are certainly not short on personality. Racing them can prove a nightmare for riders and handlers but fantastic viewing for spectators. Entertainment is assured, with nine unique races scheduled around the dusty outback track throughout the day. There will be lots of action between races, too. Belly dancers, rickshaw races, 'Kids Kamel Dapers' hobby camel races, rides, Mr and Miss Camel Cup challenges, food stalls and bars all add to the carnival atmosphere. Alice Springs Desert Festival The Alice Desert Festival shares the stories, songs and the unique lifestyle of Central Australia’s arid region. Featuring a vibrant program borne out of the desert landscape, they celebrate the dynamic exchange between cultures in the heart of Australia. The Alice Desert Festival attracts audiences of around 50,000 people from around Australia to over 50 events across its season. The festival presents an atmosphere not found anywhere else in Australia, where strong traditional cultures and a vibrant contemporary arts community, work together in presenting an amazing 10 days.
East MacDonnell Ranges T he East MacDonnell Ranges, while not as well known as the West MacDonnells, do provide beautiful s c e n e r y fo r bu s h w a l k i n g, c a m p i n g a n d fo u r- wh e e l d r i v i n g. Tr ave l l e r s c a n v i s i t A rl t u n g a , a g h o s t t ow n that was the site of a gold rush in the 1930s. Other places of spectacular natural beauty like Tre phina G o rg e, m a k e a t r i p t o t h e E a s t M a c D o n n e l l R a n g e s m o re t h a n wo r t h wh i l e.
Not to be missed • S e t o f f fo s s i c k i n g fo r g a r n e t s, g o l d o r z i rc o n s at G e m t re e. T h e p o p u l a r l o c a l s p o r t h e re i s b ow l i n g p a d dy m e l o n s by m o o n l i g h t at t h e c a m p i n g g ro u n d • Ta k e t h e 9 0 - m i nu t e s t ro l l a n d fo l l ow t h e C h a i n o f Po n d s at Tre p h i n a G o rg e N at u re Pa rk • S e t u p a bu s h c a m p by t h e H a l e R i ve r i n Ru by G a p Nature Park where the g round shines red with tiny g ar nets E a rl y m i n e r s m i s t o o k t h e m fo r r u b i e s • Ta k e a q u a d b i k e t o u r r i g h t i n t o t h e b e s t o f t h e E a s t MacDonnell Ranges • S t ay t h e n i g h t at t h e re f u r b i s h e d Ro s s R i ve r H o m e s t e a d
West MacDonnell Ranges • F i n k e R i ve r G o rg e, re p u t e d t o b e t h e wo rl d ’s o l d e s t r i ve r bed, leads to Palm Valley; filled with cabbage palms, cycads a n d o t h e r r a re p l a n t s • S w i m t h ro u g h t h e c o o l w at e r s o f E l l e r y C re e k B i g H o l e t h e n s t ay t h e n i g h t at h i s t o r i c G l e n H e l e n Homestead • P u l l o n t h e w a l k i n g b o o t s a n d d o o n e, o r a l l 1 3 s e c t i o n s o f t h e 2 2 3 k i l o m e t re L a r a p i n t a Tr a i l t h at w i n d s i t s w ay f ro m A l i c e S p r i n g s t o M t R a zo r b a c k • S t o p o f f at t h e A b o r i g i n a l c o m mu n i t y o f H e r m a n n s bu rg, s e t u p i n t h e m i d - n i n e t e e n t h C e n t u r y by G e r m a n L u t h e r a n m i s s i o n a r i e s a n d h o m e o f A l b e r t N a m at j i r a , t h e f a m o u s A b o r i g i n a l w at e r c o l o u r artist • E x p e r i e n c e t h e Re d C e n t re Way t o u r i s m d r i ve, wh i ch s t a r t s i n A l i c e S p r i n g s a n d t r a c k s t h ro u g h t h e We s t M a c D o n n e l l R a n g e s a n d o n t o U l u r u / Aye r s Ro c k a n d K i n g s C a nyo n
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Standley Chasm
SURROUNDS
T h e p a n o r a m i c l a n d s c a p e s o f t h e We s t M a c D o n n e l l R a n g e s a r e e a s i l y a c c e s s e d f r o m A l i c e S p r i n g s . E a c h o f t h e We s t M a c D o n n e l l R a n g e s ’ c h a s m s a n d g o r g e s h a s i t s o w n d e f i n i n g c h a r a c t e r a n d s c e n e r y. S i m p s o n s G a p s p o r t s a p e r m a n e n t p o o l a n d r o c k w a l l a b i e s l i v e i n the g ap's rocky ridges. Standley Chasm lights up in fier y colour s ref lected by the o v e r h e a d s u n a t m i d d a y. P i c t u r e s q u e s w i m m i n g h o l e s s u c h a s E l l e r y C r e e k B i g H o l e , O r m i s t o n G o r g e , G l e n H e l e n G o r g e a n d Re d b a n k G o r g e o f f e r r e f r e s h i n g r e l i e f o n a s c o r c h i n g d a y. I t i s a l s o p o s s i b l e t o v i s i t t h e O c h r e P i t s t h a t d e s e r t A b o r i g i n a l p e o p l e o n c e u s e d a s a q u a r r y f o r o c h r e p i g m e n t s . T h e w o r l d - r e n o w n e d L a r a p i n t a Tr a i l f o l l o w s the backbone of the MacDonnell Ranges for 223 kilometres and there are a number of specialist walks so traveller s of all fitness levels can experience it. 102 NTLife
L a r a p i n t a Tr a i l Ru n n i n g 2 2 3 k i l o m e t r e s a l o n g t h e s p i n e o f t h e M a c D o n n e l l R a n g e s , f r o m A l i c e S p r i n g s t o M o u n t S o n d e r, i s t h e L a r a p i n t a Tr a i l . T h i s w a l k w e a v e s i t s e l f a m o n g s t s o m e o f t h e world's most ancient metamor phic and igneous rock, some of which have an estimated age of between 1,600 and 2,300 million year s and boasts nearly 600 species of rare flora. The trail crosses the traditional lands of the Arrernte people and follows the path of a number of Australia's early explorers. The trail is divided into twelve stages with access points o p e n t o ve h i c l e s a l o n g t h e t r a c k at S i m p s o n ' s G a p, Standley
Chasm,
Ellery
Creek
Big-Hole,
Birthday
Wa t e r h o l e , O c h r e P i t s , J a y C r e e k , G l e n H e l e n a n d Re d b a n k G o r g e. While
the
overall
trail
has
been
designed
for
experienced walker s, selecting your starting point can var y the dif ficulty and length of the trail. Guided walking tours, food drops and transfers can be arranged for those seeking a more relaxed walking experience.
Wa l k e r s p l a n n i n g o v e r n i g h t w a l k s a r e
e n c o u r a g e d t o r e g i s t e r t h e O v e r n i g h t Wa l k e r R e g i s t r a t i o n S c h e m e o n 1 3 0 0 6 5 0 7 3 0 .
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To p 1 0 E x p e r i e n c e s
1 Learn the Dreamtime stories associated with Uluru on a walking tour around its base with traditional Anangu owners. 2 S e t o f f o n t h e Va l l e y o f t h e W i n d s w a l k – a n inter pretative trail around the domes of Kata Tjuta. 3 Ride quad bikes at Kings Creek Station, near Wa t a r r k a N a t i o n a l P a r k o r c a m e l s a t C u r t i n S p r i n g s Station near Uluru. 4 Wa t c h t h e s u n r i s e l i g h t u p t h e 1 0 0 - m e t r e h i g h w a l l s o f K i n g s C a n y o n a s y o u t a c k l e t h e R i m Wa l k o r t h e e a s i e r K i n g s C r e e k Wa l k t h a t l e a d s t o a lookout in the centre of the Canyon 5 Jo i n a t o u r t o A t i l a / M t C o n n e r, i n t h e U l u r u - K a t a Tjuta National Park, where you’ ll see evidence of early pioneers, view salt lakes where inland oceans once f lowed and discover ancient fossils 6 Ta k e a s c e n i c f l i g h t a n d v i e w t h e s t u n n i n g for mations of Kata Tjuta and see the unspoilt beauty of the surrounding red desert 7 E x p l o r e t h e G i l e s Tr a c k o n a n o v e r n i g h t t r e k f r o m the tranquil, spring-fed waterhole at Kathleen Springs to the sheer red rock face of Kings Canyon 8 I n Wa t a r r k a N a t i o n a l P a r k , t a k e a n e a r l y m o r n i n g t r e k a l o n g t h e K i n g s C a n y o n R i m Wa l k f o r unforgettable views or the easier hour-and-a-half K i n g s C r e e k Wa l k f o r a l o o k o u t i n t h e c e n t r e o f t h e Canyon 9 Ta k e t h e f o u r - w h e e l ‘ a d v e n t u r e t r a i l ’ t h r o u g h mountain ranges and desert landscapes along the M e r e e n i e L o o p r o a d t o Wa t a r r k a N a t i o n a l P a r k 1 0 Ta k e a t o u r a r o u n d t h e s a l t l a k e s o f t h e A m a d e u s chain and visit the spectacular mesa of Mount Conner that is three times larger than Uluru.
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ULURU Fo r b o t h i t s A b o r i g i n a l c u s t o d i a n s a n d t h e t r a v e l l e r s t h a t f l o c k here, Uluru-K ata Tjuta National Park, 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs, re presents the physical and spiritual heart of Australia. The region encompasses Uluru and Kata-Tjuta, p o s i t i o n e d a l o n g s i d e t h e t o w n s h i p o f Yu l a r a , K i n g s C a n y o n , a n d the inter mittent outback cattle stations. Rising from the broad desert plain in the deep centre of Australia, U l u r u i s Au s t r a l i a ’s m o s t re c o g n i s a bl e n at u r a l i c o n . I t s t a n d s 3 4 8 m e t re s h i g h , a n d , l i k e a n i c e b e rg, h a s m o s t o f i t s bu l k b e l ow t h e surface. It is located 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs in t h e U N E S C O Wo r l d H e r i t a g e - l i s t e d U l u r u - K a t a T j u t a N a t i o n a l P a r k . To t h e w e s t b y 4 0 k i l o m e t r e s o f U l u r u / Ay e r s R o c k i s K a t a Tjuta, also known as The Olgas. This massive pile of rock domes d a t e s b a c k 5 0 0 m i l l i o n y e a r s . B o t h U l u r u / Ay e r s R o c k a n d K a t a Tjuta/T he Olg as have g reat cultural significance for the Anangu traditional landowners, who lead walking tours that infor m about the local flora and fauna, bush foods and the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories of the area.
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A b o r i g i n a l p e o p l e h av e l i v e d i n t h e a r e a f o r a t l e a s t 2 2 , 0 0 0 ye a r s . T h e A n a n g u p e o p l e a r e U l u r u ’s t r a d i t i o n a l c u s t o d i a n s b u t u n t i l r e c e n t l y, t h e m o n o l i t h w a s k n o w n a s Aye r s Ro c k ( n a m e d a f t e r f o r m e r p r e m i e r S i r H e n r y Aye r s by E u r o p e a n e x p l o r e r Wi l l i a m G o s s e, w h o first sighted the rock in 1873). Uluru was retur ned to the care and ownership of the Anangu in 1985 and they now jointly manage the n a t i o n a l p a r k w i t h Pa r k s A u s t r a l i a . Wat a r rk a N at i o n a l Pa rk , 3 0 0 k i l o m e t re s t o t h e n o r t h e a s t o f U l u r u , i s b e s t k n ow n fo r K i n g s C a nyo n - a migh ty cha sm t hat cl eaves t he e a r t h t o a d e p t h o f 2 7 0 m e t re s. T h e s h e e r re d ro c k f a c e o f t h e C a nyo n s o a r s ove r 1 0 0 m e t re s a b ove c yc a d g a rd e n s. T h e p a rk i s a n i m p o r t a n t c o n s e r vat i o n a re a , wh e r e ro c k h o l e s a n d g o rg e s p rov i d e re f u g e fo r ove r 6 0 0 s p e c i e s o f p l a n t s a n d m a ny n at i ve a n i m a l s. T h e p a rk e n c o m p a s s e s t h e we s te r n end of t he Georg e Gi l l Ra ng e a nd i s ho m e t o a va r i e t y o f u n i q u e n at i ve f l o r a a n d f a u n a , i n c l u d i n g m o re t h a n 6 0 0 d i f f e re n t p l a n t s p e c i e s. T h e a r e a h a s a l s o b e e n h o m e t o L u r i t j a A b o r i g i n a l p e o p l e fo r t h e l a s t 2 0 , 0 0 0 ye a r s. T h e wo rd Wa t a r rk a r e f e r s t o t h e u m b re l l a bu s h t h at p ro l i f e r a t e s i n t h i s u n i q u e l a n d s c a p e. Tr ave l l e r s c a n ex p e r i e n c e t h e u m b r e l l a bu s h on a hike t o t he Ca nyon r i m . Tre kke r s w i l l f i r st e n c o u n t e r a s t e e p c l i m b t o t h e C a nyo n r i m , bu t t h e s p e ctacul a r views of t he sheer re d ro c k f a c e d C a nyo n will m a ke t he t rekker s forget t he t ro u bl e. A l l a l o ng t he
r i m w a l k a r e t h e w e a t h e r e d , bu t t r e s s e d d o m e s o f t h e L o s t C i t y a n d t h e s h e l t e r e d v a l l ey, G a r d e n o f E d e n , whi ch i s bu r st i ng w i t h p e r m a n e n t w at e r h o l e s a n d l u s h ve g e t a t i o n . This walk is suitable for fit and experienced walker s. T he shady and more sedate Kings C re e k Wa l k a m bl e s 1 k i l o m e t re a l o n g t h e va l l ey f l o o r t o a n i n c r e d i bl e l o o k o u t p o i n t a n d i s s u i t a b l e f o r f a m i l i e s. T h i s r e g i o n d o e s h ave i t s s h a r e o f r e s t a u r a n t s a n d cafés, mainly in Uluru/Ayer s Rock’s tourist village and a t K i n g s C a nyo n a c c o m m o d a t i o n , bu t t h e m o s t s p e c t a c u l a r a f t e r d a rk e n t e r t a i n m e n t o u t h e r e i s t h e sky. W he n ni g ht f al l s, t h e s t a r s s h i n e s o mu ch b r i g h t e r, a n d m a ny t r ave l l e r s j u s t s i t a n d s t a r e f o r h o u r s. Another special night time activity is the Sounds of S i l e nc e d i nne r – a f e a s t i n t h e o p e n a i r w i t h U l u r u a n d Kata Tjuta in the distance and a lone didjeridu and a st ro l o g e r fo r a c c o m p a n i m e n t . O t h e r s u n s e t o p t i o n s i n t hi s a re a a re c a m e l r i d e s a n d o u t b a c k b a r b e c u e s.
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