Photo courtesy of Paul Arnold
“The Northern Territory- last of the great frontiers- beautiful, natural, vast� 1 N T LIFE
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Welcome
to the Northern Territory
Welcome to the Northern Territory, a place of amazing contrasts, landscapes and experiences which will have you captivated. Darwin, the Territory’s vibrant capital city, has a tropical outdoor lifestyle, great nightlife, and fabulous waterfront. Lonely Planet listed it as one of the world's top-ten cities to visit in 2012. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the harbour, explore the spectacular Litchfield National Park nearby, or journey to the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, three hours east of Darwin. With its magnificent wetlands, ancient art and living culture, it is one of the jewels of the Territory. Central Australia, often called the Red Centre because of the colour of its soil, is rich in Aboriginal culture. Here you can see the iconic natural wonders of Uluru-Kata Tjuta, the MacDonnell Ranges and Kings Canyon. You can explore Central Australia in any number of ways – take a guided walking tour, jump on a scenic helicopter flight or hot air balloon, or for the adventurous traveller, a camel trek across the Simpson Desert. The outback town of Alice Springs, nestling below the MacDonnell Ranges, is famous for its historic sites, Indigenous art galleries and a calendar of quirky events including the Camel Cup, the Beanie Festival and the Henley on Todd, the only boat race in the world held on a dry river bed. There really is something for everyone in the Territory and I encourage you to explore the wonderful landscapes and experiences this great land has to offer.
The Hon. Matt Conlan, MLA Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Northern Territory
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Kakadu National Park
contents 7. City map of Darwin to help you get orientated. Highlighting main areas of interest and attractions. 10. Welcome: You have chosen to visit the Northern Territory, one of the most remarkable and unique places in the world and we welcome you.
60. Cuisine: Darwin’s cuisine reflects its diverse mixture of more than 60 nationalities and offers year-round waterfront dining to suit all moods and budgets. 76. Shopping: The Darwin shopping scene is boutique in style and eclectic.
16. Darwin: Darwin is the gateway to some of the world’s greatest adventure playgrounds.
94. Aboriginal Culture: The Territory’s northern reaches encompass a culture rich in artistic heritage.
24. Things to see and do in Darwin from capturing the weekend markets to visiting the museum and experience days gone by.
100. Kakadu: World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is a landscape of contrasts.
34. Fishing in the Top End: The pristine coastal waters are where some of the best tropical sportfishing action in the world takes place.
104. Katherine: The region offers great fishing, hidden natural wonders and a rich indigenous and pioneering history
44. Visit the spectacular Darwin Waterfront and take a cool dip in the salt water lagoon. Have breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of the many food outlets.
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
112. Alice Springs: There are a number of attractions located in Alice Springs that will provide you with a good understanding of life in the Red Centre.
Thank you to Tourism NT
George Brown Botanic Gardens
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Leichardt Memorial The Cenotaph Lyons Collage (B.A.T. House) Chinese Temple and Museum Parliament House / NT Library Deckchair Cinema
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Government House Survivors Lookout WWII Oil Storage Tunnels
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Indo Pacific Marine Stokes Hill Wharf Crocosaurus Cove Burnette House -Myilly Point Framed - The Darwin Gallery Wave Lagoon, Beach & Water Recreatior Darwin Convention Centre Darwin Amphitheatre Chan Contemporary Art Space Darwin Entertainment Centre
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Palms Motel Alatai Apartments Quality Hotel Frontier Darwin Vitina Studio Motel Peninsular Apartments City Gardens Apartments Mediterranean All Suite Hotel Marrakai Luxury All Suites Poinciana Inn Darwin Quest Darwin
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Travelodge Mirambeena Resort Darwin 25 26 Holiday Inn Darwin 27
Holiday Inn Esplanade Darwin Mantra Pandanus
Novotel Atrium Darwin Value Inn Darwin Central Hotel Marina on the Esplanade Teh Cavenagh The Crowne Plaza Darwin Palms City Resort Mandalay Luxury Stay Coast Holiday Accomodation Medina Grand Darwin Vibe Hotel SKYCITY Darwin
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CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL
Photo courtesy of Paul Arnold
Nightcliff Jetty
A WARM WELCOME
You have chosen to visit the Northern Territory, one of the most remarkable and unique places in the world and we welcome you. There is so much to do, see and experience during your time here. From discovering living Aboriginal culture rich in traditions more than 50,000 years old, to wandering through our bright and colourful cities, the Northern Territory is just waiting for you to explore. The Northern Territory is Australia’s real Outback and home to the iconic natural wonders of Kakadu National Park in the north and Uluru/Ayers Rock in the Red Centre. Our spectacular flora and fauna varies dramatically between the deserts of Central Australia and the tropics of the Top End; it is a photographers dream and an adventurers playground. The NT is filled with fascinating characters, awe-inspiring landscapes and singular experiences. Do you imagine yourself in a remarkable and unique destination filled with culture, colour and adventure? You don’t have to imagine it; you are already here.
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Ubirr Sunset
Photo courtesy of Paul Arnold
DARWIN Beer Can Regatta Mindil Beach
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Darwin is the Northern Territory’s capital; a modern, tropical city that sits on a harbour twice the size of Sydneys. Considered Australia’s most culturally diverse city, more than 60 nationalities make up Darwins population, including the area’s traditional indigenous land owners. There’s little wonder Lonely Planet picked Darwin as one of the top ten cities in the world to visit in 2012. Darwin is the gateway to some of the world’s greatest adventure playgrounds. Surrounded by the wonders of Litchfield National Park, World Heritage-Listed Kakadu, remote Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands, nature seeps into every pore of the city.
annie mullins & brodee jean rocking ksubi & insight
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2013
Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival
The Carlton Mid Darwin Cup is without doubt the jewel in the crown for Territory racing, and at just after 5pm on first Monday in August, the winner and connections will be celebrated and feted by the masses that have descended on the Darwin Turf Club. Cup Day brings to a crescendo all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes readying the course and its combatants for their moment in the sun. The months of toil from a host of people will come to a close as the headline act of the Carnival plays out in a little over two minutes on the track. The fabulous experience that is the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival will live long in the memory of all those present – some will be first timers and others die-hard enthusiasts who seldom if ever miss a Carnival in Darwin. It is the culmination of eight tremendous days of fantastic entertainment and competition as the Territory puts on its best face to the rest of Australia.
CARNIVAL Calendar 2013 Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival at a Glance Day 1 - Saturday 6 July HOT 100 Darwin Guineas Race Day Day 2 - Saturday 13 July Trans Territory Food Chief Minister’s Cup Day Day 3 - Wednesday 17 July Bridge Toyota Ladies Day Day 4 - Saturday 20 July SKYCITY NT Derby Day Day 5 - Saturday 27 July Sky Racing Metric Mile Day Day 6 - Wednesday 31 July Colemans Printing Race Day Day 7 - Saturday 3 August bet365 Palmerston Sprint Day Day 8 - Monday 5 August Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Day
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THINGS
TO DO IN
DARWIN Here comes the rain
Tropical Markets Darwin is a vibrant mix of cultures, and every one of them has a stall at the open air markets. Get to Mindil Beach in time for sunset (Thursdays and Sundays, March to November) grab something tasty, stare out to sea and you’ll sense Asia just over the horizon. On weekend mornings all year round the exotic produce, local wares and friendly faces move to Parap, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek.
Around the world
The Rapid Creek Monsoon Markets in Darwin happen Thursday evenings from November to April (or Sunday mornings outside Monsoon season). 60 stalls offer fresh organic produce, Asian fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, exotic plants, flowers and seafood. Plus you’ll find a range of local handmade arts and crafts for that special gift, as well as local entertainers.
Each Thursday and Sunday evening between May and October the stalls at Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Markets offer international cuisine from Turkey, Greece, Sri Lanka, South America, North Africa, India and all over South East Asia. Make like a local and grab some take-away to have down on the beach as you enjoy a spectacular Darwin sunset.
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Festivals and Events In August, Darwin Festival ignites the city with local and international performances. Don’t miss the Beer Can Regatta, Darwin Blues Festival and Darwin Fridge Festival. In March, hop over to the Tiwi Islands for a unique insight into the community’s twin passions: Art and AFL footy. Faces move to Parap, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek.
Feed the fish Since the early 1950s a unique and natural phenomena occurs on the high tide amongst the tranquil tropical waters of Darwin’s Doctors Gully. Hundreds of friendly local wild fish swim to the shallow shoreline in search of a gratuitous meal of fresh bread. Over the course of this enduring 60 plus year tradition, the fish have shed their normal shyness and are willingly hand-fed to the delight of thousands of fascinated locals and tourists every year. 26 N T LIFE
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Crocadylus Park
McMillans Road Knuckey Lagoon NT 0828 www.crocodyluspark.com.au (08) 8922 4500 Crocadylus Park is the best place in Australia to come face to face with the largest reptiles on the planet! Built upon 30 years of experience in crocodile research and conservation, Crocadylus Park plays host to over a thousand crocodiles from 30cm long hatchings to massive adults measuring over 4.8 and weighing more than half a ton!
More things
Barrier Air
10 Slade Crt Darwin Airport NT 0810 www.barrieraviation.com 08 8945 5475 Barrier Air Charter Darwin offers charter flights throughout the Northern Territory and Northern Australia. Barrier Air Charter is also a well established scenic flight base, flying over spectacular Kakadu National Park and Katherine Gorge.
Darwin’s Barra Base Fishing Safaris
TO SEE
2 Todd Crescent Malak NT 0812 www.darwinsbarrabase.com.au 08 8945 0376
Darwins Barra Base is a purpose built Guided Fishing Lodge with accommodation right in the heart of Darwin. It is also a fantastic Bed & Breakfast called Beales Bedfish & Breakfast, conveniently situated within a couple of minutes of the International Airport and only 10 minutes from the city.
and try…
Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles Cruises
Situated on the Arnhem Hwy on the way to Kakadu National Park www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au 08 89789077 Most of the time it’s warm, Crocodiles are buried in the mud, under the trees in the shade. You do not normally see crocodiles. Here on the Adelaide River, the crocodiles know our boats, they leave their place of hiding, knowing they may be fed. This happens all year round.
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Casuarina Square
coffee, catch a movie or enjoy a family picnic. Create lasting memories with family and friends and enjoy the essence of Darwin’s tropical lifestyle, all at one destination.
Museum and Art Gallery
Casuarina Square is the Northern Territory’s premier shopping destination, with approximately 200 stores in one air-conditioned modern location. Servicing the local community since 1973, Casuarina Square offers customers an extensive selection of stores and services in a modern environment.
Convention Centre
Set in a tropical garden on Darwin Harbour at Bullocky Point is the Northern Territory’s premier cultural institution - the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). The MAGNT collections place the region’s art, history and culture, and natural history in an Australian and international context through research, interpretation and collection development.
247 Trower Road Casuarina NT 0810 www.casuarinasquare.com.au (08)8920 2345
Territory Wildlife Park
Cox Peninsula Road Berry Springs NT 0838 www.territorywildlifepark.com.au 08 8988 7200 At the Territory Wildlife Park, not only do you see wildlife upclose 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.
Waterfront
Kitchener Drive Darwin NT 0800 www.waterfront.nt.gov.au (08)8999 5155
Stokes Hill Road Darwin NT 0800 www.darwinconvention.com.au 08 8923 9000
The hub of northern Australia has one of the strongest investment and growth forecasts in the country. It’s a regional centre for energy and minerals with prosperous agribusiness, marine, tourism, and defence industries. As Australia’s gateway to Asia, Darwin City has strategic access to the world’s most exciting new economies.
Deckchair Cinema
Jervois Road, off Kitchener Drive, Darwin Waterfront www.deckchaircinema.com.au (08) 8981 0700 Deckchair Cinema, operated by the Darwin Film Society, is a unique cinema experience. It is fully independent and screens films that are often otherwise unavailable to local audiences. The outdoor setting, on the edge of Darwin Harbour is absolutely stunning. Watch the sunset over the sea and enjoy the tropical garden setting with a meal and a drink before the film.
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19 Conacher Street Fannie Bay NT 0820 www.artsandmuseums.nt.gov.au/museums 08 8999 8264.
The Darwin Entertainment Centre 93 Mitchell Street Darwin NT 0800 www.yourcentre.com.au 08 8980 3333
The Darwin Entertainment Centre was first opened in 1986 by then Administrator of the Northern Territory, Commodore Eric Johnston. The first ever performance of The Centre was on March 11 by veteran British entertainer Max Bygraves. Bygraves’ first notes were actually to the accompaniment of a dozen flushing toilets. Today the Centre houses a 1070 seat proscenium arch theatre a 278 seat adaptable theatre a gallery/ meeting space, 2 grand foyers, 2 bars, a rehearsal room, and an outdoor performance area supported by state of the art audio visual equipment.
Perfect location, Beautiful Spa If your looking to treat yourself, Cullen Bay Day Spa offers a variety of treatments, products and top industry brands just for you. Located in the beautiful Cullen Bay Marina area of Darwin, only five minutes from the Darwin Central Business District and Casino: this is the only Day Spa, in the Territory, that offers water views. Its the longest established Medi Spa offering the best solution for male & female skin care and wellbeing needs. Services include non-surgical injectable treatments such as PRP for skin rejuvenation, collagen production and reduction of hair loss. Dermal fillers for volume and lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxers for the face and excessive body sweating. Other cosmetic treatments include, anti-ageing facials using Sothys and Environ skin care, microdermabrasion, skin needling, IPL and LED therapies. You and your partner can also relax with our various
spa packages which include spa bath, slimming or aromatherapy body scrubs and wraps, massages including our exotic warm stone massage . Or just treat yourself with a spa manicure, pedicure specialising in OPI nail polish and gels . We also offer Semi permanent mascara special occasion makeup using Jane Iredale mineral makeup, spray and cream tan application using St Tropez. For all your skin care needs this leading day spa can assist with all of them including retail therapy which you can purchase online at wwww.cullenbaydayspa.com.au with their stunning spa wear from Colin Heaney kaftans to gorgeous gift packs with bath bombs, massage bars and aromatherapy oils and soaps. Ask about their free delivery to your hotel.
V i s i t w e b s i t e f o r a f u l l r a n g e o f p r o d u c t s a n d g i f t Vo u c h e r s . w w w. c u l l e n b a y d a y s p a . c o m . a u
Litchfield National Park Litchfield National Park is only an hour drive from the city. Crystal-clear waterfalls, swimming holes, fourwheel driving and easy-going bushwalks are just the start. Enjoying the plentiful shade and refreshing rock pools at Florence Falls will make you want to come back for more. 32 N T LIFE
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FISHING Our Top End PARADISE
Fishing in the Northern Territory is world class and there are many diverse fishing habitats on offer; lush billabongs, big tidal rivers, mangrove-lined estuaries, a scattering of islands and hundreds of kilometres of unspoilt coastline.
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continued overleaf
Claire Mathias with her whopper 131cm Barra caught on a One Day Trip @ Shady Camp
Visit the website for the latest Safaris & availability.
106cm Barra caught on a One Day Trip @ Corroboree Billabong Check out our great YOUTUBE videos of all the action!
ONE DAY FISHING TRIPS 2013 BOOK NOW
Barra Fishing @ Mary & Finniss Rivers (Feb-Nov) 0r Bluewater Sports Fishing Trips @ Dundee (May-Nov)
2-6 Days Barra Run Off Fishing Safaris @ Shady Camp (Feb-Apr] 2-6 Days Barra to Sailfish/Pelagics Bluewater Safaris @ Dundee (May-Nov]
Spectacular Wildlife and Even more Spectacular Fishing
info@ darwinsbarrabase.com
(08) 8945 0376
www. darwinsbarrabase.com.au
Photo courtesy of Darwin’s Barra Base
The pristine coastal waters are where some of the best tropical Barramundi Fishing action in the world takes place. The run-off waters that occurs during the run-off months of February, March, April and early May during and after the Wet Season rains brings the larger female Saltwater Barramundi for spawning and coastal feeding. The tropical humid warm weather & strong tidal & run-off water flows keeps the Barra on the bite. This period is called the: Barra run-off Fishing Season; and is a Must Do for all visitors to the Top End. Either by completing a One Day Barra Fishing Trip whilst you are in town or by completing a 2-6 Days Barra runoff Fishing Safari (need to book 3-6 months in advance) for Extended Safaris, with an available operator, like Darwins Barra Base Fishing Safaris, (See advertisement on previous page). Shady Camp –Chambers & Finke Bay; One Day Trips & Extended Safaris have you fishing the pristine run off waters of the Mary River System that flows into Chambers Bay, as well as the coastal creeks along Finke Bay. The flora and fauna at this time of year is breathtaking, and
the birdlife is phenomenal. You will experience crocodiles in their own habitat, where pigs roam wild and water buffaloes converge on the edges of the floodplains. Commercial fish netting and live baiting is banned from this area, and the quality and quantity of Barra, Threadfin Salmon & Jewfish caught by Fishing Tour Operators and Recreational Fishing persons is world famous. Darwin Harbour is full of exotic fish but those seeking adventure can head into Arnhem Land, over to the Tiwi Islands, down to the Victoria or Daly rivers in the Katherine region or into the Gulf region for a truly unforgettable fishing expedition. Huge, wide rivers like the Daly and Victoria are prime Barra haunts, as are the networks of beautiful waterways found in World Heritage-Listed Kakadu National Park and already mentioned Mary River area. Dundee, Finniss River & Peron Islands. Fishing in this area is excellent and while Barramundi are most active from March to May, anglers can fish successfully for these nearly all year round. An awesome range of species from Barramundi to great Bluewater Sport and Reef fish, are caught 36 N T LIFE
in this area. Including Giant Trevally (GT), Queenfish, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Long Tail & Mack Tuna, Samson fish, Black Jewfish, Golden Snapper, Fingermark Snapper, Red Emperor, Grassy Emperor, Coral Trout, Gold Spot Cod, and don’t forget our large Black Marlin and Sailfish. You can hire a boat or bring your own, take a fullyguided fantastic One Day Fishing Trip whilst in town; or complete an Extended 2-6 Days Fishing Safari with a Fishing Tour Operator, staying at a remote fishing lodge or charter a Mothership - every type of angler and every type of fishing experience is catered for in the Northern Territory. There are international fishing operators who only use the Northern Territory for Australian fishing, which is testament to the quantity and quality of diverse fishing that we have here. The Northern Territory is the perfect fishing destination, because due to its close proximity, keen anglers can experience a real challenge while others in the travelling party can relax and enjoy the attractions of the mainland.
Eyeball a giant croc Adelaide River, 70km drive from the city centre, is perfect habitat for Salties. Seeing one of these 4.5m giants jumping from the water right next to your boat is something else. So is swimming in the ‘Cage of Death’ in Darwin’s CBD. Or for the faint-hearted, meet Sweetheart - 5m long and safely stuffed - at the Museum and Art Gallery of the NT.
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Not just a
PARK FOR CROCODILES!
You’ve made it to the Northern Territory! It’s time to see some of our amazing creatures! Take a guided tour at Crocodylus Park and learn about the Australian Saltwater Crocodile. You’ll have the opportunity to feed the huge adult crocs and also hold a baby croc. Crocodylus Park is built upon 30 years of experience in crocodile research and conservation, playing host to over a thousand crocodiles from 30 centremetre long hatchlings to massive adults measuring over 4.8 metres and weighing more than half a ton! We also have a diverse array of other wildlife, including big cats, primates, birds and other reptiles including our huge Burmese Python, weighing over 90 kilograms! Another highlight of Crocodylus Park is the air-conditioned museum. Spend some time learning about the origin of crocodiles, how many different species
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there are, what makes them tick and what makes them so feared. It’s all here, and it’s illustrated with everything from photographs to live crocodiles. Tours, which include crocodile feeding and holding, are at 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm and 3.30 pm daily. Located in Darwin, Crocodylus Park is only 5 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes drive from Darwin City and is readily accessible by bus and car. Crocodylus Park is open from 9 am to 5 pm, every day except Christmas Day. We have a great souvenir shop and snack bar catering for morning and afternoon tea and lunch. We also stock a large range of unique handbags, wallets and leather products. Choose from Saltwater Crocodile, Caiman, Eelskin, Stingray, Ostrich, Python and Lizard leathers Don’t leave the Northern Territory without a visit to Crocodylus Park! It’s worth every second!
Darwin’s Premier Tourist Attraction The best place in Australia to come face to face with the largest reptiles on the planet! Crocodiles, monkeys, tigers, lions, birds, emus, kangaroos & lots more! Located in Darwin, 5 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes drive from Darwin City, Crocodylus Park is readily accessible by bus and car. Crocodylus Park is open from 9 am to 5 pm, every day except Christmas Day. Tours, which include crocodile feeding, are at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm and 330 pm daily.
815 McMillans Rd Berrimah, Darwin Tel: 89224500 39 N T LIFE
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 saltwater 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.
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Deckchair Outdoor Cinema It’s been a Darwin tradition since the 1920s but now the secret’s out. Every evening from April to November, locals gather by the shores of Darwin Harbour to lounge in deckchairs and watch flicks under the stars. Come early, grab some food and wine, and watch the sun set before the movie starts.
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The Darwin Sailing Club Enjoy the spirit of good food, wine and meet new friends in a location next to none. Great sunsets, great meals, great atmosphere. Relax in our tranquil surrounds on the water! The Darwin Sailing Club Club House Atkins Drive. Fannie Bay Telephone: (08) 8981 1700 www.dwnsail.com.au
W
hat is one of the five must do things to do for any visitor to Darwin? Watch the sunset at The Darwin Sailing Club. As one of Darwin’s premier and iconic sporting and social club’s, The Darwin Sailing Club is located on the shores of Fannie Bay and boasts an award winning Waterfront Bistro, Sailors Bar and outdoor dining and entertainment area that takes in refreshing sea breezes in a tropical setting. Open seven days a week, the Club is family friendly and welcomes bonafide visitors and guests. Function bookings, sail training and membership enquiries welcome. Year 2013 is the club’s 50th Year Anniversary with celebrations being conducted throughout the year.
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The Darwin Waterfront
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THE
Experience the best of Darwin’s tropical lifestyle while enjoying resort-style luxuries, safe swimming, ocean views and delicious food – all at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct.
Darwin Waterfront The Darwin Waterfront is a fresh, new destination for anyone who wants to relax, cool off with a swim, meet with friends over coffee, catch a movie or enjoy a family picnic. Create lasting memories with family and friends and enjoy the essence of Darwin’s tropical lifestyle, all at one destination. The Darwin Waterfront Precinct is home to the Territory’s only Wave Lagoon. Offering safe year-round swimming the Wave Lagoon is open daily and is a great spot to cool off, relax or ride a wave. The Wave Lagoon and shallow toddler pools are chlorinated salt water and cover 4000 square metres with the lagoon depth varying from 2m at the deepest point. Suitable for the whole family, the lagoon creates ten different wave patterns with the highest wave reaching 1.7m. Entry charges apply. There’s also a sea water Recreation Lagoon and beach area which is free to use. The Precinct has been a welcomed addition to the tropical city of Darwin and it’s fast becoming the place to be seen. A short
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stroll from the Darwin CBD, with its seaside promenades, parklands, landscaped gardens, retail outlets, hotels and alfresco dining the Waterfront Precinct is proving to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. As a destination, the Darwin Waterfront has truly captured its city’s relaxed mood and unique appeal. Whatever your taste or style, there is something for everyone - so let’s meet at the Waterfront! Wave Lagoon Admission Fee 15 yrs and over $5 half day $8 full day Under 15 yrs $3.50 half day $5 full day Under 2 yrs Free Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) $12 half day $16 full day Concession (card holders) $3 half day $5 full day Session times: Morning: 10am-2pm Afternoon: 2pm-6pm Full day session: 10am6pm No surf boards allowed. Open 7 days. Visit our website for more information on upcoming free events at the Darwin Waterfront www.waterfront.nt.gov.au.
THE
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Restaurants & Eateries
Curve Cafe and Bar
Offering alfresco dining it’s a great place to quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger. Open daily 6am till late. T: 08 8982 9709 W: www.vibehotels.com.au
Fiddlers Green
A cosy and relaxed place where there are no strangers, only friends who haven’t met yet. Serving traditional Irish fare, including staples such as lamb shanks, lambs fry and bacon, as well as fresh, modern Australian cuisine. Open daily 8am-11.30pm. T: 08 8981 2222
Hot Tamale
Modern Mexican T: 08 8981 5471 E: ht.darwin@bigpond.com W: www.hottamale.net.au
Wild Burger
Take on a fresh hamburger or step up to the wildest Territory croc burger, wraps and hot dogs. The new taste sensation! Open 7 days from 11am to 9pm. T: 0457 347 709 W: www.wildburgerdarwin.com.au E: wildburgerdarwin@choongenterprises.com.au
Trampoline Gelato
Made with the real fruits and natural ingredients an enormous range of premium gelato, sorbet, smoothies, milk shakes, ice drinks and more of your favourite ice deserts are available from 12pm every day. Open 7 days a week till 10pm on Friday and Saturday and 9pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.
the famous chili mud crab will simply melt in your month. Order fresh tropical cocktails to excite your taste buds and add to a very special dining experience at Ocean Fresh. Ocean Fresh is open daily for lunch from 11:30am to 3pm and for dinner from 5:30pm to 10pm. Ocean Fresh is located at Building One at the Darwin Waterfront. T: 08 8941 8838 W: www.oceanfreshdarwin.com.au E: oceanfreshdarwin@choongenterprises.com.au
Stokes Hill Wharf
T: 8942 0711
With a fine dining restaurant, alfresco eateries, recreational fishing platforms and fishing charters, harbour cruises, sightseeing, shopping and live entertainment, you just can’t leave town without experiencing it. T: 08 8943 6191
Ocean Fresh
The Coffee Club
Ocean Fresh has reopened to for those who love seafood and enjoy a quality dining experience. Choose from a selection of seafood including all your favourites such as barramundi, snapper, Coffin Bay oysters, salt and pepper squid and
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Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast or lunch, or just a relaxing coffee to break up the day. Open daily 7.30am to 5pm. T: 08 8941 0422
The Precinct Tavern
The Precinct Tavern located at the Waterfront will offer patrons a craft beer experience like no other – with 44 taps of beer & cider, you will be sure to find a drop to tantalise your tastebuds! Set in contemporary surroundings, The Precinct is an innovative venue only meters from the Wave Lagoon and Darwin Convention Centre. Featuring modern, affordable pub food, our chefs use only the freshest of ingredients and local produce. Drop by and sample one of our beer tasting trays of award winning hand-crafted beers, while enjoying a bite to eat from the menu which is
married to the beers. Whether you are dining in our restaurant, enjoying a cocktail or wine in the cocktail lounge or dancing the night away to live entertainment in the Pub Bar, The Precinct is sure to have something for everyone! T: 08 8941 9000 W: www.theprecincttavern.com.au E: functions@theprecincttavern.com.au
il lido italian restaurant
Positioning itself to be one of Darwin’s most talked about dining destinations, ‘il lido,’ Italian
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for the beach offers an enormous al fresco area perched right at the water’s edge. Open daily from 8am, offering a traditional breakfast menu and delicious Italian cuisine for both lunch and dinner. Separate from the restaurant setting the il lido tapas lounge provides the perfect social scene for afternoon drinks and a casual bite to eat. Come down and experience the il lido dining sensation – You will love it! An ideal setting for an array of function types, call Functions today on 0421 709 721 to discuss. T: 08 8941 0900 E: info@illidodarwin.com.au W: www.illidodarwin.com.au
W
il lido italian restaurant
hen Passion, Food, Views, and Style collide, you’ve found il lido italian restaurant and lounge. It is your perfect holiday retreat with a view to admire! Located within Darwin’s iconic Waterfront Precinct, il lido offers a combination of settings to suit every occasion. Choose from alfresco or air-conditioned dining overlooking harbour ocean views or retreat to the tapas lounge with comfy couches and a relaxed ambience overlooking the lagoon. From the modern Italian cuisine, the seasonal inspired tapas, to the award winning wine list, il lido offers all day dining including traditional breaky selections. This place believes in beautiful, simple food, the type of food you were raised with at the family table and in a 50 N T LIFE
style at its best with family, friends, beautiful wine, great conversation and laughter. Discover food and wine of unsurpassed quality served in a warm and inviting atmosphere which is modern yet elegant. Dining options include the bar area, serving pizzas, antipasto plates, and wines by the glass, and the exquisite dining area with a menu designed to be savoured over several courses. With modern décor and a relaxed ambience faultlessly complementing the excellent food, il lido is ideal for any occasion, be it an intimate date, a memorable night out with friends, or an unforgettable special celebration. Waterfront view’s Open 7 days Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The
Precinct
“Your Local Pub!”
I
f you’re looking for something new, contemporary and that has craft beers, quality wine and modern pub food then look no further ‘The Precinct’ has arrived! The Precinct is Darwin’s newest venue and offers patrons a craft beer experience like no other! With 44 taps of beer & cider, you will be sure to find a drop to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you are a visitor to Darwin or a resident it is your local pub. Set in tropical surroundings, only metres from the Darwin Waterfront wave pool and the Darwin Convention Centre, it offers the perfect relaxed resort setting. Whether you are dining in the restaurant, enjoying a cocktail or wine in the cocktail lounge, taking in the views of the alfresco areas or dancing the night away to live entertainment to big screen sporting events in the Pub Bar, The Precinct is sure to have something for everyone! The chefs use only the freshest of ingredients and local produce to offer you modern, affordable pub food. Tuck into mouth-watering pork knuckles, a succulent steak, delicious burgers or Little Creatures Pale Ale battered local threadfin salmon, plus much more! Drop by and sample one of their beer tasting trays of award winning hand-crafted beers, while enjoying a bite to eat from the menu which is married to the beers. The Precinct pride themselves on providing a venue that makes you feel at home the moment you walk in. From their friendly front bar, alfresco area to the cosy dining room. Darwin Waterfront Wave Pool views Open 7 days from 10am onwards Licensed until 2am
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THE
Darwin
Waterfront
Beauty & Shopping
Elements Day Spa
Designed with the vision to provide an environment where dynamic women and men can alleviate stress and achieve a sense of wellbeing – an urban oasis. At Elements, you can choose from a wide variety of day spa treatments. We are focused on creating a friendly atmosphere where you can kick off your shoes and float from one treatment room to another. T: 08 8942 1588
Rush Surf
Head in-store now to check out the biggest range of Billabong, Rip Curl, DC, Quiksilver, Roxy, Hurley, Element, Von Zipper, Jet Pilot, Kustom, Oakley, Arnette, Reef, Electric, Aztec Rose, Nixon, Rusty, Volcom and many more. Open 10am to 3pm Monday and Tuesday and 10am to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday T: 08 8941 0425 www.rushsurf.com.au
Scalpt Hair on the Waterfront
A boutique luxury salon, sit back, relax and enjoy the surroundings. Specialising in L’Oreal colour and Kerastase products and also stocking ghd styling irons our vision is hairstyling into the future, defined by solid and accentuated lines, strength, shine with healthy movement. The shape of the hairdo will place more emphasis on the profession of the hairdresser. Pure craftsmanship is dedicated to quality instead of mass by our award winning stylists. Monday - 9am to 5pm, Tuesday – 9am to 5pm, Wednesday – 9am to 7pm, Thursday – 9am to 7pm, Friday – 9am to 5pm, Saturday – 8am to 4pm, Sunday – Closed T: 08 8981 1117
StormBird Gallery
Experience a kaleidoscope of lightning, storm, landscape, lightning and nature photography by Darwin photographer and storm chaser Jacci Ingham. Jacci’s passion is to capture the moods,
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expressions and colours of our dramatic monsoonal climate the very essence of what makes the Top End a special part of the country. Strikingly Beautiful photography and a wonderful range of greeting cards are available. Browsers are most welcome. Open 9am to 6pm Monday to Thursday, 9am to 9pm Friday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm Sunday T: 0407 797 885 www.stormbirdphotography.com.au
Shine Gifts
The Darwin Waterfront is pleased to announce that Shine Gifts is one year old. Located next to Rush, Shine Gifts has a great range of jewellery, wall art and giftware that you just won’t see anywhere else! Over the last year, Shine Gifts has greatly expanded their product range which now includes MOVA perpetual motions globes, Chantilly Lane singing bears, stunning opal jewellery, South Sea and Tahitian pearls and a lovely range of Freshwater Pearls. They also stock souvenirs, postcards, fridge magnets and comical crocodiles, geckos, frogs and other
trinkets. Just arrived are men’s stainless steel pendants, tungsten wristbands and rings, croc teeth and barramundi and croc skin pendants. The new wall art is big and bold and Shine Gifts has colourful lamps, recycled aluminium trays and trees, hand painted glassware and more. A new addition is a water ball humidifier which is decorative as well as functional. Catering for tropical living, the shop also has hats, sunglasses, insect repellent and sun screen. Shine Gifts Cullen Bay and the Waterfront are open 10 am – 6 pm every day, with late night shopping Friday nights. T: 8941 6193 M: 0407 612 570
Flight Centre Darwin Waterfront
At Flight Centre we are committed to providing great travel at the cheapest available price. Our consultants are experienced, highly trained experts, dedicated to finding the best travel deal for any destination and any budget. They are widely travelled and enthusiastic about travel. Our consultants can organise flights, hotels, holidays, car hire, cruises, travel insurance,
coach tours, visas, travellers cheques and even frequent flyer points redemption. Flight Centre consultants can help make your travel easier by offering you eTickets for ticketless travel on domestic flights. They can advise you about how to make the most of your frequent flyer membership. Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.30pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday. P: 08 8919 8200 Located next to The Coffee Club
Scarfe & Turner Travel Associates
Scarfe & Turner Travel Associates is a boutique travel brand, operating in the niche and premium segment of the travel industry. We specialise in corporate travel arrangements, group travel, exclusive packages and holidays with a difference. Based at the Darwin Waterfront, Scarfe & Turner Travel Associates is one of 34 Travel Associates locations nationally. Our office operates largely on an appointment basis, allowing staff to focus on uncompromising customer service and providing unique experiences for our customer base. With an average of 10 years industry
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experience and extensive product knowledge, our consultants are experts in travel and service a diverse range of clients. Our consultants share a common passion for unique and authentic travel experiences, immersing themselves in the destination’s landscape, culture and events. Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.30pm. Located at Level 5 Hospitality, 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin Waterfront - On the Smith Street Bridge Walk to the city. P: 08 8901 6400
Darwin Day Tours
Darwin Day Tours offers a wide range of full or half day tours in the Top End. Visitors can experience the best of the Top End with Darwin Day Tours including Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, Katherine Gorge, the Tiwi Islands and the historic and cultural sights of Darwin. The team at Darwin Day Tours will provide friendly service and local knowledge to help make every visitor’s holiday a memorable and unique experience. Come down and say hello at Shop D4B, Wharf One Retail. P: 1800 811 633
EXOTIC local cuisine with INTERNATIONAL
FLAVOURS
M
aking the most of Cullen Bay’s tropical climate (and its plentiful seafood supply), Charcoal Oven welcomes diners with relaxed decor, a kitchen that will serve meals well into the night and a bar that will supply you with luscious late night cocktails until 2am. A comfy indoor area makes you feel right at home with a cosy design aesthetic that includes a lounge bar, couch and big screen television. A spacious waterside deck, perfectly suited to Darwin’s tropical climate, offers an ideal place to enjoy live music. The cuisine at Charcoal Oven slots into “international”, Asian and seafood categories and offers something to suit every whim and wallet, from pre-dinner cocktails to festive three-course meals. The portions at Charcoal Oven are generous, the flavours are pleasantly mild and the garnishes fresh. The bar serves light, unpretentious snacks while the dinner menu boasts a bountiful assortment of smashing starters and seafood platters as well as charcoal-roasted meats and poultry. Oysters and local barramundi also make an appearance, as does the good old Northern Territory special of crocodile. But before you order, make sure to check out the enormous live mud crabs on site – one of these babies will really top off your meal, Darwin-style. The famous ginger cheese cake makes for a sweet ending as does a martini glass full of home made ice cream topped with fresh fruit. Allow plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful location as service is friendly but leisurely. 56 N T LIFE
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cuisine
A TASTE OF
Greece in the Top End! D
arwin 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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BEST SPECIALTY CUISINE RESTAURANT GOLD PLATE AWARD
64 SMITH ST DARWIN NT 0801 P (08) 89 819 120 | M 0409 408 683 F (08) 89 819 160
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Local Cuisine
D
arwin’s cuisine reflects its diverse mixture of more than 60 nationalities and offers year-round waterfront dining to suit all moods and budgets. Choose fine dining at the award winning Char Restaurant on the Esplanade, one of many funky eateries on the Cullen Bay boardwalk, the family friendly Sailing and Boating Clubs, fish and chips on Stokes Hill Wharf or grab some food and cook it yourself on the barbecues located on the foreshore. Darwin is famous for its local produce, particularly the seafood. From the oceans and rivers come succulent mud crabs, fresh barramundi and prawns as well 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.
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LOCAL Pee Wee’s
We have the setting for a nice night out or a night just starting, with a restaurant setting second to none and a stylish bar that sets the mood.
Nestled amongst the tropical palms and natural environment of East Point Nature Reserve, Northern Territory, Pee Wee’s at the Point provides an unforgettable dining experience in Darwin. Our menus aim to reflect the produce, climate and multiculturalism of the Northern Territory. We source only the best and freshest local produce. Specialising in local wild caught Saltwater Barramundi, banana prawns, Lambells Lagoon buffalo cheese, tropical fruits and locally grown Asian vegetables, the very best of the Top End is on show at Pee Wee’s Restaurant.
Charcoal Oven
Alec Fong Lim Drive East Point Reserve Darwin 0820 ww.peewees.com.au (08) 8981 6868
Nirvana
800/6 Dashwood Crescent Darwin NT 0800 www.nirvanarestaurantdarwin.com 08 8981 2025 Nirvana has stood the test of time as one of Darwin’s premier nightspots for over 16 years. Nirvana offers an electric mix of tasty Asian cuisine fantastic live entertainment, a sumptuous and extensive cocktail selection and a spirit and liqueur range that would rival any bar worldwide.
Il Lido Restaurant
Wharf One f3/19 Kitchener Dr Darwin NT 0800 www.illidodarwin.com.au (08) 8941 0900 Your perfect weekend hangout with a view to admire - get comfy in the tapas lounge! Order from the restaurant menu or enjoy tapas from the bar. Our cocktail list will ensure you’re imagining a tropical retreat. Casual by day, cocktail by night...
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68 Marina Boulevard Darwin NT 0820 (08) 8941 3433 Making the most of Cullen Bay’s tropical climate (and its plentiful seafood supply), Charcoal Oven welcomes diners with relaxed decor, a kitchen that will serve meals well into the night and a bar that will supply you with luscious late night cocktails until 2am. A comfy indoor area makes you feel right at home with a cosy design aesthetic that includes a lounge bar, couch and big screen television. A spacious waterside deck, perfectly suited to Darwin’s tropical climate, offers an ideal place to enjoy live music.
Thailicious
26/69 Mitchell Street Darwin NT 0800 www.thailicious.com.au (08) 8941 9966 Thailicious offers a unique rooftop dining experience over looking Darwin city’s busy Mitchell St and where our chefs have been serving delicious modern and traditional Thai cuisine for over 8 years.
SKYCITY
Gilruth Avenue, Mindil Beach Darwin www.skycitydarwin.com.au Live Large and experience the fun and entertainment that SKYCITY Darwin has to offer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Their table gaming floor is a treasure-trove of the tried and true classic favorites and the new games offering progressive jackpots
Cuisine and great payouts. Baccarat, Caribbean Stud Poker, Roulette, Perfect Pairs, Blackjack, Money Wheel and many other games that provide you with endless opportunities to try your luck!
Manoli’s Greek Taverna 4/64 Smith Street Darwin NT 0801 www.manolisgreektaverna.com.au (08) 8981 9120
Specialising in traditional mezze style platters (plates to share), Manoli’s is a welcoming venue for communal and family meals and celebrations. The Greek menu has English translations for those unfamiliar with pleasures like makaronia me kota (Greekstyle chicken and spaghetti) orkolokithakia (pan-fried zucchini with garlic potato dip). Manoli’s is fully licensed, familyoperated, locally owned and employs friendly Greek waitstaff.
Monsoons
46 Mitchell Street Darwin NT 0800 www.monsoons.net.au (08) 8941 7171 Perfectly located on Mitchell Street, Monsoons, Darwin’s original cinema building, has been restored and remodeled into a vibrant city venue abundant in community cool and party atmosphere while holding on to traditional pub values. Think fun, relaxation and style.
Shenannigans
69 Mitchell Street Darwin NT 0800 www.shenannigans.com.au (08)8981 2100
Bring out the party hats, put on your leprechaun suit and head to Shenannigans for a spot of mischief. Award-winning Shenannigans has a terrific team serving up mouth-watering pub lunches, delicious dinners and a cheeky cocktail menu. Indoors is a riot in the evenings, with entertainment every night. You may need more than a Guinness to join in the karaoke or tabletop dancing competitions, but you won’t need fortification to appreciate the shenannigans from the safety of a cosy bar seat.
Sailing Club
Atkins Drive Fannie Bay NT 0820 www.dwnsail.com.au (08) 8981 1700 The Darwin Sailing Club was formed in March 1963 with the aim “to promote and encourage the building, sailing and racing of all types of sailing craft in Darwin and surrounding waters Last Australian port of call for many circumnavigators before sailing into the Indian Ocean, Darwin has all facilities to replenish, repair or prepare your yacht for the next offshore navigations.
The Deck Bar
22 Mitchell Street Darwin 0800 www.thedeckbar.com.au 08 8942 3001 Offering over 80+ Beer varieties and cocktails galore, The Deck Bar is perfectly situated at the ‘top of town’ away from the hustle and bustle of Mitchell Street, a perfect venue to visit throughout the day open from 10am til late. Whether you want to have a relaxed meal from their extensive menu of modern Australian cuisine that has an Asian flair, or party the night away with live music and DJ’s, The Deck Bar is the place that delivers it all. Their Sunday Sesh is renowned to attract massive crowds and their famous laksa is a must try.
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Monsoons
Restaurant and Bar Ideally located in the middle of Mitchell Street, Monsoons offers a contemporary, chic and relaxing setting as well as a fun and exciting party atmosphere whilst holding on to traditional pub values.
Now boasting Darwin’s longest bar, the venue has come a long way from its early days as Darwin’s original cinema. The remodelling and restoration has transformed the building into a vibrant and trendy city venue perfectly suited to a casual meal, business meeting or after work drink and also caters for small to large private functions. Monsoons focus is on great beer, distinctive wines at affordable prices, fresh easy food, and outstanding service. The chef ’s daily specials highlighting seasonal ingredients and the new Tapas & Pizza menus have proven very popular. Fitting in perfectly with our Northern Territory lifestyle and climate, the massive alfresco dining area is ideally built for a sunny afternoon, but more importantly in the wet season, the area is fully covered from the elements. With live entertainment seven nights a week, it’s not just the beer or our award winning menu that’s worth stopping for. Monsoons is fast becoming Darwin’s entertainment ‘gem’ with local & interstate acts. Add to that an award winning
gaming room and Keno… and you’ll understand why Monsoons really is Darwin’s biggest party bar. Utilising the framework of the original cinema building, an amazing building which survived Cyclone Tracy in 1974, Monsoons has gone through an impressive renovation in keeping with traditional values of the Australian pub, blending old with new by adding strong architectural design elements. The original bar – Rorke’s Drift, was built beneath the cinema. The tiered seating of the cinema above meant that not even one quarter of the large building was used for the Rorke’s Drift bar. New owners had the entire building gutted in November 2006 and embarked on a project that would change the building forever. They began to remodel and re-style the interior to become a two story building – with a ground floor venue (Monsoons) double the size of the former Rorke’s Drift, with the entire building now two and a half times the size.
For a big atmosphere, live music, or simply a drink or two, you can’t go past the comfortable cool surrounds of Monsoons. Lunch 12 - 3pm • Dinner 6pm-10pm • All day Pizzas • DJs + Live Entertainment • Functions • Open 7 Days 10am - 4am 46 Mitchell Street, Darwin City | Ph 08 8941 7171 | admin@monsoons.net.au | www.monsoons.net.au 65 N T LIFE
Address: Shop 26/69 Mitchell St, Darwin | Ph: 08 8941 9966 Email: bookings@thailicious.com.au | Web: www.thailicious.com.au Trading hours: Monday to Saturday 5.30 to late, Closed Sunday.
cuisine
T
ake a walk down Mitchell Street and you will find restaurants and eating houses everywhere. Which one to choose? Well, if you are interested in delicious Thai food then you can’t go past Thailicious. Walk up the stairs and you’re greeted by a smiling waiter ready to take you to your table, guide you through the menu and organise your drinks. The only open-air rooftop restaurant on the strip, customers have a choice of sitting at the usual tables and chairs or lounging on the floor with cushions scattered around low tables. It’s all very comfortable and relaxed. Now for the food. The menu is traditional Thai prepared by Thai chefs who know their stuff. Only grain fed beef, quality chicken and wild caught barramundi is used and no shortcuts are taken in creating the dishes - everything is cooked to order. To the Thailicious team cooking food from scratch every time is an important part of the Thailicious experience. This is a guarantee to the diner that the food is fresh. So take it easy, unwind and enjoy your drink, knowing the wait will be worth it. Owners, mother and son team Madhu and Romal, are friendly, happy people dedicated to customer service and quality food. They want you to enjoy your experience every time you visit. That’s their goal and every night. So, climb the stairs and savour the tastes of Thailand. For more information or for reservations call 08 8941 9966 visit us Shop 26/69 Mitchell St, Darwin or look for our website www.thailicious.com.au.
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PeeWee’s at the Point Pee Wee’s at the Point is a landmark Darwin venue. Situated on nearly 4 acres in the tranquil surrounds of East Point Reserve, Pee Wee’s is just 5 minutes from the city, but feels like a world away.
Its idyllic waterfront location offers magnificent views across Fannie Bay and Mindil beach, and at dusk, the twinkling lights of Darwin city’s skyline will appear as if by magic in the distance. Opening in 1997, the restaurant’s award winning architecture sits in complete harmony with it historic location. The East Point site was originally established to protect the Port of Darwin against attack, and in 1911 Pee Wee’s Camp was built where the restaurant stands today. Incorporating some of the original WWII mess structures into the building, and using materials and design that reflects the location and the lifestyle, its easy to see why Pee Wee’s has been recognized on the NT Heritage register as having significant heritage value. Since current owners Simon and Lily Matthews took over in 2002, Pee Wee’s at the Point has set the benchmark for fine dining in the Top End. With the location clearly chosen for its ideal vantage point, the views are unmatched, and as the twilight spectacle begins and the sun starts to sink into the sea, it’s hard to tear your eyes away and remember you’re there for the food! Chef and owner of the restaurant Simon Matthews has taken a hands on approach with the menu, ensuring that wherever possible, food is made by their chefs on site, with locally sourced produce. From stocks and sauces, or fresh bread and biscotti, to ice creams and sorbets made in house, if it can be made from scratch by the team at Pee Wee’s, it is. The menu and wine list are updated monthly, reflecting the diversity and seasonal nature of Territory cuisine. You may find locally caught prawns on the menu one day, or wild caught saltwater Barramundi the next. Accompanied by an extensive 73 N T LIFE
ever-changing wine list, including house branded wines from Pikes Clare Valley vineyards, you can always expect a unique dining experience at Pee Wee’s. It is this commitment to quality produce and attention to detail that recently saw the team win the Harbottle on Premise Gold Plate Award for Best Stand Alone Restaurant 2012. With the support of owners Simon and Lily, Head Chef Paul Joyce leads the staff, along with Restaurant Manager Dhanushiya Ganesan, Event Manager Felicity Lolias and their highly skilled team, all with extensive hospitality experience. Pee Wee’s award winning restaurant is also a fabulous event destination. Darwin’s premier wedding venue, as well as the location of choice for many Darwin corporate functions, the exclusive location and world class food and beverages will ensure your event is more than memorable – it will be unforgettable. With no neighbours to complain about the noise, lush green lawns sweeping down to the cliff ’s edge, and the sparkling sea laid out before you, no other venue in Darwin can match it. For your end of year wind down or the most important day of your lives, Pee Wee’s has the expertise to ensure your event is everything you imagined. They can tailor packages to suit from a few dozen people to hundreds of guests. Food, photos, fireworks and more – Felicity and the team will be there for you with every detail. Pee Wee’s at the Point, offers informal elegance and Territory style, through its food and its breathtaking location. A unique dining experience that will surely be the greatest memory of your time in Darwin, and a truly unforgettable Territory experience.
Alec Fong Lim Drive East Point NT 0820 P (08) 8981 6868 | F (08) 8941 7373
www.peewees.com.au
FASHION
P
inkhill is the destination for designer clothing in Darwin. Stocking Camilla, Lisa Brown, Maurie and Eve, Talulah, Viktoria and Woods, George Gross, Hoss, Nancy King, Rachael Ruddick bags and accessories. Luxury brand costume jewellery by Otazu and Angle Diamond Dot. Come and join us for a champagne and browse our beautiful labels. Specialising in resort wear by Australia’s very own Camilla and Lisa Brown designs. 76 N T LIFE
Shop 12 The VIC Arcade Smith Street Mall, Darwin
(08) 8981 2795
Next to Elements Day Spa
w w w. p i n k h i l l . c o m . a u
Willow | Maurie and Eve | Ginger and Smart | Alice McCall | Sara Phillips
FABULOUS FASHION
When Jeanette Samaha came to Darwin 4 years ago, she saw there was a need for a fashion retailer with something different. She saw the need to provide the women of Darwin with a store that could show them how to dress stylishly and fabulously. Jeanette has over 30 years of fashion experience in both retail and haute couture. She uses this expertise to provide a unique service to her customers. Her eye for individual fashion and accessories will surely amaze. ‘I have a strong passion for great fashion and accessories. I enjoy helping my customers choose the right look and to walk out of my store feeling confident and fabulous.’ Come and meet Jeanette at Bread and let her impress you with her great service and infectious sense of style.
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Creative Jewellers Diamonds and Pearls have been established in Darwin for 19 years, providing quality jewellery sales service and repairs. Specialists in Diamonds stocking Passion8, Argyle and our own hand picked range of coloured and White Diamonds. Creative Jewellers also specialises in Australian Pearls, stocking Northern Territory Arafura Sea Pearls and our own hand picked rage of loose and ready made jewellery. Creative Jewellers also have a range of general jewellery in Silver and Gold set, with a variety of coloured stones and freshwater pearls. Creative Jewellers provide the perfect place to pick up a special item for that special person, or a gift to take home to remember your trip to one of the most beautiful, unique and cultural places Australia has to offer.
Shop 1/32 Star Village Smith Street Mall Darwin City p. (08) 89 411 233 | f. (08) 89 412 633 e. sales@creativejewellers.com
REAL TERRITORY
Craftsmanship T
erritory Colours in Smith Street Mall offers a truly unique shopping experience. You will enter a domain of world-class handmade jewellery, gifts, memento’s, fine art and furniture. Most items made right here in the Northern Territory! The beautiful Harold Thomas paintings feature the NT landscape and its wildlife. Harold is Territory born and his paintings are collectable as well as an enhancement to any room. Peter Cholmondeley’s one-off furniture designs always get the same response – “Wow”! All pieces are properly made in solid timbers. This furniture will last through many generations of your family. Jewellery makers are well represented with some of Australias best contemporary designs. Semi-precious and sterling silver abounds. You can buy a fountain pen in local timbers or an exquisite wildlife bronze sculpture. The art glass is just gorgeous to behold. Peter and Shaowei are happy to assist you make that purchase to enhance your lifestyle. Pack and post is easily arranged for any item small or large. Pieces have been sent fully insured to all Australian States and many overseas countries. Territory Colours is easy to find in the Darwin Mall shopping precinct opposite the Galleria. Open seven days for your convenience.
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UNIQUE
P
aul Arnold is a photographer with passion. Exploring the Australian bush for the past 20 years, Paul has followed this passion and captured many memorable images during his travels. For him photography is all about light and capturing a perfect instant in time that Mother Nature has created. Discovering the landscape, colours and the people of the Northern Territory during their travels, Paul and his wife Julie were seduced by it all. They continue their NT exploration to this day with Paul pursuing his quest to capture the beauty and unique world that is the Northern Territory.
Territory Art
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Darwin City Gallery
Shop 3, Crocosaurus Cove, 58 Mitchell St Darwin NT 0800
+61 8 8941 6062 Monday to Saturday 9:30am - 5:00pm
Sunday 10:00am - 3:00pm
www.paularnold.com.au
Shop 1, 18 Knuckey Street, Darwin (08) 8981 4550
sizes 6-26–up to GG cup
Experience the finest nappa leathers, the vibrant colours and exceptional quality of Mywalit products. Designed in Lucca, Italy
Made in Germany
Timeless Perfection
The new Lamy Studio royalred
KNUCKEY STREET
A
“Heart of the City�
t its intersection with Smith Street, Knuckey Street becomes the centre of the Darwin CBD. With busy two way traffic, and a constant pedestrian stream, it is busy all day. The Tour Tub tourist hop on hop off bus has its main stop at the corner of Knuckey and Smith, and this, together with the numerous souvenir and tourist shops make it swarm with camera toting southerners.
Swiss Army knives Companion for life
3/20 Knuckey Street Darwin City | 89812139
Star VILLAGE Damadi Skincare
www.damadi.com.au 0414 838 469 Follow the alluring scent as you walk into the Star Village and you discover the smallest shop with a most delicious perfume. Lemongrass, rose geranium and patchouli drift on the breeze as you find Damadi Skincare and Soaps. Envelop yourself in the scent of the essential oils and purity of natural ingredients. Take a moment for yourself and breathe in and relax. You will find artisan soaps and skincare products to pamper you and those you love.
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I
n the heart of Darwin’s shopping district Smith Street Mall holds a little gem of local history, The Star Village. Originally built in 1929 as movie theatre the Star Village became the hub of a burgeoning Darwin social scene. Since then the Star Village has reinvented itself as a funky little open air shopping arcade with a mix of iconic retail stores and fabulous cafés. As you follow the alluring scent of artisan soaps and pass under the leaves of the Frangipani tree, you will find curios around every corner. From vintage clothing to the best chocolate shop in Darwin, the Star Village is filled with the unexpected and delightful objects of desire. Explore the movie memorabilia of the arcades past and maybe meet a very friendly cat, one of the Star Villages many attractions.
Pure Indulgence
Shop 9, Star Village Arcade, Smith St, The Mall 08 8942 3603 It’s worth visiting Pure Indulgence Fine Chocolates just for the smell as you walk in. This gorgeous specialty chocolate shop in the Star Village stocks over 200 varieties of hand made chocolates from award winning Australian chocolatiers. Amongst these are sugar free, gluten free & dairy frees chocolates, fudges & confectionaries. The Belgian style chocolates have the finest taste with few additives & have that “pure chocolate taste”.
Star VILLAGE Frond
Shop 4 Star Village, 32 Smith Street DARWIN NT 0800 frondstore.wordpress.com 08 8981 9754 Frond is full of beautiful and unique things that are made by clever people all across Australia and even further across the oceans. With a focus on the handmade and a penchant for aqua, yellow and fuschia, Frond is a treasure trove of quirky homewares, flirty frocks, and gorgeous accessories tucked into a shady corner of the Star Village.
Vintage Twist
5/32 Smith St Mall, Star Village Arcade, Darwin www.vintagetwistclothing.com 08 8942 1164 If you thought there was a touch of elegance missing in Darwin then wander down to Vintage Twist. You can find them in the gorgeous Star Village Arcade, Darwin Mall. Walking into Vintage takes you back to the days when we were carefree and innocent. When fashion was classy, trend setting and a little sexy, where showing your curves were beautiful, walk into to their shop and be transported back in time. There is something for everyone at Vintage Twist for the older women they can take you back to a time in your youth, for the younger women you can dress in a style of your vintage fashion icon, Marilyn or Audrey for example. The owners scour all over for Vintage clothes trying to get a wide range of sizes, finding good quality garments is getting harder to source and our body shape has changed over the decades. If original vintage is not for you they also carry a range of the Retro designs. Stop Staring is a wonderful label they stock, and they have just bought in Folter which is retro at its best with these two labels they have a size range from 8-10 up to 14-16 and if a larger size is available they will try and bring them in. There is always something new happening in this beautiful little shop. 90 N T LIFE
Living the tropical life with individual style and grace
Shop 4 Star Village 32 Smith Street Darwin NT 0800
T: 08 8981 9754 | E: info@frondstore.com.au | W: www.frondstore.wordpress.com Monday - Friday 9am – 5pm | Saturday 9am – 2pm
Tucked inside a tropical courtyard, in the heart of Darwin city is where you will find Helmet Hair Studio.
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private and beautifully designed professional space, where guests are invited to indulge in the atmosphere, sink into the leather lounge with a refreshing citrus shot, a cold towel and relax. The salon is comfortably divided into two spaces, the cutting/colouring room and the basin room, a space with raised wooden floors, soft lighting and a gentle mood. Helmet began back in 1998 and prides it’s self on employing highly trained professionals with a common goal... to create a unique experience. The staff listen to your needs, offer suggestions and constantly striving to exceed all expectations.
They aim to make each client look and feel fantastic. The salon specialises in Global Keratin Smoothing Treatments that are a must for nearly everyone living in the humid territory climate... The treatments condition the hair, remove frizz and soften natural curl. Making your hair quick and easy to blow-dry without the use of irons and extending the life of your blow-dry for up to a week. The treatment itself lasts for 4 months ...It’s MAGIC Another magic trick performed at Helmet is the application of hair extensions. We use only the highest quality Amore hair and with the correct home hair care and in salon maintenance every
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8weeks the extensions last 2-3years. Extensions are amazing for achieving that volume and fullness seen on Hollywood stars or for length and feature highlights. We also pride ourselves on our salon exclusive Bonza Bronz spray tans. They may not last as long as some BUT they are never orange and fade off evenly. So if you’ve come up from a southern winter you needn’t look like you have! Lastly Helmet offers a convenient on line booking system so if you are busy touring/working during the day you can book out of salon hours anytime through our Free Salon App or Web Site. Helmet offers clients a full range of hair and beauty services using only the highest quality products including SP, Sebastian, Wella, Cloud 9, Global Keratin, Moroccan Oil, Amore hair extensions and Bonza Bronz Tanning Systems.
Aboriginal
Culture IN THE TOP END
The Territory’s northern reaches encompass a culture rich in artistic heritage. Aboriginal art from the Top End reflects the intimate connection between the people and the land. Venture into the remote art regions of Kakadu, Katherine and Arnhem Land and uncover the technique of transforming creation stories into art. Indigenous festivals are held across the Northern Territory typically from May through October. Communities open their doors, drop the permits and welcome travellers to share their story. Activities include art sales and auctions, traditional music and dance, bush tucker displays with tastings and, sometimes just to add to the excitement, a sporting event.
Amongst the aboriginal culture in Kakadu there are hundreds of different languages, customs and laws, each woven together to tell a story that is more than 50,000 years old. Sharing and learning about aboriginal art and culture is central to the Kakadu experience. Kakadu National Park is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Aboriginal rock art with Nourlangie and Ubirr being some of the most notable rock art gallery sites in the Park. At Nanguluwur you will see the first records of European contact painted on the rocks. For more information visit: travelNT.com
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Come in and visit us at Aboriginal Art NT
to purchase your unique, authentic and one of a kind piece of Aboriginal Art, direct from the communities of the Arnhemland region.
Aboriginal Art NT is dedicated to promoting Aboriginal Artists from the Arnhemland region and supporting their culture through their natural ability to tell stories using various methods of art and craft. 7 Pavonia Place, Nightcliff Ph 8948 1115 | E sales@aboriginalartnt.com.au W www.aboriginalartnt.com.au Located at the Nightcliff Markets
We now offer Pandanus Weaving Classes Learn the traditional art of weaving that has been handed down through the families of Yolngu women all over the Arnhem Land Region for thousands of years. For workshop details call Gaelene on 0447 526 730
To Katherine
DARWIN &
SURROUNDS H
eading south along the Stuart Highway, travellers can stop at the small townships of Batchelor and Adelaide River. At Adelaide River you will find the Adelaide River War Cemetery, which is Australia’s largest and a sombre reminder of the Northern Territory’s role in WWII. Board a croc-jumping cruise on the Adelaide River and see massive crocs leap from the water for bait. Next stop, Litchfield National Park, just an hour-and-a-half drive from Darwin, features a myriad of diverse
environments including rugged sandstone escarpments, perennial spring-fed streams, monsoon rainforest, magnetic termite mounds, waterfalls and historic ruins. You can spend as little as one day in the park, taking a quick dip in each of the plunge pools and rockholes on the drive through, but to really experience the true beauty of Litchfield it’s best to camp overnight. Melville and Bathurst Islands, known collectively as the Tiwi Islands, lie 80 kilometres north of Darwin, an easy day trip from Darwin via boat or light
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aircraft. The Tiwi people are world famous for their art, extending from the traditional forms of paintings on bark and canvas to wood carvings, distinctive silk screened cloth, woven accessories and pottery. There are several art galleries on both Melville and Bathurst Island and you are more than welcome to purchase directly from the artists. The Tiwi Islands are also famous for their love of sports, in particular Australian Rules Football. The Tiwi Football Grand Final held in March is a must-see if you are in the area at the time.
KAKADU
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orld Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is a landscape of contrasts. Beneath waters dotted with lotus flowers, saltwater crocodiles lurk. Jagged peaks of towering escarpments hide pockets of monsoon rainforests. Waterfalls cascade into pools fringed with paperbarks, pandanus and cycads. You can view the spectacular Jim Jim Falls, browse through a natural gallery of ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr or Nourlangie Rock, or explore the scenic Yellow Water, a billabong teeming with wildlife. Around 1,000 different plant species, a quarter of all Australian freshwater fish species, and over one-third of Australian bird species can be found in the Park. Kakadu is shaped by water, being the catchment area for the South Alligator, East Alligator, Katherine, Roper and Daly rivers. From November to May, waterfalls are at their most spectacular and the lowlands are flooded, attracting millions of migratory birds. The unique and diverse avian life in Kakadu includes jacanas, azure kingfishers, cuckoos, rufous owls, magpie geese, jabirus and more. Kakadu National Park is a place of rugged escarpments, lush wetlands and cascading waterfalls covering over 19,000 square kilometres. The Nature’s Way tourism drive is a great way to explore the park, which runs along the Arnhem Highway to Jabiru, then the Kakadu Highway to Pine Creek.
A number of Aboriginal clans still reside within the park. Kakadu is home to one of the largest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art in the world with galleries at sites like Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock. Other spectacular landmarks include Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), Jarrangbarnmiu (Koolpin Gorge) and Gunlom (Waterfall Creek). There are many established walking tracks within the Park, with a selection still accessible during the wet season. At the centre of the park is the small mining township
of Jabiru, which offers a range of services and accommodation. Another settlement, Cooinda, also offers accommodation, and is located on the banks of Yellow Water, a billabong teeming with migratory birds, saltwater crocodiles and other wildlife. Cruises on Yellow Water depart daily. A visit to Kakadu is best started at the Bowali Visitors Centre near Jabiru or the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre near Cooinda. There is a wide range of accommodation in Kakadu. Along with hotels and resorts are some new 101 N T LIFE
properties, including Hawk Dreaming, a safari camp where operators have the exclusive permission from traditional owners to bring visitors onto their land and share an authentic cultural experience. Another of Kakadu’s features is the Gagudju Hotel – a crocodileshaped complex that is quite amazing when viewed from the air. Resort-style accommodation is also available at Cooinda, a village on the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Family friendly resorts are located in Jabiru as well as at the entrance to Kakadu on the South Alligator River.
Must do: Cruise the palm-fringed Yellow Water Billabong and spot birds, animals and big crocodiles. Take to the air in a light aircraft during the Tropical Summer (November – March) for a breathtaking view of Kakadu’s majestic Twin and Jim Jim waterfalls. Head to Gunlom Falls in the southern end of the park where it feels like you’re standing on the edge of the world. Take a cultural cruise on the East Alligator River. Birdwatch at Mardugal Billabong or try the Mardugal Billabong Walk. Visit the Bowali Visitor Centre for the latest information on Kakadu and how best to experience it.
Magpie Geese, Yellow Water Billabong
Spectacular
JUMPING
Crocodile Cruise
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ore than 80,000 Saltwater Crocodiles now roam the waterways of Northern Australia, yet they are rarely ever seen. The crocodile is a cold blooded animal, they bask in the sun during the cooler months of June, July, and early August. Most of the time it’s warm, Crocodiles are buried in the mud, under the trees in the shade. Here on the Adelaide River, the crocodiles know our boats, they leave their place of hiding, knowing they may be fed. This happens all year round!! Our crew will ensure you are equipped with the knowledge you need to survive your stay in Australia’s Northern Territory.
Did you Know? Saltwater Crocodiles are more likely to be found in freshwater. Join us to learn more!!
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IN THE WILD!
Spectacular
Or catch the bus!
CROCODILE EXPRESS
JUMPING CROCODILE CRUISE FOR INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS CALL
Just one hour’s drive from Darwin on the Arnhem Highway on the way to Kakadu. Turn left into the Window on the Wetlands.
THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR NORTHERN TERRITORY HOLIDAY!
08 8978 9077
www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au LOOK OUT FOR OUR LOGO! DON’T GET CONFUSED THERE ARE THE OTHER CRUISES!
Departs Darwin daily starting at 1.00pm from the Transit Centre, Mitchell Street with pick-ups from accommodation houses outside the CBD. An interesting tour showcasing rural highlights. Joins the 3.00pm cruise - Back in town 5.30-6.00pm.
BOOKING ESSENTIAL
KATHERINE T
he Douglas and Daly Rivers region is located midway between Darwin and Katherine, an easy scenic drive from both destinations. While it’s focal point is the main centre of Katherine, the whole region is known as the Territory’s playground. The region offers great fishing, hidden natural wonders and a rich indigenous and pioneering history, stretching from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the West Australian border. Katherine was named by explorer John McDouall Stuart in the late 1800s after the daughter of one of his expedition sponsors. The area was renamed ‘Nitmiluk’ -
meaning ‘cicada place’ - in 1989 when traditional owners, the Jawoyn Aboriginal people, gained title to the land and now, Nitmiluk National Park is a Territorian favourite. The Katherine River flows through 13 separate gorges that carve their way through the Arnhem Plateau. 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. Waterfalls and rock pools are found along over 100 kilometres of walking tracks, beginning at the park’s visitor centre.
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Surrounds
ARNHEM LAND A
and tropical sports fishing in the world. 4x4 access to both regions is possible during peak season (May to October). In the Gove Peninsula, it’s worth taking a tour to visit the town lagoon – Gyngaru, the Nabalco Bauxite Mine and Alumina Plant, Nambara Arts and Crafts Centre and Yirrkala Buku-Larrngay Mulka Arts and Cultural Centre. Of particular interest in the Coburg Peninsula is the Black Point Cultural Centre and Victoria Settlement. Fishing the mangrove-lined billabongs for barramundi, Mangrove Jack and other sport fish are hugely popular pastimes in this area. Visitors to Arnhem Land have a wide choice of accommodation options. Awardwinning Seven Spirit Bay Wilderness Lodge is located in the remote northern tip of Arnhem Land and is the ultimate escape to relaxation and adventure. A favourite hangout of locals, the Gove Yacht Club has seen many a traveller take in the sunset with their well-earned beverage.
rnhem Land is a region of pristine wilderness - 100,000 square kilometres of protected land regarded as Australia’s last frontier. About three thousand Aboriginal People live in 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 identity. To help protect the land and the fragile culture it preserves, anyone visiting Arnhem Land must obtain a permit in advance from the Northern Land Council. Arnhem Land’s main access point is Gove (Nhulunbuy) - an hour and 20 minute flight east of Darwin. Commercial flights are also available from Cairns. Gove has a population of around 4000 and is a stronghold of traditional Aboriginal art and craft. The Coburg Peninsula (Cape Don) is home to the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park and offers visitors stunning scenery with abundant wildlife and birdlife. The azure waters around both the Gove and Coburg Peninsulas offer some of the best reef
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NITMILUK (Katherine) Gorge
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itmiluk (Katherine) Gorge has been carved out of the sandstone cliffs that line the Katherine River creating 13 distinct gorges – each with its own stunning natural features and landmarks and each steeped in the culture and the local Indigenous people - the Jawoyn. Within the river system, Barramundi and turtles live, and the sandbanks reveal the tracks of freshwater crocodiles. Water buffalo and wild brumbies come down from the plains to the river to drink along with an abundance of birds many of which are unique to this area. Cruising the Gorge system under the soaring sandstone cliffs and past indigenous rock art dating back more than 30,000 years visitors to Katherine learn to appreciate the ancient power and majesty
of this land. Nitmiluk Gorge and the Katherine River are the heart of Katherine but by no means the only reason to visit. As one of the oldest and largest inland settlements in the Northern Territory, Katherine has a rich and lasting history. It was an integral part of the famous Overland Telegraph and is a major stop on the great rail line which now links north to south. Today Katherine has a thriving tourism industry primarily centered around Nitmiluk Gorge but also including the stunning Edith Falls; the old gold mining town ship of Pine Creek; the Adelaide River War Cemetery; Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park; Springvale Homestead, the oldest station homestead in the Northern Territory and much more.
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Central Australia
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ALICESPRINGS Surrounds
The panoramic landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges are easily accessed from Alice Springs. Each of the West MacDonnell Ranges’ chasms and gorges has its own defining character and scenery. 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, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge and Redbank Gorge offer refreshing relief on a scorching day. It is also possible to visit the Ochre Pits that desert Aboriginal people once used as a quarry for ochre pigments. The world-renowned Larapinta Trail follows the backbone of the MacDonnell Ranges for 223 kilometres and there are a number of specialist walks so travellers of all fitness levels can experience it.
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UNIQUE Cuisine Bustling cafÊs line the Todd 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 adorn gallery walls. Combined, this forms and melds the vibrant character and outback charm of this unique Central Australian town. It defies the expectations of a desert town, combining a strong sense of its own heritage with all the convenience of modern facilities and activities. There’s a wide choice of quality restaurants and cafÊs, and travellers can even enjoy a meal accompanied by an Aboriginal dance performance. The town has a strong festivals and events program throughout the year.
ATTRACTIONS
and Touring T
here are a number of attractions located in Alice Springs that will provide you with a good understanding of life in the Red Centre. The Alice Springs Desert Park, Araluen Cultural Precinct and the Royal Flying Doctor Service are just a few. If you want to get up close and personal with some scaly friends you can visit the Reptile Centre. If you’re interested in history the Heritage Walk including the Hartley Street School, the National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame or The 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 offers a wide range of touring options that will include these attractions and many more on their itineraries. You can do a ‘hop-on, hop-off ’ town tour with Alice Wanderer or explore further afield with Tailormade Tours and AAT Kings. Ride a camel at the Pyndan Camel Farm, experience the outback on a quad bike at Undoolya Station or get a bird’s eye view of Alice Springs and surrounds from a hot air balloon or helicopter – the options are endless! A full range of attractions and touring options are presented in our Product Directory. Alice Springs is nestled between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, and is 440 kilometres north-east of Uluru. The Todd River winds through the town but rarely sees water and is home to the quirky annual Henleyon-Todd ‘boat race’. The famous Royal Flying Doctor Service is based here and provides an aerial medical service to outback residents. Similarly, the Alice Springs School of the Air broadcasts lessons over the radio to students living in remote areas of Northern Territory. This ‘classroom’ covers an area bigger than several European countries.
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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 winners in a boat race up a dry river bed or choose one of 4,000 spectacular beanies to be your very 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 story or two share with your friends!
Henley-OnTodd 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
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.
Alice Springs Desert Festival
Finke Desert Race The Finke Desert Race is Australia’s premier off-road racing event that attracts bike, car and buggy entries from around Australia and overseas. It is a multi-terrain, two-day race through desert country from Alice Springs to the small Aputula (Finke) Community and is reputed to be one of the most difficult off-road races in one of the most 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.
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.
the hilarity as you watch seemingly sane people race in bottomless ‘eights’, ‘Oxford tubs’, ‘bath tubs’ and ‘yachts’ through the deep coarse sand. The event has its origins when Reg Smith, an Alice Springs local, and his work colleagues proposed
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
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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.
Shop 15 Yeprenye Shopping Centre Hartley St Alice Springs
Ph 08 8952 3788
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Scenic
& Charter Flights Take to the Skies in a Helicopter!
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hen all is said and done, ‘time’ is a critical factor in most planned holidays. With a variety of scenic flights and heli-safaris to choose from and flexible departure times, you can easily fill in half an hour or half a day or as long as you like! The view from a helicopter gives you the best seats in the Australian Outback! Want a ‘doors off experience’? Just ask our team when you book. With a fleet of nine helicopters we’re sure to give you and your family and friends an experience they’ll never forget! Remember your camera! Our helicopters give you unrestricted panoramic views and are the perfect way to capture that postcard shot! 118 N T LIFE
Spirit of Mt Gillen Heli-Tour (approx. 20 mins.) This sensational flight takes you west over Honeymoon Gap, then on wave at hikers on the top of Mt Gillen. Follow the ridgeline to Heavitree Gap with view over The Alice, Todd River and desert beyond.
Champagne Sunset Heli-Tour (approx. 20 mins.) Fly to Honeymoon Gap, along Mt Gillen ridgeline to Heavitree Gap, providing extensive views of Alice Springs as the sun sets over the desert ranges. Enjoy a glass of bubbles on your return to watch what is left of the sunset. The perfect end to a perfect day! More info go to www.alicespringshelicopters.com.au
Discover the Outback with us
Scenic flights and tours • Private charters and heli-safaris • Free transfers with flights Alice Springs Helicopters Alice Springs - Northern Territory
PH +61 (0)8 8952 9800 www.alicespringshelicopters.com.au
Air Operators Certificate NT514502
TOP
10
EXPERIENCES
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. Learn the Dreamtime stories associated with Uluru on a walking tour around its base with traditional Anangu owners. . Set off on the Valley of the Winds walk – an interpretative trail around the domes of Kata Tjuta. . Ride quad bikes at Kings Creek Station, near Watarrka National Park or camels at Curtin Springs Station near Uluru. . Watch the sunrise light up the 100-metre high walls of Kings Canyon as you tackle the Rim Walk or the easier Kings Creek Walk that leads to a lookout in the centre of the Canyon . Join a tour to Atila/Mt Conner, in the UluruKata Tjuta National Park, where you’ll see evidence of early pioneers, view salt lakes where inland oceans once flowed and discover ancient fossils . Take a scenic flight and view the stunning formations of Kata Tjuta and see the unspoilt beauty of the surrounding red desert . Explore the Giles Track on an overnight trek from the tranquil, spring-fed waterhole at Kathleen Springs to the sheer red rock face of Kings Canyon . In Watarrka National Park, take an early morning trek along the Kings Canyon Rim Walk for unforgettable views or the easier hourand-a-half Kings Creek Walk for a lookout in the centre of the Canyon .Take the four-wheel ‘adventure trail’ through mountain ranges and desert landscapes along the Mereenie Loop road to Watarrka National Park . Take a tour around the salt lakes of the Amadeus chain and visit the spectacular mesa of Mount Conner that is three times larger than Uluru.
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ABOVE The
Top End
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he Top End of the Northern Territory is vast, covering just on 400,000 square kilometres. The Top End contains many of the Northern Territory’s famous tourist destinations and attractions from, Bynoe Harbour and Litchfield National Park in the west, extending through to Arnhem Land in the East, Tiwi Island and Coburg Peninsula in the North and the popular Katherine Gorge in the South. Not too mention the extensive wetlands and river networks that are spread as far as the eye can see. Kilometre after kilometre of unspoiled and undeveloped terrain, make the beauty of the Top End incomparable to any other part of Australia. Whole coastal stretches with world class beaches that are completely untouched, wetlands filled with wildlife and deep gorges that are simply
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inaccessible by except by air. There is no better way to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the unspoiled landscape than from a bird’s eye view in the air. A short flight from Darwin could have you over Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge or even entering Arnhem Land. Throw in a landing or two at one of the bush strips and its possible to fly over the Katherine Gorge in the morning, enjoy lunch at Kakadu, then join an afternoon boat cruise through the Yellow Water Wetlands and still be back in Darwin in time for a sunset drink and dinner. Barrier Air Charter specialises in operating charter flights all year round over the Top End. Everything from a short flight over Darwin City to full day tours over the Top End.
ULURU F
or both its Aboriginal custodians and the travellers that flock here, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs, represents the physical and spiritual heart of Australia. The region encompasses Uluru and Kata-Tjuta, positioned alongside the township of Yulara, Kings Canyon, and the intermittent outback cattle stations. Rising from the broad desert plain in the deep centre of Australia, Uluru is Australia’s most recognisable natural icon. It stands 348 metres high, and, like an iceberg, has most of its bulk below the surface. It is located 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. To the west by 40 kilometres of Uluru/Ayers Rock is Kata Tjuta, also known as The Olgas. This massive pile of rock domes dates back 500 million years. Both Uluru/Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta/The Olgas have great cultural significance for the Anangu traditional landowners, who lead walking tours that inform about the local flora and fauna, bush foods and the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories of the area.
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ANCIENT LAND
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rchaeological work suggests that Aboriginal people have lived in the area for at least 22,000 years. The Anangu people are Uluru’s traditional custodians but until recently, the monolith was known as Ayers Rock (named after former premier Sir Henry Ayers by European explorer William Gosse, who first sighted the rock in 1873). Uluru was returned to the care and ownership of the Anangu in 1985 and they now jointly manage the national park with Parks Australia. Watarrka National Park, 300 kilometres to the northeast of Uluru, is best known for Kings Canyon - a mighty chasm that cleaves the earth to a depth of 270 metres. The sheer red rock face of the Canyon soars over 100 metres above cycad gardens. The park is an important conservation area, where rock holes and gorges provide refuge for over 600 species of plants and many native animals. The park encompasses the western end of the George Gill Range and is home to a variety of unique native flora and fauna, including more than 600 different plant species. The area has also been home to Luritja Aboriginal people for the last 20,000 years. The word Watarrka refers to the umbrella bush that proliferates in this unique
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landscape. Travellers can experience the umbrella bush on a hike to the Canyon rim. Trekkers will first encounter a steep climb to the Canyon rim, but the spectacular views of the sheer red rock faced Canyon will make the trekkers forget the trouble. All along the rim walk are the weathered, buttressed domes of the Lost City and the sheltered valley, Garden of Eden, which is bursting with permanent waterholes and lush vegetation. This walk is suitable for fit and experienced walkers. The shady and more sedate Kings Creek Walk ambles 1 kilometre along the valley floor to an incredible lookout point and is suitable for families. This region does have its share of restaurants and cafés, mainly in Uluru/Ayers Rock’s tourist village and at Kings Canyon accommodation, but the most spectacular after dark entertainment out here is the sky. When night falls, the stars shine so much brighter, and many travellers just sit and stare for hours. Another special night time activity is the Sounds of Silence dinner – a feast in the open air with Uluru and Kata Tjuta in the distance and a lone didjeridu and astrologer for accompaniment. Other sunset options in this area are camel rides and outback barbecues.