LetsGoKids 2018 Northern Territory Edition

Out & About in Darwin

e to Northern Territory

The No. 1 Family Guid

- 2018

Darwin Waterfront Darwin Airport Central Palmerston Darwin’s Rural Area Batchelor Katherine Roper Gulf Alice Springs

Shop Play Watch Stay Wot’s On

“Get off the couch and get out there!”

See p.14 for Voucher

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

Northern Territory 2018 Help Me, Help Me - I’m a parent?!?!?!?

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

Stress city! Not to worry – we have all the answers for you, so you have come to the right place!

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

Travelling somewhere else???

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

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

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

Check out our app (which has all the vouchers for you to do, news and GPS mapping) or our website to find out events, deals and specials.

Want more tips and ideas, follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Contents Out & About Darwin

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Darwin Waterfront

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Darwin Airport Central

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Palmerston

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Darwin’s Rural Area

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Batchelor

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Katherine

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Roper Gulf

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Alice Springs

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

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

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

Play

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Shop

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Eat

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Watch

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Wot’s On

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Stay

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Advertisers Index Out & About Darwin

Bargain Car Rentals 7 Crocosaurus Cove 8, 9 City of Darwin 10 Aquascene 11 Museum and Art Gallery of NT 12, 13 Crocodylus Park 14,15 Australian Aviation Heritage Centre 16 Freds Pass Show 17, 38 Mindil Beach Sunset Markets 18

19 19, 21 21 21

Darwin Airport Central Darwin Airport Central

Palmerston

Palmerston Shopping Centre Palmerston Tavern

Darwin’s Rural Area

Wetland Cruises Basecamp Wallaroo Spectacular Jumping Croc Cruises

Katherine

Katherine Outback Experience Ibis Styles Katherine Katherine Library The Katherine Club Inc

Roper Gulf

Roper Gulf Council

Alice Springs

Darwin Waterfront WWII Oil Tunnels Indo Pacific Marine Trampoline Gelato Precinct Tavern

22, 23 24 25 39 40 40

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Play

Batchelor Batchelor Butterfly Farm

Araluen Arts Centre Alice Springs School of the Air YMCA Alice Springs Alice Springs Cinemas Alice Plaza Shopping Centre

MacDonnell Range Holiday Park

41 42 42 43 44 45, 46, 47 48 49 51 52 53

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Shop Karama Shopping Centre

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Eat Zest at Novotel Darwin Muzz Buzz Darwin Frying Nemo

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Playgroup NT Planet 10 Pin Bowling Netball NT Flight Path Golf The Playshack Timezone Darwin Basketball Association Hockey NT NRL NT Flip Out Darwin

Wot’s On

Alice Springs Turf Club Darwin Show

Stay

Novotel Darwin CBD Quest Berrimah Argus Darwin

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General

Haileybury School Inside Front Cover NT Catholic Education Back Cover Essington School 3 Kidsafe 5 Road Safety 5 Southern Cross TV 64

1

Really really important stuff Banks: Mon to Thurs: 9:30am – 4pm (Fri – 5pm) Check commbank.com.au, nab.com.au, anz.com.au, westpac.com.au for locations.

Banks: Teller Machines are open 24/7 and located throughout the city and suburbs. Non bank ATM’s charge a fee.

Currency: 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, 1 & 2 dollar coins.

5, 10, 20, 50 & 100 dollar notes.

Show Day Holidays 6 Jul Alice Springs 13 Jul Tennant Creek 20 Jul Katherine School Holidays Mid-Semester Break 16 Apr – 20 Apr Semester Break 2 Jul – 20 Jul

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25 Dec 26 Dec 1 Jan 26 Jan

The Wet season is November to April and the Dry season May to October. During January and February, monsoon weather dumps heavy afternoon and overnight rain, which makes it quite humid, but means you will get to see the beautiful waterfalls and lush tropical growth!

Average temperatures range from 24° – 38°.

Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most places, Amex and Diners Club in some places.

Public Holidays 30 Mar Good Friday 2 Apr Easter Monday 25 Apr Anzac Day 7 May May Day 11 Jun Queen's Birthday 6 Aug Picnic Day

Weather: The Top End has lots of sunshine all year.

Christmas Day Boxing Day New Years Day Australia Day

27 Jul Darwin 29 Jun Borroloola

Central Australia has very little rain and very low humidity throughout the year. Nights can be much colder than further north (lowest on record for Alice Springs is -7.8°!), but generally winter ranges from 3° – 20° and summer 20° – 35°.

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

Emergency? Call 000 Important phone numbers:

Mid-Semester Break 1 Oct – 12 Oct Christmas Holidays 17 Dec – 29 Jan 2019

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Are we there yet?

Alice Springs Airport alicespringsairport.com.au

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

Virgin fly to Darwin Melbourne Adelaide Air North fly to Tennant Creek

Darwin Airport darwinairport.com.au

Jetstar fly daily to Melbourne, Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide Bali and Taipei Qantas fly daily to Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Alice Springs, Perth, Sydney, and Cairns.

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

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

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

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

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

Vouchers!

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Important Information

# LetsGoKids Voucher

# Hector the Road Safety Cat says...

slow down around schools!

School zones in the NT are 40km/h from 7am - 5pm on school days.

For more information visit roadsafety.nt.gov.au

Ok this is toooo boring for kids‌ LetsGoKids Pty Ltd - ABN: 85 122 538 103 95 Chapel Lane, Doreen, VIC 3754 Advertising & Listings (Print, Web & App) Jim Croeser Email: ntoffice@letsgokids.com.au | Ph: 0425 255 581 Graphic Design The LetsGoKids in house studio led by Liam Ford can design and produce graphic art for your advertising needs, whether it be print, web or app. For no obligation and highly competitive quote, email Liam at letsgokidsgraphics@gmail.com Special Thanks / Contributors Tourism NT Visual Library, Nagalakshmi Thyagarajan, Terry Wilson and Cassie Wilson Download advert & listing specs from our website www.letsgokids.com.au Š Copyright 2018

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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

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

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

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

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Cullen Bay

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

Leanyer Recreation Park

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EAST POINT RESERVE DUDLEY POINT

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

Several coach companies operate services within the NT.

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Taxis

Darwin Blue Taxi Company - 138 294 or (08) 8981 3777 Darwin Radio Taxis - 131 008 Tropical Taxis - (08) 8947 3333

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

ALAWA WAGAMAN

RAPID CREEK

NIGHTCLIFF

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

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

Out & About

the Wet Season (Nov - April) and the Dry Season (May - Oct). The Build Up, is the time of year at the beginning of the Wet Season when the humidity levels sky rocket. The Build Up can drive even the toughest Territorian to “GO TROPPO”.

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

It doesn’t get cold in Darwin, ever!

Darwin is a truly tropical city with a monsoonal climate and two distinct seasons -

DRV

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Darwin -

Present day Darwin was founded in 1869.

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

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Darwin

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adult In the heart of Darwin City

$35 $23

CHilD

(4-15 ye

ars)

HolD a baby CroC

FisH For CroCs Meet tHe reptiles

Crocs in the City!

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

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

swiM witCHs tHe Cro

58 Mitchell St, Darwin City.

08 8981 7522 Book online @ croccove.com

Darwin -

Out & About

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Crocosaurus Cove

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

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

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

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

Crocosaurus Cove is now offering a fun behind-the-scenes tour designed especially for kids: Junior Reptile Rangers! This fully guided 2 hour program gives children between the ages of 7 and 12 the opportunity to hold, feed, and learn more about some of the Top End’s most unique reptiles.

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

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

FUN FACT! After cyclone Tracy hit Darwin in 1974 only 400 of the city’s 11,200 homes were left standing.

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

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

# LetsGoKids

In the heart of Darwin City

20% Discount *Only valid on presentation of this voucher or by booking online using promo code LGK2018

58 Mitchell St, Darwin City | p: 8981 7522 Valid until 31/3/19

#

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

info@croccove.com Book online @ croccove.com

Darwin

Voucher

on Adult & Child Admission

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Darwin -

Out & About

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

Public tennis courts are located in Parap, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek. They can be used free of charge for daytime use. The City of Darwin has three swimming pools located at Parap, Nightcliff and Casuarina.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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Darwin

Voucher

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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Darwin Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Not much money? Times are tough?

We’ve come up with “30 Things To Do On The Cheap in Darwin” So round up a posse, pack a picnic and get out there!!

1. First stop is (p.61) of this book! Find out what’s happening and where.

Check out festivals, markets and all the events.

2. Download our App (p.4) to find out all the up to date news for families in the NT, (and get all the vouchers to use again!)

6. Take the family to Indo Pacific Marine (p.19) Darwin’s Aquarium, and let them get up close and personal with the local marine life.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

Pamphlets available at Darwin City Council.

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

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

9. Spend an afternoon checking out the George Brown Botanical Gardens. There is a visitor centre that has maps and info.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

Out & About

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LetsGoKids Voucher

Darwin

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Out & About - Darwin

11. Take a tour of Parliament House 9am and 11am on Saturday mornings Feb-Nov and an extra 10.30am tour is added on Wednesdays (May to Sept).

14. The NT Museum and Art Gallery (p.12) has great indigenous artefacts, arts and demonstrations.

The recreation of the noise and power generated

by Cyclone Tracy has to be experienced.

15. Laze by the lagoon at the Waterfront.

Build a sandcastle, go for a swim.

16. Walk or ride the coastal trail from Nightcliff to Rapid Creek. Great views, birdlife and interpretive plaques to explain what you’re looking at!

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

#

Valid until 31/3/19

LetsGoKids

Voucher

12. Take a hamper to Jingili Water Gardens and enjoy a picnic in the shady confines of a great nautical themed playground. Check out the new skate park next door

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

A million dollar view!

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Darwin 18. Mindil Beach Markets (p.18) on Thursday nights and Sunday afternoons offer entertainment, great atmosphere and a killer sunset viewing spot. Allow 2-3 hours and grab something to eat or BYO! One of the world’s greatest markets! April until October.

HANDY HINT

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

20. Drive or ride to Charles Darwin N.P which is only 5km from the city and learn about the plants and animals native to the area from a knowledgeable ranger on one of their talk sessions

Out & About

Check out the tide times for fish feeding at Aquascene in the Wots On section of our website www.letsgokids.com.au 22. Visit Aquascene (p.11) where at high tide you can hand feed HUGE fish. A unique experience. The littlies will love it. (costs a little).

23. See what harsh prison life was like at Fannie Bay Goal. Open daily 10-3. FREE. East Point Rd. 24. Take the 45 minute drive to Berry Springs and have a swim and picnic at the newly remodelled park.

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

About as “Aussie” as it gets!

21. Visit East Point and Lake Alexander. Go swimming without fear of being eaten. It has a great undercover playground, BBQ area and shady picnic spots.

Entries NOW OPEN for Celebrating Rural Life Schools & students!

May 19 & 20 2018 th

th

The Show is the largest event in the rural area!

“Creating Confident Kids by Losing the fear of being wrong!”

www.fredspassruralshow.com.au LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Darwin

Just follow the link and it will take you to all the entries including Arts & Crafts, Livestock, Poultry, Gardening Competition, Tartlet of the Show and so much more! Great Prizes up for grabs for your school and individuals.

There will be Arts & Crafts Workshops held at this year’s show, so kids get your creative hats on as NT Art Storms hosts

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Out & About - Darwin GEORGE GEORGE BROWN BROWN DARWIN DARWIN

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

Water play areas, flying foxes and more!

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

FREE AND Y DAY! OPEN EVER e Experience th playground, waterfall, lush Gardens and Eva’s Café.

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

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

30. Dinner and drinks at the Ski Club, Darwin.

Super casual and perfect for families, you get a front row seat for the famous Darwin sunset.

You gotta eat, right?

Check out our events

Darwin

26. Subscribe to our e-newsletter (p.47) to find out all the up-to-date news for families in the NT at www.letsgokids.com.au

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Darwin Waterfront -

Out & About

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.

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

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

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

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

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

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Out & About - Darwin Waterfront The World War II Oil Storage Tunnels were built during WWII by the Civil Construction Corps.

This unique tourist attraction located at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct on Kitchener Drive was reopened in 1992 to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin.

HANDY HINT

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

The inviting, crystal blue waters of the Wave Lagoon draw everyone to the centre of the precinct with 10 different wave patterns to excite people of all ages. Open 10 am – 6 pm seven days a week, the Wave Lagoon is open all year round except Christmas Day.

WORTH A LOOK! There is an interpretative trail to the wharf beginning at the top of Harry Chan Drive and winding its way down the hill to the start of the wharf. It retraces the steps of early settlers. The trail provides an inspirational journey through Darwin’s maritime history, Larrakia sacred sites, oil storage tunnels and the site where the first Japanese bomb fell in 1942.

The cool, aquamarine water of the nearby Recreation Lagoon laps at a sandy beach perfect for sand castles or a place to relax and enjoy a safe swim to escape the tropical heat.

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

Big Buoy Water Park is the NT’s very own inflatable water park for thrill seekers aged 6 and up.

Proudly Territory owned and operated, this is a challenging and fun water sports activity with a climbing cube, multiple slides, launching pillow and more.

Stand Up Paddleboards are also available for hire.

The new precinct has a great selection of places to eat or grab a drink such as The Precinct (p.21), Wharf One and Chow Asian Restaurant.

After you’ve swum and enjoyed the waterfront, head down to the nearby Stokes Hill Wharf for a serve of fish and chips and a history lesson – the wharf dates back to the early 1800s and the arrival of European settlers. In World War II when the Japanese bombed Darwin, the wharf took the brunt of the invasion – check out the murals and photographic displays that depict the wartime events.

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• Flip Out Arena

ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST UNIQUE ENTERTAINMENT VENUES

• Under 10 Junior Arena • Double Olympic Foam Pit • Wall Runs, Drop In, Slam Ball

• 22 Bowling Lanes | $16 per adult

• 4 amazing Party Rooms

• Lazer Tag | $12 per adult • Ropes Obstacle Course | for up to 18 people • Arcade Zone | for up to 30 people • Karaoke Room • Private Functions • Latest Arcade Machines $ COST

Wine & Dine

Book a space for 3 to 350 and let the menu and fully licensed bar handle the rest Open 7 Days morning till late 13 2695 kingpinbowling.com.au

• Chill Out Special Night Sessions (with party music and

• effects lighting)

• Ice Sports | Skate Lessons • Parties & Functions • General Admission from $10-$18 per person • Family Pass: $60 - 2 Adults & 2 Children •

(6-14yrs)

ONLY TRAMPOLINE VENUE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY

Arena & Cafe

• General Admission from $15 per hour

(10% discount on entry price for ADF personnel)

Party Packages

• Flip Out Cool, Awesome & Insane Parties from $25 per person

Flip Out Classes • Little Ninja | Teen Tricks | Flip Fit | Adult Agility Little Flippers Open 7 Days morning till late 1800 68 3547 | 08 7970 0454 flipout.net.au

8 Osgood Drive, Darwin 0431 053 968 Darwin Icemorning Skating Open 7 Days till late

0431 053 968 darwiniceskating.com.au

• Drive through • Real Beans - quality coffee • Java juices - cold & healthy • Savoury & Sweet Snacks Open 7 Days morning - 5pm 08 7978 7922 australia.muzzbuzz.com

Palmerston is the sister city of Darwin located just 21 kilometres away with a population of around 45,000 people.

Comprised of 18 suburbs surrounding the city centre it is the second largest city in the Northern Territory. It is one of Australia’s fastest growing cities that boasts a busy, young community of around 45,000, with a strong focus on families and youth.

The city has a network of approximately 32 km of bicycle paths, most of which are lit for night-time usage.

There is also a public bus service operated by Darwin bus that offers transportation around Palmerston, into Darwin City and out to Darwin’s Northern Suburbs.

DID YOU KNOW

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

The library hosts loads of great nooks to relax and read or join your tots into one of the great kids programs. Palmerston Library offers classes for newborns, toddlers and pre-schoolers which involve music and dance, art and craft.

There are a number of other great programs aimed at the broader community.

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

Teenagers will also love the refurbished skate park conveniently located next door. There are also BBQ and picnic facilities as well as a Kiosk.

Palmerston

The city is named in honour of Lord Palmerston the prime minister of the United Kingdom in 1855. Although named after a famous former UK Prime Minister the city of Palmerston was officially only established back in 1983.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Out & About - Palmerston

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Out & About

“Get off the couch and get out there!”

Palmerston -

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

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

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

For those seeking a great budget holiday, A FREE FUN FAMILY DAY OUT! Palmerston is the place to stay.

The WOT’S localONshopping much cheaper than • GAMES • centres VOUCHERS are www.letsgokids.com.au in central Darwin and you are closer to outback places such as Humpty Doo, Kakadu and Litchfield National Park.You are well catered for with the new Rydges Hotel or Quest Apartments.

Fancy a stroll with the family? Stop past the lakes at Durack or Sanctuary. Sanctuary Lakes also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, play equipment, BBQ’s, picnics or somewhere for the younger kids to ride their trikes away from main roads.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

WORTH A LOOK! Palmerston Markets Fresh fruit and veg, local arts, entertainment and a range of delicious cuisine from around the globe - the Palmerston Markets are an experience for the senses!

Held at Goyder Square every Friday night during (the dry) the Palmerston Markets are a cornerstone of the City’s unique culture.

Palmerston

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Play

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

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

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Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Kids of all ages love to play.

Darwin has plenty of parks and nature reserves where the whole family can get outside and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. There also are plenty of activities (both inside and out) to keep everyone busy after school, on weekends or vacations...

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

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

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

With two playgrounds, a lake, exercise stations, walking trails and more, East Point Reserve has always been a popular place for gatherings, events and recreational activities.

There is safe year-round saltwater swimming at Lake Alexander, located within East Point, a range of barbecue and picnic facilities in a landscaped environment and an excellent undercover playground.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Play

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The Esplanade – Beautiful Bicentennial Park runs the length of the Esplanade and a walking/cycling track goes from Doctors Gully in the north to the Wharf Precinct in the south. There is an excellent children’s playground halfway along the park, an eagle’s nest lookout at the northern end and a Cenotaph honouring our war heroes.

Sunsets from here are spectacular.

The Skate Park was completely redeveloped in 2015, after extensive consultation with the skating community.

While it is suitable for skaters, scooters and BMX riders of all ages and abilities, it is targeted mainly at novice–intermediate skills, with a number of elements to challenge and entertain.

The Skate Park can be used free of charge for informal use and bookings are not required.

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Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

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

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Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Howard Springs An awesome place to take the kids for a few hours. Brand new facilities including waterplay area, flying foxes and climbing apparatus.

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

Along the footpath there is Nightcliff Jetty, Nightcliff Beach and Nightcliff Swimming Pool.

The foreshore itself incorporates access to mangrove communities and the beach, along with links back to WWII historical sites.

It is a popular recreational green space, complete with a bike path, outdoor exercise equipment, a pool, café and even food trucks and open air restaurants.

Casuarina Coastal Reserve Located in the city’s northern suburbs, this coastal reserve is a great place for a walk along the beach, to catch a sunset from the Dripstone Cliffs.

The red sunset glow from sandstone cliffs makes a perfect setting for an evening picnic.

If the cook needs a holiday, baked potatoes, pizzas and hamburgers are usually available from stalls along the cliff tops on weekends or public holidays. Definitely one of the most popular Darwin parks.

WORTH A LOOK! George Brown Botanical Gardens There are winding paths, lush tropical plants, places to hide, a man made stream to dam, tunnels to navigate, it has Darwin’s best treehouse Let your kids’ imaginations run wild.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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

PH: 08 8931 0400

COFFEE

Voucher

or hot drink of choice*

Find us on facebook ‘The Playshack’ Website: www.theplayshack.com.au

Entry Prices

$8.50 weekdays $9.50 Sat & Sun Kids under 1yrs FREE

trading hours

tues to fri 8.30am – 2pm Sat 9am – 5pm & Sun 10am – 4pm

VALID UNTIL 30/3/19.

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

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Play Indoor Activities

NEARBY NATIONAL PARKS Charles Darwin National Park Just a short drive from the city, this park was developed to show visitors the rich mangrove habitats of Darwin Harbour. Although it has picnic facilities and walking tracks, this is a natural bush park set aside to protect important areas of mangroves and woodlands. Relics of Darwin’s involvement in WWII can also be seen here.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

The Playshack Playcentre (p.29) Birthday parties, discos, climbing and play equipment Tue-Fri 8.30am-2pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. Closed Monday 08 8931 0400 Flight Path Mini Golf & Archery (p.29) Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 8am-7pm. www.flightpathgolf.com 08 8947 1257 The Planet Ten Pin (p.27) Sun-Mon 10am – Late, Tue-Sat 9am – Late.

69 Progress Drive, Nightcliff 08 8985 4416 Flip Out (p.33) Sun-Fri 9am – 7pm, Sat 9am – 5pm.

1/11 Osgood Drive, Eaton 1800 683 547 Timezone Casuarina (p.29) Sun-Thurs 10am – 10am, Fri – Sat 9am – 11am Casuarina Square 08 8945 6174 Kingpin Darwin Mon-Wed 10am – 10pm, Thur 10am – 11pm, Fri 10am – 12am, Sat 9am – 12am, Sun 9am – 10.30pm 1 Neale St, Darwin Darwin Ice Skating Sun-Thur 9.30am – 7.30pm, Fri – Sat 9.30am – 9.30pm Osgood Drive, Darwin 0431 053 968

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Play W

GET INVOLVED IN HOCKEY!

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Under 10 Hookin2Hockey Program – participation@hockeynt.asn.au Junior Competition (U11, U14, U17) – competitions@hockeynt.asn.au

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Hockey in Schools (Sporting Schools Partner) – participation@hockeynt.asn.au

ee ffrriieennddss!! mmaakk For more information contact: P – 08 89450302

www.hockeynt.asn.au • www.hookin2hockey.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

Darwin Basketball Association Ph: 0417 993 050 | Abala Rd, Marrara Darwin Golf Club Ph: (08) 8927 1322 | 5 Links Rd, Marrara

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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LIKE A CHALLENGE?

See How Many NT Words You Can Find!

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ABORIGINAL ALICESPRINGS BATCHELOR CROCODILE DARWIN HUMPTYDOO INDOPACIFIC KANGAROO KATHERINE LARRAKIA MINDILBEACH OUTBACK PALMERSTON TERRITORY ULURU WATERFRONT WHARF WILDLIFE

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE NT?

SEE IF YOU CAN CRACK OUR CROSSWORD Across 3. River that sometimes runs through Alice Springs 5. What is the name of NTs NEAFL Team?

9. What is the name of the largest rock in Australia?

10. The cyclone responsible for the destruction of Darwin in 1974?

11. This year’s Darwin Show is numbered?

13. What town is between Darwin and Katherine?

14. The marine education centre based in Darwin 15. What is the desert that spreads between South Australia, NT and Queensland?

16. The name of the spectacular gorge near Katherine?

Down 1. The island just to the north of Darwin 2. Where you can go fishing for crocodiles?

4. Which Mountain Range circles Alice Springs?

6. What is the name of the second largest NT town?

7. You can hand feed the local and friendly wild fish here 8. What is the capital of the NT? 12. What is the name of the Botanic Gardens in Alice Springs?

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Shop Darwin’s shopping experience of choice, is the good old fashioned open air market. There seems to be markets everywhere that sell clothes, jewellery, art & craft, provide massages and of course, food!

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

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

Palmerston has several medium size centres located within a short walk of each other including Palmerston Shopping Centre (p.24) and Palm City Oasis. The Palmerston Bus exchange makes this a busy area.

At the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, (held on Sundays and Thursdays from April) sample international cuisine from some 60 food stalls and eat on the beach as the sun sinks into the ocean.

The growing Coolalinga Shopping Centre provides for people living in Darwin’s rural area

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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

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

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

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

DID YOU KNOW Stokes Hill Wharf has an amazing food hall that is open nightly. You can sit al fresco or under cover and the kids will love the huge batfish (and sometimes a shark) being attracted by the lights and swimming around the wharf.

Crustaceans on Stokes Hills Wharf offers affordable family seafood meals in a superb setting on the end of the wharf

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

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The Darwin Waterfront complex has restaurants and take away to suit all tastes. Hot Tamale Mexican Restaurant, Wharf One Food and Wine and the Precinct (p.21) are worth a look.

Or get your fix of Pho at the modern family friendly Chow Asian restaurant.

The meals at Fiddlers Green are huge!

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

With around 75 different nationalities living in Darwin, the multicultural flavour of the Territory is well represented in its dining experiences. You only need to take a trip to one of the Darwin markets (Mindil Beach, Parap, Nighcliff or Rapid Creek) to see their influence in the many food stalls serving great-value meals and snacks.

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

The Darwin Sailing Club and the Trailer Boat Club in Fannie Bay have million dollar views as the sun goes down and you can sit on the shady grassed area overlooking the water in a casual bistro setting. The food is great, the setting even better.

The Trailer Boat Club has a playground, swimming pool, beach and soft sand for the kids to play on.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Eat

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Out & About - Darwin’s Rural Area

McMinns Lagoon Recreation Reserve Step back in time and enjoy the natural wonders of this very special place. If you have a species on your bird watching list that you have not crossed off, this is the place you will find them!

McMinns Lagoon is also well known for the many butterflies that flutter by.

Darwin’s Rural Area

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

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

The playground includes a slide, flying foxes and a tree-house.

There is also a toddler pool and monsoon forest walk.

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

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

With two large spring-fed pools and a small waterfall fringed by pandanus and monsoon rainforest make for an ideal spot for leisurely barbecues, swimming and walking.

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

Berry Springs is also the home of the world acclaimed Territory Wildlife Park, nestled on 400 hectares of natural bushland and showcasing the wildlife of Northern Australia in their natural habitats.There are six kilometres of walking trails and a free shuttle train to link the 26 major exhibits.

Allow at least four hours to explore the park.

Presentations and displays start from 10am daily.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Darwin’s Rural Area encompasses the areas of Humpty Doo, Howard Springs and Berry Springs. They are all located approx 30-45 mins drive from Darwin CBD and offers some great recreational activities and picnic opportunities.

Entries NOW OPEN for Celebrating Rural Life Schools & students!

May 19 & 20 2018 th

th

The Show is the largest event in the rural area!

Just follow the link and it will take you to all the entries including Arts & Crafts, Livestock, Poultry, Gardening Competition, Tartlet of the Show and so much more! Great Prizes up for grabs for your school and individuals.

There will be Arts & Crafts Workshops held at this year’s show, so kids get your creative hats on as NT Art Storms hosts

“Creating Confident Kids by Losing the fear of being wrong!”

www.fredspassruralshow.com.au LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Darwin’s Rural Area -

Freds Pass Sport and Rec Reserve Each year in May, Fred Pass hosts the iconic Freds Pass Rural Show. People travel from throughout the region to join in the fun, taste the goodies, spin out on the show rides or have heaps of fun at the sideshow, watch the equestrian competitions or inspect the impressive poultry and livestock on display.

Home to 20 community and sporting groups and has picnic and BBQ areas as well as plenty of space to explore, kick the footy or fly a kite.

Once the show has hit the road, there are still numerous sporting activities to enjoy, or just have a quiet bbq picnic.

The reserve is on Bees Creek Road, Fred Pass.

DID YOU KNOW Wetland Cruises at Corroboree Billabong is the closest wetland cruise to Darwin.

It is only an hour and a quarter drive, and much closer than going to Kakadu to see the same thing.

Out & About

WORTH A LOOK!

Jumping Crocodile Tours, on the Adelaide River near Humpty Doo, give a rare opportunity to see crocodiles in their natural habitat but in complete safety. On each tour, a single crocodile is fed by a tour guide who coaxes the giant creature out of the water.

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

Humpty Doo Village Green Located in the heart of Humpty Doo, just off the Arnhem Highway, opposite Taminmin College is the Humpty Doo Village Green.

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

Play evening Lawn Bowls or join the Guides or Scouts.

Darwin’s Rural Area

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Out & About - Darwin’s Rural Area SPECTACULAR

JUMPING CROCODILE CRUISES The BEST possible way to witness the natural behaviour of these amazing Australian Saltwater Crocodiles!

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

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

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

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

hours Just an m drive fro n the City o y Darwin Highwa Arnhem

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

Darwin’s Rural Area

08 8978 9077 www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au

40

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Batchelor -

Out & About

The present township stands on a farm established in 1912 by a Mr. E.L. Batchelor.

The area began to flourish in 1949 with the discovery of uranium. 1952 saw the expansion of the town when it became home for workers employed at the Rum Jungle Uranium Mine (White’s Mine), Australia’s first uranium mine and one of the greatest economic influences on the subsequent development of the Top End. The Batchelor Butterfly and Bird Farm (see below) is also well worth a visit. As well as showcasing a unique range of butterflies and birds in pleasant waterfall garden, the farm offers budget accommodation and has a licensed restaurant on site.

Accommodation is also available at the Batchelor Holiday Park.

The most popular attraction however is the Litchfield National Park. Today more than 250,000 people each year make the journey to the Park.

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

The weathered sandstone pillars of The Lost City are worth a look, but a 4 wheel drive vehicles is required. Otherwise, an ordinary car will take you to most features.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

Batchelor

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

41

Out & About - Katherine Katherine is ideally positioned at the crossroads for WA, Darwin, down to Alice and near the turnoff for Qld. It is 312km from Darwin on good sealed roads and is perfect to use as a base to explore what the surrounding areas have to offer.

Katherine is the NT’s fourth largest town (after Darwin, Palmerston and Alice Springs).

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

An historic Outback pioneering town, Katherine township began its life as an outpost of the Overland Telegraph Line in 1872. Since then, its population swelled during the late 1800s gold rush and more recently with the growth of the tourism industry.

DID YOU KNOW A 1 hour drive south of Katherine is Mataranka - home of the Bitter Rainbow and Thermal pools - All FREE. 45 minutes north of Katherine is Edith Falls and the refreshing plunge pool.

Katherine

Katherine sits on the doorstep of Nitmiluk National Park and is where the Outback meets the tropics.

It is considered a part of the Top End and of Central Australia, meaning it experiences both the monsoons of the Top End along with the dry climate of the Red Centre.

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Nitmiluk National Park is owned by the local Jawoyn people and Katherine Gorge is the main attraction of the park. It’s a series of 13 deep sandstone gorges carved out by the Katherine River on its journey from Arnhem Land to the Timor Sea.

Out & About

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

The Katherine Township itself has great facilities for families to enjoy, including an Olympic size swimming pool and kid’s water park/play area with picnic facilities. A great playground is nearby.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Katherine -

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

There are a number of short, middle-distance or long walking trails which cover many of the highlights including wildlife, Aboriginal rock art and pristine waterholes. Tours are available.

Opening Hours

KATHERINE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Tuesday 8.30am-5.00pm Wednesday-Friday 10.00am-5.00pm Saturday 10.00am-1.00pm Sunday-Monday Closed

Council’s Library is a fantastic resource for books, graphic novels, DVDs, videos, music CDs, spoken word and magazines. Located in Katherine Terrace and open Tuesday to Saturday, why don’t you pop in – we’re sure to find something you’ll love!

Story Time: for 3-5 year olds Wednesdays 10.30am—11.30am 1st floor Randazzo Building, Katherine Terrace 08 8971 1188 | library@ktc.nt.gov.au | ktc.nt.gov.au

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Katherine

Wriggle & Rhyme: for 0-2 year olds Tuesdays 9.30am & Thursdays 10.30am

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

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

HANDY HINT Meals are available at reasonable prices at the Katherine Club (see below).

Open 7 days they cater for families too!

It house a huge trampoline pillow where the kids can play while you watch them as you dine in.

Katherine

- Checking out the limestone caves at Cutta Cutta Nature Park. The endangered Orange Horseshoe Bats are wonderful to see.

- Going on a boat or canoe tour at Nitmiluk Gorge NP. Double canoes available for canoeing with kids.

You can also take a steep walk up the escarpment to the first Gorge lookout.

- Getting a feel for the life of the outback pioneers at the Katherine Museum.

- Stopping in at Top Didj or Mimi and learning about the local indigenous art and culture.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Don’t Leave Katherine Without

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

The Roper Gulf region is the heart of the Top End and Gulf Savannah.

It covers an area from the southern border of Kakadu National Park to the northern edge of the Barkly Tablelands, and from the Gulf of Carpentaria and Northern Territory/Queensland border to the Stuart Highway. Put simply, this spectacularly diverse region covers about the same land area as the entire state of Victoria.

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

Out & About

Photo Courtesy of RGRC

Roper Gulf -

This is an absolute delight any time, but especially on a hot day.The Jurmurark (12 Mile) camping ground, 17km from Mataranka, provides a tranquil bushland environment close to the Roper River and Korowan (Mataranka Falls).

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

Photo Courtesy of RGRC

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

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

HANDY HINT Be Crocwise - Saltwater crocodiles are common in waterways across the region.

Always follow the instructions of warning signs and speak to locals and Parks and Wildlife Commission NT rangers before dipping your toes.

Roper Gulf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roper Gulf

•

46

• • • • • • •

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

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

Explore Elsey and Limmen Nationals Parks.

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

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

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

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

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

Go back in time at the Elsey cemetery and homestead.

Visit the historic precincts of Larrimah and Daly Waters.

Explore the art centres at Beswick, Ngukurr and Borroloola.

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

Grab a fishing charter on the McArthur River.

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Roper Gulf -

Out & About

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

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

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

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

Photo Courtesy of RGRC

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

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

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

Roper Gulf

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

47

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

DID YOU KNOW Alice Springs is unofficially known as the capital of Aboriginal art and culture. Be sure to visit the galleries on Todd Mall to get to know the art and stories of the local Aboriginal Arrernte people who have lived here for 20,000 years.

It is the town that everybody associates with “The Outback” and is Australia’s most famous outback town. ‘Alice’ is an intriguing place that hosts a jampacked calendar of festivals, celebrations and quirky events like Finke Desert Race, the Alice Springs Beanie Festival, the Henley-on-Todd, the Camel Cup and the Alice Desert Festival.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The town was named after Lady Alice Todd, wife of Sir Charles Todd, a British astronomer, meteorologist, and electrical engineer. It’s also affectionately called “The Alice” or simply “Alice”.

This ruggedly beautiful town is shaped by its mythical landscapes, vibrant Aboriginal culture and tough pioneering past. The stories of Australian history and heritage overflow in Alice Springs, with a rich cast of characters, including Afghan cameleers, flying doctors and outback explorers. Today it is possible to visit memorials to their efforts at various sites around the town.

Music Dance Cabaret Tribute Film Visual Art Comedy Theatre Opera Children Puppetry Music Dance Cabaret Tribute Film Visual Art Comedy Theatre Opera Children Puppetry Music Dance Cabaret Tribute Film Visual Art Comedy Theatre MusicWhat’s Dance Cabaret TributeOn Film Visual Comedy Araluen Theatre Opera Children Puppetry Dance Cabaret Tribute at Artthe ArtsMusicCentre

Alice Springs

FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

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Creature: An Adaptation of Dot and the Kangaroo Live acrobatics and 3D projections

Perfect for 4 years and older.

Friday 1 & Monday 4 June

Josephine Wants to Dance

Based on the book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley

Perfect for 4 years and older.

Tuesday 7 & Wednesday 8 August

Wolfgang

by Circa

Family friendly circus, movement and music

Perfect for 3 years and older.

Tuesday 2 & Wednesday 3 October

Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine

Packed with mischief, music, magic and mammoth laughs

Perfect for 6 years and older.

Monday 8 & Tuesday 9 October

For show information and ticket bookings www.araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au 61 Larapinta Drive , Alice Springs Box Office: 8951 1122

araluenartscentre

araluenartscentre #araluenartscentre

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Alice Springs -

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

It is the home of The Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The School of the Air (see below) and the Overland Telegraph Line. These all played major roles in the development of the outback and Australia in general. You are able to take tours of all of these.

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

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

Out & About

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

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

Now, the building has been faithfully restored.

The Alice Springs School of the Air Visitor Centre, dubbed “The World’s Largest Classroom”, is an innovative education centre providing education to the children residing in the remote areas of Central Australia.

WORTH A LOOK! Olive Pink Botanic Garden, which she founded in 1956, at the ripe old age of 72. The gardens feature more than 2500 plantings of almost 500 central Australian plants, as well as a sculpture trail. It’s a great spot for a picnic or birdwatching and it has a nice little café.

School of the Air Visitor Centre

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Open All Year

Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm Sun & Public Holidays 1.30pm to 4.30pm Last Tour 4pm

Closed Good Fri, 25 Dec to 1 Jan

80 Head St Alice Springs

08 8951 6834

www.assoa.nt.edu.au

visitorcentre@assoa.nt.edu.au

Alice Springs

Join a lesson in the world’s largest classroom, covering 1.3 million square kilometres.

49

Out & About - Alice Springs

This makes Alice Springs one of the world’s oldest, continuously inhabited places.

The influence is certainly to be noticed in the large number of art galleries and centres which offer traditional and contemporary indigenous art displays.

DID YOU KNOW The area around Alice Springs is associated with the Caterpillar Dreaming (Yeperenye) creation story and there are several sacred sites, including the caterpillar rock art at Emily Gap, 15 kilometres east of town along the Ross Highway. For a deeper understanding of how the caterpillar shaped the land, walk through the Yeperenye Sculpture in the gardens at the Araluen Arts Centre on Larapinta Drive.

Alice Springs

To continue learning about the history of Alice Springs, enjoy the Heritage Walk in the Central Business District.Three of the heritage stops are also a part of The Flynn Trail: Flynn Memorial Church, Adelaide House, and Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility.

The central Australian desert around Alice Springs was the home of the Arrernte Aboriginal people for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the first Europeans. In fact, archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been occupied for possibly 30,000 years.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

The school takes classes with the help of radios and internet through which they are able to cover a vast area in Alice Springs.

The visitor centre offers guided tours for tourists specialising in the history of this unique and innovative school.

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

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Out & About - Alice Springs The Henley-on-Todd Regatta (also called the Todd River Race) is a “boat” race held annually in the typically dry sandy bed of the Todd River. It began as a joke at the expense of the original British settlers and the formal atmosphere of the British river races. Every year in the spring, around September, the town holds a mock regatta, which large numbers of locals and tourists attend, and the celebration takes all day. It is the only dry river regatta in the world.

Loads of tourists use Alice as a staging post to visit one of the wonders of the natural world – Ayers Rock or Uluru to the locals. It is about 4 ½ hours drive on a modern paved road. There are an abundance of tours to the Rock, the Olgas & King’s Canyon from Alice.

Alice Springs

Just 10 minutes from the centre of town, the Alice Springs Desert Park is much more than just a wildlife park. In the space of a few hours, discover the secrets of the desert. See and hear the stories of the plants, animals, and local Aboriginal culture at daily guide presentations.

Witness the free-flying bird show (at 10am and 3.30pm) and see rare and endangered animals in one of the most spectacular nocturnal houses in the world.

Watch the bilbies sneaking from their burrows, mala foraging for their daily meal or come centimeters from an echidna on a mission to find dinner; be enthralled and entertained on the Nocturnal Tour.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

DID YOU KNOW

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

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LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Alice Springs -

Out & About

Alice Springs

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

53

Watch

We tell you where and how to get involved and describe what’s coming up for the spectator.

Go on – Get out there!!

Top level professional sport comes to the Territory again in 2018 Darwin hosting both AFL and NRL games for premiership points.

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

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

NRL – The Territory’s own Parramatta Eels return to Darwin’s TIO Stadium this year in a blockbuster clash with the Premiership and crowd favourites, the North Queensland Cowboys. Come and see a host of superstars like JT, Matt Scott, Jordy McLean and Jason Taumalolo take on the Hayne Plane and the Eels.

What a match it promises to be!

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

NTFL headquarters at Marrara Oval often hold double and triple headers on Saturdays during the season.

The kids can even get on the field at the breaks and have a kick! It’s a great family day out.

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AFL – The superstars of the AFL return to the Territory on May 27th in Alice and July 7th in Darwin. The Melbourne Demons, led by the rugged and uncompromising Nathan Jones take on two of the powerhouses of the competition as they look to climb the ladder this year.

The Alice clash will be a beauty as the super exciting Eddie Betts and the Adelaide Crows journey up from Adelaide, to try and redeem themselves after last years Grand Final loss.

In Darwin, Brownlow Medallist, and young superman, Nat Fyfe and his purple band of men hit town. Come along and see the new look Dockers take on Jones, Jesse “Hulk” Hogan and Christian Petracca in what is sure to be a hard fought game.

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Territorians love their leisure time, whether it be watching or being actively involved.

In this section we offer you the ultimate armchair guide to viewing movies and sport or giving you the opportunity to get involved in some physical activity.

NT Thunder

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

2018 NT Thunder Fixture Rnd

Date

Time

Opponent

Venue

1

7 APR

6:30pm

Brisbane Lions

TIO Stadium, Darwin

3

21 APR

6:30pm

Sydney University

TIO Stadium, Darwin

4

28 APR

6:30pm

Redland

TIO Traeger Park

7

19 MAY

6:30pm

Gold Coast Suns

TIO Stadium, Darwin

9

2 JUN

6:30pm

GIANTS

TIO Stadium, Darwin

13

30 JUN

6.30pm

Southport

TIO Stadium, Darwin

15

14 JUL

6.30pm

Sydney Swans

TIO Stadium, Darwin

16

21 JUL

6.30pm

Canberra

TIO Stadium, Darwin

17

28 JUL

6.30pm

Aspley

TIO Stadium, Darwin

19

11 AUG

6:30pm

Redland

TIO Stadium, Darwin

20

18 AUG

6.30pm

Southport

TIO Stadium, Darwin

TIO Stadium Darwin NRL 2018 Fixture Rnd

14

Date

19 JUN

Match

Eels vs. Cowboys

TIO Stadium - Darwin AFL 2018 Fixture Rnd

16

Date

7 JUL

Match

Melbourne v. Fremantle Dockers

TIO Stadium - Alice Springs AFL 2018 Fixture Rnd

10

Date

27 May

Match

Melbourne vs. Adelaide Crows

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Watch CINEMA

Optus Stadium AFL 2018 Fixture Rnd

CMAX Cinemas Palmerston The Hub, 3 Maluka St

(08) 8931 2555

Alice Springs Cinema Todd Plaza 11 Todd St

(08) 8953 2888

BCC Cinemas Darwin 76 Mitchell St

(08) 8981 5999

Casuarina Cinemas Casuarina Shopping Centre

(08) 8945 7777

Deckchair Cinema Darwin 61 Jervois Dr

(08) 8981 0700

Katherine Cinema 3 20 First St

(08) 8971 2522

Theatres Brown’s Mart Theatre Darwin 12 Smith St

(08) 8981 5522

Darwin Entertainment Centre Darwin Plaza

(08) 8980 3333

Araluen Arts Centre 61 Larapinta Dr, Araluen

(08) 8951 1122

1 2 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Date

26 MAR 31 MAR 7 APR 8 APR 14 APR 21 APR 29 APR 5 MAY 12 MAY 20 MAY 27 MAY 2 JUN 10 JUN 21 JUN 1 JUL 8 JUL 15 JUL 22 JUL 29 JUL 5 AUG 12 AUG 19 AUG 24 AUG

The Gabba AFL 2018 Fixture Rnd

2 5 7 8 9 10 12 14 16 18 20 23

Date

Brisbane Lions v. Demons Brisbane Lions v. Gold Coast Suns Brisbane Lions v. Collingwood Gold Coast Suns v. Melbourne Brisbane Lions v. Hawthorn Brisbane Lions v. Sydney Swans Brisbane Lions v. Essendon Brisbane Lions v. GWS Giants Brisbane Lions v. Carlton Brisbane Lions v. Adelaide Crows Brisbane Lions v. North Melbourne Brisbane Lions v. West Coast Eagles

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

SCG AFL 2018 Fixture

Match

31 MAR 22 APR 6 MAY 12 MAY 20 MAY 26 MAY 10 JUN 23 JUN 7 JUL 21 JUL 4 AUG 24 AUG

Match

Rnd

2 3 5 7 9 11 13 16 18 20 23

Date

1 APR 7 APR 20 APR 5 MAY 19 MAY 1 JUN 15 JUN 5 JUL 21 JUL 4 AUG 24 AUG

Match

Sydney Swans v. Port Adelaide Sydney Swans v. GWS Giants Sydney Swans v. Adelaide Crows Sydney Swans v. North Melbourne Sydney Swans v. Fremantle Dockers Sydney Swans v. Carlton Sydney Swans v. West Coast Eagles Sydney Swans v. Geelong Cats Sydney Swans v. Gold Coast Suns Sydney Swans v. Collingwood Sydney Swans v. Hawthorn

Metricon Stadium AFL 2018 Fixture 11 13 5 17 19 21 22

Date

Match

2 JUN 16 JUN 30 JUN 14 JUL 28 JUL 11 AUG 18 AUG

Gold Coast Suns v. Brisbane Lions Gold Coast Suns v. Hawthorn Gold Coast Suns v. Adelaide Crows Gold Coast Suns v. Geelong Cats Gold Coast Suns v. West Coast Eagles Gold Coast Suns v. Carlton Gold Coast Suns v. North Melbourne

Startrack Oval AFL 2018 Fixture Rnd

1 4 21

Date

Match

25 MAR 14 APR 11 AUG

GWS Giants v. Western Bulldogs GWS Giants v. Femantle GWS Giants v. Adelaide Crows

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

Rnd

55

Watch AFL 2018 Fixture - For All Melbourne Venues

Jun 28

Round 12 St Kilda v. Sydney Swans Melbourne v. Collingwood Round 13 Carlton v Fremantle Richmond v. Geelong Cats Round 14 Collingwood v. Carlton Western Bulldogs v. North Melbourne Round 15 Richmond v. Sydney Swans

Jun 29

Geelong Cats v. West Coast Eagles

Etihad Stadium

Jun 30 Jul 1 Jul 1

Carlton v. Port Adelaide Melbourne v. St Kilda Essendon v. North Melbourne Round 16 Richmond v. Adelaide Crows Western Bulldogs v. Richmond North Melbourne v. Gold Coast Suns Essendon v. Collingwood Round 17 St Kilda v. Carlton

MCG MCG Etihad Stadium

Melbourne v. Western Bulldogs North Melbourne v. Sydney Swans Collingwood v. West Coast Eagles Round 18 St Kilda v. Richmond Essendon v. Fremantle Collingwood v. North Melbourne Carlton v. Hawthorn Round 19 Essendon v. Fremantle Richmond v. Geelong Cats Round 20 Richmond v. Geelong Cats St Kilda v. Western Bulldogs Essendon v. Hawthorn Carlton v. GWS Giants Melbourne v. Gold Coast Suns Round 21 St Kilda v. Essendon Collingwood v. Brisbane Lions Hawthorn v. Geelong Cats North Melbourne v. Western Bulldogs Melbourne v. Sydney Swans Round 22 Richmond v. Essendon Collingwood v. Port Adelaide

MCG Etihad Stadium MCG

Round 1 Date Mar 22

Match Carlton v. Richmond

Venue MCG

Jun 9 Jun 12

Mar 23 Mar 24 Mar 24 Mar 25

Essendon v. Adelaide Crows Collingwood v. Hawthorn St Kilda v. Brisbane Lions Melbourne v. Geelong Cats

Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG

Jun 16 Jun 17

Mar 30 Mar 31 Mar 31 Apr 1 Apr 2

North Melbourne v, St Kilda GWS Giants v. Collingwood Carlton v. Gold Coast Suns Western Bulldogs v. Essendon Hawthorn v. Geelong Cats Round 3 Carlton v. Geelong Cats St Kilda v. Adelaide Crows Melbourne v. North Melbourne

Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium MCG

Etihad Stadium MCG

Apr 27

Western Bulldogs v. Essendon Richmond v. Hawthorn Round 4 Sydney Swans v. Western Bulldogs Richmond v. Brisbane Lions Essendon v. Port Adelaide Hawthorn v. Melbourne Round 5 St Kilda v. GWS Giants Carlton v. West Coast Eagles North Melbourne v. Hawthorn Richmond v. Melbourne Essendon v. Collingwood Round 6 Western Bulldogs v. Carlton

Apr 28

North Melbourne v. Port Adelaide

Etihad Stadium

Apr 29

Collingwood v. Richmond

MCG

Apr 29

Essendon v. Melbourne

Etihad Stadium

Round 2

Apr 6 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 8 Apr 8 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 15 Apr 15 Apr 21 Apr 21 Apr 22 Apr 24 Apr 25

MCG Etihad Stadium MCG

Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG MCG Etihad Stadium

May 11 May 12 May 12 May 13 May 13 May 19 May 19 May 20 May 25 May 26 May 27 Jun 2 Jun 2 Jun 3 Jun 3

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Jul 6 Jul 7 Jul 8 Jul 8 Jul 13 Jul 14 Jul 15 Jul 15 Jul 20 Jul 21 Jul 21 Jul 23 Jul 27 Jul 28

Essendon v. Hawthorn St Kilda v. Melbourne Richmond v. Fremantle Round 8 Hawthorn v. Sydney Swans St Kilda v. Melbourne Essendon v. Carlton North Melbourne v. Richmond Collingwood v. Geelong Cats Round 9 St Kilda v. Collingwood Essendon v. Geelong Cats Melbourne v. Carlton Round 10 Western Bulldogs v. Collingwood Richmond v. St Kilda

MCG Etihad Stadium MCG

Aug 3 Aug 4 Aug 4 Aug 5 Aug 5

MCG Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG

Aug 10 Aug 11 Aug 11 Aug 12 Aug 12

Etihad Stadium MCG MCG

Aug 17 Aug 18

Hawthorn v. West Coast Eagles Round 11 Essendon v. Richmond Western Bulldogs v. Melbourne Collingwood v. Fremantle Brisbane Lions v. North Melbourne

Etihad Stadium

Round 7 May 5 May 6 May 6

Jun 24 Jun 23

Etihad Stadium MCG

MCG Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium

Aug 18 Aug 19 Aug 24 Aug 24 Aug 24 Aug 24

St Kilda v. Hawthorn Carlton v. Western Bulldogs Round 23 Carlton v. Adelaide Crows GWS Giants v. Melbourne North Melbourne v. St Kilda Richmond v. Western Bulldogs

Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG MCG Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium

MCG Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium

Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium MCG MCG Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG MCG MCG Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium Etihad Stadium MCG Etihad Stadium MCG

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Wot’s On We are calling the whole family – kids, mums, dads, aunty, uncle, sisters, brothers, grandma and grandpa – even you!

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

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

To keep up to date with everything our advertisers have going on, go to the “Wot’s On” page on our website at www.letsgokids.com.au and while you’re there, sign up for our great monthly e-newsletter and download our new app to have everything that’s going on at your fingertips. “Get off the couch and get out there!”

All Year Daily

Aquascene Fish Feeding Feeding session times vary daily. Check website for times. 8981 7837 aquascene.com.au

Daily

Swim with the Crocs at Crocosaurus Cove Jump in & cool down in the unique swimming pool that lets you get up close to the energetic juvenile crocodiles, safely of course! Pose for Mum & Dad for great photo opportunities…friends will think you’re actually swimming with the crocs! 9am-6pm. Closed Christmas Day. 8981 7522 info@croccove.com Monday Lego Club 2017 at Alice Springs Public Library If you love building things up just to knock ‘em down, come on down for some Lego fun!

Weekly All ages welcome (c’mon dads, we know you want to...)

4pm - 5:30pm. Cnr Gregory and Leichhardt Tces Alice Springs. Free event. 8950 0555 Storytime 2017 at Alice Springs Public Library Monday and Everyone is welcome to attend this fun and exciting story time.

Tuesdays 2pm to 2:30pm. Alice Springs Public Library, Gregory Terrace & Leichhardt Terrace, Alice Springs. 8950 0555 Weekly Skate Night Every After a successful year of Skate Nights in 2017, LAUNCH is excited to bring back this fun, healthy weeknight Wednesday until Thursday activity. New skaters, spectators and regular shredders are invited to attend and enjoy the music and energetic skate park community. Skate + Quads + BMX + Scoot. BYO gear.

28 Jun FREE, Cnr Trower Road and Freshwater Road, Jingili. (08) 8930 0635 or youthprojects@darwin.nt.gov.au Wednesday, Darwin City Sights Tour Friday and This afternoon city sights tour is the perfect introduction to Darwin. See the Chinese Temple, Botanic Gardens Sundays and more with expert commentary by a Local Guide.

Departs at 12:45pm from Darwin City.

Babes N Rhymes at Karama Library Wednesday from Feb-Nov These weekly sessions will get you clapping and moving to rhymes and songs. We’ll explore rhymes, songs and finger play. Interact with your baby to nurture their pre-literacy, language and social skills. Babes ‘n’ Rhymes is for babies 3-24 months and their parents and carers. 10-10:30am. Karama Shopping Ctr Kalymnos Drive. 8927 2505 Every Thursday Mindil Beach Sunset Market 2018 from 26 Apr - 26 Darwin’s largest night market, famous for its stunning sunset over the Timor Sea. After sunset, the market bursts with life from three main entertainment locations with local and travelling street performers.

Oct 4pm to 9pm. Mindil Beach, Maria Liveris Drive, Darwin. Free event. 8981 3454 admin@mindil.com.au Fridays weekly Baby Rhyme Time 2018 at Alice Springs Public Library from 10 of Feb Come with your baby and enjoy this fun and educational time at the Library.

10:15-10:45am. Cnr Gregory Terrace & Leichhardt Terrace, Alice Springs. Free event. 8950 0555 to 1 Dec Every Friday from Palmerston Markets April - October Every Friday evening the markets provide live entertainment, ranging from multicultural dancers, country and western bands, mainstream bands and a DJ who entertains the kids with their favourite music, clowns also put on a show with games and competitions and lots of prizes to give away.

6pm. Goyder Square, Palmerston City. Free event. 0459 384 103 Every Saturday Parap Markets Browse the range of fresh produce at market prices and enjoy locally grown vegetables, herbs, Asian greens, exotic fruit and flowers. Catch up with friends to the backdrop of ambient live music then wander through the markets to discover a precious collection of Territory crafts 8am-2pm. Parap Village Shopping Precinct (Parap Road). (08) 8942 0805 markets@parapvillage.com.au Saturdays from Katherine Community Market Locals and visitors alike enjoy the opportunity to purchase something truly local and Territory made.

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

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

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Wot’s On All Year Sundays weekly

Every Second Sunday

Nightcliff Markets Sample the array of tasty curries, soups, crepes, satays, sushi, samosas, burgers, noodles and locally grown produce. Have a wander around the range of arts and craft, clothing, plants, massage, tarot and collectables stores. Located 7 Pavonia Place, Progress Drive, Darwin, 0414 368 773.

Todd Mall Markets There is a wide range of stalls selling crafts, clothing, art, food, jewellery, wellbeing products, dog products, honey, hat, mats, books and more. Identify with the locals and discover one of a kind treasures or have something to eat. The market runs from mid February to December.

9am -1pm in the Todd Mall info@toddmallmarkets.com.au or 0458555506

Last Sunday of Each Month Monthly March 2 March 8 April

April 14 Apr

14 April 7 May

28 April

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Berry Springs Community Market Spend your morning enjoying fresh homegrown veggies and having a chat with the locals. Stalls include bric-a-brac, crafts, produce, preserves, herbs & spices, clothing and books. 8am-12pm. Cox Peninsula Rd, berryspringsmarkets@hotmail.com Alice Springs Town Council Night Markets With performances, indigenous art, jewellery, multicultural food and more here! Alice Springs host these free events once a month so check out the website for more details www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au/events/night-markets Clay Stories: Contemporary Indigenous Ceramics from Remote Australia Clay Stories incorporates sculptural and functional forms, each work coming out of and informing the long and proud traditions of ceramics in Indigenous Australian art. Representing the strong connection of artists to their country and operating as a vitally important medium for their story telling.

From 12 to 4pm 61 Larapinta Drive, Araluen, 08 8951 1122 Street Heat: The Third Street Heat is a multi discipline comp held at the beautiful Jingili Water Gardens as part of Youth Week 2018.

After six months of anticipation things are starting to heat up and on Saturday April 14th join us with host Renton Millar for an afternoon of energy and excitement. It’s not just about the comp though; it’s about the celebration of awesome! Free Event from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, Jingili Water Gardens Skate Park Cnr Trower Road and Freshwater Road, Jingili. youthprojects@darwin.nt.gov.au.

Alice Springs Cup Carnival 2018 Our Cup Carnival showcases the best that Red Centre racing has to offer and for those of you who have thought about coming to the Alice for our Cup Carnival but haven’t yet made it, then this is your time! Having 40 years experience our friendly team are happy to help you with any information that will assist you in planning that trip to the Carnival.

For more information 08 8952 4977 or visit www.alicespringsturfclub.org.au/alice-springs-turf-club-cup-carnival

The Thailand Grand Festival This April the NT Thai Association will transform the Darwin Waterfront into a bursting cultural experience in honour of one of Thailand’s largest celebrations – the Songkran Festival.The Thailand Grand Festival will combine with Thailand’s Water Festival also known as the “Songkran” or Thai New Year. The free event will include a Thai boxing display, dance performances and much more.

Free Event located Darwin Waterfront 7 Kitchener Drv Darwin.

For more information check The Thailand Grand Festival Facebook page

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Wot’s On April 29 April

May 3-4 May

4-6 May

5 - 20 May 15 - 21 May

Walk for Autism Walk a 5km trek from the jetty to the Rapid Creek bridge and back for those suffering from Autism.

Jumping castle, petting zoo, sausage sizzle and information from Autism NT available on the day.

7.30 am registration for an 8am start. 8948 4424 autismnt@autismnt.org.au Yo Diddle Diddle Children’s Theatre What if your dream was only one jump away? Cat tells us the story of Cow & her dream to jump the moon, and the night the famous nursery rhyme was created. Cow tries and tries again, encouraged by the wise and resourceful Cat, and musical and inventive Houston. Her friends band together to help Cow to keep trying while Cow discovers what it takes to achieve your dreams. Exploring the theme of resilience, Yo Diddle Diddle is the first work by Patch Theatre’s new Artistic Director Naomi Edwards. Price : $22.00 61 Larapinta Dr, Alice Springs, NT 0870. For mre information Ph:08 8951 1122 WIDE OPEN SPACE Australia’s most “out there” festival is happening again in 2018! The multi-day festival is held at Ross River Resort, nestled in the East MacDonnell Ranges, 70kms from Alice Springs . WOS celebrates desert culture and the incredible landscape through its diverse creative program of music, art, workshops and performance.

Attracting around 2000 people, the site is one of the most picturesque festival sites in Australia, with cabins, hot showers and plenty of shade. From 6 - 10pm at the Ross River Resort, Ross Hway, Central Australia.

Ticket will need to be purchased: info@wideopenspace.net.au Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival A fun, free, family orientated event where the world of food, art, dance & music come together to offer a wide and varied range of culturally diverse moments across a very special day. 2pm till late. 18 Bauhinia St, Nightcliff. 8948 3200 2018 Art Exhibition Held every year in May, National Families Week is a time to celebrate the meaning of family and to make the most of family life.To celebrate in Palmerston, primary schools and children are invited to take part in the City of Palmerston 2018 Art Exhibition. Children can get creative, showcase their artistic abilities while recognising and celebrating their families, and have the chance to WIN a prize for their school. palmerston@palmerston.nt.gov.au

18 - 20 May

Mataranka Never Never Festival A magical weekend filled with a variety of activities for everyone. Friday’s activities include the Cancer Council ‘Biggest Morning Tea’, Artist in Residence Thommo Croft at the Stockyard Gallery and under-the-stars poetry and bush yarns evening. Roper Tce, Mataranka. 0437 967 486 northernterritory.com

19 - 20 May

39th Freds Pass Rural Show Slap your knees to fine country music at the rural show with its livestock display, equestrain contest, polocrosse, and the tradional Grand Parade. Bees Creek Road Adult tickets $15 Child tickets $5, Family tickets $ 40. 0488 588 202 info@fredspassruralshow.com.au

19 May

Peoples Choice Bass in the Grass Music Festival Rock out to some of Australia’s best-known bands plus emerging Northern Territory acts at an all-ages festival in the atmospheric Darwin Amphitheatre.The People’s Choice BASSINTHEGRASS Music Festival is a licensed, all ages event featuring 12 hours of back to back sweet beats, chilled vibes and all round top-notch people. Plus Local Artists & Battle of the School Bands.

All day event, tickets are $75 and is located Gardens Road, Darwin, (08) 8999 5256 info@bassinthegrass.com.au

20 May

2018 Alice Springs Telegraph Station Open Day and Market

Join in the fun with family and friends, browse the market and food stalls while watching the kids play old-fashioned games.

9:30am-1:30pm. Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Precinct, Alice Springs.

Free event. 8952 1013 asts.openday2017@nt.gov.au June 1 - 4 June

2 June

Creature: An Adaptation of Dot and the Kangaroo Children’s Theatre When 5-year-old Dot gets lost in the bush, she is rescued by a kangaroo who gives her magic ‘berries of understanding’ that allow her to follow the languages of all the animals and insects around her. With this new gift, Dot and Kangaroo set out on an action-packed adventure to return her home.

Priced at $22.00 for children and located 61 Larapinta Dr, Alice Springs, 08 8951 1122 Adelaide River Races Join in the excitement of a traditional country race meeting.The Adelaide River Races, set in beautiful shady grounds, feature a seven-race program, with TAB and bookie facilities on site. Bar and food facilities are available, along with children activities.There’s also ‘Fashion on the Field’ and 2-up after the races. A concert and dance follow the day’s races, so with free camping available.

Gates open at 9am on the Saturday and is 51 Dorat Road,Adelaide River, (08) 8976 7041 or email races@arss.org.au

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Wot’s On June 2 - 3 June

2nd - 3rd June

8 - 10 June

15 – 17 June

29 June 2 July July 1 July

6 - 7 July

7 July 6 August

14 July

14 July

14 July

20 – 21July

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THE 78-STOREY TREEHOUSE Andy and Terry’s treehouse just keeps on growing. With yet another 13 levels, it’s now got a Scribbletorium, a high-security potato chip storage facility (guarded by one very angry duck!) and even an open-air movie theatre.

Recommended for ages 6+ and their adults. All day event at $25 for under 18 & $35 Adult.

Located at the Darwin Entertainment Centre, 93 Mitchell Street Darwin, 8980 3333 www.yourcentre.com.au Territory Taste Festival Kids at Darwin Waterfront Families are invited to enjoy the free fun on the Darwin Waterfront lawns for the Territory Taste Festival Kids.

The entertainment will include performances by George the Farmer, a pitch perfect talent show and food fun arts and crafts. 9am-1pm. 7 Kitchener Dr. Free event. 08 89805700 darwinwaterfront@nt.gov.au Barunga Festival This much-loved Territory festival attracts people from all over the world who descend upon the small remote community to camp and take part in a program of music, sport, traditional arts and cultural activities over the 3-day long weekend in June each year, welcomed by the traditional owners.

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

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

Located Railway Terrace, Pine Creek, (08) 8976 1391 or email erin.dunbar@vicdaly.nt.gov.au Alice Springs Beanie Festival 2018 The 22nd Alice Springs Beanie Festival. 7000 handmade beanies from around the world for sale, textile workshops, live entertainment and great food!10:00 to 5:00 each day, Free Event at the Araluen Arts Centre. Please contact Jo Nixon at 0408 436 928 Territory Day Mindil Beach in Darwin is a popular vantage point to watch the Territory Day spectacular. With delicious food from the markets, people can picnic on the sand as they watch the fireworks burst and sparkle over the Timor Sea. Free entry. Mindil Beach, Darwin. 08 8999 5256 Alice Springs Show The experiences which happen ‘Only at Showtime,’ whether that be a Dagwood dog, ride on the dodgems, catch up with old friends or the delight as your child sees they’ve won a prize for their cupcakes.

Blatherskite Park. Len Kittle Dr, Alice Springs. alice-springs.com.au (08) 8952 1651 Ecass@ alice-springs.com.au Darwin Cup Carnival Cheer until you’re hoarse with 20,000 other racing fans as your horse nears the finish on the enduring dirt track of Darwin’s Fannie Bay Racecourse.The pinnacle of Top End racing is the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup. It takes a little over two minutes to run, a dedicated team a year to plan and is the crescendo of a stunning eight-day Carnival.The iconic Carlton Mid Darwin Cup is truly the largest sporting and social event in the Northern Territory.

Dick Ward Drive, Darwin (08) 8923 4222 dtc@darwinturfclub.org.au Apex Camel Cup 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 Kapers’ hobby camel races, rides, Mr and Miss Camel Cup challenges, food stalls and bars will add to the carnival atmosphere.

11am to 4pm and located Blatherskite Park, Len Kittle Drive,Alice Springs 0419 868 431 camelcup@outlook.com Asian United Food Service Chief Minister’s Cup & Family Day It’s a dream come true for the youngsters in the Carnival for Kids Zone – with pony rides, jumping castle, games, prizes and fun galore! Bring along a picnic for an exciting, affordable, family day out. Enjoy birds-eye views over the winning post, race course and mounting yard in the fully air conditioned Ted Bailey Grandstand.

10am. Darwin Turf Club, Buntine Drive, Fannie Bay. 8923 4222 Alice Springs Camel Cup 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 Kapers’ hobby camel races, rides, Mr and Miss Camel Cup challenges & food stalls will add to the carnival atmosphere.

Opens 10:30am. Blatherskite Park, Len Kittle Drive, Alice Springs. camelcup@outlook.com camelcup.com.au Katherine Show Fun and Frivolity for the whole community. Make your way to the showgrounds for 2 days of fun filled entertainment, education and experiences for everyone to share.

Opens 8am. Katherine Showgrounds,Victoria Highway. 8972 1746 katherineshow.org.au

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Wot’s On July 22 July

Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta Come to Mindil Beach to witness boats built from beer sinking in the shallows. Enjoy the watery events and the Mindil Beach Markets. This annual Darwin family event is a spectacle for all who line Mindil Beach and cheer on the home-made boats of cans, plastic soft drink bottles and cartons, as they flounder and sink in the shallows.

Entrance is by a gold donation. Mindil Beach Sunset Markets (food and craft stalls) will be trading all day.

10am - 5pm Mindil Beach, Darwin 0409 823 871convenor@beercanregatta.org.au

27 July

27 July

August 7 - 8 August

9 August

10 - 12 August

October 8 - 9 October

Lingalonga Festival Relax under a shady tree and watch the world wander by, explore the markets, sit back and enjoy the entertainment or join in the fun activities throughout the day. For the kids there are clowns and waterslides, and sports. Everyone will love the live music, food stalls, buskers and art and craft. The Lingalonga Festival is a not-for-profit community event that is alcohol-free. It starts early at 8am and continues until dark.

Nurndina Street Batchelor and for more information phone 0427 075 455 or email info@lingalonga.org.

Josephine Wants To Dance Children’s Theatre From the award-winning team behind Pete The Sheep comes another hilarious tale of a bush animal you’ll never forget. Josephine is a kangaroo – who loves to dance. Her little brother, Joey, tells her that kangaroos don’t dance, they hop – but Josephine continues to point her toes and leap through the air.

A delightfully funny tale that looks at the importance of believing in yourself and realising your dreams.

Priced at $22.00 and located 61 Larapinta Dr, Alice Springs 08 89511122 Darwin Festival Celebrate Darwin at an 18-day festival packed with free outdoor events, theatre, dance, music, and comedy, plus the sensational cuisine and weather. Darwin Festival combines the local love of outdoor community festivities and dining with a program of Australian and international performances and exhibitions. Music, theatre, art exhibitions, concerts, ideas and an irrepressible Festival Lounge along with the ubiquitous bamboo food stalls and pop-up bars transform the tropical city.

Free event and located Civic Park, Smith St, Darwin, (08) 8943 4200 or email contact@darwinfestival.org.au.

12th Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair The 12th Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair will be held in Darwin, at the Darwin Convention Centre, from the 10-12 August 2018. We are proud to host over sixty Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned Art Centres, collectively representing over 2000 emerging and established artists.The fair provides an opportunity ethically to purchase a vibrant range of art including: paintings on canvas, bark paintings, works on paper including limited edition prints, sculpture, didgeridoos, fibre art and cultural regalia. Join in the free artist workshops and watch traditional dance performances! Come and engage with the contemporary creations of the oldest continuous living cultures in the world.

10am to 5pm and located Stokes Hill Road, Darwin (08) 8981 0576 info@darwinaboriginalartfair.com.au Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine Children’s Theatre What starts as just another boring day for George quickly turns into a marvellous experiment of epic proportions! Cleverly adapted from the much-loved book by Roald Dahl, George’s Marvellous Direct from a sold-out season at the Sydney Opera House, George’s Marvellous Medicine is packed (to the rafters) with mischief, music, magic and mammoth laughs. Just remember – do not try this at home.

Priced at $22 a ticket and located 61 Larapinta Dr, Alice Springs. 08 8951 1122.

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Stay

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

LetsGoKids will get it right!!!

Darwin CBD Hotels – Novotel (see below) on the Esplanade and the new Argus Hotel have family rooms in the heart of the action. Novotel even offers “Kids Eat Free”. It has wonderful views and is close to the action.Travelodge has hotel rooms and apartments, with a great pool area for kids and true tropical feel.

Centrally located to everything is the new Quest Berrimah (see opposite). In room kitchens and laundry facilities mean you have all the comforts of home.

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

It’s also well located for Litchfield and Kakadu.

Litchfield Batchelor has the Batchelor Holiday Park with onsite cabins, camping sites and pool and is situated only 20 minutes from the beautiful rockholes and waterfalls.

Lake Bennett Resort is perfect.

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Photo Courtesy of NT Tourism

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

Pine Creek/Katherine At the turnoff to Kakadu, the Lazy Lizard Resort in Pine Creek has camping sites, cabins, grocery stores and tavern. It’s even pet friendly!

In Katherine, Ibis Styles Katherine (p.42) has hotel rooms and camp sites and Knotts Crossing has a range of options in a tropical setting.

St Andrews Apartments offer a spacious self contained option that has a great BBQ/pool area and a homely feel.

Alice Springs You can’t go past MacDonnell Range Caravan Park and its FREE pancake breakfast or Alice Springs Tourist Park for its location and closeness to town. Quest offers a self-catering option and the Mercure and Ibis are well priced hotel options.

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

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

Stay

LetsGoKids Northern Territory 2018

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