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Darwin Military Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Darwin Military Museum

Step into the heart of Australia's wartime history at the Darwin Military Museum and Defence of Darwin Experience, where powerful stories and immersive displays bring the events of World War II to life. Located within the historic East Point Military Precinct, this remarkable site places you right where Australia's northern defences once stood - surrounded by original gun emplacements, military artefacts and sweeping coastal views that once guarded Darwin Harbour. Inside the Defence of Darwin Experience, explore the Bombing of Darwin Gallery, watch gripping multimedia presentations and hear first-hand accounts from those who lived through the attacks. Then, wander the museum grounds to discover thousands of artefacts - from artillery pieces and vehicles to uniforms, models and artworks - each revealing a unique part of Australia's story at war. After your visit, relax in the air-conditioned café, browse the museum shop for local and historical gifts, and enjoy the natural beauty of East Point Reserve. The Darwin Military Museum has deep roots of its own. Established by the Royal Australian Artillery Association (NT) in 1969, following efforts to preserve the site's original wartime structures and artefacts. What began as a small local initiative has grown into one of the Top End's most significant heritage attractions, continuing to honour the people and places that shaped Australia's northern defence.

Darwin NT

4.9 km away

Gun Emplacement and associated infrastructure.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Gun Emplacement Wagait Beach

The site comprises remnants of two WWII Gun Emplacements and associated infrastructure including a small control building immediately adjacent to the gun emplacements and a small concrete structure some distance away. The guns are no longer extant. Conceived as part of the defences of Darwin Harbour in early 1941, the 6-inch gun emplacements of the Wagait Battery were planned as an adjunct to the West Point Battery. It was a time when the threat posed by the Japanese in the Pacific was at its highest and when war in the Pacific was likely. Construction commenced in late 1941 however the Japanese raids of 19 February 1942 saw work postponed for some months.

Cox Peninsula NT

5.0 km away

East Point Reserve — Image credit: Tourism NT/Aude Mayans

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

East Point Reserve

East Point Reserve is Darwin's largest park area. It's popular with locals and visitors for its safe year-round saltwater swimming at Lake Alexander, military history, and the uninterrupted views of Darwin and Fannie Bay and sunsets from Dudley Point. There's an extensive network of walking and cycling paths, landscaped picnic areas with free barbecue facilities and playgrounds for the kids. East Point played a significant role in the protection of Australia during World War II. Visit the Darwin Military Museum to see footage of the WWII bombings of Darwin, its photographic and information displays, and explore the gun turret precinct. East Point Reserve is home to abundant wildlife, so go for a stroll to look for wallabies, bandicoots, brushtail possums and numerous species of reptiles, butterflies and birds. Take the 30-minute loop walk from the car park near the lake through monsoonal vine forest into the mangroves. Follow the boardwalk into the tidal region - look out for many species of fish, crustaceans and molluscs. East Point Reserve includes several popular beaches, including Darwin's most popular family beach at Fannie Bay. Lake Alexander draws its seawater from the bay, for safe and 'stinger-free' swimming throughout the year.

Darwin NT

5.6 km away

Wagait Beach

Natural Attractions

Wagait Beach

Wagait Beach is a secluded quiet beach community minutes from the Darwin CBD and a favourite weekender retreat with several accommodation options available, from basic camping to tropical hideaways or luxury beachfront villas. Visit to experience the unspoilt beaches, green forest walks, fishing and WWII heritage. Dining can be at the Cox Country Club, coffee and breakfast at the local shop or have your own BBQ at the council provided electric BBQs at the sports and recreation ground. Experience the Top End’s tropical coastal lifestyle, just a short ferry ride from Cullen Bay or an easy outback 2 hour wilderness drive along the Peninsula Way Tourist Route, just off the Stuart Highway south of Coolalinga.

Wagait Beach NT

5.6 km away

Wreck of B24J Liberator Bomber Milady

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Wreck of B24J Liberator Bomber Milady

The B-24J Liberator Bomber was developed and produced in response to a much needed requirement for the war effort in Europe and the Pacific. It was one of the most successful heavy bomber designs used during World War II and was used in all theatres of the war with great success. The remains of the wreck of this B-24J are significant as a tangible reminder of the air war conducted against the Japanese during World War II from Australian soil. It is also a tangible link to the association the 380th Bomb Group had in Australia and the specific role that it played in the war. This wreck is also representative of the aircraft flown by the USAF and RAAF crews and of the personal sacrifice that was made by these men. The significance of this site has been acknowledged by ex-servicemen and the community of the Northern Territory with the installation of a plaque and interpretive signage at the site. Please respect this heritage place by leaving the site as you find it. NOTE: this site can be inaccessible during the Wet Season.

Cox Peninsula NT

7.2 km away

The 1887 Fannie Bay Gaol Infirmary. The roof dates from the 1980s. — Image credit: Heritage Branch, NT Government.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Fannie Bay Gaol

Fannie Bay Gaol operated as Her Majesty’s Gaol and Labour Prison from 1883 until 1979. The original buildings comprised two blocks with 16 cells, a washhouse and a kitchen. A stone infirmary was constructed in 1887 and remains on site. In 1920 cells were constructed for women prisoners. The female prison block included a small garden designed to keep the prisoners busy. During WWII, prisoners were released and the gaol used by the Army and Air Force. A watch tower "native section" for Aboriginal prisoners, kitchen mess building, remand section and two maximum security wings were added during the 1950s. The gaol contains rare gallows constructed for the last two hangings in the Northern Territory in 1952. The integrity and severity of the precinct combine to convey the oppressive atmosphere of the institution. The gaol is highly valued for its penal, legal, medical and social history. Fannie Bay Gaol was Darwin's main prison for almost 100 years until 1979, when prisoners were relocated to the correctional facility located in Berrimah. Now an important historic site, Fannie Bay Gaol attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Darwin NT

7.3 km away

Pee Wee Hut

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Pee Wee Camp, East Point

The Sidney Williams Hut and Annexe at Pee Wee Camp, along with several concrete floor slabs, are all that remains of a large camp developed on the site during WWII. Built to accommodate construction workers employed by the Public Works Department and later by the Allied Works Council working on the gun turrets for the large 9.2” guns at East Point.

Darwin NT

7.5 km away

Transformations Natural Science Gallery — Image credit: MAGNT Tourism NT

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is the Northern Territory's premier cultural organisation. Set in a scenic location on Larrakia Country at Bullocky Point in Darwin, MAGNT is home to internationally renowned artistic, cultural and scientific collections and research programs. Each year MAGNT presents a dynamic program of internally-developed exhibitions carefully curated from the collection, and the best travelling exhibitions from around Australia. It is also the home of the internationally renowned annual Telstra National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards - the most significant award of its kind in Australia. MAGNT runs a series of engaging public programs including talks, workshops and hands-on kids activities. School and tour groups can take tours with specialist staff. Venue hire is available with a theatrette, amphitheatre and other inviting spaces. There is a cafe and retail shop for visitors to explore and enjoy. MAGNT is accessible from Darwin City via the number six bus route or a four km walk. Free parking is available on site.

Darwin NT

7.9 km away

Vestey’s Tank with later roof to form gymnasium.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Vesteys Tank Darwin High School

The Tank was originally constructed as a water storage facility for the Vestey Meatworks. The Tank has since been converted into an undercover gymnasium and open air auditorium and assembly area at Darwin High School.The site is in good overall condition and appears well maintained. The site is within the grounds of Darwin High School and not generally open to the public although it is possible to walk around the site most days.

Darwin NT

8.1 km away

Cullen Bay Marina and Precinct birdseye view of the beach and lawns with the Marina and Darwin city. — Image credit: Cullen Bay Marina Management Corporation

Entertainment Venues

Cullen Bay Marina

Cullen Bay Marina is a small, protected and picturesque Marina close to the heart of Darwin. Vessel access is via a Lock or a ramp for smaller boats. The Marina has 10mt - 25mt powered berths available for rent. Max vessel size LOA 25m - Beam 8.5m - Draft 3m. The Lock operates: 6am - 11pm 7 days a week. Fuel is available just outside the Lock. The Marina Precinct includes a bar, a cafe', a gym, a laundry, an ice-cream parlour and a variety of excellent restaurants as well as numerous commercial businesses. The beautiful foreshore lawns overlooking the sea are a popular venue for weddings and events as well as being an ideal picnic spot for friend and family gatherings. In dry season Cullen Bay holds weekly free music events and onsite food trucks complete the scene where the spectacular sunsets are enjoyed by everyone!

Darwin NT

8.1 km away

Cullen Bay Foreshore — Image credit: Cullen Bay Marina Management Corporation

Natural Attractions

Cullen Bay Marina and Foreshore

Cullen Bay is one of the most beautiful places in Darwin with its Foreshore lawns and beach. An ideal spot for everyone to enjoy the gorgeous weather the Top End has to offer. An open, safe, green area where kids can play, it is pet friendly as well and even has drinking fountains for pooches! A perfect picnic area, there are plenty of restaurants on hand for both eat-in and take-away. In dry season you can expect some food trucks and live music as well. A favoured wedding venue, the lawns overlooking the blue sea create an idyllic backdrop for any photo. Round that off with a spectacular sunset and you have it all. With plenty of parking available as well as a bus direct into town, Cullen Bay is really easy to get to. For a change of scenery or something a little more lively, walk over to the Marina precinct and check out the boats and the pub and waterfront restaurants and shops. Book some pampering at the Day-spa or hairdressers, a massage, take a class at the gym and fitness centre, drop off some laundry, buy some beautiful jewellery, dare to get a tattoo... so many choices! Indulge in a fishing tour or a sunset sail or take the ferry and do a spot of island hopping.

Darwin NT

8.1 km away

Sunset Anniversary — Image credit: Thommos Photography

Natural Attractions

Picnic at Cullen Bay

Enjoy the experience of watching the sunset from a unique position at Cullen Bay. During the "dry season" you can sit on the beautiful green grass with a fully catered, dressed unique picnic and watch the sunset over the Arafura Sea. Once night falls, the romantic lights will offer tranquility and relaxation. All food and drinks are supplied along with all necessities to make an enjoyable and memorable evening. During the "wet season" we relocate to our venue on the Marina where you have the same experience but get to see the build up or clouds and lightning storms whilst enjoying marina views. A wonderful, memorable experience in Darwin to celebrate the unique weather and lifestyle.

Darwin NT

8.2 km away

Qantas Empire Airways Hangar at Parap. Front façade with sliding

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Qantas Guinea Airways Hangar

The hangar is a pre-fabricated building developed by the Sidney-Williams Company and erected in Darwin in 1934 for Qantas Empire Airways Ltd in time for the Centenary Air race. It was used by the first Australia-England air service operated by Qantas and Empire Airways and later by the first Adelaide–Darwin air service operated by Qantas and Guinea Airways. By 1946 the Ross Smith airstrip ceased to be operational and the hangar was used as a mechanical workshop and later a store.

Darwin NT

8.2 km away

Steam locomotive in the Qantas Hangar.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Sandfly NA1 Steam Locomotive

Sandfly is historically significant to the Northern Territory as the first and longest serving locomotive to operate on the North Australia Railway (NAR). Sandfly operated on the NAR between 1887 and 1950 and was instrumental in its construction. The NAR became a vital infrastructure link which directly facilitated the expansion of the mining and pastoral industries in the NT and the defence of northern Australia during WWII. Sandfly was the only locomotive of its class to operate along the NAR and is one of three remaining steam locomotives associated with the NAR left in the NT. Following her retirement, Sandfly was relocated to SA in 1959 for restoration and display. In 2005, she was returned to the NT as a gift to commemorate completion of the Alice Springs to Darwin Railway. Sandfly is a symbol of the early pioneering and frontier Territory spirit that built the NAR. She is also a political reflection about the century of political manoeuvring required to complete the transcontinental railway from north to south and fulfil the 1911 contract between the Commonwealth, SA and the NT.

Darwin NT

8.2 km away

1934 Qantas Hangar — Image credit: P Grice

Galleries, Museums and Collections

1934 QANTAS Hangar

The QANTAS Hangar was built in 1934 and has survived both the Bombing of Darwin during WWII and Cyclone Tracy. In late 1997, the Northern Territory Government purchased the hangar from Air Services Australia (formerly DCA). It then became the home of the NT Museum's workshop and a repository for a number of their large mechanical artifacts. The Motor Vehicle Enthusiasts Club was formed in 1985 and incorporated in 1986. In January 1999, the Motor Vehicle Enthusiasts Club signed a lease with the Department of Arts and Museums and began restoring the hangar to a usable state. The Motor Vehicle Enthusiasts Club now uses the QANTAS Hangar as its headquarters and workshop. Members have converted the main hangar into a display area where the club and some members' vehicles are showcased. On permanent display within the hangar are: The 1910 steam traction engine "Margaret Rose", 1918 AEC truck, 1927 Thornycroft truck, 1989 B Model Mack truck, Dennis fire engines and the 1885 steam engine "Sandfly". Numerous vehicles owned by members, and one of the largest collections of stationary engines in Australia, known as the Izod Collection. Visitors are welcome to come in for a chat and a wander around the hangar. No entrance fee is required, but donations to help the club cover hangar running expenses are appreciated.

Darwin NT

8.2 km away

Mounting Yard — Image credit: Darwin Turf Club

Entertainment Venues

Darwin Turf Club

Experience the thrill of horse racing at the Darwin Turf Club - nestled in the lush, tropical surrounds of Fannie Bay - and is home of the iconic Darwin Cup Carnival, hosting member dining options, functions and corporate events. Since the turn of the Century the Darwin Cup has become the biggest sporting event in the Northern Territory with over 20,000 people attending every year. As one of only a few dirt tracks in operation on the provincial circuit, the picturesque racecourse in Fannie Bay is the venue which sees several illustrious racing names vie for over 1.95 million dollars in prize money and trophies over the month long event. Standing alongside visitors will be thousands of locals who will proudly showcase the Territory with their unique style and world famous hospitality, that can only be experienced in the Top End. With spectacular views over the racecourse, our indoor and outdoor spaces are an exciting mix of elegance and grace. Offering the versatility to cater for an intimate gathering of ten right through to expansive social occasions or ambitious business events of 1000 or more, you'll enjoy the perfect environment to celebrate in style.

Darwin NT

8.2 km away

Elevated Boutique

Shopping and Markets

Elevated Boutique

Elevated Boutique offers an excellent choice of gorgeous, cool, fashion, beautiful accessories, eclectic jewellery and quality gifts. The delight in Australian design and natural fabrics suited to the Tropics. Situated in the heart of one of Darwin's most popular shopping areas, Parap, Elevated is easily accessible with free parking, and within walking distance of Cafes, Art Galleries, Darwin's favourite Delicatessen and other unique retailers. Allow plenty of time for a full perusal of this unique shopping experience. The atmosphere is tranquil, welcoming and relaxing. The service is warm and friendly. Welcome to Elevated.

Darwin NT

8.4 km away

Cemetery interpretative signage at the main entrance.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Palmerston Cemetery

This was the only cemetery in Darwin for the period 1870's to 1919. Lot 3506, is a remnant section of the area proposed for a cemetery on the original survey of Palmerston in 1869. The cemetery is located along Goyder Road, next to the Motor Vehicle Registry. The site is in good condition and is well maintained. Some of the gravestones appear to have been stabilised at some stage.

Darwin NT

8.5 km away

Resort and lagoon pool

Entertainment Venues

Mindil Beach Casino Resort

Mindil Beach Casino Resort is the ultimate destination for discerning guests seeking a true premium experience in Australia's extraordinary Northern Territory. Set on 30 acres of tropical gardens alongside the Arafura Sea, the 5-star Mindil Beach Casino Resort offers 154 rooms and is perfect for business or pleasure. Mindil Beach Casino Resort offers amazing dining options and bars, conference and event facilities, and a bustling casino, open daily. The property also features a private white-sand beach and a swim-up bar. They make everything smooth and effortless during your stay at Mindil Beach Casino Resort with a range of complimentary services including free Wi-Fi, 24-hour reception, and fitness centre. You can work out, play a round of golf, go jogging or just relax poolside. Whether you're a gaming enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out at the hottest place in town, Mindil Beach Casino Resort has the perfect game, bar, restaurant, and accommodation option for you, all under one roof.

Darwin NT

8.5 km away

The Sportsbar — Image credit: Resident magazine

Entertainment Venues

The Sportsbar

Home of the Best TAB Licensed venue in Australia. Watch the world's greatest sporting events live and loud on the mega screen at Australia's Best TAB Licensed venue! With a multitude of screens to choose from, extensive TAB facilities, and NT Keno right at your fingertips, you'll never miss a second of the action. Enjoy a mouth-watering burger from the menu and drink specials every night of the week, plus there's always a chance to take home some cool prizes in our competitions and giveaways. Get the gang together and make The Sportsbar your home ground!

Darwin NT

8.5 km away

Burnett House at Myilly Point Heritage Precinct.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Myilly Point Heritage Precinct

The Myilly Point Heritage Precinct comprises four houses constructed between 1936 and 1939 to provide accommodation for senior public servants. Audit House (Type B Amended) on Lot 1098 was designed by the Commonwealth Government (probably Wilfred Haslam) and the other three houses were designed by BCG Burnett. Burnett House (Type K) on Lot 1099 is the only two-storey house on the precinct. The house on Lot 1100 was destroyed in Cyclone Tracy in 1974 and the site remains undeveloped. The other two houses on Lots 1101 and 1102 are Type E residences.

Darwin City NT

8.6 km away

Audit House NT — Image credit: NT National Trust

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Audit House

Audit House at 2 Burnett Place was designed by Burnie Burnett for the Commonwealth Department of Works, this type "B" house was erected in 1938 . The House suffered substantial damage during Cyclone Tracy in 1974 and the interior has been modified. Audit House serves primarily as the headquarters and administrative centre of the National Trust of Australia (NT). Audit House and grounds can be hired out for private functions such as weddings, exhibitions and more.

Darwin NT

8.6 km away

Award winnign achitectural design

Parks and Gardens

Botanic Gardens Visitor and Event Centre

The new Visitor and Event Centre is a magnificent tropical structure where visitors can learn about the Gardens natural and cultural history, the plant collections, and Aboriginal plant uses. It is air conditioned and a great place to learn about Territory history, plants and seasons. The centre includes: A mini amphitheatre. Premium indoor conference, corporate or wedding event space. Retail gift shop parterned with local organisation Tactile Arts filled with local arts and crafts. Interpretive centre to learn about the history of the gardens and the seven season of the Larrakia. Unwind in the multimedia room with images of the Gardens changing through the wet and dry seasons. You can collect maps and information about self-guided walks at the visitor centre gift shop.

Darwin NT

8.6 km away

Waterfall in the Rainforest — Image credit: GBDBG

Parks and Gardens

George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

Take a walk through the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens to see a magnificent display of plants from northern Australia and tropical areas around the world. There are extensive plantings of colourful heliconias, gingers, tropical orchids, bromeliads and other exotic plants. The Visitor and Event Centre is a magnificent tropical structure where visitors can learn about the Gardens natural and cultural history, the plant collections, and Aboriginal plant uses. Unwind in the multimedia room with images of the Gardens changing through the wet and dry seasons. The African-Madagascan garden has a unique collection showcasing the world's baobab and boab trees. The playground and tree house offers a refreshing, safe and shady retreat for children and parents. Experience the waterfall deep in the rainforest or be captivated by the primitive plants "the dinosaurs ate" in the cycad garden. Relax on expansive shady lawns and view Darwin's largest ornamental fountain. Treat yourself to our self-guided tree walks. See the gardens differently on a guided walking tour. Join the twitchers looking for the Rufous Owls, or put your feet up and enjoy coffee and cake at Eva's Café. The Darwin Botanic Gardens are located 2km from the centre of Darwin

Darwin NT

8.6 km away

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