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Government House

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Government House, Darwin

Government House was the first ‘grand’ public building constructed in Darwin after white settlement in 1869 and is symbolic of the NT’s constitutional development. Originally known as ‘the Residency’, the House’s drawing room was constructed from 1870 and is the oldest surviving continuously occupied built structural element in the NT. It demonstrates construction techniques adapted to the Darwin environment. The scale and design reinforce the importance of the office of Government Resident or Administrator. The 1879 J.G. Knight and G.R. McMinn stone building, incorporating the circa 1938 verandah, represents the varied architectural influences that have characterized the NT from its inception. The Government House verandah served as the earliest ‘court room’ in Darwin. The building has associations with many significant events (e.g. cyclones, the ‘Darwin Rebellion’, World War II, the Petrov Affair, constitutional milestones, etc.) in the history of the NT. It has close associations with many individuals who have made notable contributions to NT history and with dignitaries whose visits to the House were historic. The Government House garden, including such structural features as driveways and remnants of pathways, contains evidence of past patterns of landscape development in the Darwin environment, including lack of reticulation.

Darwin NT

0.1 km away

Deckchair Cinema

Entertainment Venues

Deckchair Cinema

The Deckchair Cinema is a majestic open air cinema situated on the gorgeous Darwin Harbour. The cinema operates seven nights a week from mid April to mid November, screening a diverse range of Australian, foreign, popular, classic and family friendly films. Come down early to enjoy dinner from local caterers and a grab a drink or snack from the fully licensed kiosk. You can bring a picnic, but bringing your own alcohol is not allowed. The Deckchair Cinema is easily accessible via a well lit picturesque walkway from the city esplanade and there is plenty of parking and bike racks available on site. Programs are available from tourist outlets or on their website.

Darwin NT

0.1 km away

Larrakia/Mayalli artist Keelan Fejo and Brittany with his artwork at Liberty Square — Image credit: C+K Public Art

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Liberty Square Darwin

Liberty Square is a landscaped park located between Parliament House and the Supreme Court. Liberty Square features the heritage listed State Square Banyan Tree. Artwork by Larrakia/Mayalli artist Keelan Fejo is embedded in a seating area on elevated decking surrounding the tree, which is culturally significant for local Larrakia people. At more than 200 years old this banyan is a remnant of the original monsoon vine forest. It has survived cyclones, bombs and extensive development. In 1994, the tree was permanently protected under the Heritage Act 2011 for its significance in Darwin's history. 'Liberty Square' was named by Darwin Town Council in 1919 and commemorates the Darwin Rebellion of 17 December 1918. Hundreds of workers marched to this site, protesting the government's actions, resulting in a Royal Commission into the administration of the Northern Territory. The Cable Station, responsible for maintaining the sub-sea communications cable which stretched from Indonesia to Darwin where it joined the Overland Telegraph Line, was built here in the 1870s. It was extensively damaged by bombing during WWII. A commemorative monument built from original cable station stone is located next to Parliament House. Liberty Square also features an astronomical observation pillar by Pietro Baracchi who, with others, established the true longitude of Port Darwin in 1883 in the grounds of the Port Darwin Post Office (Parliament House).

Darwin City NT

0.1 km away

State Square Banyan Tree.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

State Square Banyan Tree

The Banyan Tree in State Square is valued by the community as a remnant of the original Darwin foreshore vegetation. It is over 200 years old and was the congregation point for the Larakia youths prior to ceremonies which took place under the nearby Tamarind tree. The large mature banyan tree is growing near the Supreme Court building within State Square. The tree is in a large open grassed area and is surrounded by a low garden bed. The tree is of significance and provides a shady place to sit in the city.

Darwin NT

0.1 km away

Goyder’s Park, Darwin Waterfront

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Goyder’s Park, Darwin Waterfront

Goyder Park commemorates Goyder’s Camp, which is of historical significance as the first settlement within Port Darwin from which would grow the modern city of Darwin. Woodroffe Goyder, Surveyor General of South Australia, landed at an area between Fort Hill and the Darwin escarpment on 5 February 1869. From this location, Goyder’s party surveyed the city that would become Darwin and eight other townships along Northern Territory waterways between February and September 1869. The camp continued to be occupied following the departure of Goyder during the early years of settlement and expansion within Darwin. The camp area is also of historical significance as the landing point for the submarine telegraph cable between Java and Darwin that linked Australia to rest of the world in 1871 through telegraphic communications, and was the site of the original Overland Telegraph Camp.

Darwin City NT

0.1 km away

Hughes Avenue Darwin

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Hughes Avenue Darwin

Hughes Avenue, incorporating the lime kiln walk, is historically significant as one of the first roadways established in Darwin. From 1869, Hughes Avenue served as the main pedestrian and transport corridors between Goyder's Camp and the port below, and the town of Palmerston with newly established government buildings on the escarpment on the plateau above. The Hughes Avenue alignment was used to transport goods from the jetty area to the growing city above until completion of Stokes Hill Wharf in 1887. The current alignment of Hughes Avenue is virtually identical to that established by Goyder and his party. Beginning opposite the Courthouse and Police Station (Administrator's Offices) at the end of Smith Street, the descent along Hughes Avenue provides views of Government House on the hill above and vistas of the port and harbour below. These provide an insight into the daily activity experienced by Goyder and the first Europeans who landed in Port Darwin in February 1869.

Darwin City NT

0.2 km away

Survivor’s Lookout

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Survivor’s Lookout

Survivor's Lookout, located near the Esplanade, provides sweeping views over the sparkling blue Darwin Harbour and commemorates those brave Darwin citizens who survived the Bombing of Darwin in 1942. Interpretive signage at the lookout tells the stories of resilience and survival following the first and largest attack on Australian soil during World War II.

Darwin NT

0.2 km away

Traveller’s Walk

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Traveller’s Walk

Prior to the Stuart Highway upgrade during World War II, visitors usually arrived in Darwin by ship. From at least as early as the 1880's, passengers disembarked at the Port of Darwin and climbed the escarpment via the walkway to town known colloquially as Chinaman's or Traveller's Walk. The path began at the railway yards with steps up to Cavenagh Street and finished at the Terminus Hotel.

Darwin City NT

0.3 km away

Administrator’s Offices and Cell Block

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Administrator’s Offices and Cell Block

This is the site of the 1870 Palmerston Police Station and cells. The original buildings were of crude timber and disintegrated because of white ants. In 1881, the stone cells at the rear of the site were erected. These were used until 1883 when prisoners were transferred to the new gaol at Fannie Bay. In 1884, a new court house and police station of stone and Cyprus pine, impervious to white ants, were constructed. The cells were used as police holding cells. The court house survived the bombing of Darwin on 19 February 1942, but the police station had to be demolished. The building then served as Naval Headquarters until December 1974 when it suffered significant damage during Cyclone Tracy. Several of the 1884 doors, windows, roof trusses and verandah posts were salvaged and the building reconstructed with some variations. Opening once again in 1981 as the offices of the Administrator, the building is significant as a rare example of early public buildings in Darwin. The office and cell block are significant because they represent the continuous presence of Westminster institutions in European settlement of the Territory.

Darwin NT

0.3 km away

Gallery Interior — Image credit: Aboriginal Bush Traders

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Aboriginal Bush Traders

Aboriginal Bush Traders, connecting you with unique, authentic and ethical cultural products and experiences; supporting local indigenous artists, businesses and micro-enterprises. A retail store that melds high quality gift, art and authentic indigenous product experiences. Aboriginal Bush Traders is 100% not-for-profit, and provides avenues for Indigenous people wanting to engage in economic activities in a sustainable way. We specialise in unique, authentic and ethically-sourced products from across the Northern Territory.

Darwin City NT

0.3 km away

WWII Navy Oil Storage Tunnels 5 & 6, Darwin

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Navy Oil Storage Tunnels 5 & 6, Darwin

During World War II vulnerability of standard fuel storage tanks to aerial bombing stimulated the innovative approach of underground fuel storage in concrete and steel lined tunnels. Construction of the tunnels was part of an overall defence strategy for Australia and the Pacific region. In 1943 contractors Johns and Waygood commenced building the storage tunnels, finishing number 11 in 1946 after war's end. Difficulties and delays in construction, material deficiencies and the inability to effectively seal the tunnels from infiltration of water meant that the tunnels were never used for their intended purpose. Despite this they are evocative of the desperate years when the Japanese were pressing their attack on mainland Australia and the Top End, in particular as the 'sharp end' of our defence effort. The tunnels are redolent of the immense difficulties of maintaining defensive operations so far from supporting industrial infrastructure in unfamiliar conditions. They are unique in Australia and are a symbol of the dogged determination and willingness to try against the odds that characterises the defenders of Australia.

Darwin NT

0.3 km away

SALON des Refusés — Image credit: Outstation Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Outstation Gallery

Leading gallerists Matt Ward and Paul Johnstone have joined forces to create Outstation Gallery. United by a shared vision for supporting and promoting world-class Aboriginal art, they work closely with Aboriginal-owned art centres to deliver exceptional and ethical art. Art enthusiasts can now experience the best of both galleries in one beautiful space on Darwin Harbour. This collaboration brings together two of Australia's leading contemporary art gallerists, offering a new destination for art lovers. A modern, flexible, beautifully-lit exhibition space, Outstation Gallery on the Waterfront, welcomes visitors and locals alike, encouraging respect and appreciation of the complex and powerful art, stories and culture on show. A member and signatory to the Indigenous Art Code, Outstation Gallery is committed to fair dealing with artists, their art centres and communities. Outstation Gallery is also proud to exhibit contemporary art from non-Indigenous artists who currently reside in, or have a connection to the Darwin region. Artists represented by Outstation include Steve Gough, David Wickens and Hannah van der Wal, Bryan Bulley, Sarah Brown and Geoff Todd.

Darwin City NT

0.3 km away

Darwin City Harbour Views — Image credit: Marmel Enterprises Pty Ltd

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Darwin City Geotrail

The Darwin City Geotrail is a self‑guided 6.5 kilometre walking experience through the Darwin CBD, Esplanade and Waterfront, showcasing over 70 points of geological, historical, cultural and scenic interest. Visitors explore dramatic rock formations, monsoon forest pathways, elevated harbour lookouts, World War II heritage sites, and key landmarks that reveal the origins, evolution and contemporary character of Darwin. Suitable for families and day visitors, the trail highlights Indigenous heritage, early settlement, wartime history and the city's unique tropical landscape, offering an engaging way to discover Darwin at a relaxed pace.

Darwin City NT

0.3 km away

Town Hall Ruins, Darwin

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Town Hall Ruins, Darwin

The Town Hall ruins are all that remain of the original Palmerston Town Hall designed in 1882 and completed in 1883. It was used for civic purposes until the Navy occupied it during the war years. When peace returned, the building was used as office space by the Museum and Art Galleries Board. The building was so severely damaged by Cyclone Tracy in 1974 that it was not rebuilt. The remains were stabilised in 1980 since when the ruins have been developed as a public open space and visual arts performance venue. Conservation works are effected from time to time. The original building was a simple rectangular plan constructed of local stone with a corrugated galvanised iron roof. The building incorporated space for the Council and the Palmerston Institute, with its reading room and library. It was constructed of local stone and enough cypress pine from Indian Island to timber the floor and a roof, according to the contractors. While its original heritage significance is as a grand public building, it has attracted a second - and, some would argue, more important - layer of significance as a testament to the might and fury of Cyclone Tracy.

Darwin NT

0.3 km away

Reserve Bank

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Reserve Bank

The Reserve Bank was constructed in 1966-67 and is a particularly fine example of the twentieth century stripped classical architectural style. The generous curtilage upon which the building sits is an important part of the overall design and provides an appropriate setting for the building, which is a reminder of the role that the Reserve Bank of Australia played in the development of a centralised banking and monetary control system. This was reinforced by opening a branch of the bank in each capital city. The building is one of four buildings making up 'bankers' corner'. The others are the former Commercial Bank of Australia facade, the Commonwealth Bank and the Westpac Bank (former Bank of New South Wales). The garden and small circular fountain are part of the original building design. The bank closed on 31 October 1997. In 1999-2000 the building was occupied by the United Nations and became symbolic of Australia's role in the East Timor conflict.

Darwin NT

0.4 km away

Big Bus Darwin

Amusement and Theme Parks

Big Bus Darwin

Discover Australia's Top End on the Hop-on, Hop-off Darwin Big Bus Tour! Big Bus Darwin tours provide the perfect introduction to Darwin, with top-deck views and stops near all the top landmarks and attractions. Hop on Hop off City Tour operating Monday to Saturday in the peak season, tickets can be purchased off the driver at any of the Big Bus stops. Some buses have air-conditioning, all buses are open air, with Canopy cover. Pre-recorded English commentary. 70 min loop in the morning. 90 min loop in the afternoon. (Peak season) Check website for latest operating times.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

Christ Church Cathedral Precinct

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Christ Church Cathedral Precinct

This precinct is highly valued by the community for a range of social, historic and architectural reasons. It consists of the Christ Church Cathedral (completed in 1977), the adjacent Cyclone Tracy ruins of the original Christ Church (1902) , and the associated memorial gate (1944) facing Smith Street. The church was constructed in 1902, consecrated by the Bishop of Carpentaria and named Christ Church on 2 November of that year. A vestry and rectory were added in 1917. In 1942, it was used as the Garrison Church for the Armed Services and escaped significant damage during bombing raids of 1942-43 but was looted and vandalised. The portico and memorial gate, constructed by the RAN, were added in 1944 using stone from the bombed post office. The Navy returned the church to the diocese in 1946. In 1968, the church became a cathedral. Cyclone Tracy destroyed all but front wall and portico, and these were incorporated into the new cathedral, constructed in 1976. The new Christ Church Cathedral was consecrated on 13 March 1977, the Archbishop of Canterbury in attendance. The new cathedral has been recognised for its architectural excellence and is a venue for important community events.

Darwin NT

0.4 km away

Brown’s Mart, Darwin

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Brown’s Mart, Darwin

Brown’s Mart in Darwin is a unique building that dates to the 1880s and is highly regarded as a landmark in the city. Built of porcellanite stone, it has a corrugated iron roof and is considered to have architectural, historic and social significance. Architect JG Knight designed new premises for VL Solomon & Co in 1885 and it became known as Solomon’s Emporium, the finest stone store in Palmerston (Darwin’s then name). From 1887-1910, the building was known as the Mining Exchange where the Port Darwin mercantile agency, run by JAV Brown and HH Adcock, operated as importers, customs and shipping agents. Its use as a shipping agency and auctioneering venue continued until it was leased by the Bank of New South Wales in 1937 while its own building was constructed. The building suffered substantial damage in a cyclone in 1897. During WWII, it was converted to a torpedo workshop. After the war it was used by the Navy until about 1952. It then housed the police force, the Crown Law Office and the Motor Vehicle Registry. The building was repaired after Cyclone Tracy in 1974 and has been used as a community theatre since.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

Commercial Bank

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Commercial Bank

Built for the Town and Country Bank in 1884, it was possibly the first building built of stone by private enterprise. In 1887 the building became the premises for the Commercial Bank of Australia. It survived World War II bombing and minor damage by cyclone Tracy, however only the facade remains today.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

Commonwealth Bank Building Darwin

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Commonwealth Bank Building Darwin

The former Commonwealth bank is significant as a symbol of the federal government's Civil and Defence Works Programme of the late 1930s. Displaying elements of Art Deco styling, the bank is a rare example of early modern architecture in Darwin. The building, as an architectural feature on a key intersection known as Banking Corner, makes a positive contribution to the central Darwin streetscape. The bank was completed in September 1940 and its design was then strikingly modern; the design also incorporated adaptations (eg, vents, overhangs) for climate control. The building was, and remains, a rare example of early modern movement architecture in Darwin (though later alterations have affected the integrity of the building's style to a degree). There is an office section in Bennett Street which was converted from former staff quarters. Construction of the bank reflected new commercial confidence in Darwin, stimulated by the defence build-up during the 1930s after a long period of stagnation. It suffered minor damage during early air raids on Darwin and was occupied by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) for much of the war. Cyclone Tracy caused minor damage in 1974. The building was sold by the bank in 2005.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

Westpac Bank

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Westpac Bank

This bank, constructed as the Bank of New South Wales in 1940, is emblematic of the Commonwealth Government’s £1.5 million civil and defence work programme between the years 1938 and 1941 when critical infrastructure was added to the town after years of stagnation and is an important element in the Bank Corner precinct of the central business district. The bank was damaged during bombing raids in 1942 and again during Cyclone Tracy in 1975. On each occasion it was repaired and refurbished so little of its original fabric remains, although it retains its Colonial Revival style, which contrasts with its three counterparts on Bank Corner. The Westpac Bank building is valued by the community as an inner-city pre-war structure and as part of the essential commercial infrastructure of any city.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

See the precinct come to life at night — Image credit: Darwin Waterfront Corporation

Entertainment Venues

Darwin Waterfront

The Darwin Waterfront is in the heart of Darwin's CBD just walking distance from Smith Street Mall and the Esplanade. Experience the best of Darwin's tropical lifestyle with lush parklands, a man-made beach along the saltwater recreation lagoon, and Darwin's most popular attraction, the Wave Lagoon. Dine on around the world cuisine as you refuel after a morning swim, linger over a luxurious lunch, or stop for a sundowner. Choose from high-end Mediterranean and Mexican restaurants, to more casual cafes and bars - you'll never be too far from an ice cream or a cocktail! Experience Darwin's multicultural and vibrant community with a year-round program of activities, festivals and events. Explore Stokes Hill Wharf, a favourite fishing and fish-and-chip spot and popular starting point for harbour cruises where you can experience the best of Darwin Harbour aboard sunset cruises, fishing tours or 00Seven Jet Ski Adventures. There's so much to love at Darwin Waterfront.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

Beach Club at Darwin Waterfront

Entertainment Venues

Darwin Waterfront Beach Club

An annual dry season activity, the Darwin Waterfront Beach Club is open every day, a free, public space, featuring luxurious day beds, umbrellas, comfortable seating and the popular Beach Bar! Order food from one of the local venues or grab a drink from the Beach Bar which is open every day from midday until 7pm.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

Recreation Lagoon — Image credit: Darwin Waterfront Corporation

National Parks and Reserves

Darwin Waterfront Recreation Lagoon

Dive into the saltwater Recreation Lagoon and embrace the tropical lifestyle of the Top End. Entry is free and the lagoon is patrolled daily by lifeguards. Wriggle your toes in the sand, get active with Aqua Park or at the Beach Volleyball Court, or relax and lounge on the grasslands or in the Waterfront Beach Club (live during the Dry Season). The Darwin Waterfront Corporation now provides a beach ramp and mobi mat to help with accessibility. Please ask the lifeguards on duty for assistance or borrow the complimentary beach chair for easier entry into the water. Service animals are welcome at the Darwin Waterfront. Please ensure that your service animal is appropriately restrained and under control at all times. Please note that service animals are not permitted to enter any body of water (Wave Lagoon or Recreation Lagoon) or on the man-made beach.

Darwin City NT

0.4 km away

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