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Strauss Airfield — Image credit: Tourism NT

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Strauss Airfield Precinct

Strauss Airstrip, dating from 1942-45, is one of the last surviving and most intact World War Two pursuit fighter installations in northern Australia. An important strategic component of the Allied defence of northern Australia, Strauss played a pivotal role in the air war against Japan by providing a base for the use of P40 Kittyhawk and Spitfire fighter squadrons. Strauss was used by large numbers of American and British aircraft during the war, and has associations with Australia's engagement during the 20th Century in the crucial alliance with the United States and Great Britain. Artefacts at Strauss Airstrip represent significant elements of a wartime airstrip with the potential to contribute to an understanding of the role of the pursuit fighter squadrons in Darwin during World War Two, in addition to informing the lives of servicemen in a (then) remote theatre of war.

Noonamah NT

3.3 km away

1943 - Comfort Fund Issue, Noonamah Depot. — Image credit: Australian War Memorial.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Noonamah Railway Siding and Stores Depot

The Noonamah railway siding and its associated sites were developed as an adjunct to the Aerodrome Development Program in early 1942, when a series of airstrips and airfields, including Sattler, Strauss, Hughes and Livingstone was established south of Darwin. The railway siding was used extensively by the civilian run North Australia Railway (NAR) throughout the war years to transport personnel to and from military camps in the area, to move plant and equipment for major works, and stores and equipment for distribution to units in the vicinity. The associated camp included comfort features such as elevated quarters for air flow. The stores depot provided storage for a range of equipment used at the nearby airfields and was used throughout the war years. The Noonamah railway siding and associated sites provide a relatively intact example of a wartime military siding and a highly visual linking of the uses the site fulfilled over a range of activities. The Noonamah railway siding, camp and stores depot combine to form what is the only example of such a precinct in the Territory and is a significant element of the Territory’s wartime heritage.

Noonamah NT

3.6 km away

1943 - Sqn Leader Bluey Truscott batting, Flying Officer EB Tainton keeping. — Image credit: Australian War Memorial

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Noonamah Cricket Pitch and Oval, near Strauss Airfield

The Strauss cricket pitch was an important part of the activities of service personnel in the area during the war years and in recent years is used for annual matches between military and local teams on Anzac Day. This continuity in use maintains the significance of the site as an important part of the Territory's wartime heritage. Built in late 1942 by members of the 27 Australian Infantry Battalion, the cricket pitch was developed as one of a number of recreational venues in the area of the airfields and military camps south of Darwin near Firdan (Noonamah) in World War II, along with the convalescent centres at Berry Springs, Howard Springs and other sites. Recreational facilities such as the Strauss cricket pitch were also a means of making contributions to wartime fund raising efforts for the Australian Comforts Fund, Red Cross, Salvation Army and others.

Noonamah NT

4.4 km away

Hughes Airstrip looking north.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Hughes Airfield

The site consists of sealed runway approximately 1.9km long with two main taxi ways at the northern end of approximately 600m across. Associated defence positions (gun emplacements) and remnant items (drums, ammunition boxes) are located in the bush around the site. Hughes Airfield was one of a number of airfields constructed north of the Daly Waters during World War 2 and was named after the Director of Mines in the Northern Territory. It is significant in being purpose built for medium bomber operations and in being the operational base for RAAF Hudson bombers of Nos. 2 and 13 Squadrons RAAF. This site is not publicly accessible.

Hughes NT

5.8 km away

Our boss man competing on Zebu

Amusement and Theme Parks

Yarraman Territory

Ready to dive into the heart of the Northern Territory's outback? Yarraman Territory invites you to step into the boots of a true NT Stockman with our one-of-a-kind experience! Saddle up for adventure. Discover the world of natural horsemanship as you ride alongside our well-behaved, presented, and expertly trained horses. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a first-timer, their friendly guides are here to make your journey unforgettable. Live the outback legacy. Walk in the footsteps of our forefathers as you learn the ropes of working cattle and buffalo. Their hands-on experience gives you a taste of the authentic outback lifestyle, connecting you with the rich history and traditions of this rugged land. Why Yarraman Territory? Immerse yourself in the unique life of a stockman in the outback of Northern Territory. No worries – they've got everything you need for the experience. Well-behaved horses and experienced guides who truly know their stuff. Are you ready to make memories that echo the spirit of the Outback? Book your NT Stockman adventure now!

Virginia NT

8.2 km away

Wishart Siding site and the Fettler’s Mess.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Wishart Siding Fettlers Mess

The Fettlers Mess is within a precinct that comprises three houses and their outbuildings. They were built to accommodate track maintenance workers on the North Australian Railway from Pine Creek to Katherine. The Mess building is the oldest, constructed in 1915 (although some reports suggest it is older) and modified sometime between 1946 and 1949. The building is a highly significant structure historically and architecturally. It is timber-framed with corrugated galvanised iron with sun control and ventilation devices designed especially for the North Australia climate. The building is an excellent representation of its type and is named in honour of W. Wishart, the contractor who built the first railway jetty at Palmerston (Darwin).

Mcminns Lagoon NT

9.7 km away

Couple at Berry Springs — Image credit: Tourism Australia

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Berry Springs Nature Park

Berry Springs Nature Park is a picturesque area 47 km south of Darwin that's a popular day trip destination for picnics, incorporating shady areas, manicured lawns, picnic tables and free gas barbecues. Work up an appetite for lunch with a swim or a bushwalk. In the dry season you can cool off in one of Berry Creek's clear and shady pools, and if you've brought your goggles along, you should be able to spot native fish and other aquatic life. Seasonal pool closures are in place over the wet season, and the park closes earlier at 5.00 pm. Alternatively, explore the area on foot - the looped walking track takes you through monsoon forest and woodlands. It starts from the picnic area - don't forget your binoculars if you're keen on birdwatching and butterflies. During World War II, Berry Springs was part of a rest and recreation camp set up by the armed forces for the 100,000 personnel based in the area. A number of huts and weirs were built at Berry Springs during this time, and you can still see the remains around the main pool. The kiosk is open from May to October from 11am - 3pm (weekdays) and 10am to 4pm (weekends and public holidays)

Berry Springs NT

11 km away

Survey marker

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Virginia Town site 1869 Survey Markers

The 1869 survey markers are located within the original Virginia Town site which covers an area of 92 hectares. The survey markers consist of ironwood pegs and man-made stone trenches. The stone survey trenches and ironwood survey pegs located within the Townsite of Virginia are significant to the Territory as they are possibly the only remaining physical evidence of George Woodroffe Goyder's 1869 survey of Port Darwin and its environs. Goyder, who at the time was South Australia's Surveyor General, and his survey team had surveyed 270,000 hectares in eight months from Port Darwin, to the east and south of Adelaide River, and west beyond the Finniss River. The survey also included four townsites of Palmerston (now Darwin) Southport, Virginia and Daly. This survey was a remarkable achievement for its time. It defined the capital of South Australia's new northern province of the Northern Territory and laid the foundation for the modern city of Darwin. Due to disturbance by natural environmental conditions, fire and an expansion of settlement throughout Australia original survey markers are exceedingly hard to locate and now considered rare.

Virginia NT

11 km away

Get up close with iconic Top End wildlife at Territory Wildlife Park. — Image credit: Tourism and Events NT

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Territory Wildlife Park

The Territory Wildlife Park, located in Berry Springs just 45 minutes south of Darwin, is one of the Northern Territory's leading wildlife attractions. Set across 400 hectares of natural bushland, the park offers immersive experiences showcasing the wildlife, habitats and ecosystems of Northern Australia. Discover iconic Top End wildlife including crocodiles, birds, reptiles, wallabies and other native species in spacious natural habitats designed to reflect the environments in which they live. Explore walk-through aviaries, the Aquarium, Monsoon Forest and natural lagoon, and enjoy daily wildlife presentations, keeper talks and interactive experiences that bring visitors closer to nature. More than a wildlife park, Territory Wildlife Park is an accredited zoological park dedicated to conservation, education and research. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Northern Australia's unique biodiversity through hands-on learning opportunities, wildlife encounters and cultural experiences that connect people with the region's landscapes, wildlife and stories. With various walking trails, a complimentary shuttle train and bike hire available, families can explore the park at their own pace. The park also plays an important role in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, conservation breeding and habitat restoration programs across Northern Australia. Located alongside Berry Springs Nature Park, Territory Wildlife Park is an ideal day trip from Darwin and a must-visit destination for families, nature lovers and anyone seeking an authentic Northern Territory wildlife experience.

Berry Springs NT

12 km away

Barramundi Adventures Darwin

Entertainment Venues

Barramundi Adventures Darwin

Barramundi Adventures Darwin is unique in being the Top End's only land-based, recreational barramundi fishing venture. Every one can experience the thrill of catching the Top End's iconic Barramundi. There is a large entertaining area that is perfect for your next function and a bar were you can purchase beverages, ice creams and even your prized catch. A BBQ is also available onsite. It offers the perfect environment to introduce children and beginners to the thrill of catching their first fish and also for the die hard fisho's who just want to wet a line. The guides are locally born and raised with years of experience and are able to help anglers of any skill level. Stocked up with thousands of Barramundi, all visitors have a great chance of landing a Barra from the comfort and shade of the casting deck. The venue is wheel chair friendly with easy access so everybody can experience the thrill of catching a Barramundi. They also offer fishing charters and harbour cruises, If you'd like to experience remote fishing in the wild, that can be arranged as well. You're covered when it comes to Barramundi fishing.

Berry Springs NT

15 km away

interpretative sign at Mira Road indicating the location of the cemetery.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Southport Cemetery

The site is the former Southport town site cemetery. The Southport Cemetery, circa 1873 - 1887, located south west of Darwin, is associated with the town of Southport, which was surveyed by George Woodroofe Goyder in 1869 and settled soon afterwards. Southport was an important district centre and port for the construction crews of the Overland Telegraph Line and prospectors travelling to the inland goldfields, and despite its short life, played a fundamental role in the development of the Territory. Sixty six (66) people are recorded as being buried in the cemetery, mostly Chinese. Difficulties in living in a tropical climate in a remote location may be inferred from the numbers and causes of deaths and the variety of age, sex and former occupations of the deceased provide significant information in determining the population profile of Southport. The Southport Cemetery provides a tangible reminder of the exploits and lives of many who have contributed to the development of the Territory. Each grave represents the last resting place of people whose contribution collectively is important to the interpretation of the Territory's historical, social and cultural background.

Southport NT

17 km away

Southport Signage

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Former Southport Police Station and Telegraph Station site

Southport was a significant township in the early development of the Northern Territory. The remnants at Southport offer an example of early township life in the Northern Territory between 1872 and 1889. Little remains of both sites except for the floor slabs and foundation stones of the Police Station and the floor slab, section of stone wall and a well for the Telegraph Station.

Southport NT

17 km away

SWELL Palmerston invites guests to cool off and have fun!

Sports and Recreation Facilities

SWELL Palmerston

SWELL – Swimming, Wellness, Events, Leisure and Lifestyle – is Palmerston, NT's adventure play zone unlike any other in the Top End. SWELL offers a range of health and fitness facilities suitable for everyone! The precinct offers a range of aquatic facilities including a 50m lap pool, 25m warm-water, programs pool and a splash zone for little ones. Plus, SWELL Palmerston is home to Northern Territory's first ever two-storey aquatic adventure play zone, boasting a high ropes and water obstacle course complete with water cannons. At SWELL Palmerston you will also find basketball half court, kiosk, shaded outdoor areas and an events area. Community can enjoy free entry to pools, aquatic adventure playzone and basketball courts. SWELL Palmerston also has a fully equipped gym with cardio, strength and weight areas, as well as group exercise classes and access to personal training. The gym and fitness programs can be accessed with casual entry or with an ongoing membership. Additionally, GOswim learn to swim lessons are offered at SWELL Palmerston through a GOswim membership. SWELL demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity with accessible pool ramps, a hoist chair, change facilities and priority parking.

Palmerston NT

19 km away

Identification signage for the site at Mackillop Court.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Camp 16 Mile

The WWII Camp 16 Mile was a World War II military base located along the Stuart Highway. It now consists of a series of cement foundations that mark various buildings and constructions, Gun pits (round dirt pits), dirt trenches, short fortifications built of local stone, two bottle dumps and latrines built of cement slabs ('Flaming Furies').

Palmerston City NT

20 km away

Micks Whips

Landmarks and Buildings

Micks Whips

As you head up the Stuart Highway, consider a brief detour to Noonamah to see the world's largest stockwhip. At 25 metres long the steel sculpture is the entry to Mick's Whips and Leather Goods, a gallery and shop specialising in whips handmade by internationally acclaimed stockwhip maker Mick Denigan. If you are lucky you will catch a dazzling demonstration of whips cracking ablaze with fire. Mick has cracked his whips at the opening ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, music and art festivals, and performed for politicians, delegates and international celebrities. Mick makes his finely crafted whips from high quality kangaroo hide. His whips were used by Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman in Australia, and he has made personalised whips for George W. Bush, HRH Prince Phillip, Bill Gates, and Tim Fischer. As well as whips there are crocodile skins and products, Dundee hat bands, and more. Mick has even created a selection of colourful paintings by cracking his whips, and produced a video outlining a range of tricks and techniques for whip crackers to master.

Fly Creek NT

20 km away

Howard Springs Nature Park

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Howard Springs Nature Park

Howard Springs Nature Park has been a popular recreation spot for Darwin locals since World War II. The park features a mix of monsoon forest and open woodland, supporting a variety of native wildlife. Bring a hamper and relax in the shaded picnic areas with barbecues, where you might spot ibis and agile wallabies on the lawns near the main pool. Nearby, the family-friendly adventure play area and man-made rock pools offer plenty of fun and a chance for kids to cool off. Follow the 1.8 km walking track to learn about the park's diverse plants and animals, or take a short rainforest walk to view the springs that feed the pool. The all-season wading pool and rockpool provide another great way to unwind after exploring. Interpretive signs along the walkway help you spot native fish, including barramundi, often visible from the weir wall. During World War II, rest camps were established here for up to 120 Australian and American servicemen. The weir was constructed in 1944 by the Royal Australian Engineers to improve water access to the area.

Howard Springs NT

20 km away

Palmerston Water Park

Amusement and Theme Parks

Palmerston Water Park

The centrepiece of the park is a six lane racer water slide that Top End locals and visitors will be able to enjoy. The super slide stands at 14 metres high and enables people to race each other to the bottom. The racer slide features a 'ready, set, go' system at the bottom and records your race place when you exit. A spectator stand with solid shade is located at the end of the slide, providing shade for slide users as they queue to ride and provides excellent viewing for people to watch the racers in action. There are also two wet play areas. The play pad for children 10 years and under features sprays, water curtains and a shallow wading pool. The splash pad for children six years and above features more active water cannons, buckets and high intensity interactive play.

Palmerston NT

20 km away

Entry to Marlow Lagoon — Image credit: City of Palmerston

Natural Attractions

Marlow Lagoon Recreation Area

Marlow Lagoon Recreation Area in Palmerston is a spacious and beautifully maintained park featuring twin lakes surrounded by lush gardens and walking tracks. It offers a family-friendly environment with playgrounds, picnic and barbecue facilities, shaded seating, basketball half-court and public toilets. The park also includes a unique off-leash dog park with an obstacle course, making it a popular spot for dog owners. In addition and seperate to the Dog Park the area is a great location for keen bird watchers. Over 65 bird species has been observed at Marlows, including Black Bittern, Nankeen Night Herons, Great Egrets, Intermediate Egrets, and the grey morph Reef Egret. The lagoon's islands serve as refuge for birds, and the surrounding trees attract various honeyeaters and insectivorous birds such as White-winged Trillers. Raptors like Black Kites, Whistling Kites, Brahminy Kites, and Brown Goshawks are frequently seen soaring or hunting in the area. The birdlife changes with the flowering of trees, providing a dynamic and rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts.

Palmerston NT

20 km away

Dinosaur Experience

Amusement and Theme Parks

Hologram Zoo Darwin

Hologram Zoo Darwin offers an innovative blend of wildlife education and entertainment, inspiring creativity and promoting technological literacy. Unlike a traditional zoo, all their animals are brought to life as captivating holographic projections created with laser light. This unique and engaging experience is suitable for people of all ages. Their venue offers a large, modern space under a single roof, including: A contemporary restaurant and café serving a wide variety of meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, washroom facilities and a dedicated party room, perfect for hosting birthdays or special events.

Palmerston NT

20 km away

Gateway Shopping Centre — Image credit: Gateway Shopping Centre

Entertainment Venues

Gateway Shopping Centre Darwin

Located in the heart of Palmerston less than 20 mins from the Darwin CBD, they are conveniently located on your way to Litchfield, Kakadu, Jabiru, Berry Springs and more. Gateway has absolutely everything you need. With Woolworths, BIG W, Best & Less, Bonds, plus 100 Specialty Stores and a 400 seat Food Court. Enjoy the indoor entertainment including X- Golf, Hey Caddy, Event Cinemas and lots more for the dry and wet season. The Pavilions offers a great choice of cuisines the whole family will enjoy. From the finest Japanese to gourmet burgers, Asian favourites and sweet treats. There is something for Absolutely Everybody to enjoy at Pavilions from early till late. Visit Gateway Shopping Centre - where shopping meets convenience!

Palmerston NT

21 km away

Afghan oven and chimney immediately adjacent to the Afghan accommodation. — Image credit: Heritage Branch, NT Government.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Channel Island Leprosarium and Reefs

Channel Island was declared a Quarantine Station by the Chief Secretary in August 1884 when all vessels had to be cleared before anchoring at Port Darwin. It was used for a leprosy patient in 1885 and for small-pox patients from 1887. Permanent structures were not erected until September 1914 when Channel Island was one of four 'first-aid' or minor stations for all cases of disease requiring isolation. In 1930 a new Quarantine Station was opened on East Arm and Channel Island was converted to a Leprosarium. The Leprosarium is culturally significant because it provides a unique view of a compulsorily isolated group of people who existed under extreme physical and, in some cases, mental conditions. It demonstrates an official policy of enforced segregation of diseased people. The ruins are evidence of the Quarantine requirements of the period, including segregation, at a time when the rest of the world was modifying its compulsory isolation laws. The Channel Island Reef is significant for its diverse coral.

Wickham NT

22 km away

Gun emplacement.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII Quarantine Anti Aircraft Battery Site

Established in 1941, the Quarantine Anti-Aircraft Battery Site is the only complete gun-site of its type within the Darwin area. It is highly significant as it is of a design which was discontinued by the Defence Force in the mid 1940s and one which is unique to the Northern Territory. The site consists of four circular concrete gun emplacements in an arc around a central command post that is also of concrete and partially underground. There are remnant concrete slabs of other buildings and ablution facilities in the area and the walls of a magazine store. The guns went into action on 13/06/1942 and again on the 15 & 16 June 1942.

East Arm NT

25 km away

Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve — Image credit: Tourism NT

Natural Attractions

Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve

Located about 70 km east of Darwin along the Arnhem Highway, Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve is one of the few wetland systems in the Top End that remains accessible all year round. Boardwalks guide visitors through a variety of landscapes, leading to observation platforms where you can view large numbers of resident wading birds. The best time to experience the birdlife is from late March to early October. Two walking tracks let you explore the wetlands without getting your feet wet. These easy-graded paths take you through shady paperbark forests and out into the open floodplains, with shaded viewing platforms and lookouts along the way. Visitors can also drive across the dam wall, stopping at bird hides along the way, and continue to the far side for elevated views from Pandanus Lookout which is especially popular for sunrise and sunset picnics. Fogg Dam lies within the Adelaide River catchment, part of a network of connected wetland systems in the Top End. These wetlands are recognised internationally for their natural beauty, ecological value and cultural significance. Purchase an NT Parks Visitor Pass before you arrive. NT residents are exempt.

Humpty Doo NT

26 km away

Interpretative signage at the site.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

WWII RAAF Operations Room, Berrimah

The former RAAF Operations Room resulted from a direction of the Air Board for co-ordinated control of aerial defences, including Radio Direction Finding and anti-aircraft defences in the North Western Area of Operations in the north of Australia during World War II. No. 5 Fighter Sector was formed on 25 February 1942 and the Operations Room was built on the site east of the former hospital in late 1942. It housed the personnel and equipment required to effectively plot and relay the positions of the enemy aircraft to put Allied fighter aircraft in an optimum position for interception, in cooperation with the RDF and anti-aircraft defences. Manned 24 hours a day until 12 November 1943, the date of the last recorded bombing raid, Operations Room personnel directed Allied aircraft to intercept Japanese aircraft and generally monitored aircraft movements. From November 1943 the Operations Room provided information on reconnaissance sorties by the Japanese and was instrumental in the downing of the last enemy aircraft intercepted over the Top End on 12 June 1944. The unit was disbanded in Darwin in April 1946.

Darwin NT

26 km away

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