Thursday 9 December 2021

What's new in the NT - December 2021

 

The Northern Territory’s Tropical Summer has well and truly kicked off, signalling the start of awe-inspiring sunsets, spectacular lightning shows and lush greenery. It’s also the perfect time to nab some great deals on flights, accommodation and tours with the NT Summer Sale running until 31 March 2022.

 

As travellers currently enjoy crowd-free national parks, idyllic fishing waters and the Territory’s flourishing foodie scene, operators across the Territory are preparing for a huge 2022. Keep an eye out for new and upgraded accommodation, exciting seasonal tours, and many more events set to take place in the NT next year.

 

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your support over the last year and wish you and your families a very Merry and safe Christmas break. 

LATEST NEWS

NT OPENS QUARANTINE FREE TRAVEL

In great news for those dreaming of a Tropical Summer escape, Monday 20 December will mark a milestone for the NT with quarantine-free travel set to start for all fully vaccinated Aussies -regardless of hot spot classification.

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WINNERS OF 2021 DARWIN INTERNATIONAL LAKSA FESTIVAL
The votes are in and the winners of the third Darwin International Laksa Festival have been announced! Locals have crowned Chow restaurant’s laksa as the coveted ‘Golden Bowl’, Back-to-back Golden Bowl winner Chok’s Place was awarded ‘People’s Choice’ best Laksa. Fannie Bay Butcher’s laksa sausages took out Best ­Savoury dish inspired by laksa, while the Trailer Boat Club’s laksa cheesecake won Best Sweet Dish. The festival, which celebrates Top End’s love affair for laksa, will return in November 2022.
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ROADHOUSE TO RECOVERY GRANT
In the second round of the Northern Territory Government’s ‘Roadhouse to Recovery’ program, 39 regional and remote wayside caravans, caravan parks and roadhouse operators have been granted funding. Kings Canyon Resort is upgrading its Wi-Fi and communal facilities, Ooraminna Station Homestead is installing a heated pool and outdoor kitchen, and Litchfield Tourist Park is adding 40 powered sites to its campground. All projects are set to be complete by April 2022.
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KINGS CANYON RESORT AND GLEN HELEN UNDER RENOVATION
G’day Group is investing $20 million into the makeover of tourism hotspots Kings Canyon Resort in Watarrka National Park, and Glen Helen Resort in Tjoritja, West MacDonnell Ranges. As part of the renovation, Kings Canyon will temporarily close and is not taking bookings from 22 November 2021 to 15 March 2022, and Glen Helen will close from 17 January 2022 to 18 March 2022.
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RUNNING OUT DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASES LARAPINTA TRAIL

New documentary Running Out follows ultra-runner Lucy Bartholomew as she tackles the 231km-long Larapinta Trail, which weaves along the backbone of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Whilst the iconic trail usually takes weeks to conquer, Bartholomew finished the feat in under three days. The film showcases some of the most spectacular and dramatic landscapes of the Red Centre and is now available to rent or purchase on Vimeo.

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UPDATES FROM OUTBACK WRANGLER MATT WRIGHT
NT croc wrangler and TV personality Matt Wright is no stranger to the wilderness of the Top End. His unique outback lifestyle, knowledge of wildlife and passion for adventure has led him to develop some of the most unique outback experiences in the Territory. He is set to return to Aussie screens once again and has recently launched several brand-new experiences for travellers heading to the Territory.

 

SEASON TWO OF MATT WRIGHT’S WILD TERRITORY SERIES
The Northern Territory’s breathtaking outdoors will soon be seen by more than 200 million viewers around the world as the second season of Matt Wright’s Wild Territory series is confirmed to air on Nine Network and Netflix. The action-packed show will shed light on Matt Wright’s world as a part-time conservationist and successful tourism entrepreneur. Together with his wife Kaia and young son Banjo, viewers will watch the family wrestle crocs, reel in barras and tackle a tourism business in the wilderness of the Top End.

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MATT WRIGHT’S LUXE AIRBNB ‘FRESHWATER RETREAT’
Darwin

In addition to his adventurous new Netflix series, Matt Wright has also unveiled brand-new luxury accommodation, a tropical oasis nestled in Darwin CBD. A short walk from the local markets and Nightcliff Foreshore, the stylish property ‘Freshwater Retreat includes a four-bedroom house; ‘The Wright Residence’, four stylish safari-styled villas equipped with their own outdoor bathroom and kitchenette, as well as a shared gym, large saltwater pool, turtle pond and billabong, with wildlife soon to be added. Freshwater Retreat caters for up to 18 guests. The Wright Residence and four villas can be booked separately for smaller groups and couples.
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MATT WRIGHT’S ‘CROCS IN THE WILD’ TOUR
Darwin surrounds, departing from Top End Safari Camp

Available only during Tropical Summer, Matt Wright’s new tour offers wildlife lovers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the Territory’s famous crocodiles. The tour includes an exhilarating 45-minute airboat ride, wild croc encounters in the lagoon and floodplains, and a feeding session with Matt Wright’s Monster Rescue Crocs. The tour runs daily but is dependent on weather conditions. Not open to children under four years old. Tickets start from $220 for adults, with children’s rates available.
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MATT WRIGHT’S ‘DARWIN ADVENTURE BOATS’
Darwin Harbour

Matt Wright’s new Darwin Adventure Boats tour combines his popular Darwin Harbour sightseeing tours with an action-packed Jetboat experience. Guests will first board the Jetboat at Stokes Hill Wharf and be transported across Darwin Harbour at high speed, experiencing a few spins along the way. Upon reaching the city’s scenic mangroves, passengers will jump aboard the custom-built V8 Airboat, where they’ll cruise along and discover marine wildlife, before skimming across the mudflats. Guests will then enjoy a thrilling Jetboat ride back home. The tour is open all year-round and minimum age to ride is four years old. Tickets are priced $190 for adults, $140 for kids, with family discounts available.
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NEW PRODUCTS

 

ACCOMMODATION

LAKE BENNETT RENAMED AS DE LAGO RESORT
Darwin

Under new management, Lake Bennett Resort has recently finished renovations and is now known as De Lago Resort. Located an hour’s drive south from Darwin, De Lago Resort overlooks the tranquil shores of Lake Bennett and is perfect for a relaxed getaway. Guests staying at the Lakeview Rooms can enjoy an incredible sunset overlooking their private decks, or opt for experiences including canoe and kayak hire, mountain biking and trail walking.
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EXPERIENCES

 

ETHICAL ADVENTURES’ ‘BEST IN THE WET’ TOUR
Top End, departing from Darwin

This new Ethical Adventures tour highlights the Top End’s Tropical Summer, characterised by its incredible lightening shows, wild waterfalls and moody escarpment country. Guests will first explore the tumbling waterfalls and secluded swim spots of Litchfield National Park, before heading to an outback hideaway on Mt Bundy Station. The last two days will be based in the wilderness of Kakadu National Park, featuring wildlife and cultural cruises, guided rock art tours and galleries, as well as a one-night stay at Cooinda Lodge. The tour is open to 10 guests, and runs weekly from 7 February 2022.
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WILDMAN FISHING TOURS
Top End, departing from Darwin

Wildman Fishing Tours has introduced premium fishing tours and charters across Darwin. On the brand-new Fishing and Foodies tour, anglers will enjoy a day of wild fishing or mud-crabbing and bring their hard-earned catch to the iconic Hanuman Restaurant, where Jimmy Shu’s team will cook up a seafood banquet. Wildman also offers all-inclusive packages, such as the five-star Fishing Staycation, which includes accommodation and helicopter transfers to some of the Top End’s hottest fishing spots.
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00SEVEN’S ‘OFF ROAD ADVENTURES’
Darwin surrounds, departing from Charles Darwin National Park

Alongside its jet ski offering, 00SEVEN has launched Off-Road Adventures where adventure junkies can channel their inner James Bond in an off-road buggy and see some of the city’s beautiful terrain. Departing from Charles Darwin National Park, thrill-seekers can choose one of four Bond-themed adventure tracks to tour: ‘Moonraker’, ‘Licence to Thrill,’ ‘Skyfall’ or ‘Octopussy’. Tours are available daily and prices start from $169 per person.
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ADVENTURE TOURS’ ‘TOP END WATERFALLS AND WETLANDS’
Top End, departing from Darwin in October 2022

Debuting in next season’s Tropical Summer, Adventure Tours will offer a two-day getaway, showcasing lush green landscapes and abundant wildlife. Guests will have the chance to get up close to saltwater crocodiles, witness stunning floodplains, learn about Aboriginal culture, go swimming at pristine waterholes and relax at local pubs. The trip also includes overnight accommodation at Litchfield National Park, 4WD vehicle and a local guide. The tour hosts 8-15 guests at a time. Selected departure dates from October 2022 to March 2023, and prices start from $545 per person.
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DEBUTING IN THE DRY SEASON

 

AUSTRALIAN WALKING HOLIDAY ‘KAKADU CHALLENGER’ TOUR
Kakadu, departing Darwin

Australian Walking Holidays has announced a new six-day hiking tour, traversing through the gorges, sparkling waterfalls, rock art galleries and stone country of dual World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. The tour includes a sunset cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong, professional wilderness guides, meals and safari-style camping. It is designed to be moderate to challenging in difficulty. Selected departure dates from June to September 2022, with prices starting $2,795 per person.
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ETHICAL ADVENTURES ‘COWBOY COUNTRY’ TOUR
Katherine, departing from Darwin

Ethical Adventures has launched a three-day tour, taking travellers into the heartland of the Katherine region. The tour includes two nights at Nitmiluk Chalets and iconic Katherine nature experiences, such as a sunset dinner cruise on Nitmiluk Gorge, thermal springs, and Cutta Cutta Caves. Guests can also experience Aboriginal culture at Top Didj, enjoy a glimpse of authentic farm life with Katherine Outback Experience and feast on a traditional 1920s stockman’s camp oven meal. The public tour is available weekly from May to September 2022, and is open to 6-10 guests at a time.
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ETHICAL ADVENTURES ‘FLOOD COUNTRY’ TOUR 
Kakadu, departing from Darwin

Ethical Adventures has launched a new immersive cultural and wilderness day tour of Kakadu, exploring the Alligators Rivers region and land of the Bininj people. The tour includes a ride on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise, a guided Aboriginal rock art walk at Ubirr, visit to Murrawaddi Art Centre and plenty of crocodile sightings. The public tour will run on Wednesday and Sunday, May to September, and is open to 6-10 guests. Tickets cost $395 per adult (single), and $295 for children aged 8-17 years old.
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FOOD & DRINK

 

FAT TUNA
Darwin
Fat Tuna is a new salad bar located on Mitchell Street in Darwin CBD, offering healthy poke bowls. Using the freshest ingredients, Fat Tuna is a lively new offering to Darwin’s booming foodie scene.
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PEAKABREW
Katherine

Situated on First Street in downtown Katherine, Peakabrew is an upmarket café offering the best barista coffee inside an industrial-styled interior. With plenty of street parking, Wi-Fi, charging stations and air-conditioned comfort, the café is a great place to work from remotely or grab a quick bite to eat.
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THE MEETING PLACE
Katherine

Katherine Town Square’s latest cafe and juice bar has officially opened. The Meeting Place sells fresh juices, daily made scones, salads, donuts, smoothies and ice cream. The café is a great addition to Katherine’s budding coffee scene, complementing popular roasters The Black Russian Caravan and Pop Rocket Café.
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THE LOCALS
Alice Springs

Located in Todd Mall, The Locals is a new boutique café, restaurant, tapas and gin bar. Formerly known as Piccolo’s café, The Locals is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and occasionally hosts live music sessions.
Read more

 

 

BELLA ALICE
Alice Springs

After years of success as a food truck, Bella Alice has officially opened a permanent café and restaurant in Todd Mall. Specialising in authentic Italian cuisine, Bella Alice serves up fresh wood fired pizza and Alice Springs’ favourite tiramisu.
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OUTBERRY BRAZILIAN ACAI
Alice Springs

This new smoothie joint brings a taste of Brazil to Alice Springs with its selection of Acai bowls and drinks. A favourite among locals, Outberry Brazilian Acai offers the perfect, healthy and refreshing antidote to the desert heat.
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KOPIIICO
Alice Springs

Nestled on Todd Street in Alice Springs, this cute café brews coffee and Asian-inspired drinks, including honeycomb iced lattes, Dalgona coffee, matcha and much more.
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EVENTS

 

DARWIN’S NEW YEAR’S EVE
Darwin, 31 December 2021

Ring in the New Year in the Northern Territory’s balmy capital. Set on the beautiful Darwin Waterfront, the 2021 event features two firework extravaganzas, an epic concert featuring ARIA-winning artist Amy Shark, iconic duo The Veronicas and Bluey & Bingo from Nickelodeon’s Paw Patrol, as well as food stalls, bars and roving entertainment. A range of casual and premium seating options are available, from the parklands to the beach, the deck, family and mobility area and exclusive deluxe zone privately catered by Adina.
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80th ANNIVERSARY OF BOMBING OF DARWIN
Darwin, 19 February 2022

On 19 February 1942, Darwin was bombed by Japanese air raids, becoming the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power in Australia. In 2022, the City of Darwin will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin with a special service to remember the lives lost, the veterans involved and the civilians that were impacted during World War II.

As part of the 80th anniversary, Sea Darwin is offering a limited-edition tour, packaging four of Darwin’s most iconic military experiences including Sea Darwin Bombing of Darwin Cruise, Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourism Facility, Darwin Military Museum and Darwin Aviation Museum. Tickets cost $60 per person and the tour runs between 17 and 21 February 2022.
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MILLION DOLLAR FISH SEASON 7
Top End, until 31 March 2022

Australia’s richest fishing competition is back for its seventh season, giving anglers the chance to experience the Top End’s iconic fishing waters and reel in a prized barramundi. So far, the season has already seen five lucky anglers win, and with the addition of 12 more $10,000 fish recently released there are now 107 red-tagged fish worth $10,000 and the eight elusive Million Dollar Fish still up for grabs. Every tagged fish will see an additional $1,000 donated to an official charity partner, with the Million Dollar Fish awarding $10,000 to charity.
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fabALICE
Alice Springs, 10-13 March 2022

Celebrating the inclusivity and diversity of the Red Centre, fabALICE is packed with glitter, glamour and fun. Inspired by the original cult movie The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, the three-day pride festival is a unique showcase of drag, cabaret, comedy and family-friendly entertainment paying homage to the film and stage musical. The 2022 program and headliners are yet to be announced.
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TIWI ISLANDS AFL GRAND FINAL AND ART SALE
Tiwi Islands, 20 March 2022

The people of Tiwi Islands are gearing up to celebrate the annual Australian Rules Football (AFL) Grand Final & Art Sale, the only day where visitor permits are waived. In what is one of the Northern Territory’s most unique cultural events, thousands are expected to make the journey by ferry or air to purchase Tiwi arts and crafts, before kicking back to watch the community’s beloved grand final.
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PARRTJIMA – A FESTIVAL IN LIGHT
Alice Springs, 8-17 April 2022

The only Aboriginal light festival of its kind in the world, Parrtjima is an extraordinary 10-night celebration of First Nations art and culture. The program includes interactive light installations, musical performances, workshops, talks and nightly projections against the 300-million-year-old canvas of the MacDonnell Ranges. The 2022 theme and full program will be announced shortly.
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BASSINTHEGRASS
Darwin, 21 May 2022

The Northern Territory’s biggest and longest-running music festival is set to return to Darwin’s iconic Mindil Beach, and the 2022 nationally acclaimed line-up has just been announced, with the likes of Peking Duk, G-Flip, Vera Blue, Jessica Mauboy, Boy and Bear, Hilltop Hoods and many more. Tickets are on sale now.
Read more

 

Thursday 19 August 2021

What's New in the NT?






NEWS & NEW PRODUCTS FROM THE NT

With amazing weather, wide open spaces and exciting new experiences, the NT has everything travellers are looking for, and much more.

LATEST NEWS

NEW CROC-WATCHING PLATFORMS AT CAHILLS CROSSING
Kakadu National Park
One of Kakadu’s most recognised sites, Cahills Crossing, is set to get two new viewing platforms, offering tourists a safe spot to catch a glimpse of crocodiles. Construction for the platforms is expected to take 12-16 weeks with completion anticipated by late 2021.
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COUNTRY TO COUTURE
Virtual
One of the highlights of the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair each year is Country to Couture – a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander textiles and fashion design. The high-energy runway showcase presents innovative collections from Indigenous designers and artists from across Australia, as well as unique collaborations between Indigenous communities and well-known Australian labels.
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NEW PRODUCTS

FOOD & DRINK

WILLING DISTILLERY

Winnellie, Darwin

Willing Distillery is a new artisan distillery, cellar door and cocktail bar located in Darwin’s industrial district. The latest distillery to open and one of the few in the Top End, Willing Distillery specialises in traditionally distilled craft spirits and uniquely Australian flavours, like desert lime. Willing Distillery prides itself as the first to use a traditional pot still, single shot distillation process for their gin – an ode to its passion for the craft!
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MAYBERRY

Austin Lane, Darwin

Mayberry is the latest new bar set to join Darwin’s growing food and drink precinct around Austin Lane, home to some of the city’s best street art murals. The saloon-style venue hosts live music and offers an extensive range of beers, spirits and cocktails.
Read more

ACCOMMODATION


NEW UNDER-THE-STARS GLAMPING EXPERIENCE
Katherine
Katherine Outback Experience has unveiled a brand-new glamping experience. Guests can expect warm country hospitality with home-cooked meals and spacious bell tents decked out with luxury comforts, including a king bed. After a day of exploring Nitmiluk National Park or horse-riding on the farm, nights can be spent cosying around the communal campfire and outback stargazing.
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HIDEAWAY LITCHFIELD EXPANDS WITH NEW CABIN
Litchfield National Park
Due to its growing popularity, Hideaway Litchfield is expanding and building a third cabin. Nestled in the native bushland of Litchfield National Park, the luxury cabins, made from shipping containers, are off-grid and the perfect retreat when exploring the park’s stunning waterfalls and waterholes. With room for three guests, the third cabin is open for bookings now.
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LAKE BENNETT RESORT REOPENS
Darwin
After a three-year closure, beloved Darwin holiday spot Lake Bennett Resort has reopened. Under new management, the rural hotel has undergone extensive renovations, including upgrades to all 50 rooms. Perfect for a relaxed getaway, the retreat offers various activities, including canoe and kayak hire, mountain biking and trail walking.
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NEW TROPICAL POOL VILLAS AT MERCURE AIRPORT RESORT

The recently completed villas offer a luxurious accommodation option for your next Darwin visit. Each room features a luxurious king bed, Nespresso coffee machine and a private verandah and plunge pool overlooking the Rapid Creek bushland.
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EXPERIENCES

CROCOSAURUS COVE LAUNCHES NEW WHIPRAY ENCOUNTER TOUR
Darwin
Crocosaurus Cove has launched a new interactive experience, Whipray Encounter, where guests can get up close and hand-feed friendly two-metre freshwater whiprays – a species of giant stingrays native to northern Australia. The guided tour is available once a day as part of their afternoon Fish Feeding Show, and up to four guests can enjoy the unique experience. Participants must be 10 years and older.
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NEW FERRIS WHEEL IN DARWIN
Darwin, Stokes Hill Wharf
Stokes Hill Wharf has debuted a colourful 35-metre-high ferris wheel, giving visitors spectacular views of Darwin’s waterfront and surrounds. Operated by Skyline Attractions, the family-friendly ride is open from 10am to 9:30pm and is available until October. The wheel, which can hold up to 144 people at one time, offers three stunning viewing experiences, from blue sky views to Darwin’s famous sunset with a lit-up attraction at night.
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NEW LUXURY TOUR EXPLORING THE TOP END, ARNHEM LAND AND WESSEL ISLANDS
Crooked Compass has announced two new luxury tours exploring the remote and picturesque regions of the NT.

East Arnhem Land and Wessel Islands
Guests will begin their adventures by flying from Darwin into Nyinyikay Homelands via charter plane. Upon arrival, guests will be immersed in Yolngu homeland culture, from spearfishing mud crabs to gathering bush medicine and weaving baskets. They’ll then board an exclusive charter for a six-day voyage, stopping by incredible landscapes along the way. The tour is available for departure on 10 and 16 March 2022, and will host six to eight guests per trip. Prices start from $9,900 per person, twin share.
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West Arnhem Land and Top End Safari

This six day itinerary will have guests exploring the untouched wilderness of Arnhem Land, the majestice Nitmiluk Gorge and Kakadu National Park. Guests will be immersed in one of the most culturally intact Aboriginal nations. The tour is available 25 May, 25 July and 27 August 2022. Prices start from $7,199 per person.
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NEW DIRECT CHARTER FLIGHTS BETWEEN ALICE SPRINGS AND ULURU

Alice Springs and Uluru
Chartair has announced a brand-new flight route between Alice Springs and Ayers Rock Airport, creating the only direct air route between these destinations. The new route, available twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays, will see travellers fly in a Cessna 402 aircraft, with a maximum of six passengers on board.
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NEW DAY TOURS TO LITCHFIELD AND KAKADU

Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks, departing from Darwin

Small group adventure operator Autopia Tours has introduced affordable, family-friendly day tours to Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks, both departing from Darwin. For an optional extra, guests can experience a close wildlife encounter on-board a famous Jumping Crocodile Cruise or a visit to the wetlands of Fogg Dam Conservation, a bird-watchers paradise.
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Autopia's Kakadu Wilderness Escape tour explores the floodplains of Ubirr, home to ancient Indigenous rock art, with guided bushwalks, local knowledge and wildlife sightings. Tickets for adults are priced from $225, children are $150.

On their Litchfield National Park tour, travellers explore the park’s century-old magnetic termite mounds and famous waterfalls and hidden plunge pools, including Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole and Wangi Falls. Tickets for adults cost $155 and children are $90.


NEW SMALL GROUP 4WD TOURS TO LITCHFIELD
Cyaround Australia Tours are now offering two small-group tours; the Litchfield Day Adventure and the Three Pub Safari Tour. The tours aim to experience and explore the pristine natural beauty and true-blue Australian culture of our much loved Northern Territory.
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LIRRIWI TOURISM RELEASES ARNHEM LAND TOUR DATES FOR 2022

East Arnhem Land

Aboriginal cultural tour operator Lirriwi Tourism has announced new dates for its East Arnhem Land tours for its 2022 season, including their women-only Gay’Wu/Dilly Bag tour and five-day Crossing Country Tour. Lirriwi offers guests the opportunity to experience the Yolngu way of life and discover one of Australia’s most pristine natural environments.
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EVENTS

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS MUSIC AWARDS (NIMAs)
TBC Postponed
The NIMAs ceremony, held annually under the stars at Darwin’s historic Amphitheatre and broadcasted by NITV, are recognised as one of Australia’s most prominent celebrations of Indigenous music. Please note the rescheduled date to be announced shortly.
Read more


TELSTRA NATIONAL ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER ART AWARDS (NATSIAAs)
Darwin, 7 August 2021 – 6 February 2022
Australia’s longest running and most prestigious Indigenous art awards, the annual NATSIAAs showcase a range of work from emerging and established Indigenous artists from across the country. Following the announcement of award winners on 7 August, the exhibition is now showcased at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) until

February 2022.
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Timo Hogan's, Lake Baker 2020, Telstra Art Award winner


RED CENTRENATS

Alice Springs, 3-5 September 2021

The ultimate festival of wheels returns to the Red Centre. Over three action-packed days, the festival will showcase the best in street machines, elite show cars, hot rods, classics and exotic vehicles, with an entertainment program that includes street cruising and drag racing. For the first time ever, spectators will also witness a pair of car lovers, winners of the Red CentreNATS ‘Win a Wedding’ competition, tie the knot during the festival.
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2021 DARWIN LIONS BEER CAN REGATTA

Darwin, 5 September 2021

Established in 1974, the iconic annual Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta is a Top End family favourite. With boats constructed of everything from beer cans to plastic bottles and milk cartons, teams race along Mindil Beach into the water and hope their DIY dinghies make it to the finish line. The day also includes sandcastle competitions, races, competitions and fun team events.
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KATHERINE BIRD FESTIVAL

Katherine, 12-15 September 2021

Katherine Bird Festival will return in 2021 and promises even more for wildlife lovers to enjoy. Set in the heart of Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, this year’s program will immerse visitors in natural landscapes teeming with unique birdlife, featuring bird-watching cruises, expert-led tours and family activities.
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DESERT SONG FESTIVAL
Alice Springs, 10-19 September 2021

A celebration of cultural diversity and artistic brilliance, the 10-day Desert Song Festival highlights the rich musical traditions and culture of Alice Springs and Central Australia. This year’s program will draw on the theme of ‘sustainability through music and song. Headliners include a showcase performance by The Olive Pink Opera, and a fantastic musical collaboration, ‘From the Desert to the Arafura Sea’, featuring the Djari Project and the NIMA Award-winning Central Australian Aboriginal Women’s Choir.
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KAKADU BIRD WEEK

Kakadu, 25 September – 2 October 2021

With more than a third of Australia’s bird species calling Kakadu home, the UNESCO World Heritage listed national park is a bird lover’s paradise. Kakadu Bird Week features a packed itinerary for nature enthusiasts, including wetland cruises, bird watching expeditions, specialist lectures and Aboriginal bird experiences.
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