Katherine to Darwin
I first visited Darwin in 1976, en route to Asia and overland to the U.K. Some of the effects of Cyclone Tracy were still evident back then, and I recall the taxi driver pointing out some of the significant damage that had occurred.
So I was interested to see what Darwin looked like today. The road from Katherine was quite undulating and a lot greener than previous roads I travelled on. I took a break at Pine Creek along the way and had a coffee at Mayse’s.
I did notice quite a lot of animals at the edge of the road on this drive, mostly cattle, as there were no fences. I also saw horses (presumably wild) grazing.
The closer I got to Darwin I felt a certain sense of deja vu, sparking the memory of tropical Broome. And indeed, it was very humid in Darwin so I was looking forward to a swim.
I wasn’t disappointed. The Air BNB I stayed at had a lovely pool, despite the fact that there were many trees surrounding it and plenty of leaves … I didn’t mind though.
I believe having a pool is common to many Darwinian homes, since swimming in the sea is a no-no because of the crocodiles.
Parap was a great spot and very central. The Parap market was in full swing on Saturday morning and as it was within walking distance to the Air BNB I ventured down there. It was very crowded with locals and tourists and offered a range of enticing stalls, offering delicious food, art, knick-knacks, clothing and fresh fruit and vegetables.
I should mention that Bluebird is going really really well considering she is carrying quite a load. If anyone back in Broome needs their car serviced I can highly recommend contacting Jim at North Regional TAFE. His students provided an expert service on my car at very reasonable cost – thanks Jim.
The waterfront in Darwin is a great place to wander around and enjoy a drink and a snack. There are many places to sight-see such as the Royal Flying Doctor Tourist Facility https://www.rfdsdarwin.com.au/ and the WWII oil storage tunnels amongst others but I’m saving them for another time.
I took a drive to Fannie Bay and Mindil Beach (which Max Kirwan OAM talked to me about when I was writing his life story). He had spoken about the time he swam in the sea, unaware of the crocodiles that were out there, just after WWII.
So Darwin is now a very modern city and several people I spoke to had moved from other states to live there, and love the lifestyle.
5 Comments
It looks very hot and very tropical. How many days are you going to spend in Darwin? Another question, how long did it take to drive there from Broome?
I am following you on Polarsteps as well.
Thank you for your words and great pics
Della
ps (I saw that movie Top End Wedding which showed a bit of Darwin and the country – I loved it
Della
Hi Della, I had two nights in Darwin. It was very humid there. It took me five days to drive to Darwin and yes, that was a great movie wasn’t it? I saw it twice.
I love reading your blog Tina and while at work I constantly check to see where you are on my little map. You are giving me an insight to this great country of places I hope to visit in the not too distant future.
Need to take note of that coffee stop !
Looking forward to the next installment and your adventures in Townsville?
So pleased you are enjoying my adventures Thea. Australia is both an amazing and surprising country.
Hi T, you must be heading towards Richmond as I write this. Loved the photos of Darwin. Makes me think about my time there all those years ago and how steamingly hot it was! Looking forward to catching up (and celebrating) next week in Townsville. Lol, which I always thought meant love.. but I’m told means laughs!
xx