Welcome to Cindy and David's 2022 Adventures
9 Darwin 1
Arrived in Darwin to 32 degrees! Thank goodness the caravan park has a good sized swimming pool. Each site also has an en suite bathroom. Hurrah!
Darwin city is quite beautiful, helped of course by being on the edge of a magnificent stretch of water coloured a tropical blue/green. Unfotunately it is best not to swim in it (anywhere!).
On our first walk around town we found that the Governor's residence was open to the public (in recognition of the Queen's Jubilee) so in we went. We were introduced to the Administrator (her Honour the Honourable Vicki O'Halloran AO) and her husband (Craig O'Halloran)who were a delight to chat to. The Administrator doesn't have the total powers of the Australian State Governors but, as she said, the Federal Government very rarely interferes.
N.T. Houses of Parliament' We have always admired the design of this magnificent building.
There are a number of events in the city at this time of the year, i.e when it isn't The Big Wet! Our first attendance was at an '80's concert. As you can see, it was VERY well attended, and a great time was had by all. The Darwin Symphony orchestra supported the various performers and in particular from our point of view played the most beautiful version of Brothers in Arms.
The 2nd event was at Mindil Beach markets (an event in itself) where various challenge races are held including the Beer Can Boat Race. An extremely hilarious and exciting race where most people get to fall in the water at some point. Even the crocs seem to stay away!
Below are some of the entries from our trip in 2008
Amongst all this enjoyment were a couple of medical appointments and on our way home from one of them we came across a very pretty park in Palmerston with a lake covered in water lilies.
The crowds gathered around 4 pm and bought dinner from the many market stalls and enjoyed the entertainment provided.
Then the big show began (after hours of watching the amateurs on the sidelines setting off all sorts......)
The Muse
Lunch on the pier is a favourite past time when in Darwin. Each time we go there is a different ship to look at. Our first day gave us a view of a British Navy ship which had a fire drill at the time. Is there no end to the fun?
However, this is HMAS Darwin
Cullen Bay taken from the Loch where the water level is controlled. This is also the area where a ferry can be taken to get across to the Tiwi Islands.
Lea Point at low tide
During our 2nd week, Sybil joined us and up went her swag and protective gazebo and then we were three!
This type of wall is found all around the beautiful gardens of the Government house originally built by one of the very talented garden staff.
And THEN there is Territory Day on July 1st which involves vast quantities of fireworks. Anyone can buy them on this day and officially return them by the end of the day if they are not used. No comment on this last part!
Once again, the event is at Mindl beach which is divided up with a section for personal fireworks as opposed to the official fireworks display at 8.15 pm
There is a lovely wave pool in the harbour area which therefore gives people the feeling they can swim at the "beach". It is a huge area and lots of amenities such as comfy chairs are provided. We watched on whilst having late afternoon drinks in the local precinct.