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With a population close to 70 000 it is the administrative capital of the Northern Territory and the northern gateway. Founded in 1869 after failure of an earlier settlement at the mouth of the Adelaide River, its first important function was as a terminus for the Overland Telegraph, which opened 1872.
Facts
Darwin has been the centre of two major disasters this century. On the morning of 19
February 1942 the town was devastated by 188 Japanese carrier-bombers from Ambon and
Kendari. The bombing and strafing attack resulted in 233 deaths, with another 400 wounded
and the sinking of eight ships in the harbour. This was one of fifty air attacks on
the NT over the next 20 months. Darwin suffered disaster number two on Christmas day
of 1974 when Cyclone Tracey totalled a large section. Earlier in 1999 Darwin was
scarcely passed by a cyclone greater than that of the wrath of Tracey.
Economy
The discovery of gold by telegraph employees at Pine Creek gave surge to the northern
pioneer town.
Sites & Attractions
Government House, below, situated on Esplande, established in 1869, is home of NT
Administrator and is fine example colonial architecture. The building has survived
several earth tremors, cyclones and bombing raids. Vic Hotel complex, originally
built in 1890 has been re-established in the Smith Street Mall and holds much of the
original stone work.
Several memorials commemorating Northern Territory's pioneering era and more recent events. Other attractions include Berry Springs, noted for its tropical rainforest and ruins of an old settlement.
Government House and a sunset view in Nightcliff.