Destination Darwin - different in every sense for business events

There’s just something about Darwin’s relaxed atmosphere and warm tropical climate that makes it a compelling destination to host conference and incentive groups. The cosmopolitan capital of Darwin is Australia’s closest gateway to Asia. A stepping stone to some of Australia’s most inspiring landscapes, untouched wilderness and cultural heritage, Darwin and the Top End leave a lasting impression on all who visit the Northern Territory.

Things to do – spectacular scenery, technical touring, nature-based experiences and cultural connections

Darwin

• Gain a greater perspective of Darwin and the Top End on a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight; on a leisurely sunset dinner cruise or sail on a catamaran; or onboard an exhilarating jet ski ride around Darwin Harbour.
• Get the blood pumping with some close reptilian encounters at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin City or out on the Adelaide River onboard a jumping crocodile cruise.
• For an educational nature-based experience, consider a marine tour into turtle habitat and mangrove-lined waterways or a guided walk of the Botanic Gardens. Further afield, the World Heritage-listed Kakadu and Nitmiluk national parks are excellent pre and post touring destinations, which are both within a day’s drive or a one-hour flight from Darwin.
• For a VIP experience, Mindil Beach Sunset Market offers business and incentive groups access to an exclusive sunset viewing area and $20 Mindil Money for guests to spend at any of the 200 enticing market stalls.
• Experience a locally infused botanical gin-blending workshop at Darwin Distilling Co., located within the premier restaurant Charlie's of Darwin, or embark on a small grop incentive to Finnis River Lodge - combining heli-foraging with gin making for an unforgettable experience.
• Discover Darwin's diverse cuisine on a foodie tour featuring local ingredients, curated dishes, gin tasting, and insights into the city's cultural and historical sites.
• Visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) to explore its renowned scientific, historical and cultural collections, including the Cyclone Tracy exhibition and the annual Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA).
• For military buffs and technical touring, Darwin boasts The Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Bombing of Darwin Harbour Facility (which also doubles as a unique function venue), the Darwin Military Museum Precinct (which includes the Defence of Darwin Experience) and the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre.
• Cultural connections abound, including opportunities to view and purchase authentic Aboriginal art from Mbantua Art Gallery in Darwin City and Outstation Gallery at the Darwin Waterfront. Explore local artisans at Starwin, a social enterprise that supports women and offers cultural workshops, including private group experiences.
• Saltwater Cultural Tours offer bespoke cultural tours, Aboriginal cultural experiences and Welcome to Country for business events.

Katherine

• The Katherine region is where the outback meets the tropics and is home to Nitmiluk National Park – offering immersive natural and cultural experiences in a world-class destination.
• Cruise at sunrise or sunset along the ancient emerald waters of Nitmiluk Gorge with Nitmiluk Tours, listen to cultural storytelling, visit Aboriginal rock art sites, and learn about the region’s protected flora and fauna, with seasonal tour options including breakfast onboard.
• Visit the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre to see the latest exhibition and Aboriginal artworks from the region, or time your visit to coincide with their performing arts program.
• Experience station life in the Northern Territory by visiting the multi-award-winning Katherine Outback Experience, suitable for both small and large private groups.
• For a closer experience with nature, Gorge View Bush Retreat offers camping and touring support for groups to explore the Outback in the Katherine region.

Kakadu

• Explore Kakadu National Park, recognised internationally for its natural and cultural significance, located within a three-hour drive from Darwin.
• Get a closer look at the wildlife on the open water and listen to cultural stories on a Yellow Water Cruise, starting from sunrise through to sunset. The open-canopy Algohgarrng Night Tour operates from May to August.
• Witness a bird's-eye view of Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls with Kakadu Air, offering fixed-wing plane and helicopter tours departing from Jabiru or Cooinda Lodge.
• Taste your way through an award-winning cultural culinary experience at the Kakadu Dirr Full Moon Dinner. The four-course dinner celebrates Kakadu's seasons, held at Cooinda Lodge in collaboration with the locally owned Bininj restaurant, Kakadu Kitchen, from May to October.
• Join a privately guided tour of ancient rock art with Yibekka Rock Art Tours. Discover the deep cultural connections to Country on a Guluyambi Cultural Cruise or engage in a hands-on foraging and bush cooking experience with Animal Tracks.
• For the art enthusiasts, a visit to Marrawuddi Arts & Culture Centre reveals a striking mural on the outside of the town's old bakery. Inside, local artists can be seen weaving and painting in the public gallery space.

Delicious dining experiences and one-of-a-kind offsite venues

For the ultimate fine dining experience for your business event, you can’t go past Darwin’s most prestigious restaurant, Pee Wee’s at the Point. Both offer a la carte menus showcasing delicious local cuisine, impressive wine lists and award-winning chefs. While Wharf One Food & Wine delivers absolute waterfront views in a relaxed and casual setting, catering for groups from 20 up to 700 guests.

For a more rural and rustic experience, Katherine Outback Experience combines a delicious meal with an outback show featuring working dog demonstrations, horse handling and live music.

Impeccable conference facilities and support services

Darwin Convention Centre, with stunning waterfront views, is just minutes from Darwin CBD. This world-class facility features flexible room configurations and a range of multi-purpose event spaces. In addition to this conference venue, several nearby hotels including the Hilton Darwin and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade Darwin properties and Mindil Beach Casino & Resort offer conference and event facilities. And finally, the AANT Centre (previously the Darwin Entertainment Centre) conveniently located near popular hotels and restaurants, also caters for business and incentive groups, providing a range of conference facilities and technical support.

A relaxed setting for a successful event

Darwin and the Top End are an event organiser’s dream. Scenic coastal views, tropical weather, an abundance of world-class facilities and countless combinations of unique pre and post touring options. While the choices may seem overwhelming, help is at hand. Contact NT Business Events for local knowledge and advice on hosting your next business event in Darwin.