Darwin Detours

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[{"address":"Fort Hill Wharf","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_0.mp3?alt=media&token=3e553366-3fd3-4755-a744-1ddc425b0908","placeId":"ChIJYYIojgKRwCwRzAU59RYzMb0","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.472146103512477,"longitude":130.8456096},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJYYIojgKRwCwRzAU59RYzMb0"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ffort%20hill.webp?alt=media&token=0a5aadbe-5c1c-45e5-b4a1-8beefd402a3a"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ffort%20hill%20wharf.jpeg?alt=media&token=42dc9c0b-a46b-43d9-b29b-182af895e7e5"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to our first stop, Fort Hill Wharf, a landmark steeped in history and charm. If you're joining us straight off a cruise, I invite you to take your first steps into Darwin right here. As we begin our exploration, remember, this journey is all about discovery at your own pace. Feel free to stroll, soak in the sights, or if you prefer, grab a taxi or Uber to whisk you away to your next adventure. Let's make this an unforgettable experience!"}]},{"address":"Darwin Waterfront Precinct","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_1.mp3?alt=media&token=a55009b5-1d35-40bf-acb8-6a3dace247be","placeId":"ChIJCUMSuwSRwCwRTDSmAixe02M","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.46714590351103,"longitude":130.84623254999997},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJCUMSuwSRwCwRTDSmAixe02M"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Fwaterfront%20per.jpeg?alt=media&token=d8757ded-f779-40e0-a823-4029484444b9"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Fwaterfront%20pre.jpeg?alt=media&token=4b1054ae-ab1d-4078-b902-2256442e08cc"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to another scenic spot, the Darwin Waterfront Precinct! This spot is an interesting mix of entertainment, dining, and relaxation. You can be as active or chilled as you like here."},{"type":"text","content":"Sit back and relax in the shade, do a few laps in the lagoon, or ride the waves in the wave pool, it's up to you."},{"type":"text","content":"You might like to enjoy a delightful meal at one of the many exoctic restaurants. But if you want to continue discovering Darwin, take the lift to the top floor, head across the sky bridge and I'll show you some interesting sites not far from here."}]},{"address":"The HMS Beagle Ship Bell Chime","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_2.mp3?alt=media&token=90e11ff3-bd0e-4046-9e24-3fe24e63d409","placeId":"ChIJTRSQefWRwCwRPk8v4sU5VnY","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.464863903510366,"longitude":130.84548175},"media":[{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0112.JPG?alt=media&token=207579cf-baf3-4135-974d-fe00857c899d"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Fhms.jpeg?alt=media&token=f6be4bff-4e24-49b3-9c45-216601501a6e"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Fhms%201.jpeg?alt=media&token=ef88f309-fe62-4429-922c-7fbb2a18a69e"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to our next site - the HMS Beagle Ship Bells. This installation by Doctor Anton Hasell, commemorates Charles Darwin's voyage on the HMS Beagle and the city's connection to him. There are 11 cast bronze bells. Ten are crowned with a unique bird that symbolizes the rich biodiversity and unique ecological heritage of the region."},{"type":"text","content":"The eleventh bell is crowned with a statue of the HMS Beagle itself. The Beagle, under command of Lieutenant John Stokes, visited what is now Darwin harbour, in 1839."},{"type":"text","content":"The Port of Darwin was named in Charles Darwin’s honour by his friend and former shipmate, John Clements Wickham."},{"type":"text","content":"Originally, the chime functioned as a musical instrument. The bells were tuned to a specific scale, allowing for composers to create short musical pieces specifically for the chime. These compositions were then played at programmed intervals throughout the day. Unfortunately, the chime program is no longer functional due to technical constraints."},{"type":"text","content":"While we are in this area, let's duck over to that big banyan tree over by the Council building."}]},{"address":"19 Harry Chan Ave","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_3.mp3?alt=media&token=8cbb97e2-ae6b-4b5f-80d3-9208e98a612c","placeId":"ChIJUVUVcAWRwCwRn98Vct_VjcE","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1598130960464033,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.46445534145544,"longitude":130.84530472420502},"media":[{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0079.JPG?alt=media&token=7787e252-7473-4589-9fec-e8e1448e0e58"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0077.JPG?alt=media&token=63dcaae9-9347-410c-9c36-4168c52e90c3"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FSMLph1050-0119.jpg?alt=media&token=296ff361-c430-47f0-ad2a-e73a65dcb5a5"},{"type":"text","content":"This banyan tree is known as the Tree of Knowledge and has historical and cultural importance here in Darwin."},{"type":"text","content":"If it could talk there would be stories about the Larrakia, the traditional custodians of the country around Darwin. To the Larrakia this tree is known as Galamarrma and it provided shelter, tools, medicine and food to the Larrakia peopl."},{"type":"text","content":"It isn’t clear how Galamarrma became known as the Tree of Knowledge. Some say that in the early days of Darwin settlement, groups of Chinese youth would meet with their elders in the shade. The elders would instruct the youth on how to live a good and successful life.\n\nIn those days, Galamarrma was in the middle of Chinatown. Chinese immigrants had travelled to Darwin from all over China for work opportunities and a chance to strike it rich.\n\nIn the late nineteenth century, construction of the overland telegraph line was underway and workers at Pine Creek discovered gold. Around the same time the railway was being constructed. There was plenty of work and more and more immigrants flooded into Darwin. By 1888 there about 1000 Europeans and more than 7000 Chinese people living in the Northern Territory.\n\nThe Chinese played an important role in the development of Darwin. Unfortunately they were not treated well by the Europeans and were forced to live in a shanty town. The shanty town became known as Chinatown and all the people of Darwin were drawn to it to experience the cuisine and unique culture including opium dens and gambling dens.\n\nChinatown was destroyed by fire in 1942 when Darwin was bombed during World War II; it was never rebuilt...\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"In 1969, Galamarrma was to be removed to make way for the new Civic Centre, the building you see before you. Public pressure to keep the tree was so overwhelming that the construction plans were altered to accommodate Galamarrma within the design. The building was moved several metres away to allow Galamarrma space to continue growing. And grow it has done.\n\nIf you walk around Galamarrma you will see how those wispy roots have met the ground and become pillars of tangled supports for the large limbs that reach for the sun. Many press upon the building and others drape over the metal structures. The vast number of vines would consume the structure like an old ruin if allowed to wander unbridled. Given room to grow these branches would spread across the whole courtyard area.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"City of Darwin gardeners keep Galamarrma somewhat contained, but it is a battle against nature and those battles can never be won."},{"type":"text","content":"Up next is Brown's Mart Theatre, just across the park."}]},{"address":"Brown's Mart","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_4.mp3?alt=media&token=90ebd094-285d-4452-ad43-4533b001f90a","placeId":"ChIJ1ZamuwWRwCwRNqSY6THTnSQ","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.465370303510513,"longitude":130.84417480000002},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJ1ZamuwWRwCwRNqSY6THTnSQ"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Fbrown's%20mart.jpeg?alt=media&token=85a09751-933f-4dce-be4b-660bd85be03b"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0086.JPG?alt=media&token=46d3ca4b-c45b-4d70-9181-8bb6180249ee"},{"type":"link","title":"What's on at Brown's Mart","content":"https://brownsmart.com.au/whats-on/"},{"type":"text","content":"This classic old stone building is Brown’s Mart Theatre. This theatre boasts a story as rich and dramatic as any play performed on its stage. Built in 1885, its life began as a commercial venture. Vaiben Louis Solomon constructed it, initially naming it \"Solomon's Mart.\" Notably, it was one of the few buildings constructed from local stone, a wise decision considering the cyclones that would plague Darwin throughout history.\n\nIn 1887, Victor Vowles Brown took ownership, establishing the Port Darwin Mercantile and Agency Co. This shift led to the now-familiar \"Brown's Mart\" moniker. Over the years, the building served a variety of purposes, housing shipping agencies, a bank, and even the Northern Territory Mining Exchange.\n\nBrown's Mart proved its resilience in the face of adversity. It endured cyclones in 1897, 1937, and the devastating Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Each time, the building suffered significant damage, but it was always rebuilt, a testament to its strength. World War II also saw a temporary shift in use, as the armed forces requisitioned it for a period as a torpedo workshop.\n\nThe 1970s ushered in a new era. Fueled by the vision of Ken Conway, Darwin's first full-time community arts officer, and an Australian Council for the Arts grant, Brown's Mart underwent a significant transformation. In 1972, the historic building transitioned from a commercial space to a community theatre. This wasn't just a cosmetic change; it was the birth of a vibrant hub for artistic expression. Brown's Mart Theatre became a springboard for the Brown's Mart Community Arts Project, a platform for self-sufficient, community-driven arts initiatives.\n\nToday, Brown's Mart Theatre is a cherished landmark. Recognized for its historical and cultural significance, it's listed on the Northern Territory Heritage Register. It remains a prominent venue for major events like the Darwin Festival, the Darwin Fringe Festival, and local live music performances. Brown's Mart Theatre transcends being a stage – it's a symbol of Darwin's unwavering spirit and its deep commitment to the arts.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"Next up, the Parliament House of the Northern Territory"}]},{"address":"15 Mitchell St","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_5.mp3?alt=media&token=3094947f-b8d9-4cbc-b66a-e19f456c0a19","placeId":"ChIJQctfLASRwCwRKlt0Uoi9KCM","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1598130960464033,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.466409773134803,"longitude":130.8429449289911},"media":[{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FParliament%20(2).JPG?alt=media&token=007b7a04-e008-4ce3-b0fa-5644869a9b74"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FParliament.JPG?alt=media&token=f5946313-2c90-4b17-aecc-9604c045e50a"},{"type":"text","content":"Before you is the impressive structure that is the Northern Territory Parliament House. This imposing building serves as the seat of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly, where laws are debated, decisions are made, and the voices of the people are represented.\n\nConstructed in the late 1990s, Parliament House is a modern architectural marvel that seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. Its distinctive design, characterised by sleek lines, geometric shapes, and an abundance of natural light, reflects the spirit of progress and innovation that defines the Northern Territory.\n\nVisitors to Parliament House are invited to explore its grounds, admire its architecture, and engage with the democratic process firsthand. Guided tours offer insight into the inner workings of the Legislative Assembly, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the mechanisms of government and the role of elected officials in shaping the future of the territory.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"The Northern Territory Library is an integral part of this esteemed institution and a hub of intellectual activity, housing a vast collection of books, documents, and archival materials that chronicle the rich tapestry of Northern Territory life."},{"type":"text","content":"If you have time, I recommend a browse through the permanent exhibition titled \"A Territory Story\", it's free and there are some amazing photos of early Darwin."},{"type":"text","content":"As a symbol of democracy and civic engagement, Parliament House serves as a reminder that government is of the people, by the people, and for the people, and that together, we have the power to build a brighter future for generations to come."},{"type":"text","content":"Let's detour down Mitchell Street."}]},{"address":"28 Chapel Ln","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_6.mp3?alt=media&token=43d5234e-7993-4428-a767-cb521f712200","placeId":"ChIJv-TAHAaRwCwR5fbROeshtBE","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1598130960464033,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.464546289836212,"longitude":130.84174515206155},"media":[{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0035.JPG?alt=media&token=1c36870d-eeba-406c-97df-d31dd43a5be9"},{"type":"text","content":"I wanted to detour into Chapel Lane to provide you with a taste of Darwin's vibrant street art. There is an amazing array of street art around Darwin. If you are interested in this style of artwork you really must visit the Darwin Street Art Festival website and take the tour. It truly is amazing."},{"type":"text","content":".. .."},{"type":"text","content":"OK, our next destination is often overlooked by passers by. Let's head down and take a look at Tamarind Park."}]},{"address":"Tamarind Park","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_7.mp3?alt=media&token=a30b27de-349f-49aa-a982-a5d3bd180789","placeId":"ChIJwTSxkAiRwCwReR4jn7e0vac","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1598130960464033,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.46393606475625,"longitude":130.8408707519227},"media":[{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0055.JPG?alt=media&token=32e624c3-1917-4a94-9359-c7150ed6ac22"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0152.JPG?alt=media&token=9fab0be0-b860-4ab5-9507-b4b9788b9dc0"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0155.JPG?alt=media&token=e0141d82-d4b3-4af4-a580-38b4f0be2c50"},{"type":"text","content":"Tamarind Park is a tranquil oasis of greenery and culture right here in the centre of Darwin. This vibrant urban park, named after the majestic tamarind tree that graces its landscape, offers a splash of greenery in amongst the bustle of city life.\n\nTamarind Park is home to murals, mosaics and installations created by local artists. These artistic gems add depth and character to the park but are often missed by passers-by.\nTake a look around to spot the various artworks.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"Tamarind Park is testament to the vibrant spirit and creative energy of Darwin."},{"type":"text","content":"Let's head along this street to another beautiful city park. Raintree Park."}]},{"address":"John McDouall Stuart","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_8.mp3?alt=media&token=5a605cf2-d41f-4f46-836f-30a57643cb31","placeId":"ChIJ3-e-R_SRwCwRv7dBzs9IObM","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1598130960464033,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.463011557928333,"longitude":130.841825618332},"media":[{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0100.JPG?alt=media&token=1fed5e12-f747-4fbb-9e11-630cd8b73c54"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FStuartStatue.JPG?alt=media&token=3e354363-c244-4149-9940-b79aaa8750b9"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0101.JPG?alt=media&token=4c2e33df-5355-41e1-8384-e57ffa5248ef"},{"type":"text","content":"Raintree Park is another magnificent oasis in Darwin City. This park regularly comes to life with live music from buskers that fill the air with sounds of happiness."},{"type":"text","content":"The Raintrees, also known as Samanea saman, are renowned for their striking appearance with wide, spreading canopies that provide ample shade and shelter from the intense tropical sun. The canopy is composed of lush, fern-like foliage that forms a dense, umbrella-like structure, creating a cool and inviting microclimate beneath the tree."},{"type":"text","content":"One of the most distinctive features of raintrees is their foliage behavior, which gives them their common name. During periods of rain or high humidity, the leaves of the raintree fold up, resembling the shape of an umbrella. This adaptive behavior is thought to help the tree conserve moisture and reduce water loss during periods of inclement weather."},{"type":"text","content":"You'll notice the statue at the edge of the park. It commemorates Scottish explorer John McDouall Stuart, who successfully led the first documented south-north crossing of the Australian continent in 1862. The statue rests on a pedestal with various inscriptions commemorating Stuart and his party members."},{"type":"text","content":"The Stuart Highway that extends over 2,700 kilometres from Port Augusta in South Australia to Darwin, was named in honour of his achievements."},{"type":"text","content":"OK lets take a detour down the Smith Street Mall. Keep an eye out for the crocodile as we go."}]},{"address":"Smith st Mall","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2Ftts_9.mp3?alt=media&token=9bce85e0-a358-445b-8d2f-6b2ce08b2672","placeId":"ChIJ93UJpAKRwCwReZKm0OUGVmU","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-12.464479703510237,"longitude":130.8430811},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJ93UJpAKRwCwReZKm0OUGVmU"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0105.JPG?alt=media&token=69b65e4e-ce2d-4fae-bd67-e3160e992f1c"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0091.JPG?alt=media&token=deb177c7-18a2-44ec-9879-4b6f69168ddd"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FvK83EprUocEw9VylPUpe%2FIMG_0090.JPG?alt=media&token=34c9e97f-6ec6-40c8-bdec-32cb2d5c9dbb"},{"type":"text","content":"Smith Street Mall is the central hub of Darwin city and offers an interesting mix of art, heritage, shopping and dining."},{"type":"text","content":"Along the curving pathway you will see many plaques dotting the colourful pavement. Each of these plaques commemorates a defining element of Darwin history."},{"type":"text","content":"Under the awnings are lightboxes featuring contemporary art and you might even see some bats."},{"type":"text","content":"As you stroll along, take your time to explore the many and varied shops that line the way. You'll be surprised by the diverse range on offer. Hand crafted jewellery, fancy boutiques and souvenir shops offer something special for all tastes. Be sure to explore the arcades as well, you might find that hidden gem."},{"type":"text","content":"If you are hungry there is an abundance of dining options within The Mall. Cafes offer an outdoor dining experience or air conditioned comfort inside."},{"type":"text","content":"I'm going to say farewell here and leave you to explore this facinating area. Be sure to check out our other walking trails to help you find the special spots that show off the real Darwin."},{"type":"text","content":"OK, bye for now. See ya!"}]}]