Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

The good burghers of Darwin have made it easy to get here: Bus No 4, leaves from the bus stop outside Woolies on Cavenagh Street, and drops you right at the front door of the museum. It takes only about 20 minutes, perhaps less, in a nice, scenic route. When you’re done with the museum, just hop on the same bus back to Darwin, again, from right outside the front door to the museum - and no, I’m not exaggerating: The stop is outside the front door! Couldn’t be easier. And as if that’s not enough, entrance to the museum is free, and there’s a coterie of pretty young ladies on hand to welcome you. They’re helpful and polite, although, to be honest there isn’t a lot for them to do, apart from asking you to sign in for Covid-safe reasons, and to put your bags in a locker. Still, they do that with a friendly smile and will gladly answer any of your questions. It’s all very laid back and relaxed.

Inside you’ll find a beautifully curated museum and art gallery, that's spacious, airy and easy to move around in. The gallery features Aboriginal art only. I found the works interesting, complex and intricate, some quite colourful, some also with a political message. Just reading the display panels, gives you some idea about the long history, culture and attachment to the land of indigenous people. Quite fascinating as an outsider.

The other four elements of the gallery comprise a natural history section, a maritime section, an exhibition of sound recordings, film and photos about Cyclone Tracy that devastated Darwin on Christmas day 1974, and an exhibition titled “Unruly Days - Territory Life 1911-21” , showcasing Darwin’s anarchic first decade under Commonwealth rule. I enjoyed it all, especially the “Unruly Days” exhibit with it’s extensive collection of old photos, quotes and memorabilia from the period. The Cyclone Tracy Exhibit will also catch your attention, especially if you aren’t familiar with that story.

Next to the reception desk, is the little shop, with the usual collection of souvenirs, books etc, but unfortunately the little cafe is closed.

We enjoyed our first visit so much that we went back again the next day.

In terms of cultural activities, this was the highlight of our visit to Darwin.