Darwin Convention Centre

Darwin City is the tropical capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, which comprises one sixth of the continent, equivalent to France, Italy, and Spain put together.
Darwin’s population of over 100,000 boasts a lively mix of more than 50 nationalities. Darwin’s traditional owners, the Larrakia people, are prominent and active members of the community.
Known in the past as a laid back frontier town, Darwin has evolved into a highly urbanised capital.
Darwin City has more art galleries than pubs.
It is the main service centre for mining, offshore oil and gas production, tourism and tropical horticulture.

Located on the coast of the Timor Sea, Darwin is set on a rocky peninsula that stretches into one of the most beautiful natural harbours on the northern Australia coast.
Darwin is four hours flying time from Australian capital cities with regular air connections to Singapore and Bali. The Ghan, the legendary outback train, runs regularly between Darwin and Adelaide. Darwin also has a cruise ship port.

The Larrakia people lived in the greater Darwin Region before European settlement. They had trading routes with Southeast Asia, south and western Australia.
In 1839, HMS Beagle sailed into Darwin Harbour and the ship’s captain named the port after Charles Darwin, the British naturalist.
The city was founded in 1869 and its population rapidly expanded after the discovery of gold at nearby Pine Creek in 1871.
The didjeridoo – famed instrument of indigenous Australians – originally came from Arnhem Land, just east of Darwin.
During World War II Darwin was a major military base for allied troops in the Pacific. It was attacked twice in 1942 by the same fleet that bombed the Pearl Harbour.

Darwin City’s tropical climate means it’s always warm; the temperature averages 30ºC (86ºF).
From May to September the days are mild and the nights balmy and cool.
December to March is the ideal time to see the Northern Territory at its greenest.
The coolest months of the year are June and July.
Casual clothing is a mark of Darwin lifestyle. Pack light, comfortable clothing, good walking shoes and a hat.

Australia’s largest banks all have branches in the city centre. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are found throughout the city.
All major international credit cards are widely accepted, but not all businesses accept all cards and some may charge transaction fees.
Foreign exchange outlets are available at Darwin International Airport and most banks and major hotels.

Many hotels, motels and lodges have internet access. There are also internet cafes within the city centre.
Prior to departure, visitors from North America should check with their phone provider to make sure their cell phone will operate in Australia. If visiting for an extended period, a convenient and cost effective option is to purchase a prepaid handset once you arrive.