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Calender of Events happening around Darwin

Calender of Darwin's Annual Events

ANNIVERSARY OF THE BOMBING OF DARWIN - 19th February, 2009

On 19 February 1942, World War II was brought to the shores of Australia when the Japanese dropped bombs over Darwin. On this day 8 ships were sunk, 1 beached and lost, 3 were beached and later refloated and 11 were damaged. A section of the wharf was destroyed, killing 22 waterside workers. Over 243 people, both armed forces personnel and civilians died that day. Over the next 21 months, Darwin, Adelaide River, Katherine and Milingimbi in Arnhem Land were bombed 64 times. Whilst damage was considerable on the ground, the spirit of those who defended the northern front-line became more formidable and impenetrable than any other form of defence. There were approximately 1,066 civilian women and 970 children in Darwin. By 18 February 1942, over 2,000 people had been evacuated down south by ship, road or air. The Darwin City Council considers the Bombing of Darwin Services that are held on 19 February at the Cenotaph at 0930 each year to be significant in the Northern Territory Events Calendar. The service begins at 0930 with the sounding of the WWII air raid siren at 0958 - the same time it sounded 66 years ago as waves of Japanese bombers flew over the city. A number of regiments, based in Darwin today, re-enact the historic attack - the first time that war had come to the Australian mainland. LOCATION Cenotaph, The Esplanade, Darwin. CONTACT 08 8930 0684 - Web

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TOP END FISHING FESTIVAL - 28th to 29th March, 2009

A weekend dedicated to Fishing Fun!
An awesome lineup of entertainment and exhibitions, hands-on activities and games, great prizes, fantastic food & drinks. Air-conditioned venue, plenty of free parking. Yamaha Supertank. TV Show - hook, Line & Sinker. Casting demo's with Dave Hodge, Alex Julius, Rick Trippe and much much more! LOCATION Darwin Showgrounds. Ph 89422644 Fax 89422699 Email info@topendfishingfestival.com.au

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HI TO THE DRY CRAFT FAIR AND EXPO - 19th April, 2009

The Annual Territory Craft 'Hi to the Dry Craft Fair, Expo and Open Day' . This event is held in the picturesque grounds adjacent to the NT Museum and Art Gallery. Purchase from the makers, beautiful and unique hand made items. Talk to the makers about how it was made and what inspires them or enrol in one of the many workshops that Territory Craft conducts and capture your creativity. As well as all this, suppliers to the craft industry will be there. Anyone who sells specialist craft items, from special scissors, sewing machines, stamp craft, beads, glass tools, drawing supplies and much more will be there to explain what they have to offer, where they are located and who knows there may even be Expo specials. It will be a great day with demonstrations in the well equipped workshop area. There will be plenty of fantastic craft to buy and the opportunity to find out what business has to offer the crafts person in Darwin. Food and drinks are available. No entry fee, just a great family day out. Facilities include toilet facilities for the disabled. LOCATION Grounds of the Museum and Art Gallery NT, 19 Conacher Street, Fannie Bay, Darwin. CONTACT 08 8981 6616

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KATHERINE COUNTRY MUSIC MUSTER - 1st May, 2009 to 3rd May, 2009

Celebrating its 10th event and going from strength to strength, The Katherine Country Music Muster is held annual on the May Day long weekend at the Katherine Outback Heritage Museum. Join us in 2009 on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of May. Friday night, kicks off with a showcase of talented Country Music entertainer from around the Northern Territory.
Saturday, enjoy the “Big Breakky “concert in the Town Square, the Beaut Ute Competition, followed by the Cavalcade that concludes at the Katherine Outback Heritage Museum grounds. Enjoy performances from a range country music artist from across Australia. Delight in some country fare, a cold drink at the bar and a spot of Line Dancing
Sunday Jumps into action at the Katherine Outback Heritage Museum with a Entry Free day. There will be entertainment for the whole family. The Muster will end with a finale concert held in the evening. LOCATION Katherine Outback Heritage Museum
Giles (Gorge Road) Road. CONTACT Ph 0409494879 - Email

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PINE CREEK CUP - 16th May, 2009

The Country Cup circuit kicks off at Pine Creek where a five-race programme provides plenty of weekend entertainment. The bush race meeting is held at Pussycat Flats Racecourse and features local registered races, Tab and Sky channel coverage, local sweepstakes and fashions on the field. Food and drinks are available and an open-air dance is held on the Saturday night. The Pine Creek Cup is the feature race of the day. There will be a pre-race golf competition held on the Friday night before the cup as well as music, dancing and a trivia quiz. LOCATION Pussycat Flats Race Club, Pine Creek, Northern Territory. CONTACT 08 8976 1355

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ARAFURA GAMES - 9th May, 2009 to 17th May, 2009

Arafura Games is a leading international sporting competition for emerging champions of the Asia-Pacific and beyond. Since 1991, Arafura Games has been held every two years in the capital of Australia's Northern Territory, Darwin. Unlike other Games, Arafura Games is not designed for current world beaters or Olympic champions, instead it provides a high quality stepping stone for athletes as part of their journey to compete at the highest level. Arafura Games 2009 has an exciting line up of events across 27 sporting disciplines. For the first time at Arafura Games will include the sports of Darts and Muaythai. After the success of the inclusion of Oceania Paralympic Championships in Arafura Games 2007, Arafura Games 2009 will again host Paralympic Events in eight sports. The Northern Territory looks forward to welcoming sporting neighbours from around the world to the forthcoming Arafura Games 2009.

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FREDS PASS RURAL SHOW - 15th May, 2009 to 17th May 2009

Freds Pass Reserve, established in 1977 is approximately 31 kms South from Darwin City. Set in picturesque surrounds the reserve provides facilities for sporting groups and community Groups.Each May, the reserve is home to the Freds Pass Rural Show. 2008 will see the Show celebrate its 30th year – a milestone for an event which commenced as a school fete. The Freds Pass Rural Show is an annual event providing a regional focus on productivity, enterprise and community.The aim of the Show is to provide a forum to showcase the diverse range of industries including pastoralism, agriculture, horticulture, mining and manufacture as well as to provide an opportunity for community groups to hold their annual fundraising.The Show is a benefit to many community organisations who assist to ensure that everyone has a wonderful time at the Show. These include the Lions Club, Bees Creek and Durack Primary Schools and Howard Springs Scout Group to name a few.With over 200 exhibitors and 30,000 through the gates in 2007, the Show continues to be a much anticipated event on the Territory Calendar.LOCATION Freds Pass Reserve, 20A Bees Creek Road, Humpty Doo. CONTACT 08 8983 1626 - Web
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DARWIN PRIDE FESTIVAL - 24th May, 2007 to 9th June, 2008 (TBA for 2009)

Darwin Pride Festival is a celebration of lifestyle for the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transexual and intersexual community. A diverse fortnight of events held from 24 May to 9 June 2008, from the opening fair day to the closing dance party. The festival caters for all tastes - artists, writers, campers and clubbers. There is at least one event that will suit your tastes. Darwin Pride is operated under the auspices of the Northern Territory AIDS and Hepatitis C Council. Some of the events on the calendar are, The Art of Pride opening, a quiz night at the Chung Wah Society, 'Goddess Goes Bush' - a trip to Litchfield, a Writers Cramp at Absolutely, a cabaret night, lawn bowls and karaoke at the Darwin Bowls and Social Club and a dance party on the closing day. A full program is to be finalised, as are the entry/participation costs. LOCATION Various venues around Darwin, Darwin. CONTACT 08 8941 1711

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BASS IN THE GRASS - May 23rd, 2009

BASSINTHEGRASS gives Territorians their very own line up of live bands. Since the first concert back in 2003, BASSINTHEGRASS has become a ‘must see' event on everyone's calendar. Enjoy the very best of our home grown talent and Australia's headlining acts. Darwin comes alive once again on Saturday 26 May – see you there! Web

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DARWIN CITY MUSTER - July 11th, 2009

THE GARDENS AMPHITHEATRE 6PM - 11.30PM

The 4th Darwin City Muster on Saturday 11th July is the ultimate family night out under the stars with the legends Lee Kernaghan, John Williamson and Sara Storer, supported by Harmony James and Mick Denigan in The Gardens Amphitheatre.

You'll be kickin' back and lettin' loose as MC Charlie King introduces the recipients of more than 60 Golden Guitars performing bush ballads, heartbreakers and high energy country rock with their own bands in concert length sets.  And you can meet the artists direct from the stage in the Country Music Shack Merchandise Tent.

Tickets for the premier event on the country music calendar are $65 (inclusive of fees) and on-sale from Friday 22nd May so avoid the stampede and purchase your tickets early   from:

Darwin Entertainment Centre Telephone 8980 3333 & www.darwinentertainment.com.au
Darwin Tourism Top End Visitor Information Centre
Nightcliff Newsagency
Casuarina Sounds of Music &
Country Music Shack Humpty Doo

** Children under 14 accompanied by an adult are free.

Parking:   There's plenty of parking nearby at the Mindil Beach Markets site and the Gardens Amphitheatre gates open at 5pm (enter via Gardens Road bottom gate) one hour before the concert kicks off.

Permitted entry:  Please bring cameras, bottled water, rugs and chairs - seating is not allocated.

Not permitted entry:  Pets, umbrellas, large eskies, glass, alcohol, soft drinks and hot food. 

Venue refreshments:  Hot and cold food and beverages available for purchase.

Under 18’s:  Must be accompanied by a responsible adult and may not enter the bar service areas.

For more information, images and interviews, please contact the National City Muster publicist: Sue Camilleri on 08 8941 2512 or 0408 412 512, Email: soozcam@bigpond.net.au or visit www.citymuster.com.au 

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LINGALONGA FESTIVAL - 1st August 2009

The Lingalonga Festival will take you on a journey through Batchelor`s colourful history.

The normally sleepy hamlet of Batchelor, just a one hour drive from Darwin, will be buzzing with markets, music, sport and creative activities under the canopy of glorious rain trees.The date is set for Saturday 1st August (Long weekend) and will combine with an Open Gardens weekend in Batchelor (Sat and Sun) and the Historic Railway Picnic Day at Adelaide River on Monday 3rd.  Plans are under way to incorporate an air display with vintage aircraft on Saturday afternoon and also some fantastic skydiving jumps by the contingent of experienced skydivers staying in Batchelor for their biannual ‘Rel Week’.  There will be the opportunity for tandem skydives throughout the Saturday.
Throughout the day you can sample delicious foods from many cultures while strolling through the market stalls, or inspire the mind and body to the sounds of local cultural dance groups. Try a singalong with local musicians in the `Buskers Bower` whilst the kids enter the sand castle competition in the town`s `monster sandpit,` or simply set up your camping chair and watch the action roll by.
LOCATION Batchelor Oval, Batchelor, Northern Territory. CONTACT 08 8976 0020

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ORCHID SPECTACULAR - 6th June, 2009 to 7th June 2009

ORCHID AND PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITIONS OPEN TO EVERYONE

Discover the Northern Territory's Eighteenth Orchid Spectacular. This years theme is 'Loomin' Spectacular'. As you explore this exciting event you can view orchids, bromeliads, gingers, heliconias and many other beautiful plants. Soak up the relaxed tropical atmosphere, sip a glass of wine, light beer, or Devonshire tea and view demonstrations the potting and care of orchids and bromiliads. You will be able to purchase orchids and other plants from nurseries and clubs. The Orchid Spectacular offers an orchid competition and a photographic competition. Both competitions are open to everyone and are free to enter. The orchid competition has over 60 classes to be judged, including a floral art section and the photographic competition has 6 classes to be judged, including a postcard size category, ideal for the amateur enthusiast. Entries for competitions must be received by Friday 29th May 2009(to be confirmed). If you can't bring the whole plant, cut the flower and put it in a clear glass or plastic container such as a vase or even a coke or clear stubbie bottle. If the orchid doesn't have a name the helpful stewards will tell you which class to enter it in. To enter the free competition, bring your orchids to the Marrara Indoor Stadium between 3.00pm and 6.00pm on Friday 29th May 2009 (to be confirmed) and remember to collect them with your prize money at 5.00pm on Sunday 31 May 2009 (to be confirmed). The show is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm on Sat 30 May - Sun 31May (to be confirmed). The cost for entry to the Orchid Spectacular is $4.00 per adult with student, family and age concession rates available. Children aged 12 years and under are free. LOCATION Marrara Indoor Stadium, Alaba Road, Marrara, Darwin. CONTACT 08 89831331

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PALMERSTON FESTIVAL - 31st May, 2009

Palmerston City Center 1pm till 8 pm. The Palmerston Festival is a fun day of free family entertainment, delicious food and activities. LOCATION The festival will stretch from the new Recreation Center to the Palmerston Shopping Center running through Goyder Square and the library accross to the iconic water tower. CONTACT 08 8935 9904

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GREEK GLENTI - 6th June, 2009 to 7th June, 2009

Held at Bicentennial Park on the Esplanade, allows the Greek Community to share with locals and visitors their music, language, food, art and the developments that Greek-Australians have made in the community. There are plenty of food and drink stalls, and music and entertainment throughout the day. There is no admission cost to the Greek Glenti. The Glenti consists of local and interstate entertainment and acts and besides being able to eat Greek food, you can see people wearing traditional Greek clothing, be enlightened by the Greek culture, listen to Greek music, and see traditional dancing and much more. LOCATION The Esplanade, Darwin.

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BRUNETTE DOWNS RACES - 18th June, 2009 to 21th June, 2009

The ABC Amateur Race's are four days of country hospitality featuring 2 days of grass fed racing, campdrafting, bronco branding, rodeo, gymkhana and novelty events. There is over $30,000.00 prize money on offer and only those horses within the boundary of the Northern Territory can compete. The Club boasts an on course bookmaker, bar, catering, live entertainment, pay phone, airstrip and St Johns Ambulance. There is an entry cost or a four day membership. LOCATION Brunette Downs Racecourse, Tablelands Highway. CONTACT 08 8964 4522 - Web

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GOVE BEACH VOLLEYBALL DAY - 15th June, 2008 (times for 2009 TBA)

The aim of the Gove Beach Volleyball Day is to raise money for charity and for local Gove sporting bodies, as well as to host a family fun day out for the residents of Gove. The surf club will be patrolling the beach and there will be food and drinks available, as well as an alcohol licensed area. Visitors are not permitted to bring their own alcohol. An Alcan Gove courtesy bus will be available on the day. The Swimming Club will be holding childrens activities during the day including sandcastle competitions, face painting, a soccer game, cricket, a treasure hunt, bubble blowing, touch football, tug-o-war and water activities. There is no charge for spectators. All person's attending must have a current Dhimurru permit. A permit can be obtained through Dhimurru Land Management and Aboriginal Corporation. Facilities include catering and children's activities. LOCATION Cape Wirrawawoi, Nhulunbuy/Gove, Northern Territory. CONTACT 08 8987 5805 Mobile - 0419 828 021

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V8 SUPERCARS CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES - Skycity Triple Crown Darwin -19th June, 2009 to 26th June, 2009

The V8 supercars roar back to Darwin - come along and witness the battle. The Hidden Valley round of the V8 Supercars is the largest sporting event of the year in Darwin. Families flock to Hidden Valley to watch their heroes, Lowndes, Skaife, Ingall and Kelly race against one another on a fast, picturesque course less than 10 kilometres from the city centre. Mums, dads and children urge on these modern juggernauts as they charge bumper to bumper around the tight 2.9 kilometre track that winds between corporate boxes perched on hairpin bends and grassed public viewing areas on straights and corners. Screams and cheers mingle with the throaty high-powered roar that only V8 Supercars can deliver. It sounds like the whole world is here. Packages, passes and ticket prices to be advised at a later date. LOCATION Hidden Valley Race Way, Hidden Valley Road, Berrimah. CONTACT 08 8999 5256

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DARWIN FRINGE FESTIVAL - 17th June, 2009 to 2nd August, 2009

The Darwin Fringe Festival showcases the best in local performing and visual arts, as well as featuring a number of interstate artists. The result of this combination is a spectacular array of theatre, dance, poetry, music and installations not to be missed. The Darwin Fringe Festival advises that some events may incur a cost, and a detailed program will be released at a later date. LOCATION Browns Mart Community Arts, 12 Smith Street, Darwin. CONTACT Ph 08 89815522 - Fax - 08 8941 3222 or email

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THE PINE CREEK GOLDRUSH FESTIVAL - June 26th, 2009 to June 27th, 2009

The Pine Creek Goldrush is a weekend celebrating our pioneering and mining history.

Now in it's 14th year, the Goldrush has been a great way to promote Pine Creek's unique heritage while involving many locals in a varied program of events including an the Pine Creek Art Prize , Food Stalls, Crafts, Novelty Events,and much more.

CONTACT Pine Creek Council 8976 1391- Web

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TERRITORY DAY FIREWORKS CELEBRATION - 1st July, 2009

On the first of July each year Territorians celebrate Territory Day, marking the commencement of Self Government in the Territory on 1 July 1978. The day is celebrated by the famous Territory Day fireworks (both public and private). Mindil Beach is the hub for all things explosive on Territory Day. The area will be segregated into two areas. The first area will be set aside for professional firework demonstrations (this area is designated for families and those who would like to enjoy the spectacle without fear of a projectile being launched in their general direction). The second area is for those who would like to set off their own fireworks. The police and NT Worksafe staff will be patrolling the Mindil Beach area, ensuring that people comply with the rules of these designated areas, so it should be a safe and enjoyable night for all. If you are planning on setting off your own fireworks, then ensure that you adequately follow the instructions and safety information that is printed on the side of the firework, other fireworks and safety information is available from the NT Worksafe website.

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BetFair Online Betting

DARWIN CUP CARNIVAL - 4th July, 2009 to 3th August, 2009

The Carlton Draught Darwin Cup Carnival officially kicks off on Saturday 4 July 2009 and culminates in the running of the Carlton Draught Darwin Cup on Monday 3 August 2009. The program also features Ladies Day, where they can show off their finery and enjoy a sumptuous luncheon and a glass of bubbly. The picturesque Fannie Bay Racecourse track is one of only a few dirt tracks in operation on the circuit, and the Carlton Draught Darwin Cup Day witnesses 17,000 people bursting the rails. Dress up, dress casual or come in fancy dress, this is a racing carnival not to be missed. LOCATION Fannie Bay Racecourse, Dick Ward Drive, Fannie Bay. CONTACT 08 89234222 - Web

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NT EXPO - Dates TBA

The NT Expo has been an annual trade event in Darwin since 1975. The NT Expo has grown to become one of the largest and most successful trade expositions of its type in Australia. The primary focus of the NT Expo is to develop business, trade and investment opportunities both within the Northern Territory and Australia, and with the important Asian trading regions to the near north. NT Expo provides both a showcase for the Northern Territory, Australian and international products and services and also provides a high level forum for the exchange of ideas and information aimed at developing local, national and international trading opportunities. You can participate in NT Expo either as an exhibitor, showcasing your products or services to in excess of 20,000 potential clients, or as a delegate, giving you the opportunity to network with business leaders and senior government officials from both Australia and the Asian region. CONTACT Ph 08 89363141 Chamber of Commerce
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DRAGONFLY CRAFT FAIR - 19th July, 2009

The Dragonfly Craft Fair is held every year around the premises of Territory Craft in the wonderful museum grounds. Purchase beautiful and unique hand made items from the people that make them, share stories and experiences, talk about how it was made, ask questions, enrol in a workshop that Territory Craft organises and capture your creativity. It is always a great day with some demonstrations and lots of craft that you won't see at any market in town. It is an opportunity for Territory Craft members to sell and showcase what they love to do in their spare time. Food and drinks are available. No entry fee, just a great family day out. LOCATION Grounds of the Museum and Art Gallery of NT, 19 Conacher Street, Fannie Bay, Darwin. CONTACT 08 8981 6616 - Web

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THE KATHERINE AND DISTRICT SHOW SOCIETY - 17th July, 2009 to 19th July, 2009

The Katherine & District Show has always been a major event on the Katherine calendar drawing people from all over the region, from across the Territory and Northern Australia. Over 25,000 people regularly attend the show. Customers included urban, rural and pastoral peoples, and with July being the peak of the tourist season, visitors from other regions of the Northern Territory, Interstate and International travellers from all over the globe. With continued growth in the town and region, and with stronger promotion, the Katherine Show hopes to be bigger and better with a similar increase in 2008. So come and spend some time with us. LOCATION Katherine Showgrounds, Victoria Highway, Katherine, Northern Territory. CONTACT 08 8972 1746

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DARWIN BEER CAN REGATTA - July 19th, 2009

The Darwin Beer Can Regatta is an annual family event organised by the combined Lions Clubs of Darwin and the rural area. It's a day of water and beach events, and fun for the family. Participants in the water events are required to build boats out of beer or soft drink cans. This year the regatta will be held at Mindil Beach and all proceeds are used for Lions charity projects in Darwin. The Sunday markets will be trading as part of the Darwin Beer Can Regatta this year. There is a gold coin donation for entry into the Darwin Beer Can Regatta. Food, drink and bar facilities will be available and bring you own is not permitted. Shade will be provided on the beach, visitors are encouraged to bring seating, sunscreen and shade. LOCATION Mindil Beach, Gilruth Avenue, The Gardens. CONTACT 8985 3037

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ROYAL DARWIN SHOW - 23rd July, 2009 to 25th July, 2009

The Royal Darwin Show is the premier event on the Top End community calender, where city and country come together for three days of competition, entertainment and showcasing of primary industry, horticulture, art, craft, cooking and photography. The show is held on the fourth weekend in July each year and the official opening is on Friday followed by a grand parade of livestock and machinery. Equestrian events, sideshow rides, varied live entertainment and a wide assortment of food and drink stalls reflect the multicultural nature of Darwin. Over 240 stalls display a wide variety of products and information. There is an emphasis on youth with a number of competitions designed especially for school age children. The animal nursery is extremely popular and is the closest many children ever get to live domestic stock. There are a variety of competitions, some fun and some educational. Horses feature throughout from dressage to working stock horses and Polocrosse matches. The show closes with a spectacular fireworks finale. Addmission costs are $16.00 per adult, per day. There are child, family and aged pensioners rates available as well as a concession, for entry before 1500 on the Thursday. LOCATION Darwin Showgrounds and Exhibition Centre, Tate Place, Winnellie. CONTACT 08 8984 3091

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FIST FULL OF FILMS GALAH AWARDS NIGHT (not updated yet for 2009)

Territory Short Film Competition
Tuesday 5th August 7:30pm, doors open at 6:30pm

At the Deckchair Cinema end of Jervois Road, off Kitchener Drive, Wharf Precinct, Darwin.
Tickets at the door: $13 adult / $10 concession. Fist Full of Films red carpet opening night. Come along and see locally made short films on the Big Screen under the stars. Watch Territory landscapes and hear Territory tales along side the film makers as their films are screened publicly for the first time.

Second Sunset Screening - Mindil Beach Markets
Sunday 10th August at 7:15pm

Tickets at the door: $10 adult / $8 concession / children under 12 free. A family screening of the finalist of the Territory short film competition at the popular Mindil Beach markets. Enjoy some dinner from one of the many food stalls and watch a program of locally made films. Bring along a picnic rug and pillows to sit on

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GARMA FESTIVAL -7th August, 2009 to 11th August, 2009

The 10th Garma Festival – Australia's leading cultural exchange event – will be held from 7-11 August 2009 at Gulkula, North East Arnhem Land NT. Garma is an intimate, spectacular celebration of cultural traditions and practices – dance, song, music, and art (including presentations, collaborations, sales) – and the venue for a leading Key Forum on Indigenous issues – All attendance fees and other revenues received for Garma go to the operation of the cultural and economic programs – which have real social, cultural and economic outcomes – of the Yothu Yindi Foundation, a not-for-profit Aboriginal organisation with charitable status.
Recently Garma was again – for the second year running – awarded the Northern Territory Government Brolga Award for the best Major Event. This followed the winning of the prestigious Skal International Ecotourism Award (Education program – Media category) and the Foundation being runner-up in the inaugural Gnunkai National Indigenous Tourism Award in 2005. LOCATION Gulkula, Gove Peninsula, Nhulunbuy/Gove. CONTACT 08 8941 0202 - Web

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DARWIN FESTIVAL - 13th August, 2009 to 30st August, 2009

The 2009 Darwin Festival is your artistic gateway to Northern Territory and South East Asian and Pacific cultures. Artistic Director Malcolm Blaylock promises a world class program featuring dance, theatre, film, comedy and the visual arts from some of the richest cultures in our region. The festival includes everything from free outdoor events to theatre, dance, music, cabaret, films, workshops and comedy, not to mention the sensational cuisine. Running for 18 nights, with over 70 productions, 112 events and performances and over 1,000 international, national and Territory artists and cultural groups, the Darwin Festival reflects the indigenous, Asian and Pacific cultures of the region.

A strong visual arts component is also included, with Larrakia traditional land owners guiding you through the many galleries exhibiting indigenous art on the Gallery Bus Tour, and the outdoor Galuku Gallery in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens.So come and join in one of the fastest growing festivals in Australia , in one of the best tropical cities in the world. A full program of events will be launched July 11. Email contact@darwinfestival.org.au

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NORTHERN TERRITORY TROPICAL GARDEN SPECTACULAR - 8th August, 2009 to 9th August, 2009

A chance to purchase and view exotic flowers and plants. The Northern Territory Garden Spectacular is a unique Darwin event that showcases the Territory's unique horticultural industry, particularly the nursery and garden sectors. Darwin also shows off its cultural diversity with entertainment and arts provided by different sectors of the community including Thai, Greek, Asian Pacific and many more. Locals and visitors are treated to a weekend of relaxation, entertainment, information and great food, while visiting the wide variety of stalls and exhibits on offer. LOCATION George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Gardens Road, The Gardens, Darwin. CONTACT 08 8983 3233

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BIRD WEEK - (not confirmed)

Discover a tropical birding paradise at Bird Week. You can view unique and beautiful birds of the Top End in Darwin and surrounds, the Mary River National Park and World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park. Examples of species that can be observed include magpie geese, brolgas, large tailed nightjars, great billed herons, white bellied sea eagles, red tailed black cockatoos, rufous owls, black bitterns and many more. Bird Week offers 3 expeditions (spanning 3, 4 and 7 days), guided walks, demonstrations, guest speakers, river cruises and more for an unforgettable birdwatching experience led by internationally renowned Mike Ostwald of NT Bird Specialists, winner 2005 Brolga Award fro the Best Interpretative Guide. Cost to participate in the Bird Week is from $270.00 per person, per day and accommodation is not included in the price. LOCATION Mary River Park, Arnhem Highway, Mary River ( Arnhem Highway). CONTACT 08 8978 8877 - Web

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BORROLOOLA GULF SHOW - 21st August, 2009

The borroloola Gulf Show, known locally as the WayOutBack agricultural show, combines agriculture, gardening, lifestyle, arts, crafts and competition in an entertaining day out. An exciting local rodeo, a campdraft and a gymkhana are highlights of this event, which is held to coincide with the public holiday. LOCATION Sports Grounds, Carpentaria Highway, Borroloola. CONTACT 08 8975 9896

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GOVE BUSH GOLF CLASSIC - 11th October, 2008 (unconfirmed event)

The Gove Bush Golf Classic is a unique annual golfing event across the Gove region through an array of fairways, showcasing the beautiful landscape of Nhulunbuy. The event is a fantastic day out for the residents of Gove and also for the visitors who fly in from all over Australia. The experience is exceptional, with around 200 people participating in 4 person Ambrose teams, travelling in four wheel drives to the next hole, which could be in the bush or across a river, therefore it makes it a very exciting game of golf. A barbecue lunch is included in the cost, and is at picturesque hole number 5 which overlooks the old Giddies River crossing. The day is culminated with a presentation dinner, where every team receives a prize. This event has been running for 14 years and each year just gets better and better. All monies raised from the event are directed back to local community based organisations, sporting clubs and charities. All persons attending including participants must have a current Dhimurru permit. Permits can be obtained through Dhimurru Land Management and Aboriginal Corporation. Cost per person is $60.00 which includes lunch, event shirt, green fees and presentation dinner. There is no charge for spectators. LOCATION Nhulunbuy, Nhulunbuy/Gove, Northern Territory. CONTACT 08 8987 5805

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CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR - 23rd November, 2008 (not sure of 2009 dates yet)

The Christmas Craft Fair is held every year around the premises of Territory Craft in the wonderful museum grounds. This is your last chance to buy those Christmas gifts with a difference at these famous fairs. Purchase beautiful and unique hand made items from the people that make them, share stories and experiences, talk about how it was made, ask questions, enrol in a workshop that Territory Craft organises and capture your creativity.
It's always a great day with the Mindil Markets finished and lots of craft that you won't see at any market in town on display. It's an opportunity for Territory Craft members to sell and showcase what they love to do in their spare time. Food and drinks will be available, no entry fee and just a great family day out. LOCATION Grounds of the Museum and Art Gallery of the NT, Conacher Street, Fannie Bay, Darwin. CONTACT 08 8981 6616 - Web

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Heineken Hottest 7's in the World 24/01/09 25/01/09
NBL Hummer Championships - Perth Wildcats TBA
Chinese New Year 26/01/09 09/02/09
Indigenous All Stars v Adelaide Crows 07/02/09 07/02/09
National Australia Bank Cup (AFL) - Darwin 13/02/09 13/02/09
East Point Military Museum Open Day 15/02/09 15/02/09
Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin 19/02/09 19/02/09
National Rugby League Pre-season Game 21/02/09 21/02/09
Tiwi Islands Football Art Sale 28/03/09 28/03/09
Hi to the Dry Craft Fair and Open Day 19/04/09 19/04/09
Powercruise #14 TBA TBA
Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival 02/05/09 10/05/09
Ten Days at the Top Heritage Festival 08/05/09 17/05/09
Arafura Games 09/05/09 16/05/09
Freds Pass Rural Show 15/05/09 17/05/09
Bass In The Grass 23/05/09 23/05/09
Government House Open Days TBA TBA
Orchid Spectacular 23/05/09 24/05/09
Shannons Motoring Extravaganza 23/05/09 24/05/09
38th Top Half Folk Festival TBA TBA
Adelaide River NT Country Music Talent Quest 06/06/09 06/06/09
Adelaide River Show, Campdraft, Rodeo, Gymkhana 06/06/09 06/06/09
Greek Glenti 06/06/09 07/06/09
Adelaide River Races 13/06/09 13/06/09
AFL Western Bulldogs Games 13/06/09 13/06/09
Palmerston Festival 14/06/09 14/06/09
Darwin Fringe Festival 17/06/09 28/06/09
V8 Supercars Championship Series 19/06/09 21/06/09
Darwin Latin Festival 19/06/09 21/06/09
Darwin Cup Carnival 04/07/09 03/08/09
NAIDOC Week TBA TBA
Discovering Tropical Birds Program TBA TBA
Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race 18/07/09 18/07/09
Dragonfly Craft Fair 19/07/09 19/07/09
Darwin Beer Can Regatta 19/07/09 19/07/09
Royal Darwin Show 23/07/09 23/07/09
Qantas Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball 01/08/09 01/08/09
Lingalonga Festival 01/08/09 01/08/09
Railway Heritage Picnic Day - Adelaide River 03/08/09 03/08/09
Government House Open Days TBA TBA
NT Tropical Garden Spectacular 08/08/09 09/08/09
Santos Concert of The Esplanade 13/08/09 13/08/09
Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair 13/08/09 15/08/09
Darwin Festival 13/08/09 30/08/09
26th Telstra National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island Art 14/08/09 25/10/09
Darwin North Rodeo 14/08/09 15/08/09
Adelaide River Races 22/08/09 22/08/09
NT Indigenous Music Awards 29/08/09 29/08/09
Crab and Quail Dinner and Auction Evening 05/09/09 05/09/09
Darwin City Muster 12/09/09 12/09/09
Saltwater Fly Fishing Challenge 02/10/09 04/10/09
Darwin Boat and Leisure Show 17/10/09 18/10/09
World Solar Challenge 18/10/09 25/10/09
Discovering Tropical Birds Program TBA TBA
Defencejobs WNBL Championship - Perth Lynx TBA TBA
Christmas Gift Fair 14/11/09 14/11/09
Christmas Craft Fair 22/11/09 22/11/09
Darwin Christmas Tree Lighting 27/11/09 27/11/09
Carols by Candlelight 06/12/09 06/12/09
Carols in Palmerston 29/11/09 29/11/09
New Years Eve on the Wharf 31/12/09 31/12/09