Some see Darwin as the gateway to the Northern Territory’s great national parks; Kakadu, Litchfield, and Nitmiluk. A place of transit before discovering unchartered and rugged wilderness, and the state's abundance of natural wonders. To truly understand the Northern Territory though, a visit to the Darwin Military Museum is a must.
681 bombs were dropped on the city during WWII. On 19th February 1942 alone more than 188 Japanese aircraft attacked Darwin's harbour and airfield. It was the first and the largest foreign attack ever mounted on Australia. The Darwin Military Museum at East Point chronicles this significant event and will immerse you in a powerful interactive experience, bringing to life this important period in Australia’s history, an event that shaped the face of Darwin and the people of the Northern Territory.
A visit to the Darwin Military Museum offers an insight into life in the Northern Territory during WWII and the contribution of the city’s people to the greater war effort.
The Darwin Military Museum focuses on the events of WWII on our continent but also chronicles Australia’s involvement in international conflicts from the Boer War to the present day.
Outside presents an opportunity to stroll through the lush gardens and discover numerous artillery guns, tanks, and other vehicles, and examples of military machinery.
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The museum is also home to the Defence of Darwin Experience. This powerful audio-visual journey will transport you to the events of February 19th, 1942 when the Japanese bombarded Darwin. You’ll witness events as they unfolded and hear stories from those who survived.
Take a Darwin WW2 tour on your next Northern Territory holiday. If you’d like to visit the Darwin Military Museum with Fun Over Fifty you can see our selection of tours here.
There is so much to see here so allow at least two hours to get the most out of your visit. The entire site is accessible with easy parking, wheelchair access, toilets, and a café. It’s open 7 days but check for public holidays before you arrive.
Located within Heritage-listed East Point and its WWII fortifications, the Darwin Military Museum is housed in the original concrete command post bunker. What awaits in the fully air-conditioned bunker is a fascinating step back in time with displays of weapons, equipment, war memorabilia, and important first-hand stories of the lived experience of Darwin’s military personnel and citizens.
If you’re keen to continue your Northern Territory WWII education you can download the Defence of Darwin app which will guide you through further important historical sites across Darwin and beyond.
The Darwin Military Museum was established in 1965. It was created by the Royal Australian Artillery Association (NT) to commemorate and preserve the history of Darwin's military involvement, particularly during World War II. The museum has since grown to become a significant historical site, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the region's military heritage and its strategic importance during the war. The museum continues to expand its exhibits and educational programs to offer a comprehensive understanding of Darwin's defence history.
The Darwin Military Museum exhibits a range of artifacts and displays related to Darwin's military history and its significant role during World War II. The museum features exhibits on the Bombing of Darwin, showcasing photographs, personal stories, military equipment, and weaponry from the period.
Visitors can explore interactive displays, including multimedia presentations and reenactments, that provide insights into the war's impact on the local population. The museum also has outdoor exhibits with artillery pieces, vehicles, and aircraft, offering a comprehensive view of Darwin's military past.
The Darwin Military Museum is located at East Point in Darwin, Northern Territory. Driving from Darwin city centre is a 15-minute drive via East Point Road. Ample parking is available at the museum. For public transport, you can take the bus from Darwin City, which stops near the museum entrance.
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