Grey nomads spending time in Darwin this dry season will have a new attraction to enjoy … and to show their appreciation for the efforts of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
The ABC reports that RFDS, which was founded in Alice Springs and has a tourism business already based in the Red Centre town, is looking to spread its wings into the Top End.
The new tourism facility, to open at Stokes Hill Wharf late next month, will combine two features — the RFDS history (which began operations in the NT in 1939) and the iconic story of the Bombing of Darwin.
Grey nomads who travel in remote areas will certainly relate to the stories of people whose lives were saved by the RFDS which will be told in vivid displays. A decommissioned RFDS Pilatus PC 12 aircraft, nicknamed ‘Papa’ will also be on show.
The ferocity of the wartime bombing of the Top End city will be illustrated by images of the harbour in 1942, prior and during the Bombing of Darwin, which will be projected against one wall, and 55 people will be able to enter a holographic theatre.
Tourism Top End general manager Trevor Cox told the ABC that the new development would help to reinvigorate Stokes Hill Wharf, and would offer something ‘a little different’ to existing tourism destinations.
It is anticipated the attraction will be visited by 80,000 visitors per year. The RFDS has 23 bases, 63 aircraft and 1500 staff in Australia.
* Are you keen to visit the new RFDS attraction? Which historical ‘experiences’ or displays would you most recommend to other grey nomads? Comment below.
What is the entry fee for this please