The main attraction today was the Wildlife Park some 50km or so from Darwin city. Aside from being rather tired after walking about, we did agree that it was a worthwhile visit. A combination of exhibits like a zoo, with some scheduled talks and demonstrations, as  well as lovely walks through rainforests and simulations. Yes, not quite the same as seeing animals in their natural habitat but interesting nonetheless.

The freshwater area with the rays, archer fish and barramundi was pretty cool, especially the talk and demonstration there. Fish and water-based creatures are often a lot smarter than we often acknowledge, it seems. The stunning archer fish who squirt water at their air-borne prey with freaky accuracy. The fish that can survive for periods in low oygenated water, by adapting and absorbing from the air. The rays with their bank-rushing techniques as they swallow up their prey of small fish.

The might kite, with its impressive flying and ability to feed and snatch prey on the wing. So coordinated and majestic.

Then other amazing and impressive birds. The Osprey and its diving ability as a catcher of fish. Then there was the character who cracked open the simulated emu egg (will have to confirm name later), and the blue winged kookaburra.

We also encountered some of our green friend’s mates here in NT! But sadly they were in captivity and not in a sewerage or grey water system. Seems in the dry season the green ones go looking for moisture, hence our experience in Broome. These two chappies also less green than my former friend.

After the wildlife park, we visited the nearby Berry Springs and saw the very impressive swimming holes. Too bad we did not have our swimmers with us then, but lots of people enjoying the water there. For me, my first taste of seeing those croc warnings in place. The warning is that salties can be here but are removed every dry season, so unless there are further warnings, it is safe to swim there. Seems the process with salties up here is a season to season proposition, and if in doubt, do not swim.

And finally, after returning home to our hotel room, what else to expect occurring on a fine Saturday in Darwin. A wedding by the beach of course.

And then there was the sunset on Mindil Beach Darwin. Clearly an iconic place to watch the sun set in these parts, and we were not disappointed. The aftermath was rather special too.

We did think the sky show was done for tonight. Then the fireworks. Very spectacular to end a fine day in Darwin. Not sure whether it was the wedding, the casino or the government who paid for the show. Either way, our New Year’s Eve came early, for us country bumpkins.