Two iconic Australian stories. One iconic location.
There is no better place than the RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility to see, experience and learn about the Flying Doctor’s rich history.
Located on Stokes Hill Wharf, this award-winning facility features two iconic Australian stories – the pioneering days of the Flying Doctor and the 1942 Bombing of Darwin.
Immerse yourself in the action through cutting-edge technology holograms, virtual reality (VR) experiences and a projection window of the Japanese air attack on the harbour.
Visitors can also walk through a decommissioned RFDS Pilatus PC-12 aircraft and discover firsthand how pilots, engineers, doctors and nurses care for patients every day.
“People, and particularly children, rave about the VR experience here – there’s no better way to relive the bombing or go behind the scenes for the full RFDS patient experience,” said RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility Manager, Noni Romano.
"We’re really building the knowledge in our community that the RFDS is here."
After months of uncertainty due to COVID-19, Noni said the facility is looking forward to having more tourists stream through and engage with the iconic stories.
“In 2019, during Darwin’s dry season, we were experiencing about 400 visitors per day,” she said.
“COVID-19 has obviously been quite difficult – we are starting to see tourists return, which is a great sign for us and we’re really hoping more interstate and international visitors come back in the next year or two.
If you are travelling further south, the RFDS Alice Springs Tourist Facility is also worth a visit.
Set in the original 1939 heritage building, which housed the first RFDS Alice Springs Base radio operator, it features a life-size hologram of Reverend John Flynn, who takes visitors through the history of the Flying Doctor from 1928 until present.
Visiting the Top End?
Visit the RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility website and use promo code AIRDOCTOR10 at the online checkout to receive 10 per cent off general entry to the RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility.
Valid until 30 September 2022
Opening hours
Darwin Tourist Facility
7 days, 9:00am – 5:00pm (Last entry at 4:00pm)
Alice Springs Tourist Facility
Monday – Saturday, 9:30am – 2:30pm
