Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility: Two Iconic Territory Stories

Darwin City, AU
97% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (232 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    The facility experiences are self-guided, but we provide vistors an introductory overview.

Excluded

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    Souvenirs

What to expect

1

RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility

See, experience & learn through the wonder of technology as this facility brings history to life. Royal Flying Doctor Service Enjoy the heroic tales of the birth and growth of the RFDS. Learn about the history and the activities of the RFDS’s pilots, engineers, doctors and nurses, and the experiences of the patients that are carried and cared for each day. -Life size hologram of John Flynn the Founder of the Flying Doctor Service tells his story of the birth and growth of the RFDS. -Two Interactive story telling mini ghosts. Meet Alf Traeger and Nurse Kathy who answer selected questions from a touch panel. -Touchscreen Portals allow the visitor to learn about the history and the activities of the RFDS pilots, engineers, doctors and nurses. -A decommissioned RFDS Pilatus PC 12 aircraft that allows visitors inside the aircraft and experience a fully aero medically equipped fitout. -Pedal Radio invented by Alf Traeger and used by people of the Outback. -Story Boards that provide very informative reading of the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.  Bombing of Darwin Harbour Relive the drama of the Bombing of Darwin Harbour that rocked Australia in 1942. The bombing of the harbour brought destruction to the city of Darwin, and many of the experiences and stories of what happened that day are learnt through the most modern and exciting technology.  -Life size hologram of Rear Admiral Etheridge Grant was the Commanding Officer of the USS William B Preston narrates his own version of the Bombing of Darwin Harbour. -Interactive story telling mini ghosts. Meet Prime Minister John Curtin and Japanese Pilot Hajime Toyoshima who answer selected questions from a touch panel. -Virtual Reality of the bombing of Darwin Harbour. This production is the pinnacle of a movie production for VR. Never before seen production of this magnitude. -Full size replica Japanese Zero aircraft hangs from the ceiling. -Replica of Camilla the Flying Boat that escaped from Darwin Harbour and its story. -Window of 1942 and aerial view of the Bombing of Darwin Harbour that comes to life showing the bombing and aircraft fire of the first raid. -Story Boards that provide very informative reading and pictures of what took place on February 19th

Duration 120 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
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    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The facility is indoors and air-conditioned. There is audio translation for the hologram cinema sessions in Japanese, German, French and Simplified Chinese.
  • Additional information
    There is complete disability access and a number of seating options throughout the facility for all guests
  • Additional information
    The facility has a gift shop in the center of the facility and are co-branded RFDS with RM Williams in a great clothing and belt range. We also offer a wide selection of RFDS and Bombing of Darwin branded products ranging from T-shirts, hats, books and other great collectibles.
  • Additional information
    May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
  • Additional information
    Covid Safety Plan
Provided by Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility

What our experts say

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    Visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs.
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    Check out nearby Stokes Hill Wharf for dining.
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    Plan your visit early to avoid crowds.
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    Don't miss the VR experience of the bombing.
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    Bring a camera for great photo ops!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover two iconic stories that shaped Australia's Northern Territory at the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility: Two Iconic Territory Stories. Featuring the remarkable history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and the dramatic Bombing of Darwin, this tour takes you on a journey through time, celebrating the resilience of the people who call the Top End their home.

What to expect?

During this 120-minute experience, you will have the chance to see, experience, and learn through the wonder of technology as history comes to life. Uncover the heroic tales of the birth and growth of the RFDS, learning about the activities of the pilots, engineers, doctors, nurses, and patients who rely on this life-saving service every day. Immerse yourself in the stories of the RFDS's founder, John Flynn, through a lifelike hologram and engage with interactive touch panels to discover more about this iconic service. Relive the dramatic Bombing of Darwin Harbour in 1942 through captivating virtual reality and witness the destruction and resilience of the city firsthand. Engage with holograms, including Rear Admiral Etheridge Grant and Prime Minister John Curtin, who share their perspectives on this pivotal event in Australian history.

Who is this for?

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility caters to travelers of all ages who have a passion for history, aviation, and the story of Australia's Northern Territory. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a local seeking to deepen your understanding of the region's past, this tour provides a captivating experience for everyone. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the RFDS and the Bombing of Darwin, ensuring that each visitor leaves with a newfound appreciation for the history and resilience of Australia's Top End.

Why book this?

This tour offers a truly immersive and engaging experience like no other. Step into the shoes of past heroes and relive their stories through state-of-the-art technology. From lifelike holograms to virtual reality simulations, every detail has been carefully crafted to transport you back in time. The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility allows you to interact with historical figures and artifacts, creating an emotional connection to the events that shaped Australia's Northern Territory. By booking this tour, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the RFDS's vital role in remote healthcare and the enduring impact of the Bombing of Darwin. It's an experience that will leave you captivated and inspired.

Good to know

During the tour, you'll have the chance to explore a decommissioned RFDS Pilatus PC 12 aircraft and experience its fully aero medically equipped fitout. Learn about the invention of the Pedal Radio by Alf Traeger, which revolutionized communication in the Outback. Marvel at the full-size replica Japanese Zero aircraft hanging from the ceiling and discover the story of the Camilla, the Flying Boat that escaped from Darwin Harbour. Informative story boards provide additional insights and context throughout the facility, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the historical events. Come prepared to be amazed and inspired as you embark on this extraordinary journey through time.

Reviews

Visitors rave about the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility, praising its immersive technology and the depth of historical information provided. Travelers appreciate the combination of interactive displays and informative story boards, making the tour engaging and educational. The lifelike holograms and virtual reality experiences receive particular praise for their ability to transport visitors back in time and create a truly immersive experience. Many reviewers express their gratitude for the opportunity to learn about the RFDS and the Bombing of Darwin in such a dynamic and interactive way, leaving them with a greater appreciation for the resilience and spirit of Australia's Northern Territory.

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