Best of Darwin
Darwin in World War II: Sites, History and Where to Learn More
Darwin was bombed by Japanese aircraft on 19 February 1942 in the largest single attack ever carried out by a foreign power on Australian soil, and the city's wartime history is accessible through several sites and experiences. The Darwin Military Museum at East Point holds a significant collection of artillery, aircraft and memorabilia from the period. The Darwin WWII Oil Storage Tunnels on Kitchener Drive, cut into solid rock to protect fuel during the war, are open for tours and offer a remarkable glimpse into the city's wartime infrastructure. The annual Darwin Day of Remembrance on 19 February commemorates the raids with ceremonies and events. Entry to the oil tunnels and military museum carries a fee; details are best confirmed directly with each site.
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1
Darwin Military Museum
A comprehensive museum in East Point Reserve covering the Japanese bombing of Darwin in 1942 and the NT's wartime history, with an outdoor artillery display.
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2
WWII Oil Storage Tunnels
Underground fuel tunnels built by the US military in 1942-43, now a heritage walk in the Darwin CBD with self-guided audio tours.
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3
Bombing of Darwin Experience (Burnett House)
A heritage site managed by the National Trust of Australia (NT), with WWII memorabilia and a self-guided trail through East Point's wartime bunkers.
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4
Australian Aviation Heritage Centre
A hangar museum at Darwin Airport displaying WWII aircraft, including a preserved B-52 bomber, and the story of the aerial defence of northern Australia.
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East Point Reserve, WWII Guns
Historic World War II gun emplacements in East Point Reserve, with free access and interpretive signage overlooking Darwin Harbour.
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