Bombing of Darwin Walking Tour ABC Local

When you walk along the coast in Darwin's northern suburbs and look out over beautiful sunset views, do you ever wonder what lies beneath the surface? A wealth of war history remains under the seas surrounding Darwin, and some evidence is still visible at Rapid Creek and Nightcliff.

East Point is a popular recreational spot in Darwin, but in 1942 it was a gun site which had been cleared for views to enemy ships and aircraft. It was where Australia stationed its 'guard dogs', but they did not necessarily have any bite. Find out more about the state of this interesting site during World War Two.

Doctors Gully was a place many people boarded boats in the evacuations before Darwin was bombed. It then became a site where army personnel worked to pull bodies out of the water during Japan's attack. Also in this stop, hear the story of one family's reunion in Darwin, decades after they were evacuated.

The USS Peary was an American land and sea vessel, anchored in the Darwin Harbour on the day Japan attacked. It saw the single greatest loss of life of any part of Darwin that day, with around 90 US sailors killed. Hear from one survivor, Captain Mel Duke, about this terrifying moment, and, learn about how the alliance between Australia and America has grown since WWII.

The Cenotaph is a place where hundreds gather every year to remember the day Darwin was first bombed. But in 1942, it was a gun site, and a completely different scene from the now peaceful esplanade park. Hear from survivors and Dr Tom Lewis about this important part of Australia's history, and how it has been remembered by the nation.

The old Bank of New South Wales was in the middle of paying Air Force personnel their wages when bombs began dropping on February 19. Coins and notes were swept off the desks and everyone dived into nearby trenches. In this stop of the Bombing of Darwin Walking Tour, you'll hear how the bank manager at the time dealt with the situation.