CLUBS AND RUNWAYS

Daly Waters (YDLW), NT

Even if you’ve never heard of Daly Waters before, we guarantee you’ll have a memorable visit. Located 589km south-east of Darwin and 916km north of Alice Springs, this tiny remote town packs a punch with its quirky attractions and outback hospitality.

HISTORY

The Daly Waters Aviation Complex is home to the oldest hangar in the Northern Territory and is the site of Australia’s first international airport. It was used as a vital airbase during WWII and played a big part in the movement of troops, supplies and mail. You can read about its interesting history inside the complex.

EAT & DRINK

The Daly Waters Pub is the epitome of Aussie bush hospitality. Make sure you stay for a drink and hear the bar staff tell a few stories. Enjoy the pub’s signature Beef ‘n’ Barra BBQ cook-up held each night (April – October). Plus, there’s free entertainment each evening if you would like to kick on a bit longer.

GETTING AROUND

Unless you’re looking to venture beyond Daly Waters, you can easily get around on foot. The airport is just on the edge of town. Email or call the Daly Waters Pub for airport collection.

EXPLORE

The main attraction is the famous Daly Waters Pub. You’ll find the walls and ceiling decorated with strange memorabilia including hats, shoes and bras left behind by visitors. This is just where the weirdness begins. Keep following your nose and you’ll spot a derelict helicopter strapped to a tin roof, Australia’s most remote traffic light and plenty of other unusual paraphernalia around town. There’s a surprise around every corner and exploring is half the fun.

STAY

Daly Waters is a popular stopover for those travelling along the Stuart Highway, so it’s best to book ahead. Take your pick of camping, a budget pub room or an air-conditioned cabin.

Tocumwal (YTOC), NSW

With arguably some of the best weather conditions for flying in the country, Tocumwal is an idyllic spot to fly in and enjoy the Murray River. This laid-back part of the world is steeped in unique WWII history and the Tocumwal airfield has played a big role in that story.

HISTORY

Tocumwal was the first airfield built by the US in preparation for Japanese invasion in 1942. It was also used as RAAF Station HQ for training bomber aircrews. Several historic buildings are still standing today. The Tocumwal Aviation Museum is on site, so make sure you pop in and learn about the interesting history – stop by the popular ‘Drome café when your stomach starts to grumble.

EAT & DRINK

Dine al fresco on the foreshore and enjoy a delicious meal at The Old Bank, just one of the many quaint historic buildings in town. Cool down with a treat from Tocumwal Ice Creamery while enjoying the view of the Murray River.

CLUBS & FACILITIES

The Tocumwal airfield is home to the Murray Border Flying Club and Southern Riverina Gliding Club. Operating out of the terminal building, club amenities include a function space, kitchen, BBQ facilities and licensed bar as required. The Murray Border Flying Club has hosted a number of competitions, fly-ins and historic events.

EXPLORE

There is usually plenty of sunshine in Tocumwal, making it a great year-round destination for fishing, swimming, boating and bushwalking. Stop over for a round at of golf at one of its two championship golf courses. If you have a thirst for aviation history, Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome Museum also holds a wealth of artefacts and history. Finally, your visit isn’t complete without a selfie with the ‘world’s biggest codfish’ located at Tocumwal forshore.