Goyder lands at Darwin, a re-enactment

On that day this month the National Trust of Australia (NT) will once again bring the historic occasion to life with action, drama, costumes, and music in an event that grows in popularity each year.

George Woodroffe Goyder had been sent to choose a site for a northern capital, and he set about his task with great energy. Within half an hour of his ship The Moonta dropping anchor, Goyder and a small party of men were ashore to explore, and had chosen a suitable camp site. The development of Darwin, then known as Palmerston, was soon to follow. February 5th this year will offer a striking record of these events that are part of Darwin’s heritage and will bring to life the living conditions and technology used by Goyder and his survey party.

A scripted re-enactment will portray Goyder’s landing from a small boat on to the foreshore at the end of Jervois Road just behind Deckchair Cinema. Luckily high tide this year will see the re-enactment start at 5.30pm giving a great opportunity for many more people to attend this enjoyable event.

A reception in the Deckchair Cinema grounds will follow and will include a variety of hands-on historical activities which will be bound to fascinate families, school groups and other s with an interest in the history of Darwin. There will also be music of the period from the Folk Club Band and light refreshments will be served.