One
of Australia’s newest cities, Palmerston is a thriving, satellite town
20 km outside the Darwin metropolitan area. It is one of the nation’s
fastest growing residential areas and has emerged as a dormitory suburb for
the families of servicemen on defence bases in and around Darwin. The Yarrawonga
Park Zoo, the Territory Wildlife Park and Litchfield National Park are all
within comfortable driving range. Litchfield embraces an untamed wilderness
area presided over by the red, sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range which
rears 220 metres above sea level.
The mesa is topped by dry woodlands which conceal springs whose crystal clear
waters spill into gorges cut into the sandstone over millions of years. Visitors
can experience this timeless landscape from lookouts and well-signed walking
trails. Palmerston is also within 15 or 20 minutes of the Howard Springs Tourist
Park. The reserve’s spring-fed pool is safe for swimming and is set
in a monsoon forest. The Springs Park boasts a kiosk, picnic areas and secluded
spots from which visitors can observe the abundant birdlife.
