Locum Location - Darwin, NT

5 Blugibbon doctors have spent the last few months in Darwin.

By Dr Abi and Dr Jack and Dr Heather, Dr Victoria and Dr Kate

What is the Team Like?

 
Everyone is super friendly and approachable. The nurses are fantastic, always on hand to help and they are a good, fun crowd. Additionally, there are many locum doctors around who are keen to go out for drinks or dinner.

Tell us about the set-up of the hospital and support for a Locum Doctor in Darwin.

 
For juniors, you are very clinically supported. There are at least two consultants on each shift, and they are always keen to discuss patients and possible plans. For ED RMOs, your shifts are either in Majors, Fast Track, Paeds or Short Stay. There is at least one RMO and registrar allocated to each. 

 
It is the biggest hospital for a while, so it accepts a lot of people from rural communities as well as trauma patients. Advice from most surgical specialities in addition to medical and ICU. 

Abi and Jack’s travel story:

 
 I drove myself from Queensland to get to Darwin. This consisted of very long, straight roads, but thankfully, a 130km/hr speed limit.

Heather, Victoria and Kate’s travel story:

We arrived via Howard Springs to quarantine, which was actually so much better than we anticipated. As we travelled together, we were counted as a household unit.

This allowed us to interact with each other on our verandas and in our rooms.

Accommodation

On-site accommodation is provided by the hospital; it is basic but practical. You have everything you need set up in a studio flat containing a bed, bathroom and kitchenette. Most importantly, you have air conditioning, and there is a 25m pool for use only a stone’s throw away. 

* TIP - bring your own pillow.

 If you don’t have access to a car, we would suggest hiring a bike from Ash’s Bikes, and then you can easily get around to the shops, etc. 

Any local inside information to share?

Our top recommendation would be to spend a few days in Litchfield and Kakadu, see some spectacular waterfalls and even go for a dip to cool off, just watch out for the crocs! You don’t need a 4x4 to get there, but some sites are only accessible with one.

When at Litchfield, make sure you take a walk between Buley and Florence Falls to find some secluded swimming spots.

* TIP - bring a pool noodle for the national parks.

Yellow Water Cruises in Kakadu was an amazing experience to see a lot of wildlife.

In Darwin, Nightcliff swimming pool was a great place to chill out after work. It’s right on the side of a cliff and looks out over the ocean, perfect for a sunset. 

Town amenities? Shops?

 PeeWees is a top spot for dinner. It has incredible sunset views and delicious local seafood.

There is a great vegan restaurant on the waterfront called Ebb & Flo - the bar next door has great vibes too. 

One of our favourite cafes was Ruby G’s Canteen. 

Hanuman in town is also a lovely option if you like Indian food. 

Mindil Beach Market on Thursday and Sunday evening is great for a wander and some food. There are more markets in Parap and Nightcliffs, too, for more yummy food and local artwork. 

Would you go back to Darwin as a Locum?

We would recommend going to Darwin as a locum. Make sure you consider whether it is wet or dry season when you’re planning, as this will change the experience. It is very well supported, and there are so many spectacular national parks nearby, which are a must-visit!