Daly River Mango Farm

HISTORY

The Daly River region is located 230km south east of Darwin in Australia's Northern Territory. It is an area of significant heritage, and the Daly River Mango Farm itself has Aboriginal sacred sites, two National Trust Listings and is a registered Australian Heritage site.

The property was one of the first European settlements established on the river, when Jesuit Missionaries arrived in 1886.The foundations of the original Uniya (which is Aboriginal for "bend in the river") mission remain standing today.

The farm was resettled in 1913 by the successful agricultural pioneer James Parry. Parry was responsible for planting the mango tress from which "Mango Farm" derives its name. This grove of mature trees, now over 80 years old, provide a unique canopy over the accommodation and camping facilities ensuring protection from the harsh Northern Territory climate. Graves of the Parry Family are located on the Mango Farm.

Weather Station Today the property, owned and operated by Gary and Rhonda Higgins, remains involved in mango production, weather recording services (for the Australian Bureau of Meteorology) and tourism.

In late January 1998 the Daly experienced the largest flood to hit the region in over 100 years. For the Daly River Mango Farm this meant the loss of newly planted mango trees, extensive damage to Settler's Bar and Bistro, and virtually wiped out two hand built stone cabins.

Since the 1998 flood one of the stone cabins has been re-built, a new camp kitchen established and replanting of the production mango trees is well underway. Settler's Bar and Bistro was re-opened in mid 1999 and a new in-ground pool installed in May the same year. The farm was again flooded in April 2000 and February 2002.

Within a short drive of the Daly River are other historical sites including the Copper Mine, Gold Mine, Nauiyu Mission Church and more so when in the area take the opportunity to do some exploring. Maps to many of these historical places are available from reception, free to guests.

In summary, the Daly River Mango Farm aims to cater for people who wish to experience the real Daly River, its history, wildlife, natural beauty and, of course, world renowned barramundi fishing!

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