The township of Jabiru is close to the border of the Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land, about 220 kilometres from Darwin.

Jabiru is the Aboriginal name for Australia's native stork. In 1970 uranium was discovered here and the town was originally created to accommodate the workers from the Ranger Uranium Mine.

Today the town acts as a service centre for tourists to the popular Kakadu National Park. Facilities include supermarket, newsagency, chemist, bank, post office, medical centre and police station. There is also a church, a souvenir shop and a takeaway food store. Car Hire and full fuel and mechanical repairs are also available.

There is also a swimming pool complex in the town.

Natural Attractions

Its biggest attraction without a shadow of a doubt is the Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage listed area which is really a must for any visitors in the vicinity. Amongst its attractions are rainforest, waterfalls and a whole range of flora and fauna. Another major element of the Park are the Aboriginal art sites to be found there. For all of these reasons it is easy to see why this National Park cannot be missed.

Not terribly far from Jabiru, to the north, is the Gurig National Park and Coburg Marine Park. This expanse of land is right at the very top of the Territory. Don't forget that you require a permit to travel in Arnhem Land.

Other Attractions

Jabiru Lake is a peaceful recreational area near the town. The lake is man made, and offers a pontoon, a sandy beach, and a grassy picnic and barbecue area. Boating, swimming and sailing are all popular activities here.

It is possible to pay a visit to the Ranger Uranium Mine whilst in Jabiru. This is a working mine, and while there you will learn all about the various stages of the mining process - extraction, milling and processing of the uranium. Apart from seeing part of the mines themselves you will also be able to browse through the collection at the display room.

Kakadu Air offer tours over the National Park and Arnhem Land. Durations of half and a full hour are available, providing an opportunity to explore the wilderness from an entirely new perspective.

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