Darwin Convention Centre hosts ADF families’ annual welcome to the Top End event

More than 1000 ADF members descended on the Darwin Convention Centre for a warm welcome to the Territory – and some sage advice about moving to the Top End was shared. SEE THE PHOTOS.

Defence members descended on the Convention Centre for a welcome to Darwin exhibition. Photo: Harry Brill.

With more than 20 years’ service under his belt, Brigadier Doug Pashley knows what it’s like to pick up and move your family around the country.

On Saturday, the 1st Brigade Commander watched on as more than a 1000 defence members and their families descended on the Darwin Convention Centre for its annual ‘welcome’ event – aimed at introducing the Territory’s newest residents to life in the Top End.

Brigadier Doug Pashley is familiar with the relocation experience. Photo: Harry Brill.

Hosted by sports clubs, emergency services, and non-for-profit organisations, Brigadier Pashley said the warm welcome afforded to the new residents was encouraging to see.

“(Moving locations) is probably one of the most challenging aspects of military service, when you have to pick up your family and move interstate,” he said.

“And with activities like this, we are able to ease and introduce defence members and families to the range of opportunities that are available to them.”

Brigadier Pashley said Darwin was among the best locations available to defence families.

“There is no better garrison town for our serving personnel, or their families, than Darwin and the Northern Territory,” he said.

“I would like to say ‘Thanks’ to the Darwin community – from when I arrived here in mid-November, I’ve been blown away by how welcoming and supportive the community has been to me and I’m sure that’s reflected across the force.”

The event also impressed Captain Jack Collingwood and his wife Madeline.

“I actually applaud how many organisations have come out to support new defence members arriving in the Territory,” Ms Collinwood said.

“It really goes to show the spirit that’s here in Darwin and the welcoming community that there really is something for everyone.”

Captain Jack Collingwood (right) and wife, Madeline. Photo: Harry Brill.

As for what advice Ms Collingwood had for partners of serving defence force members who had relocated, she said it was vital to “jump into” social opportunities.

“And get a really big water bottle,” she added.

Smooth of operators of 5th Battalion brought their kit to the event. Photo: Harry Brill.

Army Medical staff were a big hit with the children. Photo: Harry Brill.

Sonny looking for the gearbox of the Navy RHIB. Photo: Harry Brill.

Melissa O’Brien and son Oli. Photo: Harry Brill.

The doggies were very popular. Photo: Harry Brill.

Max Blunt traded the Army equipment for the Lego. Photo: Harry Brill.

Kieran and Nulla Rupcic introducing their daughter to a snippet of Darwin. Photo: Harry Brill.

Virtual pilot training at the Darwin Convention Centre. Photo: Harry Brill.

NTES Volunteers Jamie Richardson, Kyle Seville, Aushim Merchant. Photo: Harry Brill.

It’s not a Darwin Defence event without the Veterans MC. Photo: Harry Brill.

Matt and Jade Procter with their kids Maisie and Thomas. Photo: Harry Brill.

Photo: Harry Brill.

Even the Sally truck arrived. Photo: Harry Brill.

Virtual fishing was available for those keen to get a catch in the Top End. Photo: Harry Brill.