Feathers Sanctuary

By Franz Scheurer

Like many Darwin residents, Peter and Suzanne McGrath were originally from somewhere else. But they discovered that the laconic lifestyle and ‘frontier’ town feel of Darwin suited them, and made it their home. Then in 2004, Peter, a builder and keen bird-lover, built their dream home on 5 acres on the cities southern fringes, adding a man-made lagoon to house a range of birds and four beautifully appointed ‘safari-style’ huts (with terrific outdoor bathrooms), so they could share this wonderful sanctuary with a few visitors at a time.

Birds, including whistling ducks, magpie geese, jabirus and beautiful dancing brolgas, wander freely around the billabong and huts, while owls, parrots and others are in aviaries dotted around the property. Accompanying Peter on his daily feeding rounds is a highlight of a stay here.

Suzanne goes out of her way to make guests feel at home, with quality ingredients stocked in each room’s fridge for guests to make their own breakfast and lots of insider tips about local artists, restaurants and other sites.

This has to be the best place to stay in Darwin and one of the most peaceful places we have ever stayed.

Feathers Sanctuary Bed & Breakfast

Peter & Suzanne McGrath

49A Freshwater Road

Jingili NT 0810

Tel.: 08 8985 2144