Pine Creek

We called into Pine Creek twice on our caravan trip through the Northern Territory - about 90 kilometres north of Katherine just off the Stuart Highway. Pine Creek is a small town and was named when the workers on the Overland Telegraph line noted interesting pine trees growing along the creek. Gold was discovered in about 1871 and it became a very busy mining town. There are plenty of things to see around town and in the local area - historic building, gorges, swimming holes and a large number of bird species including the rare Hooded Parrot.

On our first visit we were heading north into Kakadu National Park. We needed to purchase a Kadadu National Park Pass ($25 each - valid for 14 days), fuel and beer. We were able to obtain all these items from the Lazy Lizard which is a tavern, caravan park, petrol station and small grocery store. The tavern is very interesting and has animals carved into the wooden supports around the eating area as well as carvings under the sinks in the toilets. This is a very popular place with plenty of people calling in for lunch.

On our second visit to Pine Creek we drove into town from the northern entrance and came past a lovely little park with historic mining and railway equipment on display -a number of signs telling the story of life on the goldfields and the history of mining in the region. This is called Miners Park and is located next to the Railway Station and the old Station Master’s residence.  

We called into the Railway Resort for morning tea - this is very nice with the sides of the building shaped like railway engines. Very modern inside and the service was great. We had a homemade sausage roll, a freshly made scone with jam and proper cream with coffee - delicious. The eating area and bar overlooks the beautifully landscaped pool of the resort.

There are plenty of accommodation options in and around Pine Creek and I think it is worthwhile allowing some time to call in and have a look.