WORDS + PHOTOS BY BECCY TEMELKOSKI (DAUGHTER OF TONY AND JENNY)
Social media influences new beginnings
My parents, Tony and Jenny, moved to Darwin last year from Newcastle NSW, to embrace a new (hot and humid) lifestyle, be closer to the family, especially the grandkids and experience all that the Northern Territory has to offer.
Early into their move, my parents discovered the Territory Savvy social media pages. The best of our lifestyle is aesthetically shared throughout the Territory Savvy Facebook and Instagram, making it so easy to stay up to date on where to eat and what to do and experience. Your updates have been one of my parent’s saviours for their change in temperature and location.
Buying an apartment in The Gardens, close to all the Darwin favourites like the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, Botanic Gardens and the Trailer Boat Club for an amazing sunset and cold glass of bubbles – mum and dad were off to a good start.
It didn’t take long for them to embrace the change, visiting the local markets every weekend, grabbing a membership at the Darwin Waterfront, and exploring the Motor Vehicle Enthusiasts Club at the QANTAS Hangar in Parap.
Renovating their kitchen and bathrooms with amazing local businesses, Northern Stone and AKC Kitchens, sure added a touch of modern style and quality craftsmanship, which quickly transformed their apartment.
Once their new home was ready, some local shopping was in order and many visits to some of Darwin’s leading local boutique stores; Sekada Lifestyle Co in Smith Street, and AMARI Home & Styling in Winnellie helped to style their new apartment which was set to become their retirement abode.
My mum and dad quickly discovered it’s all about supporting local businesses in ‘D-town’ and for their day-to-day essentials they embraced, Comb Culture Hair Salon, Ella Baché and the IGA – all in Fannie Bay. Along with Diamond Barbers in Parap, each of these local gems becoming a regular feature in their new adjustment.
Embarking on weekend shopping escapades at Splash Swimwear and Stomp Shoes became a ritual, complemented by morning coffees at Nightcliff Foreshore Café, Cullen Bay’s Boatshed, and the renowned Coolspot Café in Fannie Bay. They soon adopted the quintessential Territory tradition of concluding their days by either relishing the coastal sunset from their balcony or enjoying a picturesque picnic dinner along the Nightcliff Foreshore – occasionally indulging in dinner from the local food vans.
You’ll often find Tony and Jenny embracing the local friendly atmosphere on their electric bikes, riding to East Point or Cullen Bay, Bundilla Beach, and the Nightcliff Foreshore – all while admiring Darwin’s wildlife. If you see them, be sure to wave and say g’day!
Without a doubt, Territory Savvy have made it easier and very attractive for my parents to know what’s happening. It’s now 12 months into their journey and, reflecting on their experiences, some of their highlights have been the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, the Darwin Waterfront Precinct’s events including their festive season Liquid Light Show, road trips to Litchfield National Park, the hot August nights of the Darwin Festival, and the endless list of cafés and local shops – many are now part of my parent’s weekly routine.
Thank you, Territory Savvy, for assisting my mum and dad in becoming savvy. If it’s on your socials, it’s on our “Must See and Do list!”
Below BECCY TEMELKOSKI (DAUGHTER OF TONY AND JENNY)
