Fish Feeding At Northern Territory's Aquascene

The Northern Territory of Australia boasts abundant nature including diverse wet ecosystems. It encompasses spectacular waterfalls, rivers, wetlands and bays where different species of marine life and native wildlife exist.

The tropical unpolluted bays of Darwin allow for a large variety of fish and the Northern Territory developed Aquascene allows you to experience a completely natural interaction with hundreds of them at the shoreline each day.

How it began

The habit of feeding fish in the freshwater started in the 1960s by a local fisherman throwing small pieces of bread on the water to feed small mullet during high tide. Other residents followed his lead and started to feed the fish using their own hands. This would happen at the shore when the tide was at its highest and it has now become somewhat of a phenomenon whereby the people meet the fish in the waters each day to feed and pet them in return for a massage, manicure and memorable experience.

The fish

Some of the fish fed by visitors are mullet, barramundi, catfish, milkfish and bream. A few mangrove jack, cod, diamond fish and rays are also often spotted amongst the more common fish. Some of the fish such as barramundi and cod can be quite large but are gentle giants and a joy to encounter.

There are a number of steps that allow people to observe fish feeding out of the water or some that will be submerged in shallow waters. There is also an old boating ramp that allows you to walk into the water gradually to whatever depth you like.
Aquascene is a unique experience that allows you to be in and amongst a flurry of several species of Australian fish which has to be experienced to be fully appreciated.

When to go & feeding times

The fish feeding at Aquascene occurs at specific times when the tide is high; usually sessions in the morning are the best. Aquascene is only open during these feeding times for 2 hour sessions. The schedules are affected by weather conditions, the level of the tide, general seasonal conditions, water clarity and breeding. Contact Aquascene if you need to know specific times, local publications will display them or they can be found online here http://www.aquascene.com.au/feeding.php

The best times to visit Aquascene are during August and December because more fish swim to the shore waiting to be fed.

Location

Aquascene is conveniently located in central Darwin

Address: 28 Doctors Gully Rd, Darwin 0800
NT, Australia

What to bring and wear

• Be prepared to wear clothing that will get wet (swimwear would be appropriate) so you can wade into the water and be amongst the fish as you hand feed them
• A camera to take some great photos

Fees

Adults: $8.00
Children: $5.00

* Includes trays of provided bread for feeding

Contact

Phone: (08) 8981 7837
Fax: (08) 8941 8844
Email: aquascene@bigpond.com
Website: www.aquascene.com.au

Aquascene Photos