A LEANER, GREENER KATHERINE

Stretching from Queensland to Western Australia, the Katherine Region is where the Outback meets the tropics in a region that’s filled to the brim with dramatic gorges, river systems, thermal springs and breathtaking waterfalls.

In country as beautiful as this, it’s always a good idea to take to the skies and soar over the Z-shaped lands to really appreciate the diversity, so make sure your camera is fully charged for the trip.

No less than 13 dramatic gorges dot the landscape and names like Biddlecombe Cascades, Crystal Falls and 17 Mile Falls roll off the tongue as you fly low along the escarpment towards Arnhem Land.

From Katherine, it’s just a leisurely 50-minute drive to Nitmiluk National Park where Nitmiluk Tours runs its Nit Nit Dreaming Two Gorge Cultural Cruise through the lands of the Jawoyn people.

Tours continue during the green season until the water levels rise too high.

For water babies, Mataranka Hot Springs and its neighbour, beautiful Bitter Springs, are located a 50-minute drive south.

Immerse yourself in nature with a hike through the Nitmiluk National Park to the Southern Rockhole – one of the few places where you can swim in the park during the wet season.

The walk is more hike than stroll as you clamber over the rocky escarpment, so BYO good walking shoes.

And, at day’s end, retire to your Safari Tent in the National Park campground, complete with resident wallabies and a side of fresh Northern Territory air.