Darwin turned Emma's working holiday into her dream job. What it's like to live and work in Darwin.

Emma found Darwin's laid back lifestyle and lively event scene to her liking, landing a dream job working on some of the city's biggest events. She's already planning her return to Darwin.

Why did you choose to live in Darwin?

We were looking at places to complete our regional work (as part of the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program) when my best friend suggested Darwin. She only had good things to say. She loved Darwin so much that she was returning to do her 6 months' regional work. We were sold!

When asked about what it's like to live and work in Darwin, Emma says the tropical city is fun, adventurous and rewarding.

When did you know Darwin was home?

I knew Darwin was the right place for me when we first arrived and stayed at the Palms City Resort on the Esplanade. The tropical vibe hit us just before the dry season began, and every evening we’d watch the sunset and feel incredibly lucky to be in such a beautiful place.

Darwin has given me some of the most incredible opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. I’ve made lifelong friendships along the way and I’m already counting the days until I can return!

What opportunities have helped your career or personal growth?

Darwin has played a huge role in my personal and professional growth. Living here has pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new experiences. It’s a place where you can really thrive and find your place.

I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to have secured my absolute dream job. By chance I stumbled across a social media and digital marketing role with SRO Events and had the best few months of my life working across some of the NT’s biggest festivals and events. From working on DJ on Bike, Top End Gin Fest, NT Irish Music Festival and Darwin Cocktail Festival to name a few, it was such a rewarding experience being part of these unforgettable events.

Even after heading back to Perth for a short stint I’ve been lucky enough to continue working remotely for the team and plan on returning very soon before the dry season event madness kicks off again.

What's special about the lifestyle in Darwin?

I just love the chilled back lifestyle. The slower pace and outdoorsy lifestyle has taught me to appreciate the little things and focus more on the present moment. It’s also helped me become more adaptable and open-minded to take on new opportunities. The people here are so welcoming and it’s made me value relationships and experiences over everything else.

Where are your favourite Darwin hotspots?

Fannie Bay is my comfort place, it just feels really special. We would go there every day after work and I absolutely loved it.

If you’re considering moving to Darwin I’d say go for it. The NT really is such a unique place that every backpacker needs to experience during their Australian journey.