City of Darwin is delighted to be hosting an historical Exercise of Freedom of Entry Parade throughout the city centre for the 100th anniversary of RAAF Base Darwin.
 
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said: “The granting of Freedom of Entry to the military is an entirely ceremonial honour and the highest accolade bestowed by the elected Council Members of Darwin.
 
“This is a special 100th anniversary year for the RAAF in Darwin and we are delighted that we could make this unique ceremonial event happen.

“The RAAF is an iconic military presence here in Darwin, providing a key service to the Northern Territory through operational patrolling throughout the Top End and assisting the whole of government effort to ensure the safety and sovereignty of Australia’s borders.
 
“The parade is a wonderful way for the people of Darwin to gather together and thank the men and women of RAAF Base Darwin for their commitment and service now and into the future.”
 
The Exercise of Freedom of Entry parade will commence at 10am Saturday 9 October from the Civic Centre, proceeding around the streets of Darwin to Raintree Park on Knuckey Street, where the Lord Mayor will review and address the parade, then continuing on to the Cenotaph.
 
Freedom of Entry dates back to the medieval times when military forces were granted permission to enter a city with their colours flying, bands playing, drums beating and swords drawn, as a sign of peaceful intent. Military forces were often turned away at the city gates without a Freedom of Entry agreement.

https://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/explore/whats-on/city-of-darwin-freedom-of-entry-parade