Of course, this edition of Territory Q is not just about us. We have been proud over the past 49 editions to support small businesses across the NT. This edition is no different. Inside these pages are stories about small businesses that are thriving, like Ologist that operates a multi-disciplinary clinic with health services that you wouldn’t think would be complementary. Or the accidental entrepreneur who founded Slappa’s Thongs, a Darwin-based footwear company with an international reach. Or the former paralegal who now operates three pilates studios – only two years after opening her first.

On the big business side, McArthur River Mine (MRM) celebrates its 30th anniversary in this edition. The zinc mine has been an integral part of the NT’s economy and has supported thousands of jobs over the years.

We also look at Northcrest, one of Darwin’s most buzzworthy new neighbourhoods.

Driven by Shane Dignan from DCOH, it’s a modern, energetic development reimagining the old Berrimah Farm into a connected, family-friendly community. With contemporary homes, generous green spaces and a fresh suburban vibe, Northcrest is quickly becoming the address of choice for buyers seeking lifestyle and convenience.

This edition also introduces readers to the new independent Territory Procurement Champion, Tom Harris, whose role is to help businesses better navigate the NT Government procurement process while ensuring fairness and accountability across industry.

There’s a behind-the-scenes look at the remarkable logistical effort that created the new purpose-built motocross track at Hidden Valley – a project now celebrated as one of Australia’s premier venues for the sport.

We’re also relaunching Territory Taste, bringing back our foodie platform with new energy. Expect FOMO events, insider reviews and plenty of delicious discoveries. If you haven’t visited the Darwin Services Club yet, put it on the list. Its home, historic Old Admiralty House, was built in 1937 as the residence of the District Naval Officer and has since lived many lives – from naval quarters and an art gallery to Char restaurant. Its latest transformation is a credit to Habitat and to Pina and Darren Lynch, who are running the venue with polish and passion.

We also ventured a little closer to home to launch our quirky new SKI TRIP series. SKI standing for Spend Kids’ Inheritance. It’s all about showcasing 5-star Territory experiences. Our first feature is Finniss River Lodge. My first visit to Finniss was in the late 1990s for the largest private charity horse race in the NT, held on the station airstrip. I arrived in a SAAB convertible and was promptly “fined” at the gate for driving an inappropriate car on a dirt road, courtesy of my now-partner, Ray Bail.

Much has changed since then. The road is sealed, the lodge is luxury and a convertible would be right at home in the carpark.

We also spent time diving into the archives to mark a 50th milestone. 

I was so focused on the 50 print edition of our publication that I nearly let the 25th anniversary of Sprout, the company that produces it, slip past. 25 years is a long time to be in business. Looking at the photo opposite, I have definately earned my worry lines. It’s not been an easy run… some of us might make it look easy but it’s not. And I have seen many publications only make a handful of editions before they fold so I credit having a background in marketing and communications as the reason we are still here and nailing it.

Olive Pink is our celebrated pioneer this edition and the perfect figure to honour 50 years after her passing. To tell her story, I travelled to Alice Springs and met the passionate volunteers at the Women’s Museum of Australia and Old Gaol. I combed through archives, manuscripts, gardens and even the cemetery. Olive famously planted trees and named them after politicians and bureaucrats and then let them die if they didn’t meet her expectations. She broadened my understanding of what it means to stand up for a place and its people. She was a force.

Olive is our pioneer because she embodies a Territory spirit we prize. Tenacity, curiosity and a willingness to speak truth to power and hold those who represent us to account.

This is also what we aim to achieve at TQ. Publishing positive stories that ensure the Territory is visible, valued, and that the little guys with big vision get acknowledged.

I have a feeling 2026 is going to be a ripper as I turn my attention to support FabAlice, grow Barunga Festival, onboard new clients and create some exciting new festivals. House prices are up, the economy is tracking in the right direction, tourism has had a great year and gas is coming on.

With 50 issues under our belt, we have built an endearing and respected brand in the media. And we raise a glass to you the readers who keep it going. I hope you enjoy this edition of Territory Q as much as we did in creating it.

I’ll leave you with that, and in Olive’s legacy, take a moment to plant a few trees and name them. One will be in remembrance to Ted Egan AO who had a huge impact on the Territory we all love. Ted will be well watered, however some of the others may not, we will see.

Enjoy