Ali Burton
Well known radio presenter Ali Burton came to Darwin for a quick holiday 20 years ago … and fell in love. With the Territory that is.
In that time Ali has worked as a journalist, media advisor to a federal politician, MC, and has been the face of several charities. She is best known for her bubbly presence as an afternoon radio presenter on Mix FM.
Here’s 10 minutes with Ali …
What keeps you in the Territory?
The people. The lifestyle. The opportunities.
Like many, I came to Darwin for a holiday, but fell quickly in love with the city's vibrancy and multiculturalism. And the weather of course!
Growing up on a farm in regional South Australia, I'll never forget my first weekend in Darwin, which consisted of a visit to the Parap Markets for a famous Mary's laksa, followed by a walk along Nightcliff foreshore, a night out along Mitchell Street and then a visit to Uncle Sam's!
The lifestyle and warmth of Territorians really grabbed hold of me. And to this day, I love walking down the street and bumping into so many beautiful characters, who always stop for a chat. That's the Territory and what has kept me here.
Favourite part of the NT?
There are too many! However, I have fond memories of visiting Mount Borradaile in Arnhem Land. The ancient rock art is uniquely spectacular, unlike anything I've seen and the region is so culturally significant. The wildlife is also magnificent.
Favourite restaurant?
Again there are too many! When I first moved to the Territory I would gather with dear friends for dinner at Asian Gateway every Thursday evening on Aralia Street in Nightcliff. Sometimes we would drop off freshly caught barramundi from a day's fishing on the harbour and they would cook it up that evening.
Other favourite hot spots include Snapper Rocks and Chow at the Darwin Waterfront, Meraki Greek Taverna on Smith Street in Darwin City, Fannie Bay Super Pizza, Charlie's Bar Darwin ... and Char Restaurant on the Esplanade for their sunsets and steaks!
Best place to grab a coffee?
Can't go past the Trader Bar in Darwin city on a Sunday morning. Their pastries and coffee are the ultimate cure after a cheeky night out.
Dry Season or Wet?
Definitely the Dry. My Yorkshire Terrier, Yani, is terrified of thunder and lightening. We prefer strolling through the Darwin Botanical Gardens during the Dry and marvelling at the wildlife and tropical gardens, it's calming and so beautiful.
What do you do when everything’s feels overwhelming?
I box. I've been training with Cyclone Boxing NT for about five years. It mentally and physically gets me through challenging times. I've even travelled to Phuket in Thailand to train with fighters at Tiger Muay Thai, one of the world's leading training camps.
Advice to your 20-year-old self?
Believe in yourself. Take risks and go for it! What have you got to lose? Take every opportunity and run with it.
Best advice for a young woman wanting to get into broadcasting/media?
Put yourself out there and be persistent. Find mentors who you can learn from and don't give up!