About the Darwin Services Club
Before we delve into the current day offerings of our beautiful venue, it’s worth taking a minute to read about the history of our place, Old Admiralty House. Florenz August Carl Bleeser, a postal official and botanist of increasing renown, bought this block and an adjoining one in 1931. He erected his home on this one and established a small museum on the adjacent one, including designing and planting a garden with unusual trees, palms and orchids in a shade house. Bleeser died during World War II and the family did not return to Darwin.
His garden existed when Old Admiralty House was moved to tits current site in 1951. The design, shadehouse and some of the original trees in the garden remain today. The house continued as the home of the Senior Naval Officer Northern Australia until 1983. It suffered minor damage during Cyclone Tracy and was used as the headquarters for the recovery phase. After 83, it became an art gallery and coffee shop until early 1993. The house is a good example of an amended Burnett “B” type tropical house, the grandest of a series of tropical designs by BCG Burnett. It is one of only two “B” type houses remaining in the Central Business District of Darwin.
Admiralty House stands as one of Darwin's most cherished heritage landmarks — a true reminder of the city's strength and spirit. Renovated in 2025 it is home to the Darwin Services Club.
Located on the stunning Darwin Esplanade within the historic grounds of Admiralty House, the Darwin Services Club offers the perfect blend of tropical charm, local flavour, and relaxed hospitality.
