Birdum
NT 852 • Northern Territory
About Birdum
Birdum is a remote outback locality in the Northern Territory, situated approximately 190 km south of Katherine along the Stuart Highway. Covering an enormous 16,735 km² of tropical savannah and woodland, the locality has a population of just 63 residents. Birdum carries a notable wartime history, having served as a significant Australian Army base and railway terminus during World War II — remnants of the old Larrimah-Birdum rail corridor remain visible across the landscape. Today the area is part of the vast pastoral and cattle station country of the Territory's southern tablelands.
Life in Birdum is defined by the rhythms of remote outback Australia, with the Stuart Highway providing the main artery connecting the locality to Katherine to the north and Tennant Creek to the south. The nearby settlement of Larrimah provides a small roadhouse, while Katherine serves as the regional hub for supplies, health services, schools and employment. The surrounding savannah landscape supports seasonal cattle grazing, and the area is popular with travellers making their way along the iconic Stuart Highway. The wet season (November to April) can make local tracks impassable, adding to the rugged character of this remote Territory locality.
Birdum falls under postcode 852 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Katherine electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Greyhound Australia — Stuart Highway coach service — Katherine / Darwin / Alice Springs Katherine approx 2.5 hrs
Commute to Katherine
🛣️ Stuart Highway (sealed) is the main access route. 4WD recommended for station tracks in the wet season.
No local services. All travel by vehicle via the Stuart Highway.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Buntine Highway