Cook, artist, author and TV presenter Poh Ling Yeow has been unveiled as the Northern Territory’s newest ambassador, inspiring Australians to discover a holiday that’s ‘different in every sense’.
Known for her love of food, art, travel, and culture, Poh has taken an unforgettable adventure across the Northern Territory, travelling through the Top End, to iconic destinations such as Litchfield National Park, Finniss River Lodge and the Territory’s tropical capital, Darwin.
Her journey also led her into the Red Centre, where she discovered visited Alice Springs (Mparntwe), Hermannsburg (Ntaria), Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve, and the majestic Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park.
In her new role, Poh will spotlight the Territory’s unparalleled beauty, rich cultures, vibrant food scene and artistic heritage, inspiring travellers to experience its unique magic firsthand.
“As someone who adores travel, learning, and finding inspiration in new places, the NT is a dream destination. From the breathtaking Top End to the awe-inspiring Red Centre, I’ve fallen in love with it all – and I couldn’t be prouder to showcase everything this extraordinary place has to offer,” she said.
Tourism NT chief marketing officer Tony Quarmby shared his delight at welcoming Poh Ling Yeow as the newest ambassador for the NT.
“Poh’s passion for food, art, culture, the outdoors and exploration perfectly capture the essence of the Territory,” he said.
“Everywhere she went, she connected effortlessly with visitors and locals alike, with fans from Australia and around the world flocking to meet her. Poh’s genuine warmth, authenticity and deep connection to the landscapes and stories of the Territory make her the perfect inspiration for others to explore our incredible destination.”
Poh’s adventures in the Top End and the Red Centre will be brought to life across social media and other platforms, giving audiences a front-row seat to the magic of the NT.
Poh’s favourite NT experiences:
Darwin and Finniss River Lodge
“Darwin instantly felt like home with its tropical vibes and the incredible Asian-inspired food scene,” she said.
“And that sunset over the azure water was just breathtaking! The food there typifies Darwin – delicious, culturally authentic, vibrant and laid back.
“Finniss River Lodge, just outside of Darwin, was an absolute foodie paradise! I loved being taken to forage for native bush foods that end up on the menu – talk about paddock to plate! Breakfast amongst the giant termite mounds was amazing! And don’t even get me started on the cows and the larger-than-life Territory cattlemen, Brad and Pete – true-blue characters who had me laughing the whole time as we explored the stunning property on buggies. Oh, and the bush bees! As a bee lover with hives at home, getting up close and learning about these native bees was the cherry on top of an already incredible experience.”
Litchfield National Park
“My trip to Litchfield National Park’s Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek Falls) was absolutely next level! I’m usually a pretty low-key traveller, but being scooped up by helicopter from Finniss River Lodge and dropped straight into the most stunning freshwater swimming hole was just unreal. Swimming in crystal-clear water under a waterfall and then flying back to Darwin in style was pure magic and a total pinch-me moment!”
Alice Springs (Mparntwe)
“Alice Springs is an absolute gem! It’s so easy to get to and the perfect hub to explore some of Australia’s most jaw-dropping scenery. The town is so unique and quirky with amazing accommodation, vibrant art (I couldn’t resist snapping up some Tjanpi Desert Weaver jewellery), and the freedom to hit the open road for epic outback adventures.
“And the food scene was amazing! I finally ticked off an NT institution with Jimmy Shu’s iconic Hanuman restaurant which was stunning and even swung by the KFC drive-thru to see if it really lives up to its cult status as Australia’s best. Spoiler: it does!”
Tjorita / West MacDonnell National Park (Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek and Simpsons Gap)
“Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek are like hidden inland beaches – so unique, so stunning, and just a stone’s throw from Alice. Even after all my travels around the NT, this trip blew me away with new destinations. Honestly, I’m calling it – the NT has the world’s best pristine freshwater waterholes!
“I really felt a spiritual connection to Simpsons Gap, a beautiful sacred site for the local Arrernte people I put my head against decade old gum trees and listened to them drinking water from deep beneath the dry riverbed – it blew my mind. I could have stood and hugged those trees for hours, while I basked in the incredible beauty.”
Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve
“Rainbow Valley is a total hidden gem! I was there at sunset, and oh my gosh, what a show. The ground was blanketed in wildflowers, and the sandstone rock faces lit up like they were alive – pure magic. It blows my mind that the NT has so many stunning spots that are easy to get to but still feel so remote and untouched.”
