The $10 million promised by the CLP to build a skywalk over Nitmiluk Gorge has been reallocated by the NT Government.
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Tourism Minister Lauren Moss yesterday announced Nitmiluk National Park will receive $10 million over the next four years for infrastructure upgrades to improve the visitor experience.
Four projects worth $2.45 million have been identified as immediate priorities by the Jawoyn Association which represents the Traditional Owners of Nitmiluk National Park.
These projects will commence in 2017/18.
- First Gorge jetty replacement and refurbishment of adjacent footbridge to support visitor access, flows and use.
- Construction of a slip-lane on the Gorge access road to support future development.
- Replacement of a walkway between the first and second crossover on the ‘wet season’ side of Nitmuluk Gorge.
- Stabilisation of 17 Mile Creek crossing to allow vehicle access to Biddlecombe Cascades, to support the development of a new overnight ‘glamping’ experience.
The remaining $7.55 million is for upgrades that will be identified through a Visitor Experience Development Plan (VEDP) jointly developed by Jawoyn Association and NT Government.
“The Territory Labor Government is investing in our future through jobs, children and the community - this budget announcement will ensure Nitmiluk National Park will continue to be a major tourist destination for years to come,” Minister Moss said.
“Territorians trust that the government will continue to invest in our National Parks as they are a major tourism and economic driver on a local and Territory-wide level.
“In the Katherine region, Nitmiluk National Park attracts approximately 250,000 visitors each year and we want to make sure they have the best possible experience when they visit the NT and tell their mates to visit.
“We will be working with Traditional Owners to ensure visitor experiences reflect their vision,” she said.
Chairperson of the Jawoyn Association board, Lisa Mumbin, said developing a VEDP would help create a clear plan for the future of Nitmiluk National Park.
“Under the motto of ‘sharing our country’ Jawoyn people established Nitmiluk Tours to manage tourism in the park and offer an array of accommodation and touring experiences,” Ms Mumbin said.
“The plan will provide a road map for the Park to improve current visitor experiences and develop viable, innovative new options that cater for different visitor groups.
“An investment in infrastructure will improve visitor experience and safety, which we hope will attract more people, promote economic activity in the region and further showcase our parks in the Northern Territory,” she said.
