Some key outdoor areas in the Katherine parks will open earlier than expected.
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Leliyn (Edith Falls) and the Southern Rockhole in Nitmiluk National Park will open from noon on Friday.
Some other areas in Nitimiluk will remain closed until June 5 until biosecurity zones are lifted.
But it does mean all parks will be open in readiness for the Queen's Birthday long weekend on June 8.
What's open and what's not:
From noon Friday:
- Southern Rockhole - walk and swimming.
- Leliyn (Edith Falls) - camping and swimming.
- All southern walks.
Still closed:
- Boat tours, canoeing and swimming at Nitmiluk Gorge will recommence from June 5.
- Jatbula Trail remains closed due to normal seasonal closures.
- Baruwei Loop Walk remains closed until June 9 due to construction.
- Elsey National Park remains closed until June 5 with the exception of the Mataranka Thermal Pool.
It will be perfect dry season weather for heading outdoors in Katherine.
The Bureau of Meteorology says temperatures will reach 34 on both Friday and Saturday and then 36 on Sunday in Katherine.
Nitmiluk Tours is calling for volunteers who may be able to help prepare for the park's reopening with a working bee this Friday - contact Alec on 043 6814 674.
With the lifting of biosecurity zone restrictions from June 5, all NT parks and reserves, other than those closed for seasonal reasons, will be open and accessible to all Territorians from noon that day.
The decision, made in consultation with joint management partners, means we can get back to enjoying the outdoor activities and Territory lifestyle we all love, with camping, swimming and walking an option in all regions.
In Central Australia, key sites such as Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Glen Helen, Trephina Gorge and Watarrka National Park will be open and accessible for camping and swimming from noon on 5 June.
The June long weekend will provide the perfect opportunity for locals who have been itching to get out on the Larapinta Trail to dust off their boots and backpacks, with plenty of different itinerary options.
For the Barkly region, the following locations are now accessible to Tennant Creek residents:
- Tingkkarli / Lake Mary Ann.
- Tennant Creek Golf Club.
- Tennant Creek Gun Club.
- Tennant Creek Speedway.
These changes do not apply to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park which are a matter for the Australian Government in consultation with Traditional Owners.
For a full list of what parks are currently open.
Tourism, Sport and Culture Minister Lauren Moss said: "This is great news for Territorians, especially those located in Central Australia who can now get out and enjoy the beautiful parks and reserves in their region.
"The cooler weather is prime for camping and although Finke Desert Race has been cancelled, the lifting of the biosecurity zones will allow Territorians to enjoy the June long weekend camping and relaxing in the great outdoors.
"As our latest campaign says: it's 'Time to be a Territorian' by getting out and enjoying our backyard while supporting local tourism businesses along the way.
"Whether it's booking a fishing charter, a water cruise, a cultural experience or discovering your new favourite holiday accommodation, now's the time to get and about.
"Of course, we ask all Territorians to continue to do the right thing - check what's open before you leave, respect our Rangers and NT Police, follow the rules, listen to instructions and enjoy your parks."
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