The first two of five mountain bike trails was officially opened at Nitmiluk National Park yesterday.
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Stage One of a bike trail network designed to capture the growing adventure tourism market has been completed.
When finished, there will be more than 10 kilometres of bike trails in the popular park.
This latest project includes the creation of several new mountain-biking trails that link the Gorge Tourist Precinct and the Katherine River to the existing walking trail network.
Many of the new trails will be shared-use, allowing both walkers and mountain bikers to enjoy the park.
The first stage of the two stage bike trails project offers two looped trails, totalling just over 10km, designed in consultation with the Jawoyn Traditional Owners to further enhance the visitor experiences in this ancient park
The 5.7km Jalkwarak trail caters for beginners, while the 4.4km Jatete trail offers more challenging terrain to suit more experienced riders.
The trails will also suit walkers.
In addition, there are two mountain bike hubs with bike repair stations, orientation signage and seating under a large shelter.
Three further trails are under construction and are expected to be completed by the end of the 2020 dry season.
This project has supported Aboriginal jobs throughout planning and construction, and provides further employment opportunities with ongoing maintenance works.
The trails are part of a $5.5 million investment the NT Government has made in Nitmiluk National Park to improve the visitor experience.
Other works include upgrades to the Baruwei walk, improving the stairs and viewing platform and installing new interpretive signage. Installation of handrails at Lily Ponds will also make accessing the main pool safer and easier for visitors.
This comes in addition to a $10 million investment to upgrade, refresh and develop tourism infrastructure in the Nitmiluk Gorge, including a new $1.9 million jetty.
Arnhem MLA and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Selena Uibo said: "Nitmiluk National Park attracts more than 270,000 visitors each year, who come from all over the world to enjoy this spectacular country just as Aboriginal people have done for 65,000 years.
"It's important to note this park continues to be a standout example of collaboration in our community, with the Nitmiluk Tours board driving the changes in a way which is culturally representative, and considerate of country.
"These significant upgrades to Nitmiluk National Park, in partnership with Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation, is a great example of how the government can work with traditional owners, drawing upon thousands of years of knowledge and wisdom, to improve the visitor experience in the NT.
"Tourism is a key economic driver right across the Territory and by supporting Aboriginal land ownership, we are not only delivering on the economic and social aspirations of Aboriginal Territorians, we are enhancing the cultural experience for everyone who visits the park."
Tourism, Sport and Culture Minister Lauren Moss said: "The Government continues to invest in our parks as they improve liveability for Territorians, attract visitors and create jobs.
"Right now we want Territorians to explore their own backyard and the upgrades to Nitmiluk National Park are part of making sure our assets are maintained and enticing.
"The mountain bike trails are part of the NT Mountain Bike Master Plan developed to showcase the NT's iconic landscapes and attract a range of adventure markets.
"With mountain biking and adventure tourism growing in popularity around the world, our investment in these trails will be sure to attract tourists when they are able to safely visit again."
New mountain bike trails near Alice Springs were also launched last week.
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