Visitors will soon be able to revisit Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park on Kangaroo Island as part of a $3 million upgrade to the popular tourism destination in another boost to the island’s economy.
Part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s $52 million investment in rebuilding essential parks infrastructure to support and rejuvenate the island’s visitor economy, the upgrades will include enhanced tours of Kelly Hill Caves, as well as above ground infrastructure being rebuilt as part of fire recovery works.
Funding will also go towards upgrades to the day visitor site at Rocky River, within Flinders Chase National Park, to provide essential visitor facilities whilst the new Flinders Chase Visitor Centre is constructed near the entrance to the national park, and to road works to ensure safe access to the new visitor centre, via a slip-way from South Coast Road.
Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said Kangaroo Island is one of the state’s most iconic tourism destinations.
“Parks on Kangaroo Island are critical to the economy of the island and the state. The enhanced experience at Kelly Hill Caves will elevate their appeal as a must-visit Kangaroo Island attraction,” Minister Speirs said.
“The upgrades will utilise lighting and sound to create a contemporary and immersive experience that transports visitors deep into the island’s geological past, as well as ensuring those visitors who are unable to physically access the caves are able to appreciate the majesty of the caves, and stories of its discovery and early use.
“Destination tourism services significantly stimulate regional economies and the upgrade of facilities at key tourism sites such as the Kelly Hill Caves and Rocky River in Flinders Chase National Park is critical to maintaining and increasing visitor numbers to Kangaroo Island.
“These works are helping to highlight and encourage visitors to experience Kangaroo Island’s spectacular landscapes, enabling both the community and visitors from afar to better enjoy our national parks.
“A huge amount of work has gone into the roll out of these projects, as we can continue to build attractions and encourage people to visit this very unique part of the state, with the Kangaroo Island tourism industry contributing around $140 million annually.
“The Marshall Liberal Government is committed to protecting our state’s natural environment by doubling the area covered by national parks, investing record levels of funding to improve conservation, increase visitor numbers and boost our regional economies.”
To find out more visit www.parks.sa.gov.au
