Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture
The NT Government is changing the way people access the secure compound at the Buffalo Creek Management Area (BCMA) boat ramp, and there will no longer be a fee to use the facility.
From 1 December 2019, people wishing to leave their vehicle and trailer in the secure compound can call an information phone line for an access code to the lock on the gates. Signs advising of the coming change have been put in place at the compound today.
Under the present system, access is provided by a caretaker and users pay a fee to park in the secure compound. In general peak use times around 30 vehicles with boat trailers use the free parking facility to capacity, and only five to seven vehicles use the secure compound.
The change to access arrangements brings the Buffalo Creek boat ramp more in line with other Darwin and Palmerston boat ramps.
The change follows extensive consultation with boat ramp users and the Amateur Fishermen’s Association of the NT.
As noted by Lincoln Wilson, A/Director Northern Australia Parks, Parks, Wildlife and Heritage Division, DTSC:
“Buffalo Creek is a popular recreational fishing spot that attracts round 130,000 visits a year. The NT Government supports the fishing community by providing a boat ramp, toilets and a car park with lighting and CCTV at Buffalo Creek.
“Most visitors to Buffalo Creek won’t be affected by the change and those who do use the secure compound will now be able to do so free of charge. They just need to make a quick phone call to get an access code.”
