More than 20km of shared walking and mountain bike trails are now open at Nitmiluk National Park.
The works are part of the Territory Labor Government’s job-creating $15.4 million investment into new and refreshed infrastructure at Nitmiluk National Park through the $5.4 million Turbocharging Tourism and the $10 million Infrastructure packages.
The new trails provide options for riders of all ages and abilities, including the Bamjon (River Link) Trail which offers spectacular views of the first gorge, and an opportunity to bike and then swim in the second gorge; as well as cruising and kayaking.
The Waleka Trail takes visitors to Pat’s Lookout and Jedda’s Rock in a circuit trail before joining the Yambi Trail.
For those who would like to enjoy the scenery at a steady pace, most trails will also suit walkers.
The trails have been designed by Ground Creations Pty Ltd and constructed collaboratively with Jawoyn traditional owners who also participated in the building of the jetty and Baruwei Lookout.
The project has supported six jobs for local people and offers future employment opportunities for Nitmiluk’s Traditional Owners through ongoing maintenance works.
The $5.4 million Turbocharging Tourism investment package has also seen the development of:
- The completed, new Baruwei Lookout with improved stair access, signage and viewing platform; and
- Interpretive signage and the commissioning of sculptures adjacent to the Lookout which will showcase the ancient stories of the Jawoyn people.
These works are in addition to the Government’s $10 million investment over the past four years into new and refreshed infrastructure for Nitmiluk National Park which include:
- A new jetty to enable ramp access and for Nitmiluk Tours to run for longer during the Wet Season;
- A new car-park to support the Cultural Touring site;
- Refurbishment of the 20-year-old Nitmiluk Visitor Centre to update the building with new facilities including a kitchen, bathroom, decking, interpretive displays and landscaping;
- Upgrades to the first gorge crossover on the Wet Season path;
- A new Katherine River crossing and upgraded 17 Mile Valley track to support Nitmiluk Tours’ Biddlecombe Cascades glamping experience, which will mean earlier access after the Wet Season; and
- Refurbishment of the Alice Mitchell Gallery within the Nitmiluk Centre. This work is underway with completion expected by the end of the Wet Season. The Gallery will showcase the Park and Jawoyn culture.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Parks and Rangers Selena Uibo:
“Nitmiluk National Park is the jewel in the crown of the Katherine Region, usually attracting around 270,000 visitors a year.
“Investing in our Parks will help visitors have the best experience possible, and encourage them to stay longer, spend more and recommend Territory parks as a must-visit to friends and family.
“Mountain biking and adventure tourism are growing in popularity, and improvements to trails in the Territory will help put us on the map for people looking for such experiences.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Hosptiality Natasha Fyles:
“Tourism is a key economic driver and that’s why the Territory Labor Government is investing in parks across the Northern Territory.
“These three Turbocharging Tourism projects at Nitmiluk will improve the visitor experience as well as support ongoing local jobs in tourism.”
