Regional Sites Given Heritage Protection

Pioneering Central Australian tourist attraction Pitchi Richi Sanctuary is one of several regional sites recognised for their historical value in the latest round of heritage declarations, Heritage Minister Alison Anderson announced today.

The Alice Springs sanctuary was established in 1955, and was one of the first tourist attractions opened in the town during the post-war tourism boom.

It showcases artefacts that reflect the history of the region, geological specimens and a bird sanctuary in a park setting that reflects the environmentalist aims of its creator, Leo Corbett.

“Pitchi Richi is a much loved place for locals and tourists to visit and should be preserved so it can be enjoyed for years to come,” Ms Anderson said.

The sanctuary is now a heritage place under the Heritage Conservation Act.

Also among the historically valuable Territory places cited under the act is the picturesque Butterfly Gorge, near Douglas Hot Springs in the Douglas Daly region.

The gorge was chosen for it significance to the natural environment, and contribution to biodiversity and conservation values.

Ms Anderson said it was important for the Territory Government to take steps to protect iconic and unique sites under the heritage legislation.

“We’re very fortunate to have a wealth of special places to visit, both man made and natural, and we need to make sure we do all we can to ensure they’re maintained.”

Other regional sites added to the heritage list include:

- Puritjarra Rock Shelter in Central Australia, believed to be among the oldest archaeological sites in the region, estimated at being at least 35,000 years old.

- Warloch Ponds Road Bridge, near Mataranka, the longest single-lane bridge of its type in the Territory, and a strong example of World War II engineering.

For details on other sites recently declared heritage places under the Act, please go to www.nt.gov.au/heritage

Contact: Shannon McRae 0419 340 735

Related files:
AndersonHeritage1112.pdf ( 62.18 kb )