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Watarrka on track to turbocharge investment

Office of the Chief Minister

An exciting opportunity to invest in one of the Territory’s most spectacular National Parks is up for grabs. 

The Territory Labor Government has today opened registrations for operators and investors to submit their interest in partnering with Government and Traditional Owners to build a new multi-day walking track in Watarrka National Park.

The Park, which is nestled in the heart of Central Australia and home to the breathtaking Kings Canyon, attracts more than 250,000 visitors every year – with more than half of those taking up hiking.

The exact path of the Watarrka Track will be determined together by investors working with Traditional Owners and NT Parks and Wildlife. 

The Watarrka Track is on target to be one of Australia’s best and most scenic outback hiking experiences. 

It will take visitors on an unforgettable journey across red sandstone escarpments and cliffs, and past cool spring rock holes. Walkers will also have the opportunity to spot more than 500 unique species of flora and fauna along the way.

The Territory Labor Government has already committed $5.6 million in co-funding for the project.

The National Park has seen a 30% increase in visitor growth since 2015.

For more information, please visit: https://watarrka.nt.gov.au

 

Quotes from Minister for Parks and Rangers, Selena Uibo:

“This is an exciting opportunity for private investors to work with Traditional Owners and Government on a brand new venture for one of the Territory’s most stunning National Parks.

“The new track design will be open to thinkers and dreamers, with Traditional Owners keen to work with operators to come up with a unique design that will be sure to attract visitors from right around Australia and the world.

“The area, which has remained almost unchanged since Tjukurpa, is well known for its people, the stunning vistas and the thrill of adventure, and the Watarrka Track will be the next ‘must do’ for hikers, nature enthusiasts and more.”

 

Quotes from Minister for Central Australia Economic Reconstruction, Chansey Paech:

“Watarrka is a culturally significant ancient wonderland and that’s why our Government is making it even better and providing more reasons to visit.

“Traditional Owners of the site are keen to work with the right investor to improve visitor experience and maximise economic opportunities.”

 

Quotes from Watarrka Traditional Owner Planning Committee:

“Watarrka is an ancient land. We welcome people to come and see it as we see it.

“Come and share our knowledge and culture. So we can walk together, in our ancestors’ footprints.”

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