- Tender valued at $4.59 million awarded for skywalk construction
- Development will be fully accessible for people of all ages and abilities, including users of wheelchairs
The completion of the world-class Kalbarri Skywalk project is one step closer, with the contract to construct two skywalks awarded to Bocol Constructions Pty Ltd.
The two 100-metre-high skywalks at the West Loop site in Kalbarri National Park will project 25 metres and 17 metres beyond the rim of the Murchison River Gorge, providing visitors with soaring views of the spectacular gorge and surrounding environment.
Construction of the skywalks is expected to be completed by mid-2019.
The $20 million project has also included the sealing of 22 kilometres of park roads, and the expansion and upgrading of the Z Bend and Meanarra Hill tourist sites.
Another tender will be advertised for the construction of associated infrastructure at the Skywalk site including a kiosk, toilets, shade shelters and landscape works.
Kalbarri National Park continues to be a popular destination for tourists and visitors, with visits increasing by almost 100,000 over the past five years - from 306,058 in 2013-14 to 400,991 in 2017-18.
As noted by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"We are now one step closer to the final stages of this exciting and highly anticipated development.
"Kalbarri National Park is an iconic destination, famous for its 80-kilometre gorge, coastal cliffs that plunge more than 100 metres to the ocean, striking wildflowers and various recreational activities.
"Tourism is integral to Kalbarri's economy and by delivering world-class facilities like these skywalks and associated infrastructure, the McGowan Government is ensuring that Kalbarri National Park will remain a favourite destination for tourists."
