Territorians, get your camping gear ready with more Territory parks and reserves due to open in time for the Queen's Birthday long weekend.
Following the announcement that biosecurity zones will be lifted from 5 June, all NT parks and reserves, other than those closed for seasonal reasons, will be open and accessible to all Territorians from noon that day.
The decision, made in consultation with joint management partners, means we can get back to enjoying the outdoor activities and Territory lifestyle we all love, with camping, swimming and walking an option in all regions.
In Central Australia, key sites such as Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Glen Helen, Trephina Gorge and Watarrka National Park will be open and accessible for camping and swimming from noon on 5 June.
The June long weekend will provide the perfect opportunity for locals who have been itching to get out on the Larapinta Trail to dust off their boots and backpacks, with plenty of different itinerary options.
In the Katherine region, Territorians will be able to enjoy key spots in Nitmiluk National Park even earlier, with the following places open from noon this Friday 29 May:
Southern Rockhole - walk and swimming.
Leliyn (Edith Falls) - camping and swimming.
All southern walks.
However some sections of Nitmiluk remain closed for now:
Boat tours, canoeing and swimming at Nitmiluk Gorge will recommence from 5 June.
Jatbula Trail remains closed due to normal seasonal closures.
Baruwei Loop Walk remains closed until 9 June due to construction.
Elsey National Park remains closed until 5 June with the exception of the Mataranka Thermal Pool.
For the Barkly region, the following locations are now accessible to Tennant Creek residents:
Tingkkarli / Lake Mary Ann.
Tennant Creek Golf Club.
Tennant Creek Gun Club.
Tennant Creek Speedway.
These changes do not apply to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park which are a matter for the Australian Government in consultation with Traditional Owners.
For a full list of what parks are currently open visit https://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/find-a-park/find-a-park-to-visit
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss:
"This is great news for Territorians, especially those located in Central Australia who can now get out and enjoy the beautiful parks and reserves in their region.
"The cooler weather is prime for camping and although Finke Desert Race has been cancelled, the lifting of the biosecurity zones will allow Territorians to enjoy the June long weekend camping and relaxing in the great outdoors.
"As our latest campaign says: it's 'Time to be a Territorian' by getting out and enjoying our backyard while supporting local tourism businesses along the way.
"Whether it's booking a fishing charter, a water cruise, a cultural experience or discovering your new favourite holiday accommodation, now's the time to get and about.
"Of course, we ask all Territorians to continue to do the right thing – check what's open before you leave, respect our Rangers and NT Police, follow the rules, listen to instructions and enjoy your parks."
