Works have begun as part of stage one of the redesign and refurbishment of the interior and exterior of the 20 year old Nitmiluk Visitor Centre at Nitmiluk National Park, a major hub for visitors starting their journey through the park.
The tender for stage one has been awarded to local company Remote Build NT and will see a new, modern kitchen and updated bathroom facilities.
Jointly managed with the Jawoyn people, the project is being coordinated in close consultation with the Nitmiluk Board of Management.
The upgrades will incorporate design elements that resonate with the landscape, tell the story of the Park and the Jawoyn people, and deliver a memorable visitor experience.
A living cultural landscape, Nitmiluk National Park is a key visitor destination attracting approximately 270,000 travellers each year.
The upgrades are part of a $10 million investment to enhance and update the visitor experience in the park.
Other recently completed projects in the Park include the construction of a slip lane on the gorge access road to support a new Jawoyn cultural enterprise and development of a new carpark, and upgrades to the Katherine River crossing and the 17 Mile Valley track to support the Nitmiluk Tours new Biddlecombe Cascades glamping experience.
Other works currently underway include the design for the Cultural Precinct walk - a new track to a nearby rock art site - and upgrades to the First and Second Gorge cross-over walkways.
While works are underway, the Visitor Centre services will be offered in temporary accommodation on the lawns in front of the current Visitor Centre.
Nitmiluk National Park and Nitmiluk Tours will stay open all year round as usual.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss
The investment in infrastructure in Nitmuluk National Park will improve the visitor experience, and support local jobs in construction, and in tourism.
We continue to work closely with the Jawoyn Traditional Owners to improve infrastructure and share the experience of this spectacular park.
The Territory Labor Government through the record $103 Turbocharging Tourism stimulus package is also investing $5.5 million into tourism infrastructure to expand walking opportunities in Nitmiluk National Park to attract more visitors, create jobs and out more money into the pockets of Territorians.
Quotes by the Chairperson of the Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation and the Nitmiluk Board, Ms Lisa Mumbin
Jawoyn have always welcomed people and visitors to share our country. We are excited that the Visitor Centre is being upgraded and when its finished it will tell the stories of Jawoyn people, country and culture.
"We are celebrating 30 years of joint management of Nitmiluk National Park this year.
As stated by Member for Katherine, Sandra Nelson
Tourism is a key economic driver in the Katherine region and Nitmiluk National Park is a major attraction.
Ongoing investment in our tourism assets is great for Katherine businesses and local jobs.
As stated by Member for Arnhem, Selena Uibo
As local member, I am proud to be able to deliver this investment in Nitmiluk National Park, which has been driven by the Jawoyn traditional owners in partnership with the Territory Labor Government.
