The Territory Labor Government's $5.5 million Turbocharging Tourism investment at Nitmiluk National Park is helping to improve the visitor experience and support local jobs, with the contract for upgrades to the Baruwei stairs and platform awarded to Katherine Constructions Pty Ltd.
The upgrades will include the construction of new stairs crafted from natural rock to blend in with the surroundings, expanding the Baruwei lookout to accommodate more people and the construction of a new lookout at the halfway point on the stairs.
Other Nitmiluk projects funded by the Turbo investment include new walking and mountain biking tracks, with the construction contract awarded to Ground Creations Pty Ltd in October this year.
The $5.5 million Turbocharging Tourism investment is in addition to the Territory Labor Government's $10 million investment in infrastructure projects in Nitmiluk National Park, which has funded a visitor centre upgrade, improvements to the steps between the first and second gorge, and a new causeway over the Katherine River.
Construction of a new jetty is also underway.
As noted by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss:
"In close consultation with the Jawoyn Traditional Owners, we are delivering our $15.5 million investment in Nitmiluk to help this jewel in the Territory's crown shine even brighter. The more our national parks shine, the more people will want to visit them.
"Investments in infrastructure help to improve the visitor experience for tourists and Territorians, making the Territory a better place to live and an essential place to visit. It also supports local businesses and jobs."
As noted by Member for Arnhem, Selena Uibo MLA:
"We see around 270,000 people visit Nitmiluk National Park every year, and these infrastructure upgrades to the Baruwei stairs and platform will help to enhance the visitor experience.
"Our Labor Government's Turbocharging investment into the region is not only encouraging visitation, it is also helping to support local jobs."
