Old homesteads throughout Kakadu National Park could be transformed into low-impact accommodation, with each one offering cultural experiences like bush tucker, craft, dining under the stars or night walks, according to environment minister Peter Garrett. Tourism would be enhanced with better camping infrastructure and road signage and a new report also raises the possibility of 'safari camps' or temporary tent-style accommodation.
Open-air theatres, eco-lodges and culture camps for school kids could be part of a new era of tourism in the park.
A tourism masterplan released on Tuesday identifies potential new attractions and experiences for the Northern Territory's World Heritage listed park.
Among its suggestions are promoting the 'six seasons' of Kakadu, encouraging people to visit in both wet and dry times and to return in alternate seasons for a different experience.
Mr Garrett said tourism at Kakadu had come a long way in recent years, with the indigenous experience now rightly at its heart. The plan would be implemented in partnership with traditional owners, Mr Garrett said.
“We know there's demand for more small-scale accommodation and new indigenous businesses - and untapped potential for visitors to come in all six seasons and stay for longer,” he said in a statement. “This plan puts some fantastic ideas on the table, from open-air theatres and eco-lodges through to culture camps for school kids and indigenous fishing tours.”
The park has already started work on a number of the plan's recommendations, including establishing seven Kakadu precincts offering different tourism experiences, a bushwalking strategy and developing new indigenous tourism businesses.
From April 1, a $25 park fee will apply to visitors over the age of 16. Northern Territory residents will be exempt from the fee but must be able to show proof of residency. The passes can be bought from agents in Darwin and Jabiru from today and those who enter the park without a pass risk being fined.
Parks Australia says the passes are being brought in to help manage the park and improve visitor services.