Gunlom Falls reopening delayed due to wet weather
After six years, visitors hoping to visit the iconic Kakadu waterfall this weekend will have to wait – with heavy rainfall delaying the scheduled reopening.
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Heavy rainfall has delayed the long awaited reopening of Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park.
A large number of people were expected to attend the opening on Saturday after six years of the iconic waterfall being closed to tourists.
In a post on social media Kakadu National Park said it was not safe to go ahead as scheduled.
“Strong water flows in the top pools and over the falls have made this area unsafe for visitors to access,” it said.
“Water levels have subsequently risen in the lower pool and adjacent creeks.
“There is flooding across lower parts of Gunlom with some boardwalks and walking trails under water, and excess water has also impacted the access roads.
“Due to the location of Gunlom, it is also anticipated that additional water flows from the region may continue to impact the site.
“Traditional owners have been consulted and agree that the site is not able to be opened at present.
“We understand this will be disappointing news and want to assure the community that as soon as conditions allow, our staff will commence work to clear debris and repair any damage to roads.
“The area will be monitored closely and further updates provided, including the new opening date.”
Gunlom Falls was one of the most popular destinations in Kakadu before its closure in 2019 after a walkway was built too close to a sacred site.
Last year Parks Australia pleaded guilty to damaging the site and was ordered to pay a historic $200,000 fine.
The walkway that Parks Australia constructed to help visitors get to the top of the waterfall had exposed a sacred rock art site that traditional owners said should only be seen and accessed by men.
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Originally published as Gunlom Falls reopening delayed due to wet weather
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