Litchfield expansion: 30,000 hectares of escarpments, woodlands and wetlands

There is a new jewel in the Territory’s tourism crown - a 30,000-hectare parcel of land that will see the size of Litchfield National Park boosted by a massive 20 per cent and new recreational and tourism opportunities opened up, just 90 minutes from Darwin.

Robin Falls travel feature. PIC: LAUREN ROBERTS

There is a new jewel in the Territory’s tourism crown - a 30,000-hectare parcel of land that will see the size of Litchfield National Park boosted by a massive 20 per cent and new recreational and tourism opportunities opened up just 90 minutes from Darwin.

The CLP Government has clinched a $7.5 million purchase of Silkwood, a property near Adelaide River, hailed for its spectacular scenery, hot springs, waterfalls, and hidden gorges.

The landmark deal is the largest addition to the Territory’s national park estate in 25 years.

Silkwood is known for its potential in various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, and conservation.

Robin Falls Silkwood Station Litchfield

A little over 12 months ago the NT News reported it for sale for $18 million-plus.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro described the $7.5 million purchase of the 30,000-hectare parcel of wilderness as game-changing saying the government will open up a spectacular new southern section of Litchfield National Park.

The announcement comes after the CLP government revealed it has thrown its support behind a brand new five day, four night 54km eco walk at Uluru, to further boost tourism in Central Australia.

“This is exactly what restoring the Territory lifestyle looks like - protecting our wide-open spaces while making sure Territorians have more places to enjoy the activities we love,” Chief Minister Finocchiaro said.

Parks and Wildlife and Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby, said the expansion delivers on the CLP Government election promise.

The CLP Government has secured the stunning Silkwood property - a 30,000-hectare parcel of land, equivalent to around 15,000 TIO Stadiums. The landmark $7.5 million deal will see Litchfield National Park expanded by 20 per cent, making it bigger and better than ever.

“Territorians are going to have more places to camp, swim, 4WD, hunt and explore with access to untouched waterfalls, gorges, hot springs and tracks,” she said.

Silkwood property borders Litchfield’s southeast boundary, 120km from Darwin and encompasses an abundance of natural wonders within its boundaries, presenting compelling opportunities for ECO tourism with notable natural attractions such as Robin Falls,

“We’re proud to mark this historic purchase,” Minister Boothby said.

“Silkwood has been on the market since last year, and there were real concerns that a private sale could limit future access.

“We have secured the current use of the property into the future, and work will now start on what improvements will be made, including a new dedicated hunting reserve.”

Territorians are going to have more places to camp, swim, 4WD, hunt and explore with access to untouched waterfalls, gorges, hot springs and tracks. PIC: LAUREN ROBERTS

Ms Boothby said the additional tourism opportunity Silkwood will create should see visitor numbers to Litchfield swell well beyond its current 250,000 yearly visitors.

She said the regional town of Adelaide River is expected to benefit from increased visitation, creating new opportunities for local tourism, services, and economic growth.

“This is a huge win for regional development,” she said.

“More tourists through Adelaide River means more support for local businesses and jobs, and that’s central to our plan to rebuild the economy and restore our unique lifestyle across the Territory,” Ms Boothby said.

The CLP Government has secured the stunning “Silkwood” property - a 30,000-hectare parcel of land, equivalent to around 15,000 TIO Stadiums. The landmark $7.5 million deal will see Litchfield National Park expanded by 20 per cent, making it bigger and better than ever.

Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment, Joshua Burgoyne, said the Silkwood acquisition will secure the long-term protection of the region’s pristine environment.

“Thirty thousand hectares of escarpments, woodlands and wetlands are being returned to public hands, protecting Territory ecosystems and wildlife while opening up a range of incredible new recreational opportunities,” he said.

“This isn’t just a map change - this is a transformational and visionary investment in our lifestyle, liveability, and landscape.”

Originally published as Litchfield expansion: 30,000 hectares of escarpments, woodlands and wetlands