Multimillion dollar multi-day walking track planned for Watarrka National Park

Expressions of interest have opened for a new multimillion dollar multi-day walk in one of the NT’s top national parks.

Watarrka National Park. Picture: Nicholas Kavo

EXPRESSIONS of interest have opened for a new multimillion dollar multi-day walk in Watarrka National Park in Central Australia, which is home to Kings Canyon.

The Territory government is seeking investors to partner with government and Anangu Traditional Owners to build the Watarrka Track, following a successful registration of interest process that saw strong interest from right across the country.

Walkers will have the opportunity to spot more than 500 unique species of flora and fauna along a journey of red sandstone escarpments and cliffs, which follow past cool spring rock holes.

The government has committed $5.6m to the project, which is set to create local jobs and open up new commercial opportunities, such as accommodation options along the route.

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Parks and Rangers Minister Selena Uibo said it was “a brand new venture and a unique opportunity for private investors to work with Traditional Owners and government on boosting one of the Territory’s most stunning National Parks”.

“Traditional Owners are keen to work with operators to come up with a unique track design that will be sure to attract adventure-seekers from around Australia and the world.

“With breathtaking vistas, and rich culture, it will be the next ‘must do’ for hikers, nature enthusiasts and more,” she said.

Minister Central Australia Economic Reconstruction, Chansey Paech said Watarrka was a “culturally significant ancient wonderland”.

Watarrka National Park. Picture: Nicholas Kavo

A spokesman for the Watarrka Traditional Owner Planning Committee said it was an “ancient land”.

“We welcome people to come and see it as we see it,” he said.

“Come and share our knowledge and culture. So we can walk together, in our ancestors’ footprints.”

Home to Kings Canyon, Watarrka is one of Australia’s most unique locations and rated in the top five parks for visitors in the Territory, attracting more than 250,000 visitors every year.

The formal expression of interest will close on September 16.

Visit watarrka.nt.gov.au.