Coronavirus leaves world-renowned Kakadu National Park on life support

KAKADU is officially fighting for its life. The largest tourism provider in the park has suspended its operations and is seriously concerned about its long-term future

Yellow Water Cruises has suspended all its operations as Kakadu Tourism shuts down its services in the wake of the coronavirus crisis

KAKADU is officially fighting for its life.

The largest tourism provider in the park has suspended its operations and is seriously concerned about its long-term future.

Kakadu Tourism made the announcement yesterday that almost all services bar the service station and skeleton staff at the two hotels would be shut and stood down.

Ayers Rock Resort made a similar announcement on Wednesday, however the campground and minimal hotel accommodation remain open.

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Parks Australia announced the two national parks would close for the next fortnight.

As a result of Kakadu Tourism’s decision the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and Cooinda Lodge and Camping Grounds, as well as Yellow Water Cruises and Spirit of Kakadu 4WD Adventure Tours will be closed for the foreseeable future.

Kakadu Tourism will continue to operate the two hotels with skeleton staff to accommodate emergency and essential services’ workers, as well as provide takeaway food and petrol at Cooinda.

Kakadu Tourism chair Rick Allert said the decision to stop operations for tourists was made to safeguard the welfare of vulnerable indigenous communities in Kakadu National Park and to support government directives regarding non-essential travel.

“As a fully indigenous- owned business, our first priority is the health and wellbeing of our staff and the population within Kakadu National Park,” Mr Allert said.

“The decision to close our facilities was a very difficult one as we rely heavily on the upcoming peak dry season to sustain the business throughout the year.

“Unfortunately, the decision will have significant financial and employment implications for businesses in Kakadu.

“We will be seeking urgent financial assistance from government as prolonged closure of accommodation and tourism facilities could stymie the region for an extended period.”

He said he was not sure when the facilities would re-open but a decision would be made with consultation of Traditional Owners, Kakadu National Park and governments.

Kakadu Lodge, in Jabiru remains open at this point in time.

Tourism operations have also ground to a halt in the Red Centre.

Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia made the decision on Wednesday to close down almost all services at the site near Uluru.

No new interstate bookings will be accepted at the resort for the foreseeable future. Those that can prove they have been in the NT for the last 14 days are accepted to camp at the campgrounds.

Voyages chief executive Grant Hunt said while he regretted any disruption to the travel plans of guests, the closure of NT borders, and air space, as well as Federal Government COVID-19 measures meant a temporary closure was the only responsible thing to do.

“At the heart of our decision is the health and wellbeing of local Aboriginal communities, our staff and the public,” he said.

“We remind everyone these closures are only temporary and we look forward to the day when this threat has passed and we can welcome guests once again, but at this stage it is unclear when that will be.”

Tourism Minister Lauren Moss said it was a tough time for all operators.

“It is unfortunate both Parks have been closed but the priority is the health of Territorians and visitors,” she said.

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From today businesses will be able to access the $50 million Small Business Survival Fund, which will help local businesses stay alive and survive the impacts of the coronavirus outbreak.