East Alligator, Ubirr regions of Kakadu National Park closed after death of traditional owner

Parts of Kakadu National Park have been closed in line with cultural practices, after the death of a prominent traditional owner.

PARTS of Kakadu National Park have been respectfully closed after the death of a local and well respected traditional owner, with a major government department paying tribute to the influential man.

Mr Naganglia Bangalang, whose first name can’t be used for cultural reasons, was a “prominent and important Senior Murrwan Traditional Owner in the Erre Region and member of the Kakadu National Park Board of Management,” according to Parks Australia.

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“The Director of National Parks and Kakadu National Park extend their heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of this very important man at this time of great sadness,” the government body said in a statement.

The department announced that as a result of the passing, the East Alligator region will be closed “until further notice”.

Sun rises over East Alligator River in Kakadu. Picture: KERI MEGELUS

“This includes the East Alligator River itself, the upstream and downstream boat ramps and Ubirr,” Parks Australia said.

The move was “in line with cultural practice and the wishes of Traditional Owners from the Erre (East Alligator) region,” it said.

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