Hermannsburg Historic Precinct to get tourism boost

A MAJOR historic precinct in Alice Springs will receive a million-dollar grant from the federal government

The Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, west of Alice Springs has had its place on Central Australia’s tourism trail elevated by a $1.5 million grant from the Federal Government. Funds will complement a $3.5 million investment in the heritage-listed historic mission from the NT Government for conservation work.

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THE Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, west of Alice Springs, has had its place on Central Australia’s tourism trail elevated by a $1.5m grant from the federal government.

Funds will complement a $3.5m investment in the heritage-listed historic mission by the NT government for conservation work.

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Nine of the existing 16 buildings are undergoing significant works, including stonework restoration, timber and roofing renewal as well as landscaping and utility upgrades.

Established by Lutheran missionaries in 1877 on the banks of the ancient Finke River, Hermannsburg is the gateway to iconic attractions such as Palm Valley and Gosses Bluff and the home of artists who founded the Hermannsburg School of Modern Art, including Albert Namatjira.

The Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, west of Alice Springs has had its place on Central Australia’s tourism trail elevated by a $1.5 million grant from the Federal Government.

The additional federal government funding will enable conservation work to be completed on several historic buildings within the precinct including the maid’s quarters, boys’ dormitory and the manse. It will also fund further interpretation work and car park upgrades.

Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Chansey Paech said the Hermannsburg Historical Precinct was a historically and culturally significant site that was central to the development of tourism and employment for the local community.

“This old bush mission is one of the jewels in the crown of Central Australia and one of only five nationally listed heritage sites in the Northern Territory,” he said.

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“There aren’t many surviving evangelical missions so it has enormous heritage value and is a place of high interest to Australian and international visitors. Our government has been working with stakeholders, including the Finke River Mission and the Hermannsburg Historic Society, to maximise tourism growth in Ntaria and create more jobs,” Mr Paech said.

“This additional investment from the federal government has come at a perfect time.

“It will help finalise additional components of the overall restoration project to showcase the site and increase visitation to the West MacDonnell Ranges.”