Thousands get Litchfield fix over the weekend as virus restrictions ease

LOCALS lined up at the gates of Litchfield National Park on Friday with campsites at capacity by midafternoon as coronavirus restrictions were eased in the NT.

The first weekend of national parks reopening in the Top End saw day-trippers and campers fill Litchfield National Park. Among them were Sharma Ah-Wing, Cieanna Ah-Wing, Ronald Ah-Wing and Chanelle Ah-Wing, pictured jumping into Buley Rockhole. Picture: Che Chorley

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LOCALS lined up at the gates of Litchfield National Park on Friday with campsites at capacity by midafternoon as coronavirus restrictions were eased in the NT.

Darwinites headed out bush in droves for the first time since parks closed in late March. About 300 to 350 camped at sites across Litchfield on Friday and Saturday, with Casuarina Coastal Reserve also attracting a large number of visitors.

Waterholes were full as people cooled off and enjoyed the crystal-clear water.

Sharma Ah-Wing jumps into the Buley Rockhole while his family looks on. Picture: Che Chorley

NT Parks Northern Parks director Lincoln Wilson said it was great to see Territorians enjoy the first weekend under new relaxed restrictions.

“Although our parks and reserves were busy as anticipated, particularly Litchfield National Park, there were no major incidents,” he said.

“We thank Territorians for respecting the advice of rangers and NT Police, and for abiding by the physical distancing guidelines.

Josh Barnard, Jaffa Ranjjithkumar, Louis Rouer and (front) Lachy Boyle and Jenti White spent the long weekend camping at Florence Falls. Picture: Che Chorley

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“It’s great to be in the Territory and with the Dry Season just beginning we encourage Territorians to continue to abide by the rules so we can keep enjoying what the Territory has to offer.”

Litchfield Motel owner Janet McElwee said there had been a steady stream of cars heading towards the waterfalls.

Ms McElwee said business had picked up considerably since the restrictions were lifted on Friday.

Kaitlyn Pratten, Laura Kempster and Maddie Kaindl at Buley Rockhole. Picture: Che Chorley

“I think people seem to certainly be appreciating what we have available on our back door,” she said.

Ms McElwee said there had been an increase in trade with people stopping to purchase coffee, takeaway food, booze and ice.

The motel also had several bookings over the last few days.

The Batchelor General Store staff were run off their feet.

“It’s not as busy as what the Dry Season usually is but it’s better than what it has been,” one employee said.

Cieanna Ah-Wing, Ronald Ah-Wing, Chanelle Ah-Wing and Sharma Ah-Wing had a great time at Buley Rockhole. Picture: Che Chorley

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Ronald Ah-Wing, of Darwin, was out enjoying the new freedoms with his brother and two sisters in Buley Rockhole.

“Get out for the weekend, save us from being in the house and enjoy the backyard of Australia. It feels fabulous to get back in the water with the family,” he said.