Top End swimming spots: Berry Springs reopens for the Dry season
One of the Top End’s most popular swimming spots has been reopened for the Dry season.
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One of the Top End’s most popular swimming spots has been reopened for the Dry season.
Berry Springs is the closest swimming hole to Darwin city, attracting more than 186,000 visitors.
Located near Territory Wildlife Park and Berry Springs Tavern, it is popular with tourists and locals.
Tourism Minister Marie-Clare Boothby said Territory swimming holes had an “important role” to play in supporting the economy.
“Our natural swimming holes attract tourism, which is a key pillar in our plan to rebuild the Territory economy,” Ms Boothby said.
“These attractions showcase our great Territory lifestyle, and whether you want to go for a swim, do some birdwatching, have a picnic, or go for a walk, Berry Springs has something for everyone.”
To keep visitors safe from Top End predators, NT Parks and Wildlife rangers installed a crocodile deterrent fence and completed five nights of crocodile surveys.
The rangers also tested water clarity and quality.
Signage around the water has been updated, and an Automated External Defibrillator has been installed near the swimming spots.
“Safety is our top priority, and to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors, rigorous protocols are in place to ensure the highest standards before opening to the public,” Ms Boothby said.
“Crocodile management is also a priority for our government and our Park Rangers work tirelessly to ensure we manage the crocodile population.”
Berry Springs’ opening follows the recent re-openings of other sites including Bitter Springs and camping at Walker Creek and Central Valley.
Leliyn (Edith Falls) is expected to open at the end of May, with Nitmiluk Gorge expected to open in mid-June.
Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park is expected to open in June, and walkers can start the Jatbula Trail on June 1.
Ms Boothby said the NT government recognised Top End parks as important to both tourism and the Territory lifestyle, and that the government had locked in $8 million year-on-year to support Tourism NT.
“This is our government’s year of action, certainty and security, and as we continue delivering on our commitment to reduce crime, rebuild the economy, and restore our lifestyle, we will continue bringing tourists back to the Territory.”
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