New walk for Watarrka on track
- 15 February 2023
A brand new multi-million dollar outback hiking experience in Central Australia is one step closer, delivering job opportunities and a new tourism experience in Central Australia.
With the Project Facilitation Agreement signed, The Watarrka Track, located 330 kilometres south west of Alice Springs is set to be one of Australia’s most scenic multi-day walking experiences.
The Project Facilitation Agreement has been signed by the proponent, Australian Walking Company, the Central Land Council and NT Parks and Wildlife, following on-ground meetings with the Watarrka Traditional Owners. The Agreement ensures all parties will work together to facilitate the development and delivery of the track, and to maximise the economic benefit for the Territory economy, including providing economic and social benefits for the local traditional owners of Watarrka.
Australian Walking Company will work in partnership with Traditional Owners and NT Parks and Wildlife to achieve the best outcomes, including negotiating an appropriate track alignment that takes into consideration the cultural and natural values of the landscape, while delivering a quality walking experience for locals and visitors.
The Northern Territory Government has committed $5.6 million in co-funding for the project, with construction anticipated later in the year.
The Watarrka National Park, which is nestled in the heart of the red centre and home to Kings Canyon, already attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year.