LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Sir – We are calling on people with big ideas to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for new tourism and business developments in Northern Territory parks and reserves.
We want your ideas for new developments such as cafes, cultural experiences, eco-tourism ventures or accommodation. We’re also interested in concepts for events, campground management and walking or biking trails.
Successful concepts will be chosen based on sustainability, conservation qualities and capability of the applicants and will be aided by the NT Government to turn ideas into reality.
We want to unlock the untapped potential of our Territory parks and reserves. The Giles Government is committed to increasing visitation to Territory’s parks and reserves through sustainable development and increased commercial partnerships. Increasing visitation to parks and reserves is known to deliver increased awareness and understanding of core park values, assisting the long term conservation efforts.
We are calling for EOIs from individuals or organisations, including Traditional Owners, to develop appropriate tourism and recreational experiences and associated infrastructure in Territory parks and reserves.
I encourage Traditional Owners to embrace this economic development opportunity and to play an active role in the decision making on proposals involving jointly managed parks.
To be considered, proposals are required to meet the objectives and principles of the guidelines, protect and enhance the value of the park or reserve, and enrich the visitor experiences offered in the Territory.
Bess Price (pictured)
Minister for Parks and Wildlife
What about some water. Like drinking water for tourists. Can the government do that? They don’t seem to like the idea of locals drinking it but I’m pretty sure its something most tourists do.
Will we have to pay to swim at Ellery or Glen Helen? Are we going to have to pay to visit Rainbow Valley or Boggy Hole? Read the fine print on this one.