As the great grey nomad northward migration gets into full swing, the NT Government has announced that one of the Top End’s most popular swimming spots, Berry Springs, has officially re-opened for the Northern Territory’s peak visitor season.
Berry Springs is the closest swimming hole to Darwin city, just a short drive from the Berry Springs Tavern and Territory Wildlife Park.
It is popular with both locals and tourists, attracting around 186,000 visitors each year.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby said the Territory’s swimming holes were not only a source of enjoyment for visitors but they played an important role in supporting the economy.
Many grey nomads are on their way north now. PIC: CIzza
“It’s looking like a bumper tourist season ahead, and we can’t wait to showcase another of our iconic waterways to all of our tourists,” said Ms Boothby.
“Our natural swimming holes attract tourism, which is a key pillar in our plan to rebuild the Territory economy … 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.”
NT Parks and Wildlife rangers have installed a crocodile deterrent fence, completed five nights of crocodile surveys, checked water clarity and tested water quality.
Water safety signage has been updated, and an Automated External Defibrillator has been installed near the pools.
“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,” said Ms Boothby. “Crocodile management is also a priority for our government and our Park Rangers work tirelessly to ensure we manage the crocodile population.”
The opening of Berry Springs follows the recent opening of other popular sites including Bitter Springs and camping at Walker Creek and Central Valley.
Further sites are being prepared for opening soon, with Leliyn (Edith Falls) expected to open at the end of the month and Nitmiluk Gorge expected to open mid-June for activities.
Work is underway to open Wangi Falls, which is expected to open in June, and the first walkers can start on the Jatbula Trail on June 1.
Tourism Top End General Manager Sam Bennett said that accommodation providers and caravan parks had reported booking looking very strong from May right through to the end of August, and even into September.
“That’s a clear sign of a strong fly-drive market,” she said. “We’re also seeing a steady flow in the drive market, from families to grey nomads, all migrating north to enjoy our beautiful dry season weather.”
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Berry Springs is a great spot for a swim, picnic and relax.
But be prepared to swim shoulder to shoulder with others, especially at the little waterfall.
No we won’t be heading for the NT this dry season, there’s too much crime up there.
True. They conveniently forget/neglect to advise people about this. It’s why we left the NT
Crime everywhere.
Please remember nomads if you could please , please remember to keep the bus and coach bays empty as we do need them for our big vehicles, park cars in the overflow area PLEASE , safe travels
And please don’t use the truck refueling bays at service stations and parking bays designated for trucks
Lot of attractions on the way up are now closed. Had two lots “dirty” fuel from roadhouse fill ups and again questionable litres amounts on fuel bowsers. Prices for most things have definitely gone up since last year Caravan Parks prices getting out of reach of some people Haven’t had any violence but had stops in a couple towns where their thoughts on grey nomads were to say the least not welcoming
Without naming the actual business, be good to know the location of the “dirty fuel” and “questionable litre” charges.
Thnks.