One of Queensland’s most popular Outback national parks will finally reopen on Friday, more than two years after it was closed following catastrophic floods.
The Queensland Government had invested almost $13 million to get Boodjamulla National Park, ready for public visitation again … and the tourism industry is thrilled.
CEO Tourism Tropical North Queensland Mark Olsen said the Lawn Hill Gorge section of Boodjamulla National Park was an iconic location.
“Reopening Boodjamulla National Park for winter will provide a much-needed boost to the northwest and the communities along the Savannah Way that have faced difficult times over past three years,” Mr Olsen said.
Flooding back in 2023 stripped vegetation from the river banks. PIC: Queensland DESI
“Our great thanks and appreciation to the Waanyi Native Title Corporation, the DETSI team and the QPWS team onsite that have made this possible, it is a huge boost for the region.”
The unprecedented level of flooding in March, 2023, caused widespread devastation and major work was required.
“The funding includes an investment of $6.7 million for repairs and the construction of new visitor infrastructure within the Lawn Hill Gorge section,” said Principal Ranger, Marnie Augusteyn. “We’re also investing $6.1 million for reconstruction work on water treatment, sewage management, power supply and flood resilience work into our ranger residences.”
Michael Miller CEO, Waanyi Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, said Waanyi Elder, Everyl Johnny, would be based at Boodjamulla gorge during the staged re-opening to personally welcome visitors and offer insight into Waanyi culture, and the impacts of the flooding.
“On behalf of the Waanyi Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, we welcome visitors back to the national park,” Mr Miller said. “This is our backyard, and please treat it with the same respect that you would your own backyard … please pay attention to restricted access areas for your own safety and pay respect to our culture.”
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