Australian Walking Company awarded tender for new outback experience in Watarrka National Park

The Northern Territory Government and Traditional Owners aim to bring a new outback hiking experience to life in the Northern Territory’s Watarrka National Park - nestled in the heart of Red Centre and home to Kings Canyon, attracting more than 250,000 visitors each year.

As such, a multi-million dollar project has been awarded to Australian Walking Company (AWC) - selected as the successful tender, following a competitive Expression of Interest (EOI) process.

AWC will invest in the design, development and operation of the multi-day walking track which will be located 330 kilometres south east of Alice Springs, and is set to be one of Australia’s most scenic outback walking experiences.

The company will work in partnership with Traditional Owners and NT Parks and Wildlife to achieve the best outcomes, with the first step being to negotiate the placement and nature of the walking trail with Traditional Owners.

NT Minister for Parks and Rangers Nicole Manison congratulated Australian Walking Company advising “this was an incredibly exciting and competitive EOI process, and we look forward to continue working with them to bring this outback adventure experience to life.

“Watarrka is a culturally significant ancient wonderland and that’s why our Government is making it even better and providing more reasons to visit.”

Australian Walking Company Executive Director Neil Lynch added “Operating walks in National Parks comes with the responsibility of safe-guarding the natural wilderness and we are excited to have the special privilege of showcasing this outstanding walking track in the Northern Territory.

“We look forward to working with the Traditional Owners to design and create a walk that shares the unique heritage and cultural legacies while promoting the environmental conservation and historic preservation of Watarrka National Park.

“The new walk will deliver job opportunities for Traditional Owners and their communities while providing guests with the opportunity to be immersed, educated and guided safely through areas like Kings Canyon.”

The Central Land Council facilitated many meetings of a trail planning committee of traditional owner of Watarrka since 2017 to shape the request for expressions of interest, evaluate proposals and choose the successful proponent.

It will now negotiate an agreement on behalf of the traditional owners that will include jobs for their families.

The NT Government has already committed $5.6 million in co-funding for the project.

AWC’s investment is another big boost for tourism and business in Central Australia. It follows the NT Government’s record $250 million investment into Alice Springs and Iris Capital’s $70 million commitment to expand Lasseters Hotel Casino.

NT Chief Minister Natasha Fyles notes “Central Australia is taking off – we’re seeing Government and private investment in Alice Springs, and now a big commitments further out in Watarrka National Park.

“The Territory is Australia’s best investment destination, and we will keep hunting the next big projects to keep growing our economy and create jobs and opportunities for business.”