Kakadu Tourism closes facilities in response to COVID-19

Kakadu Tourism has announced the closure of its visitor accommodation and tourism operations until further notice, as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Kakadu Tourism, Kakadu’s largest accommodation and tourism operator, operates accommodation including Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and Cooinda Lodge and Camping Grounds, as well as Yellow Water Cruises and Spirit of Kakadu 4WD Adventure Tours.

It will continue to operate the two hotels with skeleton staff to accommodate emergency services’ workers and those classified as 'essential travellers', as well as provide takeaway food and petrol (at Cooinda).  

Kakadu Tourism Chair, Rick Allert, said the decision to close operations for tourists was made to safeguard the welfare of vulnerable Indigenous communities in Kakadu National Park and to support government directives regarding non-essential travel.

Allert advises “as a fully Indigenous owned business, our first priority is the health and wellbeing of our staff and the population within Kakadu National Park.

“The decision to close our facilities was a very difficult one as we rely heavily on the upcoming peak dry season to sustain the business throughout the year.

“Unfortunately, the decision will have significant financial and employment implications for businesses in Kakadu. We will be seeking urgent financial assistance from government as prolonged closure of accommodation and tourism facilities could stymie the region for an extended period.

Allert added “it is impossible to provide an indication of when our facilities will re-open, but we will regularly re-assess the situation in consultation with key stakeholders including Traditional Owners, Kakadu National Park and governments.”

Image top of Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and above of Cooinda Lodge and Camping Grounds. Courtesy of Kakadu Tourism.