Kimberley operator to develop Purnululu National Park safari camp

A new operator has been selected to develop a commercial safari camp in the foothills of the Bungle Bungles in the Kimberley's Purnululu National Park.

Western Australian Environment Minister Bill Marmion said locally-based tour operator Kimberley Wild Expeditions had been offered the opportunity after Intrepid Connections withdrew.

The project is the first to be created under the Western Australian Government's Naturebank program that aims to develop low impact, sustainable, nature-based tourism operations.

Minister Marmion said Purnululu National Park was a World Heritage-listed property recognised for its distinct cultural, geological and ecological features - particularly the Bungle Bungles, which attracts more than 26,000 visitors a year.

The Minister stated "the development of a new safari camp at the Kurrajong site in the park will provide a comfortable base for up to 20 visitors to stay several days to enjoy the park and its scenery."

Western Australian Tourism Minister Kim Hames added that the Naturebank partnership between the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and Tourism Western Australia focused on developing nature-based tourism in regional areas, stating "Naturebank provides opportunities for indigenous investment, employment and capacity building while offering eco-friendly, sustainable accommodation and nature-based tourism experiences."

Providing opportunities for people to experience the Kimberley's natural and cultural wonders is also a key aim of the Western Australian Government's Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy.

8th September 2010 - WA GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES WORLD-CLASS SAFARI CAMP FOR THE BUNGLE BUNGLES

9th October 2009 - NEW PROGRAM TO OFFER UNIQUE NATIONAL PARK EXPERIENCES