New infrastructure installed to protect ancient petroglyphs at Ewaninga

A new viewing platform and boardwalk have been installed at Napwerte/Ewaninga Conservation reserve south of Alice Springs, enabling visitors to have an optimal view of the ancient petroglyphs which date back around 30,000 years, while preventing inadvertent damage to the works by visitors.

Set along the Maryvale Road, the reserve has one of the highest concentrations of rock engravings in the Northern Territory.

The gallery of sacred works, spread across six hectares of sandstone outcrops, provides a valuable glimpse into the activities of early Arrernte people.

Arrernte custodians, welcome visitors to the site on the condition they respect the significance of the site and do not climb over rocks, touch or interfere with the carvings in any way.

Funded by the Northern Territory Government of $105,000, the platform and boardwalk were constructed by Alice Springs company Bluedust NT following consultation with Traditional Owners who provided input into the design.

The Heritage Branch also gave the tick of approval for the project, which included an archaeological survey to best understand how to protect the petroglyphs.

Northern Territory Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Chansey Paech notes “the works will preserve the ancient culture of his Aboriginal ancestors as well as offering visitors a fascinating insight into the rich heritage of the Arrernte people.

“For many tourists, Napwerte offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view cultural icons that are amongst the most ancient in the world.

“There are more than a thousand carvings etched into the sandstone at this incredibly special place that is both archaeologically and culturally significant on a global-scale.

“The Arrernte Traditional Owners have supported this project which also has clearance from the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority.”

Northern Territory Minister for Parks and Rangers Selena Uibo adds "our Government has worked in partnership with Arrernte Traditional Owners to build this new infrastructure that will preserve the cultural values at Napwerte for years to come.

"The protection of the rock engravings was a key management objective, outlined in the 2016 Joint Management Plan developed by the partners. This highlights the Traditional Owners' commitment to strong management of cultural values while maintaining appropriate safe access to the Reserve.

"Our parks and reserves are home to unique culture and experiences, and we are continuing to work with Traditional Owners to invest in upgrades, so that Territorians and tourists continue to enjoy our amazing backyard."