Gunlom Falls, a renowned attraction in Kakadu National Park’s southern “stone country” region, will reopen to the public in May, ending a six-year closure.
According to an article by news.com.au, the site, accessible by a one-hour 4WD drive from Cooinda and a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Darwin, was closed in 2019 after construction of a walkway disturbed a sacred men’s site, exposing it to the public. Parks Australia was subsequently fined $200,000 and apologized for the incident.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek announced in Jabiru a new agreement between Kakadu’s traditional owners and the Commonwealth, which includes a new park lease.
The Northern Land Council negotiated an increased annual rent of $10.7 million from the Federal Government, as reported by the NT News.
The deal also allocates 50 percent of commercial revenue to the traditional owners, including entry fees, permits, camping fees, and licenses.
Gunlom Falls, originally named UDP Falls and later Waterfall Creek Falls, features seasonal cascades from 85-meter-high cliffs, peaking after the wet season, making May an ideal reopening time.
Below the falls is an emerald-colored billabong, suitable for swimming from May to October, conditions permitting.
The new 15-20 minute steep track leads to rock pools at the top of the falls, offering panoramic views of Kakadu’s southern stone country.
Northern Land Council Chair Matthew Ryan anticipates increased tourism due to the reopening. Kakadu Tourism Chair, Lauren Ganley, said the reopening signifies a new era for Kakadu’s tourism, emphasizing respect for traditional owners’ heritage.
“The reopening of Gunlom Falls is part of a wider program to upgrade infrastructure to allow visitors to better appreciate Kakadu’s natural wonders,” said Ms. Ganley.
She also stated that Twin Falls will reopen after infrastructure upgrades, and there are plans for significant investment in the park.
Ms. Ganley highlighted the timing of the announcement, coinciding with Qantas’s resumption of direct flights between Darwin and Singapore, which will open the Northern Territory to international tourism.
“It is an exciting future for the region, and in anticipation of strong inbound growth, Cooinda Lodge is completing an upgrade of its popular Outback Retreat glamping tents, adding ensuite facilities initially to 10 of the 20 stylish, air-conditioned tents.” Ms. Ganley added.
She also stated, “We are hoping that the Gunlom reopening will happen in time for one of Kakadu’s most popular events, A Taste of Kakadu from 23 – 25 May. It would deliver the ultimate Kakadu experience for visitors.”
The reopening of Gunlom Falls holds significant importance for the outdoor recreation sector. It signals a renewed commitment to providing access to iconic natural landscapes while respecting and integrating the cultural heritage of traditional landowners.