Landmark Deal Secures 30,000 Hectare Parcel for Litchfield National Park

Strategic Insights -

A major conservation and tourism milestone has been reached with the CLP Government's purchase of the 30,000-hectare Silkwood property near Adelaide River, marking the largest addition to the Territory's national park estate in 25 years. The $7.5 million deal will see the size of Litchfield National Park boosted by 20% and open up new recreational and tourism opportunities just 90 minutes from Darwin. The purchase protects the pristine environment and will secure the long-term protection of the region's ecosystems and wildlife.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CLP Government has purchased the 30,000-hectare Silkwood property for $7.5 million, marking the largest addition to the Territory's national park estate in 25 years.
  • The purchase will see the size of Litchfield National Park boosted by 20% and open up new recreational and tourism opportunities just 90 minutes from Darwin.
  • The property is home to spectacular scenery, hot springs, waterfalls, and hidden gorges, presenting compelling opportunities for eco-tourism.
  • The addition is expected to see visitor numbers to Litchfield swell beyond its current 250,000 yearly visitors, benefiting the regional town of Adelaide River.
  • The purchase protects the long-term protection of the region's pristine environment and will secure the protection of Territory ecosystems and wildlife.
  • A new dedicated hunting reserve and facilities for campers, swimmers, 4WD enthusiasts, and hunters will be developed on the property.
  • The regional town of Adelaide River is expected to benefit from increased visitation, creating new opportunities for local tourism, services, and economic growth.

Statistics:

  • 30,000 hectares: the size of the Silkwood property purchased by the CLP Government.
  • $7.5 million: the price of the Silkwood property in the landmark deal.
  • 25 years: the longest period since which the Territory's national park estate has seen such a large addition.
  • 20%: the boost to the size of Litchfield National Park as a result of the purchase.
  • 90 minutes: the driving time from Darwin to the new expansion of Litchfield National Park.
  • 250,000: the current yearly visitors to Litchfield National Park.
  • 30,000+: the number of hectares of escarpments, woodlands, and wetlands being protected under the purchase.

Sources:

  • Territory Government press release (no specific date mentioned).
  • NT News (no specific date mentioned).
  • Quote from Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
  • Quote from Parks and Wildlife and Tourism and Hospitality Minister Marie-Clare Boothby.
  • Quote from Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne.