Parks Australia

 

Parks Australia

parksaustralia.gov.au

Director of National Parks

Kakadu takes home tourism honour

3 March 2012

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Kakadu has cemented its place amongst Australia's top tourism attractions, winning a coveted bronze at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards last night.

At a gala dinner in Cairns, Kakadu was named one of Australia's top three Major Tourist Attractions, behind Taronga Zoo and first place winner Melbourne Museum. The Northern Territory took home five awards.

Traditional owners Victor Cooper, Michael Bangalang and Ryan Baruwei proudly accepted the award on Kakadu's behalf.

"Winning this award is a huge achievement for us," Ryan said. "It recognises the great effort that has been put into nurturing tourism in Kakadu since we launched our Shared Tourism Vision in 2005.

"We say to everyone - come and visit us, share our land. Our country's moods and landscapes change over our six seasons. Immerse yourself, feel its spirit, hear our stories - you'll have an experience that will stay with you forever."

Kakadu Park Manager Sarah Kerin said that Kakadu's living cultural landscape offers visitors an opportunity to relax, unwind and learn.

"Kakadu is the sort of place that lives with you long after you leave, from the generosity of the Aboriginal people who share their culture, through to the soaring landscapes, ancient rock art and vibrant wildlife," Ms Kerin said.

"To our tireless staff and traditional owners, our tour operators and local Territorians - this award is for you.

"We are proud to have represented the Northern Territory in this year's top awards category, and we feel like we're going home winners."

Jointly managed by its traditional owners and the Australian Government's Director of National Parks, Kakadu is part of Australia's Timeless North National Landscape, offering world-class tourism experiences - stunning, diverse landscapes that transform across six seasons. A visit to Kakadu offers camping, bushwalking, bird and wildlife viewing, and a chance to learn about its living culture from Indigenous guides and free ranger-guided walks and talks.

For more information visit environment.gov.au/parks/kakadu/

Media contact: Margot Marshall 0418 624 847