A new state-of-the-art crocodile deterrent fence is set to help reduce the risk of saltwater crocodiles entering one of the Northern Territory’s most popular swimming spots during the peak tourist season.
Minister for Parks and Wildlife and Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby said the new fence will help to keep the 200,000 locals and tourists who visit Wangi Falls each year safe from the reptiles.
The project was delivered by local contractors TB Construction (NT) Pty Ltd, supported by a $260,000 NT Government investment.
In addition, five new crocodile traps have been built by Palmerston-based business Povey and Sons, further backing Territory jobs and strengthening frontline crocodile management.
The traps can be adapted into 10 smaller traps if needed and will be deployed in high-priority areas including Wangi Falls, Nitmiluk National Park’s First Gorge, and Bitter Springs.
“Wangi Falls is a Territory favourite, and this practical investment gives visitors confidence that they can swim safely while enjoying one of our most iconic natural attractions,” said Ms Boothby.
“By backing our Rangers and local businesses, we are keeping Territorians safe, supporting jobs, and restoring our unique lifestyle – because we promised a year of action, certainty, and security.”
Povey and Sons Director, David Povey said his team was proud to contribute to frontline crocodile management.
“These new traps have been designed with Rangers in mind, with removable floats and a flat design that makes them easier to handle and safer to position and remove out on site,” said Mr Povey.
“These are crocodile traps built by Territorians for the Territory. We know the conditions, the geography and the challenges, and that local expertise means we can design traps that really work.”
“It’s great to be a local company supporting the efforts of our Rangers, who do a terrific job keeping our parks safe for Territorians and visitors alike.”
