In the largest addition to its national park estate in 25 years, the Northern Territory Government has secured a 30,000-hectare parcel of land in a landmark $7.5 million deal.
The purchase of the Silkwood property will see Litchfield National Park expanded in size by 20%.
Chief Minister, Lia Finocchiaro said the purchase reflects the Government’s commitment to protecting “what makes the Territory special”.
“This is exactly what restoring the Territory lifestyle looks like – protecting our wide-open spaces while making sure Territorians have more places to enjoy the activities we love,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.
The Chief Minister said the purchase will open up a spectacular new southern section of the park, featuring untouched waterfalls, gorges, hot springs and 4WD tracks.
The Silkwood property borders Litchfield’s south-east boundary, 120km from Darwin near the town of Adelaide River, and includes the much-loved Robin Falls.
Minister for Parks and Wildlife and Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the expansion delivers on the Government’s election promise to give Territorians more places to camp, 4WD, swim and hunt.
“As part of our year of action, certainty and security, we’re proud to mark this historic purchase. Silkwood has been on the market since last year, and there were real concerns that a private sale could limit future access,” Ms Boothby said.
“We have secured the current use of the property into the future, and work will now commence on what improvements will be made, including a new dedicated hunting reserve.”
Litchfield already receives more than 250,000 visitors each year, with popular sites including Wangi Falls, Buley Rockhole and Florence Falls.
The regional town of Adelaide River is expected to benefit from increased visitation, creating new opportunities for local tourism, services, and economic growth.
“This is a huge win for regional development. More tourists through Adelaide River means more support for local businesses and jobs, and that’s central to our plan to rebuild the economy and restore our unique lifestyle across the Territory,” Ms Boothby said.
Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment, Joshua Burgoyne said the Silkwood acquisition will secure the long-term protection of the region’s pristine environment.
“Thirty thousand hectares of escarpments, woodlands and wetlands are being returned to public hands, protecting Territory ecosystems and wildlife while opening up a range of incredible new recreational opportunities,” he said.
“This isn’t just a map change – this is a transformational and visionary investment in our lifestyle, liveability, and landscape.”
