(TAN): Western Australia’s Millstream Chichester National Park will get a new ecotourism accommodation after a lease to the Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) is approved.
Palm Pool area of the national park, popular with campers and adventure tourists, will feature 25 glamping-style safari tents, caravan and camping sites, and a restaurant.
Chief Executive Officer of YAC, Michael Woodley, said the new ecotourism project could create more jobs for the Yindjibarndi people as well as educate tourists about their culture.
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“The Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation is excited to be granted an opportunity to develop an eco-retreat on Yindjibarndi Country at Palm Pool following a competitive tender process. The opportunity could enable new employment opportunities for our people on Country and provide the basis for Yindjibarndi people to share and educate national and international visitors about our Culture. Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation looks forward to developing an ongoing partnership with the State Government, which is crucial to the project’s eventual development,” he said.
A part of the state government’s Two-Year Action Plan for Nature-Based Tourism in Western Australia initiative, the new proposal will be marketed by the Western Australia Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC).
Tourism Minister Paul Papalia looked forward to the successful implementation of the effort in the national park which drew over 49,000 visitors last fiscal year.
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“The unique natural and cultural attractions of Millstream Chichester National Park are a magnet for tourists – with the park attracting more than 49,000 visits last financial year. I look forward to WAITOC working successfully with the YAC to market this fantastic new accommodation initiative that is eco-friendly, provides an opportunity to experience indigenous culture and also supports the livelihoods of local people,” he added.
Set in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, Millstream Chichester National Park spans over an area of around 200,000 hectares around the Fortescue River. The national park, featuring ancient volcanic ranges, tablelands, escarpments and water systems, is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, and a popular destination for nature buffs.
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