Iconic SA tourism destinations on the ride to recovery
South Australia’s iconic nature-based tourism sector will get a much-needed boost – with works starting on the $10 million Remarkable Southern Flinders Ranges project which will help fast-track the state’s economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The project will transform the region into a world-class adventure tourism destination with an international mountain bike track being developed at Mt Remarkable, upgraded trails for hiking and cycling – including a new multi-day hike - and improved visitor facilities.
The $10 million project is jointly funded by the Federal Government ($5 million) and the State Government ($5 million).
Tourism operators have been some of the hardest hit businesses and the $10 million Remarkable Southern Flinders Ranges project is expected to create a huge drawcard for South Australia.
The project is part of the State Government’s Parks 2025 plan – a once-in-a-generation strategy to activate nature-based tourism in South Australia.
National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia (NPWSSA) Executive Director Mike Williams said the project will help reinvigorate regional communities and cement South Australia’s place as a world-class eco-tourism destination.
“This investment will be a significant boost and help fast-track the recovery of our regional economies, who have been hurting as a result of the recent bushfires, drought and the ongoing impacts of coronavirus,” Mr Williams said.
“The Flinders Ranges are an iconic South Australian destination and this new integrated precinct will further highlight the stunning natural environment that is right on our doorstep and the recreation opportunities it provides.
“Our Parks 2025 strategy now has an initial investment of $27 million and will help revitalise our national parks and open spaces across South Australia – providing world-class visitor attractions, which will boost our economy and support regional jobs.”
CEO of the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife Ian Darbyshire said the project would be a valuable addition to Australia’s national parks network.
“As the charity partner of Australia’s National Parks, we are thrilled to support this project that builds on the Parks 2025 vision for South Australia. This project will support the creation of a new national park precinct of over 30,000 hectares and create a world class tourism asset which will provide access to nature and economic benefits for local communities long into the future,” said Mr Darbyshire.
Parks 2025 projects:
• Remarkable Southern Flinders Ranges ($10 million)
Developing an international mountain bike destination at Mt Remarkable
Upgrading trails for hiking and cycling, including a new iconic multi-day hike
To upgrade visitor facilities.
• Kangaroo Island ($7 million)
Enhanced visitor experience and facilities at Seal Bay
New visitor precinct at Antechamber Bay
Upgraded visitor facilities at Murray’s Lagoon
A signature camping experience at D’Estrees Bay
New visitor experiences at Cape Willoughby.
• Ediacara Fossil Experience ($3 million)
To create a major visitor experience at Nilpena to showcase our unique Ediacaran fossils which are 550 million years old.
• Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park ($1 million)
To renew visitor infrastructure and experiences in partnership with traditional owners.
• Cleland Wildlife Park ($1 million)
To build a new purpose-built koala hold facility.
• Nature-Based Tourism Co-investment Fund ($5 million).
