The NT Government and Traditional Owners have developed a draft Joint Management Plan for Ruby Gap Nature Park, which is now open for public comment.
This is an opportunity for the community to have a say on the future of the Park, which is located 150km east of Alice Springs.
Ruby Gap Nature Park is characterised by rugged hills, escarpments and gorges offering a unique and genuine bush four-wheel driving adventure.
The draft Plan sets out strategies to enable joint management, sustain both healthy culture and country, and support quality visitor experiences.
The Park lies within Eastern Arrernte country and the MacDonnell Ranges Bioregion, which contains plants and animals of conservation significance. It is also the site of the first mining rush in Central Australia.
To view the draft Joint Management Plan visit https://dtc.nt.gov.au/parks-and-wildlife/public-consultation. To have your say, email parkplanning@nt.gov.au or make a written submission to: Park Planning, Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture, PO Box Alice Springs NT 0871. The closing date for submissions is 17 February 2020.
Quotes from Jonathan Vea, A/Assistant Director, Planning Services:
“Our stunning national parks are loved by Territorians and play a huge role in tourism in the Northern Territory, attracting people from interstate and overseas. They are also of vital importance to Aboriginal Traditional Owners.
“Joint Management Plans ensure Traditional Owners are involved in managing a park every step of the way, and the knowledge they bring to the process is invaluable.
“Ruby Gap Nature Park is unique among Central Australian parks as it offers a genuine remote bush adventure that requires a four-wheel drive and self-sufficient camping surrounded by spectacular unspoilt scenery.
“The proposed Joint Management Plan will help the park retain its natural, undeveloped appeal for the more adventurous visitor while protecting its outstanding natural beauty and cultural heritage.”
Media Contact: Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture Media Manager 0476 844 832