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Just saw this in the news…
Kalbarri skywalks capture new gorge viewsAre there climbs in West loop? Climbers might find themselves under much more public view/scrutiny once these developments are completed. They are also doing some unspecified redevelopments at z-bend.
Kalbarri skywalks capture new gorge views
Published: Monday, 26 October 2015 09:05
Breathtaking skywalks in Kalbarri National Park will become a major tourism drawcard for the region, providing stunning vistas of the dramatic Murchison River Gorge.
The Liberal National Government today announced it had provided $20 million under Royalties for Regions to develop an innovative tourism precinct in the park including two 100 metre-high skywalks at the Inyaka Wookai Watju site, (West Loop). The funding will also complete sealing of the Loop/Z Bend Road and redevelop the Z Bend and Meanarra Hill tourist sites.
The skywalks will project 20m and 12m beyond the gorge rim, more than 100m above the Murchison River. There will be interpretation signs, parking for coaches and large caravans, shade shelters and toilets. The skywalks will be accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Premier Colin Barnett said the skywalks’ construction and road sealing recognised the region’s growing tourism industry and would further support the region’s economy.
“Tourism is a cornerstone of Kalbarri’s economy and building quality cutting-edge infrastructure to increase visitor enjoyment and experience is essential in ensuring the region’s growth,” Mr Barnett said.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said regional economies relied on well-built and exciting tourism sites to attract visitors to experience and enjoy country towns.
“The new infrastructure will encourage more people to stay longer and make multiple trips to the region. It will also attract new markets and a new generation of visitors to Kalbarri,” Mr Redman said.
Environment Minister Albert Jacob said Kalbarri National Park was a spectacular part of Western Australia and featured an 80 kilometre gorge with scenic views of the town and river mouth, and sandstone cliffs that plunged more than 100 metres to the ocean.
“The park is famous for its exceptional wildflowers and for a variety of recreational activities. By improving access and infrastructure, we can help showcase our unique environment and encourage people to explore the State’s natural heritage,” Mr Jacob said.
Fact File
Construction will begin in 2016 and the facilities are expected to open in 2017
Kalbarri National Park received almost 371,000 visitors in 2014-15, a significant increase from 306,000 visitors in 2013-14
The project is a collaboration between Mid West Development Commission, Department of Regional Development, Department of Parks and Wildlife and Tourism WA
