The Hon Martin Ferguson MP, Minister for Tourism and the Hon Warren Snowdon MP, Member for Lingiari, have announced Budget funding of $500,000 to the Red Centre Way to attract more international visitors to the heart of Australia.
Minister Ferguson said: “This funding will deliver benefits for business by opening up tourist access to highly sought-after cultural and nature experiences.
"Importantly, it will also provide job and training opportunities for the local and indigenous communities.
“Red Centre Way is set to become one of the key tourism drives in Outback Australia, as this project connects Alice Springs with Uluru via the West MacDonnell and Watarrka National Parks creating a new traveller experience through magnificent country, rich in cultural history," he said.
$500,000 will be used to create a spectacular sense of arrival with two sheltered visitor facilities, viewing and picnic rest areas, and interpretative signage highlighting the significant history of the area.
Warren Snowdon said: “Tourism injects $234 million into the Alice Springs tourist region economy each year.
"Our Government's initiative will benefit not only the tourism industry but also associated businesses.
“The project has been developed in collaboration and negotiation with traditional land owners and the local community as well as private operators and it enjoys widespread community support."
Media contact: Michael Bradley – 0420 371 744