$11m boost to lure tourists

Tourism in the Pilbara is set to ramp up after more than $11 million was secured for a raft of ventures aimed at enticing visitors to the region following COVID-19. The funding forms part of the State Government’s $150 million tourism package aimed to assist WA’s COVID-19 recovery. As part of the package, Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation’s plans for the Murujuga Living Knowledge Centre at Conzinc Bay on the Burrup Peninsula has been bolstered by $10 million. The money would go towards building the access road in Murujuga National Park to support the development of the Living Knowledge Centre where traditional custodians can share their Aboriginal culture including art, language and stories. The Living Knowledge Centre would also function as an information centre offering visitors guided tours and experiences. Progression of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape world heritage listing, which is on the UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List, is also set to be supported by the funding. The famous Karijini National Park would also be boosted, with $1.02 million assigned to upgrade the access path at Fortescue Falls lookout and visitor facilities at Dales Campground. According to Tourism WA, 940,000 people visit the Pilbara each year on average spending $373 million each year. As this year’s season was crippled due to COVID-19, the major improvements of the State’s natural icons aims to create a pipeline of jobs, get people back into work, increase visitors to WA attractions and support local businesses. Tourism Minister Paul Papalia highlighted the importance of investing in Aboriginal cultural tourism. “We are home to the oldest living culture on earth, and the investment in Aboriginal cultural tourism will allow even more tourists to learn about the State's incredible history while having an unforgettable holiday experience,” he said. “This raft of important projects all across the State will enhance the visitor experience at many of our most unique destinations, ensuring our stunning landscapes and natural offerings are properly supported by quality visitor facilities and infrastructure.” Premier Mark McGowan said the funding would help encourage tourism as well as create jobs following COVID-19. “Western Australians are among the best travellers in the world and COVID-19 has not dimmed our enthusiasm for getting out and exploring new places and incredible locations, with this investment to boost the visitor experience while creating a pipeline of jobs in many industries all around the State,” he said. “These wide-ranging improvements will enhance the intrastate holiday experience for locals, while ensuring the State is better placed than ever to capitalise on the out-of-State market when the time comes.”