Northern Territory Opposition politician says Uluru closure conditions are 'disappointing'

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Northern Territory Opposition politician says Uluru closure conditions are ‘disappointing’

January 18, 2010

Attractions / Culture / Environment / Tourism /

A member of the Northern Territory Opposition says he is disappointed the new management plan for Uluru National Park approved by the Federal Government could still see climbing the rock banned.

The Federal Governement's Parks Australia agency last year recommended closing the climb because traditional owners are concerned about deaths, rubbish and erosion.

But Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett has now said it will remain open unless the number of people climbing the rock drops below 20%, the climb is no longer the main reason people visit or new experiences are offered as alternatives.

The tourism industry would be given 18 months notice before the closure.

Northern Territory Opposition member Dave Tollner says visitors should be free to make their own choices, stating "it's good news that they've managed to stave off a push by southern environmentalists to closing climbing Ayers Rock, but I'm disappointed there should be some kind of cap set in the future.

"I think if people want to climb the rock, they should be allowed to climb the rock despite how few of them want to do it.

"If more people decide that they don't want to climb the rock, that's great but for people who do they should be allowed to climb it now matter how many there are."

A Central Australian tourism operator says closing Uluru to walkers will rob the world of a unique experience.

Peter Severin from Curtin Springs helped put up the walking chain in the early 1960s and says it does not do any damage.

Severin says there is nothing to compare to climbing Uluru and it would be catastrophic if it closed, stating "you can see South Australia, Western Australia, and the Territory. It is invigorating."

Some traditional owners want the climb closed for cultural reasons.

Traditional owner Harry Wilson has released a statement supporting the plan, saying it will be good for the Anangu people.

17th December 2009 - Heritage listing to halt Tarkine wilderness road?

16th October 2009 - Uluru’s new viewing platform applauded by Minister

14th July 2009 - Uluru Management Plan Needs Partnership Approach

7th November 2008 - Iconic Alps receives Heritage honour

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