A festival to be held in the Katherine region will mark the 30th anniversary of the handback of Nitmiluk National Park to Jawoyn traditional owners.
The Nitmiluk Festival will run from 6-15 September and feature an exhibition, a concert at Nitmiluk gorge, a family fun day at Leliyn (Edith Falls), Katherine Bird Week and a gourmet food and wine events at the award-winning Cicada Lodge.
It will culminate in a day at the gorge with community markets held during the day and a screening of Top End Wedding and Jedda that evening.
The variety of events on offer during the week are scheduled around official anniversary celebrations to be held at Nitmiluk on Tuesday 10 September.
Jawoyn board chairperson Lisa Mumbin says it’s an important celebration of the anniversary, the region and its diverse community.
“This year on 10 September, Jawoyn people celebrate a milestone in their modern history – 30 years since we were recognised as the traditional owners of Nitmiluk,” Ms Mumbin said.
“The anniversary and Jawoyn’s partnership with the Northern Territory Government offers a significant occasion for all our community to reflect on the great successes we’ve had together.
“It’s a celebration of what can be achieved through collaboration and reconciliation.
“In this spirit, groups and organisations from across the Katherine region have united to create a festival that celebrates Nitmiluk, our region and community.”
Nitmiluk National Park’s natural and cultural wonders make it a shining jewel in the crown of the Northern Territory and a source of great pride for the Katherine region.
The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss says it is one of the most spectacular and treasured places in the Territory and the country.
“More and more people are attracted to this special place each year,” Minister Moss said.
“Nitmiluk has always been Jawoyn country; the Government is pleased to be part of celebrations for such an important milestone, recognising 30 years since this land was handed back to its traditional owners.
“We are also proud to partner with Jawoyn to jointly manage this incredible asset. We acknowledge and thank the Jawoyn people for your generosity in sharing your country with visitors from around the world, who all leave enriched by the experience.
The Government has invested $15 million n the Park this term, including the new Visitor Centre that opened last month.
“Other upgrades are underway including new walking and cycling tracks, which will enhance the visitor experience even further.,” Minister moss added.
“The Nitmiluk Festival promises to be a wonderful celebration of this beautiful part of the world and of Jawoyn culture and I encourage people to get along and be part of this important milestone.”
Visit the website: www.nitmilukfestival.com.au
Facebook: @nitmilukfestival www.facebook.com/nitmilukfestival
Instagram: @nitmilukfestival https://www.instagram.com/nitmilukfestival
Twitter: @nitmilukfest https://twitter.com/nitmilukfest
