Tackling gamba grass to protect Litchfield National Park

11 February 2025

The CLP Finocchiaro Government is taking decisive action to combat the spread of gamba grass in Litchfield National Park, ensuring the long-term protection of one of the Territory’s most treasured natural assets.

Minister for Parks and Wildlife, Marie-Clare Boothby, said gamba grass posed a severe risk to the park’s biodiversity, visitor safety, and tourism economy.

“Litchfield National Park is a jewel of the Top End, drawing over 250,000 visitors each year, but it is under serious threat from the rapid spread of gamba grass,” said Ms Boothby.

“This highly invasive weed fuels intense bushfires that destroy native habitats, making areas unsafe for visitors and disastrous for our delicate ecosystems. Litchfield has been left vulnerable to this threat after years of a scatter gun, hope and pray approach by the former Labor Government.”

As part of a specific Integrated Conservation Strategy for Litchfield, the CLP Government will deliver targeted eradication and prevention efforts while maintaining an annual investment of $250,000 for the Gamba Grass works.

Key actions include:

• Strengthening collaboration through the ‘Gamba Litchfield Loop’ initiative – Bringing together Parks and Wildlife, the Department of Lands, Planning and Environment’s Weed Management Branch, local councils, and landowners to ensure a coordinated effort to stop further spread.
• Establishing a dedicated Litchfield Gamba Group – A four-person team will operate for up to seven months annually, focusing on surveying, spraying, and monitoring gamba control effectiveness.
• Appointing a dedicated Gamba Coordinator – Overseeing control efforts for six months each year, working with landholders and agencies to maximise the impact of eradication programs.
• Targeted weed eradication in key tourism sites – Areas such as Central Valley, Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole will receive enhanced treatment to protect visitor safety and preserve park infrastructure.
• Investing in new technology – Quick Spray loggers will be deployed to improve data collection, track chemical use, and enhance overall treatment effectiveness.
• Increasing public awareness – A communication strategy will highlight active gamba removal efforts, with signage placed at key work sites so the community can see progress firsthand.

Ms Boothby acknowledged the work of dedicated park rangers and conservation groups, including the volunteers of Gamba Grass Roots, and reaffirmed the CLP Government’s commitment to taking real action.

“Our government is committed to protecting Litchfield and preserving it for future generations," she said.

"That is why I am responding to a petition in Parliament today with over 1,000 signatures urging to 'Save Litchfield National Park from gamba catastrophe'.

"We are listening to Territorians who are demanding action, and we are delivering the resources needed to fight back against this destructive weed.

“This is about more than just a park—it’s about protecting our way of life, supporting tourism, and ensuring our communities are safe from the increasing fire risk caused by gamba grass.”

The CLP Finocchiaro Government’s strong commitment to gamba control is part of its broader plan to restore the Territory’s lifestyle, protect the environment, and grow the economy.

Media Contact - Ebony Raymond - 0476 938 478