Defence and Parks join forces to reopen iconic Nitmiluk walks

14 May 2025

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to support the ongoing partnership between NT Parks and Wildlife and RAAF Base Tindal as personnel from the base volunteered their time to prepare renowned Nitmiluk walks for reopening this Dry season.

The work included the iconic Jatbula Trail, Mountain Bike Trail Network, and Southern Walks.

The Jatbula Trail, a world-class 62km trek between Nitmiluk Gorge and Leliyn (Edith Falls), is already fully booked for 2025, and the Baruwei and Southern Walks, including Smitt Rock and Eighth Gorge, are also popular with both locals and visitors.

Between Tuesday 6 May and Friday 9 May, between 30 and 40 personnel from RAAF Base Tindal worked side-by-side with Rangers to clear debris, repair trails, prepare campgrounds, and install signage, ensuring public access to over 40km of trail in time for the peak 2025 dry season.

Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby said the effort reflected the Territory’s commitment to community collaboration, tourism growth, and local pride.

“The Territory works best when we work together, and this partnership is a brilliant example of what’s possible when our defence forces and park rangers unite to showcase the best of the Top End," said Ms Boothby.

"Nitmiluk is a jewel of the Katherine region, and it’s not just for tourists - it’s a place Territorians love, and we’re proud of the diverse offerings the park has to offer.”

Chief District Ranger Jaco Venter praised the contribution from RAAF Tindal.

"It has been a privilege to have teams from RAAF Tindal working alongside our Nitmiluk rangers; their efforts have been instrumental in reopening key walking trails in time for the dry season," he said.

This is the fourth year RAAF personnel have supported track preparation, continuing a tradition started by 75 Squadron’s Commanding Officer in 2022.

Wing Commander Alex Smith, Senior Australian Defence Force Officer at RAAF Base Tindal said he was proud to continue the tradition.

"As contributing members of the Katherine community, it’s important that the Tindal aviators help play their part," he said.

"RAAF Tindal has been an integral part of the Katherine community for decades, and it is important our aviators engage regularly with and for the community in a range of activities.”

Corporal Andrew Hermitage, 2IC for the activity, said: "Engagement from Aviators is fantastic; once the final numbers came in, I think it was within 24 hours all positions were filled, with reserves if needed."

"It’s a great day out, I myself participated last year and it’s a brilliant opportunity to see parts of the Ranges and Trails that personnel may not necessarily encounter on their own," said Corporal Hermitage.

This work highlights the important role Defence plays, not just in national security, but in building, supporting, and connecting with regional communities and key industries such as tourism.

Tourism is one of the Territory’s five key economic pillars, and Nitmiluk National Park being just three hours from Darwin is a major drawcard, welcoming more than 250,000 visitors annually.

Media contact - Ebony Raymond - 0476 938 478

Images below:

1. Aviators from RAAF Base Tindal and Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife rangers clear the Jatbula Trail.
2. Aviators from RAAF Base Tindal with Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife rangers during the clearing of the Jatbula Trail.
3. Leading Aircraftman Sam Schmidt and Aircraftman Bradley Shepherd from RAAF Base Tindal with NT Rangers.
4. Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife ranger Phillip Johns briefs Aircraftman Gianmarco Tesolin before clearing.