Katherine and the Katherine Region

Katherine is a town of cultural diversity, pioneering history and tropical character. This towns position is as a base for exploration of some of Central Australias finest attractions including the 180,000 hectare Nitimuk National Park, just 32km away.

Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park, it is in fact, a series of 13 gorges carved through the rock by torrential rains over millions of years resulting in towering rock walls that reflect amazing color and contain numerous caves with ancient Aboriginal rock paintings.

The gorge can be travelled on foot, by scenic boat, by air in a helicopter or take on a camping trip in canoes.

Also within the Park is Edith Falls, a series of small waterfalls and rock pools, culminating in the picturesque main pool, a popular, safe, swimming spot.

115 kms south of Katherine is the town of Mataranka and its Thermal Pools. The surrounding paper bark and palm forests provide leisurely walks and excellent photography opportunities. This is part of the country known as 'The Never Never', made famous in the 'We of the Never Never' and 'Little Black Princess' books by Mrs Aeneas Gunn, telling of her experiences whilst living at the Homestead in the early 1900's.

Elsey National Park, 140 sq kms is the site of the old Elsey Homestead, with its monsoon rainforests, famous Roper River and its barramundi. Historic Springvale Homestead is easily accessible.

Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park covers almost 1500 ha. The caves themselves are in Karst (limestone) estimated to have formed some 500 million years ago and consist of a series of caverns connected by narrow passages. Limestone stalactites and stalagmites are a site to behold as much as the species of bats, including the rare ghost and horseshoe bats that inhabits them.

Clothing and Supplies

Outside
Clothing should be comfortable, light and suitably protective from the sun. This may mean long sleeved shirts. At the least a hat to provide you shade, a high UV protective sunscreen (preferably waterproof so you can have something you can trust in the water) and comfortable walking shoes for potentially longs walks and protection from the terrain.

Inside
The climate and lifestyle of the NT does result in a very casual dress but keep in mind that many venues that you would expect to have a dress code in any other city will have the same here. To be sure, check the dress code of any venues or dress appropriately before you attend.

Water
The climate of the NT requires you to remain hydrated and this means you may drink a lot more water then you ordinarily would. Carry plenty of water particularly for long drives and walks. Worn hydration packs are popular amongst visitors and a very good idea.

Contact

The Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory

Phone: 1800 653 142
Fax: 08 8972 2655
Website: www.krta.com.au
Email: info@ktc.net.gov.au

Katherine Photos