One of Kakadu National Park's most culturally significant sites, Gunlom Falls, has reopened to the public.
Its reopening to tourists comes following a six-year closure after Parks Australia built a path through a sacred Gunlom Falls men's site, for which it was fined $200,000 last year.
In announcing its reopening on Friday, the Federal Government acknowledged "the pain caused by past mistakes," with the Government saying it "remains committed to working closely with Traditional Owners to manage and care for Gunlom for future generations".
Since its closure the Government says Parks Australia has worked closely with Traditional Owners and key stakeholders, including the Northern Land Council and the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority, to prepare the site.
This included realignment of the walking track and maintenance of the boardwalk, campground and roadworks as well as crocodile surveys.
A new lease agreement was signed between Traditional Owners and the Commonwealth in April.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said she was thrilled to see "one of Kakadu's most iconic and culturally significant sites" reopen to the public.
"I express my gratitude to Traditional Owners for their generosity of spirit in sharing this spectacular site with visitors," Senator McCarthy said.
"When visitors come to Gunlom, they will learn about the deep, continuing connection the Jawoyn people have to Country and the site's history and environment, through new signage that was developed with Traditional Owners."
New interpretive signage, developed in collaboration with Traditional Owners, has also been installed throughout the site, sharing information about the cultural, environmental and historic significance of Gunlom, which holds deep cultural significance to the area's Jawoyn people.
Kakadu National Park Board of Management chair and senior Jawoyn Traditional Owner, Ryan Barrowei, said Gunlom is an important place for Jawoyn peoples.
This land holds stories about our culture, lore and our history. It is just as important for Jawoyn today as it was in Buwurr times (the Dreamtime). Our most powerful Ancestor, Bula Djang, still resides on Jawoyn Country today," Mr Barrowei said.
"Our connection to this land is strong and we are happy that Gunlom is reopening. Once again, we will be able to gather here with our families, to share our traditions and keep culture strong.
"We welcome visitors to Gunlom and ask them to come and learn about our Country and show respect while here by staying on marked tracks and following safety directions."
Traditional Owners, Parks Australia staff and the local community are set to gather at Gunlom on Friday to celebrate the reopening and acknowledge the significance of the occasion.
Federal Member for the NT seat of Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour, said the Government is committed to working with Traditional Owners to protect Gunlom Falls so it can be enjoyed now and by many future generations.
"Gunlom really is a must-see destination, with pristine landscape, stunning emerald waterholes and views for miles," Ms Scrymgour said.
"This re-opening is welcome news for the tourism industry as people can once again experience this truly special part of Kakadu National Park."
