Nitmiluk Tours has taken over management of the Cycad Gardens and Cafe in Katherine in a move aimed at extending its tourism portfolio, but also at creating a platform for tourism and hospitality training opportunities for the local community.
"Taking over management of this facility provides some long term planning and development opportunities for Nitmiluk Tours", said CEO of the Nitmiluk Group, Mr Clive Pollack.
"The gardens contain the biggest collection of cycad plants in the southern hemisphere. It was originally planned as a conservation resource as well as a display collection of rare cycads. In itself, this is a tourism venture which fits well with the nature-based philosophy of Nitmiluk Tours
"More significantly for both Nitmiluk Tours and the Katherine region, the coffee shop and facilities within the Gardens also provide the opportunity to work with Charles Darwin University to develop hands on training programs in hospitality and tourism – opportunities which are lacking in the area.
"Through this facility we can now support training programs and apprenticeships up to Certificate Level III in Hospitality as well as a number of apprenticeships.
"Visitor numbers into this area continue to grow as awareness of the unique qualities of the region grows Training opportunities for local Katherine youth have not matched that growth. With the development of the training facility through Cycad Gardens we are creating a resource for the community, as well as creating a strong employment pool for local tourism", said Mr Pollack.
The Cycad Gardens contain more than 200 different species of plants from the ancient cycad family, all nestled among a visually striking and prehistoric rocky landscape. The owners have collected seeds from various habitats all around the globe and developed the site over a 23 year period, culminating in a stunning property housing around 40,000 cycads. Apart from this amazing collection, the property also includes an assortment of succulents and cacti, as well as rare and endangered plants from around the world. Visitors can take an informative self-guided tour around the property, via 1.4 kilometres of walking paths with interpretive signage.
The gardens coffee shop seats about 40 people and offers espresso coffee, cakes, cold drinks, light meals and snacks. Outside features gazebo's with tables and chairs surrounded by lush lawns and tropical gardens for visitor comfort.
For bookings and enquiries please contact Nitmiluk Tours Ph: 1300 146 743 (Australia), Ph: +618 8971 0877 (international) or www.nitmiluktours.com.au
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