You can now take a digital tour through Kakadu National Park with Google Street View
IN CELEBRATION of Kakadu National Park’s 40th anniversary, Google Street View has released 360-degree imagery of the parks spectacular landmarks.
This means that it is now possible to explore Australia’s largest national park, all from the comfort of your own home.
With the support of Kakadu’s Traditional Owners, Google collaborated with Tourism NT, Parks Australia, and the Northern Territory government to make this project a reality.
“You can journey to Nawurlandja Lookout to see the ancient Arnhem Escarpment, explore the majestic waterfalls of Jim Jim and Twin Falls, peek at the rock art galleries at Ubirr or Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) and even see the spectacular cliff-top infinity pool at Gunlom,” says Anja Toms, Kakadu National Park’s Tourism and Visitor Services Manager.
Not only will this project enable more people to see the beauty of Kakadu, but Mr Toms hopes that people from around the world will be inspired to experience its rich culture and history for themselves.
Kakadu has been home to Bininj/Mungguy for 65,000 years, and is one of the few locations World Heritage listed for both its natural and cultural values. Kakadu’s rock art indicates one of the longest historical records of any group of people in the world, with experts suggesting that some drawings may be more than 20 000 years old.
The national park is a place of extraordinary biological diversity. Some of Kakadu’s iconic fauna includes Leichhardt’s grasshopper, the endangered northern quoll, colossal termite towers and several sharp-toothed aquatic critters, including bull sharks and saltwater crocodiles.
The park is home to more than 2000 plant species, including eucalyptus trees, red bush apple, waterlilies and Kakadu plums.
Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture Deputy Chief Executive, Andrew Hopper, said using technology to enable a new generation to discover and explore Bininj/Mungguy land is exciting.
“Territorians are exceptionally lucky to have this environment in their own backyard. We want to share these landscapes and inspire audiences around the world to come and truly experience the magic and wonder of Kakadu National Park,” Mr Hopper said.
Last year, Google Street View made it possible to explore Christmas Island.
