Road and lookout upgrades at iconic Pilbara national park

• Cook Government delivers $16 million infrastructure boost for Karijini National Park
• Major roadworks and new lookout will boost visitation to world-famous gorge sites
• Project expected to create 55 jobs during construction  

Works are due to start soon on the Cook Labor Government's $16 million transformation of Karijini National Park.

A new lookout will be built at Knox Gorge while 41km of road will be sealed to boost access to and between Weano Gorge, Karijini Eco Retreat and Dales Gorge.

Successful tenderer Raubex Construction will start roadworks next month and continue throughout the low visitor season, with drivers set to enjoy upgraded roads in 2024.   

The new lookout at Knox Gorge will be built during 2024. Karijini National Park will remain open during the overall infrastructure project.

For more information about the park go to https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Reece Whitby:

"With its majestic red cliffs and cascading waterfalls, there is no place quite like Karijini National Park.

"Sealing key access roads within Karijini National Park will provide a smoother journey for park visitors, enabling cars and coaches to travel safely to and from the most popular gorge sites."

Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:

"Karijini National Park is one of WA's most internationally recognised destinations, last year attracting more than 650,000 visits, including from international tourists.  

"Enhancing the park's infrastructure will provide greater access to the Pilbara and ensure the region and our State remains a top tourism destination for years to come."

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:

"The benefits of these upgrades will extend beyond the park's boundaries, with flow-on effects expected for our regional economy by creating jobs, drawing more visitors, businesses and opportunities to our communities.

"The Cook Government is committed to keeping the Pilbara strong and ensuring that everyone can access and enjoy the beauty of our national park."

Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:

"These important upgrades represent an exciting future for our beloved Karijini National Park and Pilbara region.

"This $16 million dollar transformation will improve tourism in the park as well as creating a safer environment and conditions for travellers in years to come."