Tourists allowed back to Tip of Cape York with extra cost
TOURISM
Tourists will again be able to visit the northern most point of Australia after Traditional Owners came to a new agreement this week over access to Pajinka (the Tip).
It follows weeks of uncertainty after the chairman of the Gudang/Yadhaykenu Aboriginal Corporation threatened to disallow access due to years of disrespectful behaviour by travellers and lack of appropriate amenities.
Lack of toilets, graffiti, littering, unregistered firearms and travellers making their own tracks were cited as major concerns.
The board of the Gudang/ Yadhaykenu Aboriginal Corporation met this week with the
Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) Mayor Patricia Yusia and the Chief Executive Officer, Susan Law.
In a statement, the Gudang/ Yadhaykenu Aboriginal Corporation said they had come to an agreement to keep Pajinka open for the 2021 tourist season, however, there will be an added $10 per head visitation fee to cover the costs of upkeep and improved facilities, payable at the Jardine Ferry crossing.
“We would like to thank NPA Regional Council for assisting us with temporary toilets and signage for the Tip,” the statement said.
“We look forward to welcoming you into our beautiful country.”
NPARC Mayor Patricia Yusia thanked the Traditional Owners for working together with NPARC to welcome visitors onto their land and resolve the pressing issues for the upcoming tourist season.
“We met with Elders and Members of Gudang Yadhaykenu and heard their concerns,” Mayor Yusia said.
“Visitors to Pajinka, and indeed throughout the Northern Peninsula are welcome, but the area and environment are precious to the Traditional Owners and all of us.
“We need to respect it, and ensure it remains a place of significance for future generations.”
Mayor Yusia said Council was now in the process of being able to support the Traditional Owners in developing practical ways of keeping Pajinka open to visitors which also ensures the protection of the area and environment.
“My Council respects the intentions and actions of the Traditional Owners. We look forward to welcoming tourists during the 2021 season to our communities. We acknowledge the majority of tourists are respectful during their visit to the area but would kindly remind all visitors to please respect the region and its land,” she said.
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