Expansion for Alice eco-resort
Two new specialised ‘eco domes’ will be built at the Earth Sanctuary in Alice Springs next year to attract more tourists to Central Australia, the Northern Territory government announced on Tuesday16 December.
Earth Sanctuary will receive $40,000 from the Northern Territory and federal governments to support the project.
NT’s minister for tourism, Matt Conlan, said his government was committed to growing the range of tourism products on offer to visitors and these upgrades will enhance the variety of experiences on offer in Central Australia.
The project will see two eco dome education facilities constructed at the site as well as a greenhouse dome for horticulture. A new interpretative nature walk will also be built.
Earth Sanctuary is a family-run business situated just south of Alice Springs on 40ha of desert wilderness overlooking the East MacDonnell Ranges. A carbon neutral venue, it offers day and evening tours focused on ecology, astronomy and culture, including its signature Spirit of the Outback dinner and show. It also has tour-based overnight camping facilities.
Earth Sanctuary director, Tom Falzon said, “This funding will only improve what is already a successful business. As sustainable tourism continues to emerge as key feature of today’s tourism market, Earth Sanctuary’s edge as a ‘green’ venue is a point of difference that assists significantly in the business’ marketing plan.”
The new facilities are expected to be completed in April 2015.
