New operator for Kimberley wilderness lodge

• Kimberley touring company selected to operate Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge

• Successful applicant chosen as part of State Government's Naturebank initiative

Kimberley Wilderness Adventures (KWA) has been selected to develop and operate Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge, in the King Leopold Ranges Conservation Park.

Environment Minister Bill Marmion and Tourism Minister Kim Hames congratulated KWA, which is a partnership between the Wunan Foundation, a Kimberley-based Aboriginal corporation, and Australian Pacific Touring - a family-owned Australian company.

"Planning and preparation of the Mt Hart site was funded by the State Government Royalties for Regions program and is the second project to be released under the Government's Naturebank program," Mr Marmion said.

"The program aims to provide low impact, sustainable nature-based tourism operations in Western Australia's world-class parks."

Dr Hames said the program helped develop nature-based tourism in regional areas and assisted in positioning WA as a renowned tourism destination.

"WA offers many extraordinary natural experiences and Naturebank ensures that visitors can access these through the provision of eco-friendly accommodation within our parks," he said.

Situated north of the popular Gibb River Road adventure route and on the doorstep to the King Leopold Ranges Conservation Park, Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge is a key base to explore some of the major attractions of the Kimberley region.

KWA general manager Michael Cook said the company's involvement in the project would be a valuable opportunity and they looked forward to further developing and strengthening the quality of KWA's operations in consultation with the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and traditional owners.

      Fact File

• KWA plan to invest up to $2million in the short/medium-term and a further $1.5million in the long term

• The investment is set to include construction of new accommodation and expansion of caravan and camping areas

• KWA was recommended as the preferred proponent by an assessment panel

• Naturebank is an initiative of the State Government and supported through DEC and Tourism Western Australia

Environment Minister's office - 9220 5000

Tourism Minister's office - 9222 8788