One of the new rooms at Cooinda Lodge.
One of the new rooms at Cooinda Lodge.

Tourism in Kakadu National Park is preparing to enter a bright new era as government funding provided recently begins to yield results in the form of upgrade to accommodation and attractions.

First images have been issued this week from the new-look Cooinda Lodge, which has recently completed a renovation of its Lodge rooms. The property has also opened the 20-tent Dreaming@HomeBillabong glamping village, which has itself received further support to construct a new bathroom and amenities block. The resort’s restaurant has been refreshed, while new pop-up eateries will also be in place for peak season.

Twenty glamping tents are ready for use at Cooinda Lodge.

Glamping tents have been built on wooden platforms to ensure year-round usage and negate the effects of wet season. Half of the inventory is fitted with queen beds for couples, with the remaining ten also offering a separate annex with two bunk beds. Each has electric lighting, air-conditioning, fan, bar fridge and USB charging ports, as well as being fully furnished.

Government funding was also issued to convert Jabiru into a complete tourism and cultural centre for the entire Kakadu National Park. Funding will see a new town centre built around the existing ‘Croc’ structure which also houses the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel along with integrated pathways, boardwalks, swimming areas and a World Heritage Interpretation Centre showcasing the region’s population and history.