The Director of National Parks, Ricky Archer, acknowledges the passing of Mrs N Patterson, a senior Traditional Owner of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Mr Archer extends his condolences to Mrs N Patterson’s family, Anangu, and the local community. He acknowledges and pays respect to the immense contribution Mrs N Patterson made during her life, particularly in relation to Land Rights.

Mrs N Patterson was instrumental in initiating Land Rights and was significantly involved in the Handback of Uluru-Kata Tjuta to Anangu.

In line with cultural practice and the wishes of Anangu Traditional Owners and community, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Board of Management, and the Mutitjulu Community Aboriginal Corporation, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park will be closed on Friday, 30 August 2024, for sorry business.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is Aboriginal land, jointly managed by Anangu and the Director of National Parks.

Mr Archer recognises the importance of keeping cultural traditions strong and supports Anangu wishes that the park be closed to allow for sorry business and to recognise Mrs N Patterson’s life and contribution to the national park and community.

We apologise to the tourism industry and visitors for any inconvenience this causes. We thank them for their understanding while the Uluru-Kata Tjuta community is mourning the loss of this incredible woman.

Tourism operators are advised to contact Visitor and Tourism Services Manager, Steven Baldwin on 0408 824 179 or steven.baldwin@dcceew.gov.au with any queries about the closure, or tours and activities scheduled for Friday, 30 August 2024.

Visitors who have pre-purchased a park pass for the period inclusive of Friday, 30 August 2024, will be contacted directly. For any other enquiries, please contact uluru.parkpass@dcceew.gov.au

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park will re-open at 6:00am on Saturday, 31 August 2024.