Tour guide training for Kakadu National Park and Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park
Parks Australia, in partnership with Charles Darwin University (CDU), has been developing entry-level training for tour guides who are working in Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks. The Kakadu course was launched in November 2006, and the Uluru-Kata Tjuta course is under development, soon to be released.
- See also: Frequently Asked Questions
The training will be delivered through CDU. It uses a range of interactive, flexible learning tools, including a CD ROM with audio and visual learning aids, an online discussion forum available through Learnline as well as the direct participation of park staff and traditional Aboriginal owners. The course is also available in print and can be delivered face to face by special arrangement with CDU.
The partnership between Parks Australia and Charles Darwin University was funded in 2005 by the Australian Flexible Learning Framework to assist in course development.
The entry-level training covers the key areas of visitor safety, understanding the parks' natural and cultural values and history, minimising environmental impact and legal compliance. Park staff, traditional Aboriginal owners and the tourism industry have been consulted in developing both courses.
The Kakadu Knowledge for Tour Guides e-learning program was officially launched in November 2006. For Kakadu, completion of the training will be voluntary until the end of March 2008. From 1 April 2008 it will become a compulsory requirement for tour guides leading tour groups in the park.
The Uluru- Kata Tjuta course is under development and due for release soon. It will become compulsory during mid 2008.
Each course will cost $170. Participants wishing to undertake the training course for both Kakadu and Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Parks will pay only $138 for their second course. Tourism NT is also offering a $70 rebate to participants who are among the first to enrol and complete the training and assessment; however this only applies to the first course completed. The rebate will be available through Tourism Top End and the Central Australian Tourism Industry Association.
Tour guides seeking more information on the Kakadu course should contact:
Charles Darwin University
School of Tourism and Hospitality
Palmerston Campus
Charles Darwin University NT 0909
Phone: 08 8946 7842
Fax: 08 8946 7833
International: +61 8 8946 7842
Kakadu Course Email: kakadu-online@cdu.edu.au
Additional enrolment information is available on the CDU website:
http://www.cdu.edu.au/tourismhospitality/kakadu-knowledge.html
Tour guides wanting more information or to register their interest in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta training course should contact:
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Cultural Centre
Phone: +61 (0) 8 8956 1128
Email: uluru.education@environment.gov.au
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