Ryan Barrowei, the chair of the Kakadu Board of Management, faced the Katherine Local Court on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, charged with aggravated assault and domestic violence.

Barrowei, a Jawoyn traditional owner who was reappointed as chair on July 8th, 2026, has served several terms in the role overseeing Kakadu National Park. The park is jointly managed by the Commonwealth and traditional owners, as most of the land is leased Aboriginal land.

Barrowei's legal representatives applied for a suppression order to prevent publication of the charges, arguing it would bring the Kakadu board "into disrepute." However, Judge Julie Franz denied the application, stating the arguments were outweighed by the principle of "open justice."

The management of Kakadu National Park has recently come under criticism from NT Tourism Minister Marie-Clare Boothby, who said prolonged closures of some key waterfalls are placing intense pressure on tourism operators.

Ryan Barrowei appeared in court in the afternoon session, with coverage by ABC News reporter Hamish Harty.

Sources