Two remote Territory sporting grounds will be lit up and placed under the spotlight, to enhance community engagement and activity as part of Budget 2023.
$2.97 million will be put towards the construction of oval lights at Gunbalanya and Kalkarindji, providing both communities with a large multi-purpose outdoor space that can be used for a variety of activities in the evenings and at night.
Enhancing these facilities leans on the communities’ love of sport and will provide more time for community members to stay active and keep kids engaged and involved in their communities.
Improving infrastructure in the bush also creates more opportunities for communities to hold other recreational activities and events and creates a fresh and vibrant atmosphere to connect and welcome community members, longer and later in the day.
Both projects are shovel ready, with works to begin this year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Kate Worden:
“Budget 2023 is investing in better infrastructure across our remote regions.
“We know that something as simple as a sports oval can have huge positive impacts in our remote communities.
“These lights will enhance the use of the ovals and we know they will be a welcomed addition by Kalkarindji and Gunbalanya. I look forward to seeing them being used for night time footy!”
Quotes attributable to Member for Gwoja, Chansey Paech:
“Sport is the heartbeat of many of our remote communities and better facilities means more participation.
“The lights at the school oval will be a game-changer for people in Kalkarindji as well as nearby Daguragu.
“It means locals will be able to train and play footy at night in cooler conditions, which is so important in summer months.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Arafura, Manuel Brown:
“Ovals are always the heart of every community and these new lights at Gunbalanya will be a welcomed addition.
“This will transform the oval making it practical for night time games and other sporting and recreational events.”
Northern Territory Government
