Yirrkala community is set to benefit from improved tourism and a boost to local art microbusinesses with the opening of additional accommodation and renovated art centre today.
Senator for the Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said the Yirrkala Guesthouse project has seen the development of a purpose-built accommodation precinct totalling eight visitor accommodation units, one staff unit and a large meeting/function room, which would increase employment opportunities to the region.
“What this means for the Yirrkala community is opportunity for local Yolngu people to grow existing tourism and expand art sales” Dr McMahon said.
“This project will also deliver the important benefit of protecting the indigenous culture of the Yolngu people through cultural tourism.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s $744,851 investment in community infrastructure would provide long term benefits to the Yirrkala area.
“In addition to promoting and protecting the indigenous culture of the Yolngu people, this investment will also produce long-term economic benefits for the region as it will improve access to employment opportunities in the Yirrkala community,” Mr McCormack said.
This project received $744,851 in funding from the Australian Government under the Building Better Regions Fund, $175,000 committed by Buku Larrnggay Mulka Inc and $90,909.90 committed by the Northern Territory Government.
