Northern Territory Minister for Tourism Sport and Culture Lauren Moss

Elliott Oval Upgrades Underway

Victor P Taffa

Elliott community is set to get a new football oval, with early clearing works currently underway.

“We want to see more Territorians in remote communities participate in sport to improve health and well-being outcomes, and well-maintained sporting facilities including ovals with good facilities, will promote participation.” Minister for Tourism Sport and Culture Lauren Moss said.

 

Northern Territory Government is providing $500,000 towards the project as part of its $10 Million Remote Sports Infrastructure Program, with Barkly Regional Council contributing around $400,000.

“This sport and recreation infrastructure project are great news for Elliott.” Member for Barkly Gerry McCarthy said.

“Elliott has a proud history of sporting teams, athletes and performing artists as great role models in the community.”

Oval site was selected after extensive community consultation with Traditional Owners and residents and will ensure the whole community is able to access it.

“Located in the heart of town, the new oval will provide more opportunities for sporting activities, including Barkly AFL home-and-away games and junior sports development programs; performing arts festivals and other community events which will contribute to positive outcomes for families and young people’s health and wellbeing.” Minister McCarthy said.

Traditional owners and community members have been working closely with Barkly Regional Council on the project, with a large portion of land cleared by Origin Energy contractors at no cost to get the project off to a flying start.

“Territorians in remote areas love being involved in sport and Council is committed to improving facilities throughout the Barkly for all residents.” Barkly Region Mayor Steven Edgington said.

“Members of the community are all keen on having a new site for football games and look forward to the site being developed.”

Oval works will be done by local Northern Territory company Arnhem Earthmoving and Mechanical and are expected to be completed during April.

 

Abbreviations:          

AFL                Australian Football League