The community of Ngukurr has benefited from an oval lighting upgrade, thanks to a collaboration between Roper Gulf Regional Council and the Northern Territory Government Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture.
The new lights have made a bright and positive impact on the community, as part of the Territory Government’s commitment to remote sporting infrastructure.
Roper Gulf Mayor, Judy MacFarlane, says it is a fantastic investment in Ngukurr that will not only benefit the sporting teams in the region, but a wide range of community and civic events.
“Community commitments and our sometimes harsh weather means that the best time for communities to enjoy events and competition is in the evenings. Roper Gulf’s great tropical weather gives residents only a limited time after work to enjoy recreation. Having proper oval lighting means our local teams can continue to train safely at night, which we hope will encourage more people to take part in sport and recreation activities,” she said.
“As a Council we want to encourage a strong sports culture because we know it can have a multitude of physical health and social benefits within our remote communities. It is also an opportunity to grow and develop some of the great potential athletes who live in remote communities.”
In December an official “Lights On” celebration was held in Ngukurr; the evening was accompanied by music, dancing and Ngukurr’s favourite sport, AFL.
The lights were officially switched on in by the Member for Arnhem, the Honourable Selena Uibo.
Phillip Luck, Chief Executive Officer of Roper Gulf Regional Council, joined in the celebrations by cooking up dinner for the entire community.
With the new lights on, the Ngukurr Bulldogs and the Catholic Care NO MORE team, linked arms to show support against family violence before a friendly game of AFL. The fast paced game saw the experienced Ngukurr Bulldogs kick their way to victory.
Mayor MacFarlane says the oval lights are a sound investment which will also deliver economic benefits to the communities and wider region.
“Good lighting means we can look at new opportunities to host community functions on the oval and further develop existing events such as the Yugul Mangi Festival,” she said.
“On behalf of Council and the Roper Gulf Region, I would like to thank the Northern Territory Government Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture for supporting these important local projects.”
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For further information, please contact Roper Gulf Regional Council on (08) 8972 9000
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