Katherine Town Council is a major player within this region. Mayor Ann Shepherd is also Chair of the Harmony Group. With a committee comprising 26 people, she heads an Executive of nine people which assists in streamlining decision making.
Council has ear marked $500,000 to upgrade the Katherine Sports Grounds. These are used by sporting groups from across the region from as far afield as Borroloola in the East, Timber Creek to the West, and Pine Creek and Elliott, north and south respectively. $50,000 has also been set aside over the next three years to improve facilities at the showgrounds.
A $370,000 skatepark complex is also planned at the Sports Grounds. A grant of $140,000 has been provided by the Northern Territory Government as a contribution to the project.
“A partnership agreement between Council and the Binjari Community Government Council for the disposal of waste commenced on 1 July,” the Mayor said. “This agreement also includes provision for the two Councils to investigate other areas for cooperation. We have 20 Community Government or Association Councils in the region so there is a great potential for additional resource sharing.”
Working with the Australian Veterinary Association, Council is aiming to introduce the Pet Pep Program into local schools. Designed to promote responsible pet ownership, Council is working with Binjari and the Kalano Association on this initiative.
The Katherine Cultural Precinct will also provide a huge boon for the region. Instigated by a group of local artists, Katherine Town Council has provided $10,000 to employ a consultant to investigate various options for the precinct. The Northern Territory Government has provided nearly $40,000 to this consultancy and has allocated $500,000 in its 2004/2005 Budget for head works once the site location is agreed.
Two potential sites have been selected, with plans including an outdoor theatre, display areas, workspace and retail areas for both mainstream and Indigenous works. This major cultural and entertainment centre will be an additional tourist attraction for the region. Moves to attract both Commonwealth and Territory funding for the precinct are underway.
