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.
Roper Gulf Mayor, Judy MacFarlane, said it was a fantastic investment in Ngukurr that would 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.
“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 – Aussie rules footy.
The lights were officially switched on in by the Member for Arnhem, the Honourable Selena Uibo.
Roper Gulf Regional Council Chief Executive Officer, Phillip Luck, 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 football.
Mayor MacFarlane said the oval lights would 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.
“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.”
