Free ice skating, packed programs and smiling faces have marked the end of a hugely successful school holiday program delivered through a partnership between Alice Springs Town Council, the Northern Territory Government and the National Indigenous Australians Agency.
The highlight for many families was the return of free ice skating, which proved enormously popular and drew children and young people from right across Alice Springs, creating a safe, fun and welcoming space during the school holidays.
Delivered entirely free of charge, the school holidays program offered a wide range of activities designed to keep young people active, connected and engaged, while supporting families during a busy time of year.
Almost twice as many young people took part in the most recent school holiday program in Alice Springs, following a coordinated approach that brought together government and community partners – • 8,394 ice skating participants, • 15,399 total school holiday participants – almost double last year’s figures, • A record 30,224 people through the Alice Springs Aquatic and Leisure Centre.
Activities included virtual reality workshops, obstacle courses, BMX workshops, graphic novel workshops, 10 pin bowling and much more, with a strong focus on accessibility, wellbeing and positive social connection.
Alice Springs Mayor Asta Hill said the program shows what’s possible when governments work together with a shared focus on our young people.
“The school holidays can be a challenging time for families. By offering free and welcoming activities right across town, we’re helping kids keep cool, stay active, build friendships and feel connected to their community.
“I’d like to extend a massive thank you to NIAA and the Northern Territory Government for their partnership, and to everyone that delivered a program that helped put a smile on the face of a young person through the holidays.”
