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There is more for the Territory’s lifestyle in Budget 2008 with increased invested in sport, recreation, parks, fishing and the arts.

 

Minister for Sport and Recreation, Matthew Bonson, said the Henderson Government is delivering for Territory families with more sport and recreation activities for families.

 

“Budget 2008 delivers more for sport and recreation facilities, programs and events at all levels,” he said.

 

“We know families love taking part in sport and recreation, and we’ll continue to investing in these areas across the Territory.

 

“Whether it is at grass roots levels, training the athletes of tomorrow or attracting the biggest stars to the Territory – the Territory is delivering more sport than ever before.”

 

DELIVERING MORE SPORT

 

Budget 2008 delivers $25.8 million for sport and recreation throughout the Territory, including:

 

• $6.4 million for sport and recreation grants to support clubs, administrators volunteers and communities.
• $1 million initiative for community sporting facilities grants.
• $4.8 million for continuing works on the new Marrara Netball Centre.
• $900,000 for upgrades to Hidden Valley Raceway.

 

“The Henderson Government will continue work to ensure Territory families can enjoy world class sporting events,” said Mr Bonson.

 

“This includes AFL matches, Hottest 7’s World Rugby, international cricket, V8 Supercars, the Crusty Demons and more.”

 

INVESTING IN OUR PARKS

 

Parks Minister Len Kiely said Budget 2008 is investing more in parks and outdoor areas for Territory families.

 

“The visitor experience to some of our most popular parks and reserves will be even better though Budget 2008,” Mr Kiely said.

 

Budget 2008 includes:

 

• $5.2 million to upgrade Leanyer Recreation Park to include waterslides, a cafe, and additional shade and seating.
• $4.4 million to upgrade facilities at Litchfield National Park, part of a $7.5 million three year program.
• $1.5 million to build the new Fogg Dam Monsoon Forest Boardwalk.
• $1.5 million to develop the Red Centre Way Interpretive Centre for the West MacDonnell National Park.

 

FISHING GETS BUDGET BOOST

 

“Anglers can look forward to even better fishing in the Territory with $1 million for fishing infrastructure in Budget 2008,” said Fisheries Minister Chris Natt.

 

“This means more places for families to head out for a day on the water, and better boat ramps.

 

“Recreational fishing is a great part of our lifestyle and contributes more than $30 million to our economy with more than 100,000 tourists coming here to wet a line.

 

“The Territory Government is working with anglers to identify the priority areas for upgrades and make sure fishing remains a family favourite.

 

“Work on the new East Arm boat ramp and associated facilities and a new boat ramp at Channel Point are underway and a new floating pontoon will soon be built at Dinah Beach.”

 

INVESTING MORE IN THE ARTS

 

“Territorians take pride in their creativity and we have a fantastic range of arts venues and events,” said Arts Minister Marion Scrymgour.

 

“Budget 2008 continues to support arts and culture throughout the Territory.”

 

• $5.25 million in arts grants, including $300,000 for public art.
• $180 000 for the Alice Springs Desert and Beanie festivals.
• $40,000 to support arts and festivals in the Katherine region including Milperrii, Flying Fox, Barunga, Merepin and Katherine Country Music festivals.

 

 

“The Henderson Government is delivering for Territory families by investing more in our lifestyle and infrastructure for the future,” said Ms Scrymgour.

 

 

Media contact for Minister Bonson

Maria Billias on 8901 4082 or 0401 119 592

 

Media contact for Minister Kiely and Natt

Edwin Edlund on 8901 4157 or 0401 119 563

 

Media contact for Minister Scrymgour

Geoff Fraser on 0407 360 256

Related files:
Bonson Kiely Natt Scrymgour.060508.Budget Lifestyle.pdf ( 80.23 kb )