The Elliott community is set to get a new football oval, with early clearing works currently underway.

The NT Government is providing $500,000 towards the project as part of its $10 million Remote Sports Infrastructure Program, with Barkly Regional Council contributing around $400,000.

The oval site was selected after extensive community consultation with Traditional Owners and residents and will ensure the whole community is able to access it.

Traditional owners and community members have been working closely with Barkly Regional Council on the project, with a large portion of land cleared by Origin Energy contractors at no cost to get the project off to a flying start. 

The oval works will be done by local NT company Arnhem Earthmoving and Mechanical and are expected to be completed during April.

Quotes from Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss

“We continue to invest in the Territory’s community assets because we know they build vibrant communities, boost the economy and create local jobs.

“We want to see more Territorians in remote communities participate in sport to improve health and well-being outcomes, and well maintained sporting facilities including ovals with good facilities, will promote participation.

“We continue to work with regional councils to ensure this funding supports their key priorities and is aligned with community expectations.”

Quotes from the Member for Barkly, Gerry McCarthy

“This sport and recreation infrastructure project is great news for Elliott. 

“Elliott has a proud history of sporting teams, athletes and performing artists as great role models in the community.

“Located in the heart of town, the new oval will provide more opportunities for sporting activities, including Barkly AFL home-and-away games and junior sports development programs; performing arts festivals and other community events which will contribute to positive outcomes for families and young people’s health and wellbeing.”

Quotes from Barkly Region Mayor, Steven Edgington

“This project is a great example of Territory and Local Governments working together with the commercial sector and the wider community to make a project possible.

“Territorians in remote areas love being involved in sport and Council is committed to improving facilities throughout the Barkly for all residents.

“Members of the community are all keen on having a new site for football games and look forward to the site being developed.”

Media contact: Trish Grimshaw 0401 119 242