The first night-time footy match will be played under lights at Barunga tonight as thousands of visitors converge on the remote community for its celebrated annual music, sport and culture festival.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Member for Arnhem, Selena Uibo, will officially flick the switch to shed light across the playing field this evening.

The job-creating project was funded by the Territory Labor Government as part of its $10 million investment to upgrade sporting infrastructure in remote communities.

The Roper Gulf Council was allocated $1.85 million to manage the project which also includes new multi-purpose courts at Borroloola and oval lights at Ngukurr.

Katherine-based business, All Regions Electrical, was awarded the contract to deliver the oval lights at Barunga and Ngukurr which are comprised of four light towers with 16 floodlights on each tower to achieve a 100 lux lighting level.

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

“Participation in sport creates healthier, happier, more resilient communities and that’s why the Territory Labor Government has invested millions of dollars in upgrading sporting infrastructure in remote areas across the NT.

“The oval at Barunga can now be used during day and night for football games as well as other sporting activities and events that will contribute to positive outcomes for everyone in the community.

“Our Government worked in collaboration with the Roper Gulf Regional Council to ensure the project was in line with its key priorities and community expectations.”

Quotes from Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Member for Arnhem, Selena Uibo:

“It is wonderful to join the residents of Barunga to officially switch the oval lights on tonight and to stay and watch the community’s first after-dark footy match.

“Barunga community members have long been lobbying for the installation of lights to provide more opportunity for sporting activities and other community events and I am pleased the Territory Labor Government has been able to deliver this project for them.

“The project has been completed just in time for the iconic Barunga Festival and will bring a new element to an event that attracts thousands of local and interstate visitors each year.”

Quotes from Roper Gulf Regional Council Deputy Mayor, Helen Lee:

“The Roper Gulf Regional Councils wants to encourage a strong sports and recreation culture with our communities for all the associated health and social benefits.

“The community will now be able to enjoy sports at the oval at night as well as use it for community events like the Barunga Festival this weekend.”

Media contact: Jasmin Afianos – 0419 361 127