Green light for Ali Curung youth centre

The long waited for $3.1 million Ali Curung Youth Centre 170 kilometres south Tennant Creek is about to break ground after the appointment of a construction contractor. 

Central Australian business MPH Carpentry and Construction has been selected as the contractor, with the project on track for completion later this year.

The project is funded by the Federal Government through the Barkly Regional Deal and is to be delivered by the Barkly Regional Council.

Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Senator Anthony Chisholm said Youth centres were a place where young people could gather for sport and recreation to connect with each other and build a sense of belonging.

“After visiting the region earlier this year and checking out progress on a number of Barkly initiatives, I’m really pleased to see this project is taking another important step forward,” he said.

Local community needs

“Alongside Council and Barkly Regional Deal partners, we’re ensuring this new facility offers sport and recreational opportunities for young people, and meets the needs of the local community.

“The Ali Curung Youth Centre is being built by locals for locals, and I look forward to seeing it completed.”

The facility, which replaces the 1950s-era corrugated iron building, features a multipurpose hall as well as a kitchen, office space and amenities.

A grandstand will sit atop the Youth Centre, providing a clear view of the football field and a central gathering place for sporting events.

Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said the centre would be a place for young people to come together.

MPH Carpentry and Construction is a family-owned Territory company based in Alice Springs that has completed several projects in Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, throughout the Barkly and across remote areas in Central Australia.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said the centre would be a place for young people to come together and enjoy sport and recreation activities that support their health and wellbeing.

Social development

“This project has been shaped by community and will create a place where young people can build confidence and strengthen connections,” she said.

“This is another example of the Albanese Government investing in remote communities.”

The $100 million Barkly Regional Deal is funded by the Federal and Northern Territory Governments and the Barkly Regional Council.

With a focus on regional economic and social development, the plan represents a coordinated push to address challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth in the Barkly.

Barkly Regional Council Mayor Sid Vashist said Ali Curung deserved the new facility that had been designed in consultation with local leaders and youth.

“The Youth Centre will coordinate sport and recreational activities to support health and wellbeing outcomes for Ali Curung youth,” he said.

“It will be a welcoming space for youth that will offer a range of programs and activities to promote prosocial behaviour and active lifestyles; and will boost the liveability and sustainability of the Ali Curung community.”