Sports-mad Mataranka residents are gearing up to have more options in their backyard after Roper Gulf Regional Council unveiled stage one of an upgrade to the town’s sport and recreation grounds this week.
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The $175,000 upgrade will include the construction of a non-slip multipurpose court and roof, allowing basketball, netball, tennis and hockey to be played in Mataranka throughout the year.
The specialised playing surface is the key feature of the upgrade and will ensure competitors of all ages can enjoy their favourite sport, even when they have to take to the court against the Top End’s spectacular wet seasons.
Roper Gulf acting mayor Judy MacFarlane said the announcement represented a major boost for Mataranka residents seeking local variety to their physical activity.
“This has been on the top of the town’s priority list for eight years,” she said.
“It is the first stage in something that will become a long-term asset for Mataranka, which has always been a community that’s revolved around sport.”
Cr MacFarlane said the upgrade would attract visiting sporting teams in a flow-on benefit to the town.
“I’m hoping it makes a big difference, as it will allow Mataranka to host teams from Katherine and other places, which will bring more people into the town,” she said.
Stage one of the upgrade has been made possible by a Northern Territory Government Community Benefit Fund grant.
It is due for completion in June, 2017.
