Another $5 million will be used to revitalise Katherine’s CBD. 

The investment, announced today by Katherine MLA Sandra Nelson and Katherine’s Mayor Fay Miller, is also helping to create jobs and support businesses.

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

The Don Dale pavilion at the Sportsground will soon be demolished, with $4.4 million delivered towards building the long-awaited community centre – an all purpose community space. 

Labour had previously identified a need in Katherine for an “all-purpose community centre” and had promised $250,000 to go towards upgrading the pavilion, during Katherine MLA Sandra Nelson’s 2016 election campaign.

“We’ll be improving the bathroom facilities … it will be a space where the sport clubs can put up their trophies … it is really an all purpose space,” Ms Nelson said. 

Mayor Miller said the “proper sport community centre” has been much needed and meets the needs of the Great Eight project. 

The community centre should be built by 2020, Mayor Miller said today. 

An addition, a further $2 million will be provided to upgrade the Katherine Show Grounds.  

Oval lighting, fencing, camp draft facilities and roads at the grounds will be upgraded. 

“These facilities host popular events such as community shows, concerts, rodeos and local sport so it is crucial they are maintained and upgraded to provide positive, quality experiences for participants and attendees,” Ms Nelson said. 

Working with Katherine Town Council, the NT Government has invested $5 million to improve and revitalise the CBD. 

The project involves improvements to: 

The project also involves improvements to the sidewalks and implementing street furniture. 

“These improvements will revitalise the Katherine CBD and provide it with beautiful and inviting street presence for locals and visitors,” Minister for the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler said. 

“This is part of an overall plan to create an enriching community that is engaging and functional for local residents, those visiting from the Big Rivers region, those considering relocating to a regional area and tourists alike.

“These projects will support the construction industry and local businesses by providing more opportunities and encourage innovation,” she said.