The Katherine Museum may be on the brink of closure, but the NT Government will not be throwing a lifeline anytime soon.
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Instead, the future of history's safe-keeping in Darwin and Palmerston is looking strong.
The Territory Government earlier this month released a 10 Year Museums Master Plan "guiding future investment, services and programs for the region's museum sector".
"The Master Plan will ensure that infrastructure works in the sector over the next 10 years will provide new and unique experiences that draw more people to the Territory, create jobs and opportunities for emerging talent and industry, and foster new interpretations and discovery," a government spokeswoman said.
All this, despite desperate attempts by Katherine's Historical Society to rescue the town's long-standing history.
In the face of a shrinking tourism industry, the museum's funding has dried up.
Keeping afloat has become an impossibility without outside help, and if action is not taken the museum will be forced to close its doors for good this November.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture Lauren Moss said while the government is unable to support the museum's request for operational funding there is still a chance for Katherine's leaders to swoop in and save the day.
"In July, the Member for Katherine, Sandra Nelson MLA and I met with the Katherine Museum to discuss a range of support options," Ms Moss said.
"We have also discussed the concerns with Katherine Town Council as the lease holders of the property.
"The Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture will continue to work with the Historical Society of Katherine Board, Katherine Town Council and the Department of Trade, Business and Innovation around strategies to develop a sustainable and efficient business model for the Katherine Museum."
The Northern Territory Government has listened to key stakeholders who want to rejuvenate the Territorys arts and collecting institutions, and share our stories with the rest of Australia and the world.
- Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture Lauren Moss
Five Darwin projects have been recommended for delivery within the next five years.
This includes a new gallery space to showcase the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory's art collections, a co-located library to house collections held by the NT Government, CDU and the City of Darwin, and a cultural facility to celebrate the historical and ongoing contribution of Larrakia culture.
"The Territory Labor Government recognises that the museums sector is an important economic driver through job creation and tourism, and long-term planning allows industry the opportunity to invest in the future," Ms Moss said.
"Museums, galleries and libraries are an important part of life for Territorians as a stimulus and a resource for learning and creative endeavours."
Read the Master Plan.
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