The Territory Labor Government continues to support the Barkly region and our tourism industry with more upgrades to the Paterson Street streetscape in Tennant Creek, scheduled to start in July.
Local Territory company LA Build has been awarded $2.7 million for multiple projects on Paterson Street including installing new seating areas around the IGA and Post Office, new coloured paving, landscaping of the existing garden beds, new drinking fountains and wayfinding signage. 31 Territorians will take part in this project, including four Indigenous workers and five apprentices.
These works are part of the $108 million Turbocharging Tourism initiative which included $5.5 million for improving tourism infrastructure in Tennant Creek and are working to be completed by the end of this year.
To date multiple projects have been delivered through the Turbocharging Tourism funding for the Barkly region, including new play scape equipment at Lake Mary Anne, upgrades to the Kunjarra (the Pebbles) cultural visitor site, light post painting, a concept plan for Tennant Creek main street, a master plan to guide the development of Battery Hill and tourism offerings as well as some repairs and maintenance works at the Battery Hill Mining Centre including new entry signage.
In April, the Territory Government awarded a further $500,000 to develop and implement interpretation signage at the Battery Hill Visitor Information Centre to enhance the visitor experience and celebrate Tennant Creek's proud history of gold mining through digital stories.
Quotes to attribute to Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Joel Bowden:
"Tennant Creek and the Barkly play an integral role in the Territory's drive tourism and offers visitors a variety of unique historical and cultural experiences.
"The Territory Labor Government will continue to improve tourism infrastructure in the Territory for Territorians and visitors, generating work for Territorians.
"Tourism is an important economic driver in the Territory, contributing around $2.6 billion to the NT economy and supporting around 16,300 workers and this investment will ensure the Barkly destination offers visitors a great experience when they visit."
