School holiday program a major success in the NT

New figures have confirmed that summer holiday activities in Alice Springs and remote communities across Central Australia have been a great success.

Over the holidays, there were more than 24,600 attendances across 1,461 activities delivered by community organisations and local councils, funded by the Federal government.

That includes nearly 16,000 attendances in remote communities.

“With over 24,000 attendances across Central Australia, the summer school holiday programs funded by the Government have been a tremendous success,” Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said.

“It’s not just about giving kids something to do over the school break – it’s about bringing communities together.

“I look forward to seeing these programs continue to grow and evolve, providing lasting and positive impacts throughout Central Australia.”

Young people across Central Australia had the opportunity to learn new skills and stay active, with families coming together to share in the fun.

In Alice Springs, some of the most popular activities were ten pin bowling, roller skating, laser tag and cinema screenings.

In remote communities, young people and their families enjoyed dodgeball, bush trips, arts and crafts, music and cooking workshops. The community and family BBQs also had strong turnouts.

Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour, said the program had been a major success.

“It makes an enormous difference when young people and families can come together in a social and positive space,” she said.

The Federal Government is investing $3.2 million to support school holiday activities in Central Australia over the next two years.