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Barge funds land on Maningrida shores

16 October 2014

At the existing Maningrida barge landing are (left to right) Deputy Chief Minister Peter Chandler, Local Member for Arafura Francis Xavier Kurrupuwu and Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Peter Styles. At the existing Maningrida barge landing are (left to right) Deputy Chief Minister Peter Chandler, Local Member for Arafura Francis Xavier Kurrupuwu and Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Peter Styles.

THE Territory Government is committing $1.5 million to upgrade the barge landing at Maningrida as part of a plan to invest in the economic future of the West Arnhem community. 

Infrastructure Minister Peter Styles said work on the all-important barge landing was part of an NT Government push to invest in local job creation, business development and infrastructure works in Maningrida. 

“Work is due to begin this month on temporary repairs with further upgrades due to go out for tender in early 2015,” Mr Styles said. “This is a vital upgrade for Maningrida residents who receive most of their goods by sea and depend upon quality infrastructure to aid in the economic development of the community."

The work includes a new hard stand area which has shelter, security fencing and lighting for the distribution of freight arrivals and fuel handling. Mr Styles said the NT Government wanted to work with the community to build economic opportunities.

He said the Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation was the major employer in Maningrida until the organisation got into financial trouble. 

“The community is keen to bring its extensive business interests back to life,” he said. 
“The Territory Government has agreed to fund a position to work within Bawinanga on economic development, job and wealth-creation projects. I know this will be welcomed by the community. The most important contribution that we can make to the future of Maningrida is helping local people build their own businesses and take ownership of their future.” 

Local Member for Arafura Francis Xavier Kurrupuwu said both investments had been raised with him by his constituents and he was proud to see they were now being delivered. 

“The people at Maningrida are pleased to see their voices being heard and are keen to see their local businesses like the Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation thrive with the Government’s help,” Mr Kurrupuwu said. “I know the community is keen to see upgrades to a range of infrastructure in Maningrida and the improved barge landing is adding to the already great works in progress."