Territory Day festivities across West Arnhem

Territorians, including communities throughout West Arnhem, lit up the sky in celebration of the much-anticipated Territory Day ‘It’s Our Day’ held on July 1.
Now a significant date on the calendar, Territory Day marks the anniversary of the territory becoming self-governed.

Areas within West Arnhem joined in the Territory Day festivities, with well-attended community events held in Jabiru, Gunbalanya and Maningrida on the day.

West Arnhem Regional Council was successful in winning a TIO Territory Day Grant to celebrate Territory Day in Gunbalanya with the aim to host a family event in the community.

West Arnhem Regional Council Safehouse Coordinator Wendy Bourke said the celebrations were greatly received. Highlights of the event included the art exhibition and competition and local police also supplied a jumping castle and waterslide which they ran throughout the day. Entertainment on the day included a hip hop concert, culture dancing and live music by GBI Supercrew.

Meanwhile, the fireworks display at the Maningrida Territory Day was certainly the highlight of the event with many people working behind the scenes to make the event a success.

West Arnhem Regional Council Sport and Recreation Coordinator Seide Ramadani said there were many people in the community to thank for the event’s success.

“A big thank you to all of you for getting behind Territory Day and supporting a fantastic community event,” Ms Ramadani said.

“The fireworks show was made possible by the Chief Minister’s Office funding and coordinated by West Arnhem Regional Council, and we thank the Hon. Adam Giles (NT Chief Minister) and Francis Xavier Kurrupuwu MLA (Member for Arafura) for bringing the unforgettable display,” she said.

“It is a great feeling when we are all working together for the benefit of the community. Maningrida is the place to be!”