Hockey NT receives $721,000 from Labor to complete ‘urgent’ repairs

More than 1000 players, coaches, family and friends can be comforted knowing that their grounds will soon be back in action. Read where the money is going.

Darwin’s field hockey contingent can finally breathe a sigh of relief after months of disruption.

MWT Hockey Centre’s Field 2 has been out of commission for more than two months and has resulted in training schedules and matches being delayed or pushed to different dates.

One of only two turf surfaces in Darwin and surrounds, repairing such a large surface to a high standard is no easy feat.

It’s been announced that Hockey NT has received a grant from Labor government to resurface said field, which requires ‘urgent repairs’.

A sum of $721,000 will be awarded with the leftover sum to be put towards a wide range of activities that: promote physical literacy, participation and pathways – particularly among Indigenous athletes – women and girls, and athletes with disabilities.

The grant has been awarded in alignment with the current NT Sport and Active Recreation Strategic Plan: 2021-25, which ‘sets out how to encourage participation in sport and active recreation among all Territorians, particularly at the grassroots level.’

“The unavailability of the second hockey field at Marrara has had a significant impact on getting hockey players taking part in the sport they love,” Sport Minister Kate Worden said.

“This investment will get hockey players back on the field quickly on a brand new playing surface.

“Investments like these by a Lawler Labor government plays a big part in bringing our communities together and encouraging Territorians to live an active lifestyle.”

MWT Hockey Centre's Field 2 has been out of action for more than two months of the 2024 season. Picture: Darcy Jennings

Hockey NT chief executive officer Jason Butcher expressed his gratitude for the large investment, stating the grant was an integral step in assuring hockey has quality amenities in the Top End.

“We are immensely grateful to the NT government for their significant investment in replacing Turf 2 at the MWT Hockey Centre,” he said.

“This funding is a testament to their ongoing support and commitment to enhancing our facilities, which will have a lasting positive impact on our hockey community.

“This crucial funding comes at a pivotal time, supporting the tremendous growth Hockey NT has experienced over the last 18 months.

“The upgraded facilities will further boost our efforts to develop hockey in the territory and engage more community members in the sport.”

Butcher also highlighted the importance of a sport, such as hockey, can have on the community as a whole.

“The announcement of this funding is not just an investment in infrastructure, but an investment in our community’s future,” he said.

“It underscores the collaborative efforts between the government and Hockey NT to promote sports, foster community spirit, and drive regional development through hockey.”