The Northern Territory Government has awarded the construction contract for the new cultural hub at the Maningrida Arts and Culture Centre.
Steadmans Constructions & Engineering Pty Ltd has been awarded the $2,976,981 contract to construct a new cultural hub featuring an arrival area, connecting walkways and an accessible car park at the centre.
It is located about 500km east of Darwin in Arnhem Land at the mouth of the Liverpool River.
The hub is part of the Government’s $30 million Arts Trail Gallery Extension Program, being rolled out across Katherine, Tennant Creek and Arnhem Land.
Minister for Arts, Jinson Charls said the project represented a major investment in preserving and celebrating the Northern Territory’s rich Aboriginal cultural heritage.
“The Maningrida Arts and Culture Centre plays a vital role in supporting artists, preserving culture and sharing stories with the world,” Minister Charls said.
“This new facility will ensure important collections are properly cared for while creating new opportunities for tourism, jobs and local economic growth.
“Through strategic investment in cultural infrastructure, the CLP Government continues to support local artists and artworkers, create jobs and deliver stronger economic outcomes for remote communities across the Territory.”
The Minister said the new cultural hub will enhance the cultural and historical value of community-held collections through secure, fit-for-purpose storage, community access and display spaces, while also supporting improved operational efficiency and staffing capacity at the centre.
The project is progressing in consultation with Bawinanga Homeland Aboriginal Corporation (BHAC), the MAC Arts and Culture Subcommittee, the Djómi Museum Steering Committee and Traditional Owners.
Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Bill Yan, welcomed the investment, highlighting the benefits for the community.
“Beyond its cultural importance, this project will generate local employment opportunities during construction and strengthen the region’s arts sector in one of the largest remote communities in the NT,” Minister Yan said.
BHAC Board Chair, Cynthia Brown said the project reflected strong community pride and local ownership.
“This is something our community can be really proud of. It is an investment in our culture, our people and our future, and we are proud to be working together to create a place that will protect and celebrate the stories and collections that make Maningrida and the surrounding homelands so special.”
Works are expected to commence this month.
