The Northern Territory Government is celebrating 70 years of education with the Ali Curung community.
Education history in Ali Curung began during the formation of Warrabri, an Aboriginal reserve established in 1956 after the Phillip Creek settlement’s water supply failed. The NT Welfare branch drilled bores, essential infrastructure such as the school, and moved families to the new settlement 170 km South of Tennant Creek at the time known as Warrabri.
After the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976, Warrabri became Aboriginal land and adopted the name Ali Curung, with the school becoming known as Alekarenge School.
Alekarenge School’s early purpose was to provide education to Warumungu, Warlpiri, Kaytetye and Alyawarr children living in extreme remoteness, and today delivers education to students in the remote Barkly community.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey said she is proud to continue supporting remote schools in the Barkly.
“In our year of growth, certainty and security, the Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing to support remote schools in the Barkly, delivering $3.5 million in funding upgrades at Alekarenge School as part of the 2026/27 budget,” said Minister Hersey.
“We’re supporting teachers in Ali Curung, so they can continue providing the best education for their students.
“Congratulations Alekarenge School on 70 years of education, and I acknowledge the hard work the community, teachers and Principal Chris Harvey put into delivering a quality Education for students in Ali Curung.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Member for Barkly, Steve Edgington, attended the school celebrations to mark the special occasion.
“70 years of education in Ali Curung is 70 years of innovation, resilience, and unwavering commitment to Territory children, encouraging them to attend school and get a good education in Ali Curung,” Minister Edgington said.
“I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to the passionate and dedicated educators who have shaped this school since its inception in 1956. Teaching in remote locations requires creativity, patience, and a deep commitment to delivering quality education.”
Principal of Alekarenge School, Chris Harvey, said: “Seventy years is an extraordinary milestone for any school, but here at Alekarenge, our history is much more than a collection of dates and buildings. It is the story of generations of children, families, teachers, staff and community members who have made this school part of the life of this community.
“As Principal, I feel incredibly privileged to be part of that story. We have a responsibility to honour what has come before us while making sure our children have every opportunity to learn, to succeed and to be proud of who they are and where they come from.
“Our challenge now is to build on 70 years of history and make the next 70 years even stronger. That means working alongside families and community, respecting and celebrating culture, and giving every child the confidence to believe that they can achieve great things.”
