The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its year of action, certainty, and security by taking another significant step towards building a more vibrant and sustainable tourism industry in the Barkly region.
A $1.2 million contract has been awarded to McMahon Services Australia to upgrade the Battery Hill Visitor Information Centre in Tennant Creek, delivering modern facilities to enhance the visitor experience.
On top of this, a $500,000 grant has been signed with Tourism Central Australia for the Battery Hill Interpretation Project, which will revitalise the historic Battery Hill Gold Mining and Heritage Centre through new storytelling, digital content, and upgraded signage.
Located at the heart of the 1930s outback gold rush, the project will deliver a clear and cohesive plan to guide the development of digital content, curate the site's collections, and upgrade interpretation and signage.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby, said these upgrades reflect the CLP Government's Rebuilding the Economy 2025 Strategy to drive economic growth and strengthening regional tourism across the Territory.
"Unlocking regional growth is a key pillar of our Rebuilding the Economy strategy, and this is another example of us getting on with the job," Ms Boothby said.
"Our government is making real progress on these projects because they deliver real value for the Barkly region - economically and as part of our long-term vision for Territory tourism."
Member for Barkly and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Steve Edgington, said the projects will enhance the visitor experience in Tennant Creek while showcasing the rich heritage of the Barkly region.
"These projects clearly demonstrate our government's commitment to delivering for regional Territorians," he said.
"We're investing in the stories that matter to this great region and building infrastructure that respects our past while shaping a stronger future. This will create real economic benefits while celebrating the Barkly."
The upgrades will also position the region to capitalise on major tourism opportunities ahead, including the 2028 Total Solar Eclipse, which will make the Barkly one of the best viewing destinations for visitors from around the world.
Tourism Central Australia CEO, Danial Rochford welcomed the announcement.
"We are excited about this project's ability to improve the visitor experience at the Battery Hill Gold Mining and Heritage Centre," he said.
One of the biggest benefits will be keeping people in Tennant Creek longer, which means more money flowing into the Barkly economy. We are so appreciative of the Government backing Barkly tourism in this manner."
Works on the visitor centre upgrade will commence in late 2025 and will run concurrently with the interpretation project.
