Media releases

Monday 30th November

New pool opened for Borroloola

Representatives from the Northern Territory and Australian Governments officially opened a new 25 metre pool in the community of Borroloola today.

Member for Barkly Gerry McCarthy said the Borroloola pool is a great example of the community and governments working together to deliver real outcomes.

“Together with the Federal Government, Roper Gulf Shire and community organisations and businesses we have provided a new facility which will have a great impact on the people of Borroloola,” said Mr McCarthy.

The construction was funded by equal commitments of approximately $650,000 each from the Northern Territory and Australian Governments and McArthur River Mining.

In addition, contributions of up to $120,000 were made by the Gulf Soccer Federation, Mabunji Aboriginal Association, the Mawurli and Wirriwangkuma Aborginal Corporation and the Roper Gulf Shire.

Speaking from Canberra, Member for Lingiari Warren Snowdon said pools in remote communities have proven to be fantastic facilities.

“Pools can be used to encourage children to go to school and also help address anti-social behaviour, and I’m happy to see this is already happening with the Yes School Yes Pool policy in place.

“The Roper Gulf Shire has employed several local people as lifeguards and pool attendants,” Mr Snowdon said.

Mr McCarthy said community pools also provide a range of health benefits to children including improved fitness, sight and hearing.

“With our hot climate swimming is a great activity across the Territory, however when children swim in local waterholes and river crossings it can be quite dangerous with the threat of crocodiles and flooding in the wet.

“The Borroloola pool will provide a safe, supervised location for families to enjoy swimming and cool off. “I congratulate the community groups involved in the project including Xtrata MRM, Mabunji Aboriginal Association and Mawurli and Wirriwangkuma Aboriginal Corporation. “We look forward to creating other partnerships with businesses and community groups in remote areas across the Territory,” Mr McCarthy said.

This is the third pool to be built under the joint Federal Government and Territory Government Pools in Remote Areas Program, the two other pools are in Maningrida and Yuendumu.

Media Contact: Edwin Edlund 0401 119 563

Copyright © 2004-5 Warren Snowdon MP. This page was last updated on 02 December 2009.