UPDATED - SEEKING NEW COMMUNITY FEEDBACK for PROPROSED DEVELOPMENT AT TENNANT CREEK SWIMMING POOL
SEEKING NEW COMMUNITY FEEDBACK FOR UPDATED PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AT TENNANT CREEK SWIMMING POOL
We've been listening to your feedback regarding the initial 50m pool plans and have commissioned an UPDATED Option A and Option B - now with added Toddler Pool.
Let us know what you think!
UPDATED PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Tennant Creek Swimming Pool venue to include 50m swimming pool and Toddler Pool (replacing the current 25m pool)
PROPOSED LOCATION: 10 Peko Rd, Tennant Creek
STATUS: Initial enquiry stage. Seeking funding.
COUNCIL CONTACT FOR PROJECT: infrastructure@barkly.nt.gov.au
DATE SUBMITTED TO COMMUNITY FOR FEEDBACK: Friday 6 February 2026
CLOSING DATE FOR COMMUNITY FEEDBACK: 4 March 2026
Redevelopment of the Tennant Creek Pool seeks to revitalise ageing infrastructure and significantly improve access to a range of aquatic, fitness, leisure, recreational and educational programs and activities.
The precinct will enhance user experience, improve safety and accessibility to facility elements whilst creating an operationally efficient and sustainable asset for the ongoing future of this important community space.
The precinct design will seek to reflect the wider regional community, building upon the historic and traditional values whilst reflecting the aspirations and celebrating the unique natural environment of Tennant Creek.
Proposed Option A:
North South Configuration
Proposed Option B:
East West Configuration
Proposed Plan:
Community Consultation for Proposed Development at JIM RENNIE MEMORIAL RESERVE, ELLIOTT.
ALPURRURULAM, NORTHERN TERRITORY – Barkly Regional Council is thrilled to announce the successful completion and opening of a brand-new shade structure over the Alpurrurulam community court, transforming the space into a safer and more versatile hub for residents. This significant project was made possible with $313,514 from the Australian Government under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program. This investment once again highlighting the strong partnership between the Council and the Australian Government to improve remote community facilities. For four years, the court has been a popular, yet exposed, area. The lack of shade severely limited its use, particularly during the intense heat of the day. The new structure, which began construction on November 6, 2025, and was completed on November 30, 2025, provides much-needed relief. This significant upgrade establishes the court as a true multipurpose area for the community. Beyond its traditional use for basketball, the newly shaded court will now serve as a vital meeting place and a dedicated area for various Sports and Recreation programs. A key feature of the new structure is the installation of solar lights. This addition is especially important, as it will allow children and residents to safely play basketball and participate in other activities during the cooler evenings, making the facility accessible even on the hottest days when daytime use is difficult. "This new shade structure is more than just a physical upgrade—it’s an investment in community wellbeing and opportunity. My hope is that by creating a safer, cooler, and more friendly space, that we’re enabling our young people to come together, stay active, and enjoy social connections. The addition of solar lighting means this facility can be used well into the evening, which is a game-changer for our communities. I’m proud of the collaboration between Barkly Regional Council and the Australian Government that made this possible, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have for years to come." said Barkly Regional Council Deputy Mayor, Valda Napurrula Shannon. Barkly Regional Council is responsible for fostering sustainable development and delivering essential services to over 8,000 residents over 322, 713 square kilometres across the Northern Territory.
TENNANT CREEK, NORTHERN TERRITORY – Barkly Regional Council has endorsed Councillor Valda Napurrurla Shannon Warntaparri as the new Deputy Mayor for the next 12 months, following a Council vote at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting. Under Council’s governance framework, the Deputy Mayor position is voted on annually by the elected Council members. Outgoing Deputy Mayor, Councillor Noel Hayes has served the Barkly and Central Australia with distinction for decades. His leadership, deep knowledge of local government, and steady mentorship have contributed to a significant year of progress as the newly elected Council rebuilt from administration and strengthened collaboration with the Executive team. He will remain an integral elected member with the Barkly Regional Council. The passing of the torch now sees a Warlpiri and Warumungu woman from the Barkly/Central Australia region take up the role—continuing the Council’s commitment to inclusive leadership, strong advocacy, and a governance culture grounded in community trust. About Deputy Mayor Valda Napurrurla Shannon Warntaparri Valda previously worked with the Mental Health Association of Central Australia (MHACA), where she helped develop Suicide Story, an Elders-led suicide prevention program grounded in local cultural knowledge. She speaks and understands several Aboriginal languages and dialects across Central Australia and the Barkly, and has served as a Warlpiri/Warumungu interpreter with the Northern Territory Aboriginal Interpreter Service. Valda currently represents Patta Ward on Barkly Regional Council. About Councillor Noel Hayes Noel Hayes is a Kaytetye man from Ali Curung. He served for ten years as an ATSIC Commissioner and continues to be a respected leader across the Barkly. He brings decades of experience working across community justice, social programs, and government, and remains a valued voice of the Council. “It has been an honour to serve as Deputy Mayor over the past year, and to support our new Council as we rebuilt strong foundations for the Barkly. I’m proud of the progress we have made together, and I look forward to continuing my role as an elected member, working for all our communities. I congratulate Valda - she brings deep cultural knowledge, strength and commitment to the job.” said Cr Noel Hayes. Deputy Mayor, Cr Valda Napurrurla Shannon Warntaparri said “I am humbled by the trust placed in me by my fellow elected members. Our region is big, diverse and full of strong voices, and I will work hard with the Mayor, the Councillors, and the Executive Team to keep improving services for our communities. I thank Noel for his leadership and look forward to continuing that work together.” Barkly Regional Mayor, Sid Vashist said: “I want to sincerely thank Councillor Noel Hayes for his mentorship and guidance during this past year. His experience and steady leadership helped steer Council forward after a challenging period, and I remain grateful for the continued learning I gain from him. As we pass the baton, I’m equally honoured to work alongside another Barkly legend in Councillor Valda Shannon Warntaparri. Her cultural knowledge, community experience, and connection across language groups bring enormous strength to our leadership team. We are a diverse Council, and as we mark 12 months since returning from administration, we can proudly say we are moving in the right direction. Our financial position has improved, our advocacy has delivered the fast-tracking of numerous local projects, and we are building genuine momentum. But we also recognise the economic disparities and significant funding and infrastructure gaps that still affect our region. Together with Deputy Mayor Valda Napurrurla Shannon Warntaparri, Councillors, and our Executive Team we will continue to push for fair outcomes, stronger service delivery, and a more resilient future for the Barkly.” Barkly Regional Council is responsible for fostering sustainable development and delivering essential services to over 8,000 residents over 322, 713 square kilometres across the Northern Territory.
