$1M Boost to Illuminate Norbuilt Oval
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its election commitment to invest $1 million to install lights at Norbuilt Oval at Freds Pass Reserve.
The new lighting will allow night games and training for junior and senior players, helping kids and adults avoid the harsh heat of the day.
Norbuilt Oval is home to the Southern Districts Football Club and more than 600 players.
Southern Districts won four premierships in the 2024/25 NTFL season, including the Men’s Premier League, and the lighting upgrade will support the club’s continued success across all age groups where 80% of its player base are under the age of 18.
The club has worked proactively with the Litchfield Council as the landowners of the oval to ensure the lighting project is well-integrated with broader upgrades planned across Freds Pass Reserve.
These plans are supported by the Australian Government under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture Jinson Charls is thrilled that another sporting facility will have the capacity to play under lights.
“This is about more than just fulfilling an election commitment, it’s about investing in the health, wellbeing and future of our kids,” said Mr Charls.
“These lights will allow families to enjoy footy together in the cooler hours, and it’s another step forward in improving sporting infrastructure across the Territory.”
Deputy Chief Minister and Member for Nelson Gerard Maley said the upgrades would help the club to continue to grow.
“As a proud local, I know how important Freds Pass Reserve and the Southern Districts Football Club are to families right across the rural area,” said Mr Maley.
“This lighting upgrade is a great win for our community. It means more people can enjoy this fantastic facility, especially in the evenings when it’s cooler.
“The Finocchiaro CLP Government is backing the rural area, backing families, and making sure rural clubs like Crocs continue to thrive.
“In our year of action, certainty and security we’re making sure the rural area gets its fair share.”
Member for Goyder Andrew Mackay said the upgrade was a win for rural communities.
“Playing under lights brings new opportunities for our men, women, boys and girls to train and compete in cooler, more flexible hours,” said Mr Mackay.
“I’m proud to be part of a government delivering for Territorians, especially for those living in the rural area.”
Southern Districts Football Club President Kevin Mulvahil said this is a fantastic step forward for our club and community.
“Having lights at Norbuilt Oval means more flexibility for training, more evening games, and better access for families.
“It supports our junior development, our women’s teams, and ensures all our players, from the Aus Kick to the Premier League, have the facilities they deserve.”
Litchfield Council CEO Stephen Hoyne said this project is a great example of what can be achieved when all levels of government work together with the community.
“The collaboration between Council, the Northern Territory Government, and the Australian Government is delivering real results for local families, clubs and volunteers.
“It’s especially great for our rural community, which deserves access to quality sporting facilities close to home.”
The Norbuilt Oval lighting upgrade is part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government’s broader commitment to provide better facilities at local and community sporting grounds.
https://nt.gov.au/