Rugby League excitement grips Alice Springs

Alice Spring's newly developed ANZAC Oval was officially opened at the weekend, hosting the rugby league clash between the 'Territory' Eels and Wests Tigers.

Commenting on the event, which drew more than 3,000 fans, Northern Territory Chief Minister Adam Giles stated "the Alice Springs community has truly embraced rugby league this week with a huge turnout for the main game.

"It's clear rugby league has a large and growing following in the Territory and we're excited to have brought the Eels and the Tigers to Central Australia to show off their sport.

"The Trial game has been a great precursor to the premiership match between the Eels and the Canberra Raiders in Darwin on 9th August.

"(This) Government is making sure Territorians have access to top quality sporting events in first-class sporting venues and both teams have been hugely impressed with the new facilities on offer at the new-look ANZAC Oval."

The $3.3 million development of ANZAC Oval includes new grandstands to seat 500 spectators, a kiosk, VIP areas, a refurbished club house, change rooms and an administration centre.

Chief Minister Giles added "the upgrade was an election commitment and I'm proud we've been able to use this brand new facility as a backdrop for the NRL trial match this weekend."

Last year, the Northern Territory Government agreed a partnership with Parramatta to secure NRL action in the Territory for the next four years.

Welcoming the first manifestation of the partnership, Northern Territory Sports Minister Matt Conlan added "it was the 'Territory Eels' first game in their new home-away-from-home and they've enjoyed every minute of their time in the Territory. It's been a pleasure to have both the Eels and the Tigers here and to see them connect with the local community.

"The Eels players have spent the week visiting more than 1,100 school children in 16 local schools where they talked about how to tackle bullying and leading healthy lifestyles.

"The team also conducted coaching workshops and gave local officials tips on developing their best junior players.

"This community engagement is the essence of the Parramatta partnership and will help grow the profile of Rugby League in the Territory over the years to come.

"The Eels are great ambassadors for their sport and we can't wait to get them back on Territory soil in August."

Located at the base of Alice Spring's Anzac Hill, Anzac Oval is the premier location for both rugby codes in central Australia.

Its rectangular pitch is flanked by tiered seating and shade as well as canteen facilities coordinated by CARFL (Central Australian Rugby Football League) and CARU (Central Australian Rugby Union).

Also offering a fitness trail, Anzac Oval hosts a range of concerts and community events during the year.

For more information go to www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au/facilities/index/id/1

30th January 2014 - COUNCIL CLARIFIES MANAGEMENT CHANGE AT ALICE SPRINGS AQUATIC AND LEISURE CENTRE