Athletes from more than 30 countries are expected to participate in the Arafura Games in Darwin when they are revived next year after being cancelled by the previous Northern Territory government.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Games, named after the Arafura Sea on the Arnhem Land coast, will return to the NT for the first time in eight years in an effort to boost trade with Australia's Asian neighbours next year.
The Games for disabled and able-bodied athletes from around the world were axed by the former Country Liberal government.
Two Darwin companies Creative Accomplice and Party Passport have been awarded the tender to produce the opening and closing celebrations - on April 26 and May 4 at Darwin Waterfront - for about $500,000.
"The Arafura Games are a unique part of the athletics landscape throughout Asia," Minister for Arafura Games Ken Vowles said.
"They give an opportunity for emerging athletes to come to the Territory to participate while preparing for the Asian Games, Olympics, and Commonwealth Games, and are a unique opportunity for local athletes emerging in the Northern Territory to to compete with international athletes."
China, Indonesia and Vietnam are among the nine nations to commit to coming to the Games, but Mr Vowles said he was confident at least 30 countries and more than 1500 athletes would participate in 17 sports.
Dragon Boating, Sepak Takraw (kick volleyball) and a 4 x 100m mixed team relay will be alongside more mainstream sports.
A trade investment forum that promoted the NT would be held during the Games.
Party Passport creative director and Aboriginal man Ben Graetz said more than 200 performers would open and close the Games, paying tribute to the athletes, indigenous culture and the Arafura Sea.
Australian Associated Press
