Individuals, community groups and non-profit organisations working on projects relating to significant heritage sites in the Territory are being encouraged to apply for a share of the Northern Territory Government’s $200 000 Heritage Grant Program for 2009-10. 

NRETAS Heritage Director Michael Wells said a total of $200 000 of funding is available, and the grant program aims to provide assistance to as many projects as possible. 

“Priority will be given to conservation works on declared heritage places under the Northern Territory Heritage Conservation Act 1991 however consideration will also be given to other significant places and objects,” Mr Wells said.

“The Northern Territory boasts a unique cultural and natural heritage, many heritage sites and objects not only define our identity but act as a major drawcard for tourists who come to visit. 

“Places that might be considered for a grant include places of cultural significance such as buildings, structures, townscapes, Aboriginal archaeological sites, places of social significance and examples of the Territory’s underwater cultural heritage such as shipwrecks and submerged plane wrecks. 

“Maritime heritage is an important part of the Northern Territory’s identity, activities associated with the sea including trade, fishing, pearling, shipping, underwater communication cables, military campaigns, immigration and tourism have all helped shape our identity and located us firmly in our region.

“The Northern Territory contains a rich and diverse range of Aboriginal cultural heritage places, and places of natural significance may also include flora, fauna and geological sites.” 

Mr Wells said while priority is given to applications to undertake physical conservation work, research, documentation and promotional projects that deliver a tangible outcome and that relate to a significant place or object under the Act will also be considered.

“Some of last year’s recipients included the Hermannsburg Historical Society for conservation work on Strehlow’s House, the Manbulloo Homestead for restoration of a WWII Tank Stand and the Darwin City Council for the Veranda Restoration on the Sue Wah Chin Building,” Mr Wells said.  

Applications need to be received by COB Friday 1 May 2009. For more information contact the Heritage Branch on 8999 5039 or visit www.nt.gov.au/heritagegrants.