In early December, demolition of the internal structure of the ground floor of the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Alice Springs office began to make way for renovations to the space.

Nicholl Constructions won the tender and started the renovations in early January, and is expected to finish by late February. Neata Glass are supplying the glass and aluminium frames and TDC are replacing the air conditioning system and ducting.

There are many other trades involved too: electrical, plumbing, window suppliers (the new windows will be more energy efficient than the old ones), painters, plasterers, furniture removalists, and more. All the companies employed to complete this work are from Alice Springs.

“The renovations will result in more efficient staff locations and space usage with more open space,” said Geoff Hood, Director Council Services. “There will be a new training room and a new interviewing room that will be sound proof,” he added.

The Imparja Cup 2020 finals took place on Wednesday 5 February, and although rain hampered the start of the tournament, the 2020 Imparja Cup successfully finished.

The men’s team from Yuelamu finished in 8^th place overall after losing the 7^th v 8^th final to ‘Brothers in Arms’. Brothers in Arms batted first and made 119 and in reply, Yuelamu made a very respectable 89.

“The men were thrilled with their achievement and this competition has set up a cricket pathway for members of the communities in the Central Desert,” said Aaron Tannahill, Team Leader for Youth, Sport and Recreation in Yuelamu. “For the week, the men played four games and the highlight was a win against Elliot on the last ball of the game!” he added.

The Laramba women’s team (Central Desert) made the final against Tennant Creek after playing two games through the rounds. Unfortunately they failed to make the most of their chances, ‘grassing’ multiple catches before unsuccessfully chasing 120 runs at Flynn Reserve Cricket Ground. Simona Tilmouth top scored for the Central Desert team with 22.

Central Desert Captain Thalia Turner was disappointed after the loss but proud of the women’s efforts.  “We are disappointed but not sad because we tried our best.  Next year I think we can win.  We can still do even better and go further,” she said.

The women displayed great sportsmanship for the entirety of the competition, and represented the community of Laramba with great pride!

“It was impressive to witness the women feel ‘nerves’ through the competition and overcome those fears as a group,” said Aaron Tannahill.

The awards ceremony occurred after the women’s grand final, with Yuelamu and Laramba winning the following:

Riccardo Morton - Team of the Tournament, Men’s Community Division, one of the chosen eight players of the tournament.

Simona Tilmouth – Team of the Tournament, Women’s Community Division.

Thalia Turner – Team of the Tournament and Most Valuable Player, Women’s Community Division.