Central Desert Regional Council community members are currently in Alice Springs for 2020 Imparja Cup, which runs from 1 – 6 February. The men are represented by Yuelamu and women are represented by Laramba.

Despite rain delays, the touring teams have attended a number of events throughout the first half of the trip including Captains Briefing, Barefoot Ceremony, one game for the men and the Indoor Tournament on Friday night.

The men played their first official match on Monday 3 February against DASA Warriors. Batting first, DASA Warriors made a score of 141 with Yuelamu’s top bowler Gerard Morton bowling 2/14 off 3 overs. In reply, Yuelamu made a respectable 95, with Darryl Rogers retiring on 31 off 25 balls.

“The behaviours and overall level of respect demonstrated from each of our players has been outstanding so far,” said Aaron Tannahill, Team Leader of Youth, Sport and Recreation in Yuelamu.

The remaining fixture for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday includes a number of games for both the men and women.

 Jarrad sending a ball down v DASA Warriors

 Riccardo facing a delivery v DASA Warriors

UPDATE: As of 4 February the Atitjere airstrip is open until notified otherwise.

Yesterday’s widespread rain and continuing good quality rain overnight in Atitjere is good news for the dry community. It has also prompted an Unscheduled Airstrip Inspection by the Central Desert Regional Council.  The overnight rain and persistent showers today has made the runway and taxiway surface soft and unsafe for aircraft to use.

This morning the Atitjere Council Office requested that a NOTAM (Notice) be issued and the Atitjere Airstrip be closed to all aircraft.  Part of this procedure is to install a large white cross in the signal area next to the windsock.  This white cross is clearly visible from the air and notifies all passing aircraft that the airstrip is closed to all traffic.

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting more rain in the area over the next few days.