Asta Hill Mayor

On Friday I joined Marion Scrymgour MP and our friends at Compassionate Connect to distribute free meals and donated toys to those doing it tough this festive season.

This time of year can be really hard for many people in Alice. With the high costs of rent, power, childcare, fuel and groceries, families are struggling to scrape together the money to celebrate.

But what makes our town so special, is that we come together in hard times and make sure everyone gets looked after.

If you’re in a position to donate, please consider supporting one of our Alice Springs-based charities these holidays.

Thank you to all who contributed to our community lunch, and Alice Springs Town Council for hosting! I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing festive season, surrounded by loved ones.

It was so cool to officially open Alice Springs’ new Skate and Play Precinct and Newland Park this morning.

We now have a truly state-of-the-art skate park, pump track, a 3x3 basketball court, green spaces, modern playground equipment, and a dedicated dog play area.

So whether you’ve never touched a stake board, or you’re a pro like local legend Nicky Hayes skateboards , there’s something for you to enjoy at our new park.

This place is so much more than a skate park - it’s a space where our kids can be active, where young people can build skills and confidence and where families can connect in a welcoming and safe environment.

I want to thank Rolling All Directions for your tireless advocacy, the former Council and Mayor Matt Paterson backing it in, Playce who did the planning, consultation and design, MPH Projects for impeccable construction on time and the Commonwealth and Territory governments who funded this project along with Alice Springs Town Council.

Seeing our community show up en masse for this opening has my heart overflowing. I love this community! And Rowls would be stoked ❤️

My heart is with the Jewish community who are reeling from the antisemitic attack that took place at Bondi last night.

This was a deplorable act of terror against the Jewish community on the first day of Hanukah, a day that is supposed to be filled with hope, joy and light.

Moments like these test the strength of our community - they generate fear, they stir anger, and they cause trust to break down.

But we must not allow these acts of violence and hatred to divide us. We must choose to celebrate our diversity, and unite against violence in all forms.

I urge the people of Mparntwe Alice Springs to practice compassion and love at this difficult time, and check in on your Jewish friends.

If you experiencing distress from this news, please seek help. You can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. First Nations people can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76)

There’s so much to do this summer, thanks to the team at Alice Springs Town Council, the NT Government, and the NIAA.

We’re making sure every family in our community can access fun, engaging activities through our free school holiday program, which kicks off this Sunday.

From bowling at the Dust Bowl, to Disco Night at the Gap Youth & Community Centre, bike fixing workshops, to arts and crafts, there is something for every family.

Check out our website for more details. https://www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au/residents/community/youth/school-holidays.aspx

I’m happy to announce that our town pool, the Alice Springs Aquatic and Leisure Centre, will once again be free during the school holidays in 2026, starting today!

We know that with the cost of living going up, it can be hard for parents to keep their kids entertained, connected and cool during the hot summer holidays.

With the support of the NT Government we’re making sure that every family in Alice Springs can cool off and have fun in our fabulous pool and adventure park.

With support from the Federal Government, the pool is also hosting so many exciting activities as part of our school holiday program, including Waterslide Wednesdays (11am-2pm, 3x3 Basketball on Tuesdays (5-7pm), and arts and crafts on Fridays (2-4pm).

And don’t forget, there’ll be a New Year’s Eve party on 31 December at the pool, with music, DJs, and a BBQ dinner until 9pm.