The Administrator of the Northern Territory | Government official

The Administrator of the Northern Territory

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25.01.2022 Vale His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh Territorians are invited to sign a virtual condolence book for Prince Philip at the link below and are welcome to place floral tributes on the front lawns outside of Government House. The virtual condolence book link is also available via gg.gov.au. The condolences will then be collated and sent to Buckingham Palace. https://www.pmc.gov.au/pmc/condolences-form

25.01.2022 It was my pleasure to visit and deliver a Christmas cake prepared by Government House Chef Brian, to staff and volunteers at the Acacia Hills Bushfires NT Headquarters this week. Thank you for all that you do for our communities throughout the year, I wish you all the best for a safe and happy festive season.

24.01.2022 This weekend the 2020 Queen's Birthday Honours and Awards recipients were invested at Government House. This investiture ceremony included remarkable Territorians who have made a difference to the community in the fields of public and community service, disability, health, and a number of Defence, Fire and Police officers who have distinguished themselves in their duties. You have all been recognised for your outstanding achievements at the highest level. I thank you for your... valuable contributions to our community. Charlie Bliss Creative

24.01.2022 You may have noticed Her Honour the Administrator is often accompanied by a member of the Australian Defence Force when attending official events or performing ceremonial duties. Australian Defence Force officers may serve as Aides-de-camp to senior appointments, such as the Governor-General or State Governor. Her Honour is also supported by a Northern Territory Police Officer as her ADC at Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services ceremonial events. The badge for an Aide-de-camp is usually an aiguillette, a braided cord in gold or other colours, worn on the shoulder.

24.01.2022 Former Administrator Roger Nott CBE (1961-1964) is believed to be responsible for our "Darwin rig" dress code, now commonly known as "Territory rig". His influence on fashion in the Territory began when he addressed a meeting of citizens at the Town Hall. Some recall him declaring that suits were not suitable for the Darwin climate, inviting them to remove their coats. From this point, trousers, a shirt and tie for men has been deemed acceptable "Territory rig". Photo: Library & Archives NT

23.01.2022 Today is National Police Remembrance Day, a day where we take the time out to pay tribute to officers who have lost their lives as a result of doing their duties. As Patron of Northern Territory Police Legacy, I was proud to attend a service this morning and lay a wreath in memory of those we have lost. Serving on the front line is a considerable risk, but it is essential for our protection. I thank all officers for your dedication and courage in undertaking your duties, and I pay tribute to those that have fallen in the service of our communities.

23.01.2022 Today is World Kindness Day! Celebrated on November 13 of each year, it is a global day to promote the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself, and to the world. The purpose is to help everyone understand that compassion for others is what binds us all together.... If we all did one act of kindness every day, that would be 365 acts of kindness a year what a wonderful effect that would have in helping create a kinder world for all! I encourage everyone to spread a little kindness not just today but every day!

23.01.2022 Happy International Day of the Midwife! Midwives are remarkable people who guide and share in some of the most memorable moments of a family’s life, offering compassion and support to parents and families. In the Northern Territory, our Midwives work in some of the most remote parts of the country providing care, support, friendship and education, to ensure the best possible outcomes for babies and their families.... Today, on International Day of the Midwife, I would like to thank all Midwives for choosing this incredibly important profession. Your contributions to maternal, newborn and family health make an enormous impact in our communities and we are grateful for the work you do. Go well.

23.01.2022 Since opening its doors in 2013, Project21 has grown into a diverse learning hub that hosts a range of educational, social and wellbeing programs and pathways for young adults with Down Syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. The expansion of Project21 has led to Create21, Wellbeing21, Media21 and Dance21 which has produced some amazing performances and even flashmobs! Mr O’Halloran and I were delighted to host staff and students from Project21 at Government House recently, to congratulate them on all their successes, and to thank them for the joy and inclusion they bring to our community.

22.01.2022 This morning Government House was host to a medal presentation for members of Transit Security Element Rotation 97, Australian Defence Border Force. I was honoured to present these medals and awards to such exceptional Australians, many of whom have spent significant time away from family and loved ones in what is already a trying and uncertain time. Please know that your work over recent months has played a vital role in protecting the security of our country. Thank you, and I wish you the best in your future service.

22.01.2022 The Northern Territory Electoral Commission play an important role in facilitating democracy. They have worked extremely hard over the last few months preparing for and administering the recent NT General Election, and I was pleased to invite them to Government House this week to thank them for their efforts.

20.01.2022 The Mother's Day Classic has been raising vital funds to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation for 24 years. Like many other charitable events, the MDC has found new ways to ensure this well-loved event can continue, and raise funds for life-saving research. I am pleased to share this year, there are locations in both Darwin and Alice Springs where Territorians can safely participate in their own way, at their own pace and in their own time. To find out more about how you can register to participate in your own way visit https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/nt-darwin

20.01.2022 I find great joy in inviting Territorians to Government House, and I was very happy to receive Mr John Scott, his wife June and son Geoffrey to mark a special occasion. On 14 September, John celebrated his 91st birthday! John is a keen competitor in the annual Top End Gran Fondo, as the oldest participant each year he has entered. This year he placed 52nd out of 88 competitors in the 25-kilometre event, knocking a minute of his 2019 time to beat his grandson! I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with John and his family and was even treated to a song and poetry recital. Thank you for celebrating this wonderful milestone with me.

19.01.2022 Yesterday I was delighted to attend SPLASHFEST 2020, the annual Water Safety Week Opening event at the Darwin Waterfront. Hosted by Royal Life Saving NT and Water Safety NT, Splashfest is a fun way to begin what is a vitally important awareness week for Australia. Make sure you get involved with the other fun and informative events held through the week, ending on Saturday the 26th with AQUAFEST 2020 at Palmerston Pool.

18.01.2022 Today is International Day of Sign Languages, an important day in which we can show support for the protection of the linguistic diversity of the deaf community. I was thrilled to participate in The Auslan Community Leaders' Challenge alongside Mr Brett Casey, CEO of Deaf Services and The Deaf Society. The challenge aims to raise awareness of Auslan (Australian sign language) that is used by over 30,000 Australians. I am proud to share this special video message to promote this essential language. #auslancommunityleaderschallenge2020 #auslan #InternationaldayofSignlanguage #iwodp #IDSL2020 #iwdeaf2020

18.01.2022 Craig and I were pleased to attend the NRL Northern Territory 2021 Season Launch last night. We wish all teams kicking off this week a successful season. #territorysports #ntsports

17.01.2022 This morning, Mr O’Halloran and I attended the NT Health Community Health Clinic at Tracy Village to receive our COVID-19 vaccine. As eligible Territorians over the age of 50, we both felt it was important, not only in regards to our own health, but to do our part for the wider community. Eligible Territorians can book a COVID-19 vaccination here: https://coronavirus.nt.gov.au//booking-your-covid-19-vacci

16.01.2022 As Patron of Kidsafe Northern Territory, I was pleased to meet with staff and receive a briefing on the quality programs they are providing to help keep Territory children safe. Kidsafe NT provides resources and education to families, organisations and community groups to help prevent unintentional injuries and deaths to children. Congratulations on your recent nomination in The 2020 Northern Territory Community Achievement Awards for your Car Seats for Kids programme, I wish you all the best for the awards in December.

16.01.2022 Have you noticed something strange about the door handles at Government House? Why the handles are so low is one of our most frequently asked questions by curious visitors! There are a few theories about this. Some say that before the verandahs were built, one would climb stairs up to the house, and therefore the handles were at the correct height when standing on the steps. ... Another popular theory is that the design of the doors was intentional to maximise light in the house. They wanted as much glass as possible, so the middle rail was moved down and in turn, so was the door handle. We would love to hear your thoughts on the door handle mystery!

15.01.2022 Next month, the Administrator will attend the Opening of the Fourteenth Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory. From 1911 to 1947, the laws of the NT were made by the Commonwealth Government. In 1947, the Northern Territory (Administration) Act was amended to provide for a Territory legislature. This article was written in 1948 (with postscript added in 1999), when the NT had our first Parliamentary sittings. The Legislative Council at the time comprised of seven offi...cial members appointed by the Governor-General, six elected members, and then Administrator Arthur Driver (1946-1951) as president of the council. It was not until 1974 that the Legislative Council was replaced by a fully elected Legislative Assembly. Photo: The First Legislative Council, NT Library & Archives

15.01.2022 As Patron of St John Ambulance Australia NT, Mr O’Halloran attended the 2020 St John Excellence Awards tonight, to recognise the outstanding contributions of St John staff and volunteers throughout the year. The awards highlight the invaluable work that St John staff and volunteers do, not only on the front line but behind the scenes to keep Territorians safe and well.... Congratulations to all the award winners and thank you for your life-saving contributions to our communities. Pictured - Paramedic of the Year Northern Region, Ms Amelia Brown.

12.01.2022 The Government House team are busy planning for 2021! A special and important role of the Administrator is to engage with Territorians, promote community cohesion and support progression of our Northern Territory. Invitations for my attendance, or requests to host events that celebrate and support our community, or recognise individuals can be submitted to the Government House team at govhouse.nt.gov.au

12.01.2022 Today is International Day of Peace, a special day established by the United Nations in 1981. Peace Day is a globally shared date for all of humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and recognise the efforts of those who have worked hard to end conflict and promote peace. The 2020 Theme is Shaping Peace Together, and I think this sentiment is particularly pertinent in our current circumstances, as the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how truly inter-connected we a...ll are. I urge you to take a moment today to reflect on what Peace means to you.

11.01.2022 For the first time, the Araluen Arts Centre in partnership with Desart will be running an online exhibition of Desert Mob 2020! Desert Mob brings together emerging and established artists in Alice Springs to celebrate their work and culture. Although the Araluen Arts Centre will be open to the general public until 25 October, the online format allows visitors to enjoy the experience in the wake of COVID-19 related travel restrictions.... If you aren't able to travel to Alice Springs, head to www.araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au The online exhibition will be accessible from 11 September - 25 October.

11.01.2022 Today is International Men's Day, a day to celebrate worldwide the positive value men bring to their families and communities by highlighting positive male role models and raising awareness of men's wellbeing. It is important that we work together as a community to help change the stigma around men’s mental and emotional health, by regularly talking to the men and boys in our lives, thanking them and recognising the important role they play in our families and communities.

11.01.2022 Congratulations to Vincent Namatjira OAM, who was just announced winner of the 2020 Archibald Prize! Vincent, originally from Alice Springs is the first Indigenous artist to win Australia’s most prestigious portrait prize in its 99-year history. His portrait titled Stand Strong, with former AFL star and Australian of the Year Adam Goodes, was selected as the winning entry from a record-breaking 1068 entries. Congratulations Vincent on this wonderful achievement and recognitio...n of your work. #ArchibaldPrize #TooDeadly

11.01.2022 Last night I attended the Eric Johnston Lecture at the Northern Territory Library, titled 'When the Dreaming Becomes Us' presented by a remarkable Territorian and Torres Strait Islander man, Mr Thomas Mayor. I proposed the vote of thanks to Mr Mayor for his passionate and compelling address. Thomas’ words alongside this year’s NAIDOC theme, Always Was, Always Will Be, reinforce the significant importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture, and the immense contributions made to our nation by First Nations people. The Eric Johnston Lecture was first delivered in 1986 and since then prominent Territorians have been invited to share their experiences, knowledge and insights annually. This flagship event provides an ongoing intimate commentary on the people, history and development of the Territory.

11.01.2022 The elves have been hard at work sprinkling their Christmas magic around Government House this week. The decorations are out, our beautiful tree is up and we look forward to sharing it with our guests and visitors in the lead up to Christmas. Do you have your Christmas tree up? I would love to see it! Share a picture of it in the comments below!

10.01.2022 Congratulations to the 2020 Rotary Club of Darwin North, Eric Simmons Firefighter of the Year Award winners, Mr Royle Salt - Career Firefighter of the Year and Mr Cameron Burrows -Volunteer Firefighter of the Year. Being a Firefighter is not only about fighting fires, the role is diverse and covers many areas to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Territorians. Both recipients have proven their dedication to duty, and to keeping our communities safe and it is a pleasure to be able to recognise their achievements at Government House.

10.01.2022 To kick off Northern Youth Week (NTYW) I was delighted to welcome NTYW Ambassadors Sunny Liu and Emily Ford to Government House today to congratulate them on their recent appointment. I wish Emily and Sunny every success as the 2021 Youth Week Ambassadors, and I look forward to following their journeys. NTYW runs from April 9-18, to learn about events happening in your community follow Youth NT

10.01.2022 Government House is proud to once again fly the rainbow Pride Flag this weekend in celebration of the 2020 Darwin Pride Festival, running from the 18-20 September. This festival offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our diversity, inclusion, and equality, all part of what makes the Territory such a fantastic place to live. We wish all involved in this year’s Pride Festival a fun-filled weekend.

10.01.2022 This morning, Mr O’Halloran and I attended a service in Darwin, and Deputy of the Administrator, Mrs Patricia Miller AO, attended a service in Alice Springs to commemorate Remembrance Day. Remembrance Day is an opportunity to reflect and remember the contributions of the many servicemen and women, who lost their lives during WWI to safeguard the freedom and way of life we experience today. I pay my respects and offer my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have served and to... those who continue to serve, to ensure we continue to know this kind of freedom. Please remember to reach out to friends and family members in defence roles around the world today, and let them know you are thinking of them. We honour all those who have lost their lives in war for us.

09.01.2022 I was very happy to be on the judging panel for this year’s Darwin International Laksa Festival. The competition was incredibly tough and the dishes were outstanding! Congratulations to Chok’s Place on taking out this uniquely Territorian title for the second year running. Well done to the local businesses who participated, and to the event organisers for embracing our multicultural community, and bringing Territorians together to celebrate and share one of our favourite dishes!

09.01.2022 I had a wonderful morning attending a tour of Riding for the Disabled in the Top End. This organisation provides horses, trained volunteers, coaches, and riding and safety equipment to run a range of equestrian activities to build confidence and well-being amongst novice and experienced riders, who may require varied levels of support. It was lovely to see the connection between the children and horses I spent time with today and the positive impact the program is having in their lives. Well done to all the staff, volunteers and supporters who make this program possible.

09.01.2022 It was lovely to have the company of the ladies from the Wednesday Sewing Group for morning tea and needlework at Government House. The group was co-founded by the late Dr Valerie Asche, wife of former Administrator the Honourable Austin Asche, more than 40 years ago and it is wonderful that members still share such strong and enduring friendships. Thank you ladies, for sharing your beautiful creations and stories with me. Go well.

08.01.2022 As a Joint Patron of the RSPCA Darwin Regional Branch Inc, I was delighted to cut the ribbon and officially open their new adoption kennel complex this week. The new complex includes a meet and greet space, where potential forever families can come to meet and play with dogs and puppies like the beautiful Dimmy pictured, to ensure they are the right match for each other before committing to adoption. Well done to all the supporters and volunteers involved in this project, yo...u have certainly got tails wagging! RSPCA Darwin

07.01.2022 Tonight, I was honoured to host a reception and vigil to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance at Government House. Exclusion, bullying and harm to anyone in our community - is not ok. There have been many positive steps towards supporting the LGBTQIA+ community in recent years. Let’s continue to embrace our trans and gender diverse Territorians to ensure they are safe and supported. ... Thank you for letting me be a part of this special vigil with you all tonight. #TDoR2020

07.01.2022 It is with deepest sadness that we have learned of the passing of His Royal Highness the Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. As the longest-serving consort of a reigning British monarch, Prince Philip completed over 22,200 solo engagements, demonstrating his commitment to the service of the people of the Commonwealth. As consort, Prince Philip supported Her Majesty through a period of tremendous change, growth and prosperity, including the granting of self-government to the peo...ple of the Northern Territory in 1978, the appointment of 11 Chief Ministers and 16 Administrators of the Northern Territory. In recent times His Royal Highness achieved the remarkable milestone of being the oldest-ever male member of the British Royal Family. On behalf of the people of the Northern Territory, I have written to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to express our deepest condolences. Territorians are welcome to place floral tributes on the front lawns outside of Government House.

07.01.2022 Congratulations to Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh on their 73rd wedding anniversary. What a remarkable and inspiring achievement! The Royal Family

07.01.2022 Each year Australian Citizenship Day is celebrated on 17 September. This day encourages us all to reflect on the meaning and importance of Australian citizenship, and the responsibilities and privileges we have as citizens. Some of us are citizens by birth, and others by choice, but regardless we should all be proud of our nation and remember that the values of our citizenship - respect for the freedom and dignity of others, equality before the law regardless of race, religion, gender or ethnic background, and a fair go for all - unite as Australians. One of the greatest parts of my role as Administrator is the opportunity to meet and celebrate so many of the Territory’s diverse people!

06.01.2022 Thank you to Ms Joanne Freeman, British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory for visiting us at Government House this week. I look forward to hearing of your progress as you continue to strengthen your relationship with our communities.

06.01.2022 The first Northern Territory season of the National Bowl Abilities program has begun, and I was delighted to attend an event at Planet Tenpin where I picked up some tips on improving my technique! The National Bowl Abilities program is a wonderful initiative providing an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to learn to bowl.

05.01.2022 Thank you to Dr Kathy Guthadjaka AM, Reverend Thresi Mauboy, participants and organisers of the inaugural Milkarri Retreat, calling women together to revive the traditional roles that women have through wailing. I felt very blessed to be a part of this healing process, supported by women and men, sharing stories and learning from each other. I wish you every success with this important community led program. ... Go well.

03.01.2022 Today is International Firefighters' Day, a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the many things that our career and volunteer firefighters do to keep our communities safe. Being a firefighter goes well beyond just fighting fires, be it at motor vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, dealing with hazardous substances, severe weather events and natural disasters, they are ready to respond in times of crisis and when hope is needed. Thank you, to all Northern Territory firefig...hters and volunteers for your bravery and dedication. Your work to protect life and property is essential, and your contributions to our communities through your service are lasting. Happy International Firefighters' Day!

03.01.2022 Government House hosted a reception for Scouts Australia NT Branch, where Scouts were presented with awards for their achievements in the organisation. As Chief Scout of the Northern Territory I was happy to present these awards to the outstanding recipients. Scouting has a long history in the Territory, and it is believed Scouts have been operating here since 1911. In 1989, former Administrator Commodore Eric Johnston became Chief Scout of the NT Branch, and successive Administrators have held the role of Chief Scout ever since.

03.01.2022 The medals are prepared and Government House staff are busy making the final touches before I invest Territory recipients of the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours and Awards List tonight. I value the privilege of conducting investiture ceremonies for Territorians who have been recognised to the highest degree. Recognising people with Australian Honours and Awards is a wonderful opportunity to say thank you to those who make a difference in our communities. People can’t be recogni...sed if they are not nominated and this has to be driven from us - the community. To nominate someone visit www.gg.gov.au

02.01.2022 This year we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the theme of this day for 2020 focuses on the role of healthcare workers in contributing to the health of older persons. Older persons are considered to be at higher risk to the current pandemic, and we must all remain vigilant to protect our loved ones. Thank you to all health care workers for their ongoing hard work in supporting older persons to maintain and improve their health. As part of my role I enjoy engaging with many organisations that provide support and services to older people, such as the Probus Club, Pearl Retirement Village and COTA NT. Older persons play important social roles in our community, and I recognise their contributions today.