The Northern Territory news Thu 20 Feb 2020
NT news
The Northern Territory news; NewspaperNT
2020-02-20
English
Community newspapers -- Northern Territory -- Darwin; Australian newspapers -- Northern Territory -- Darwin
News Corp Australia
Darwin
application/pdf
Copyright. Made available by the publisher under licence.
News Corp Australia
https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2019C00042
https://hdl.handle.net/10070/756697
https://hdl.handle.net/10070/788847
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 20 2020 NEWS 07 V1 - NTNE01Z01MA Service teams relive the day war came to Darwin WILL ZWAR will.zwar@news.com.au THE haunting sound of the air raid siren sent about a dozen soldiers into action, as cannons and machine guns fired off the cliffs of the Darwin Esplanade. But these rounds were blanks, unlike the Japanese rounds fired 78 years ago that brought World War II to Australian soil. 1st Brigade Bombardier Jack Papworth took part in the Bombing of Darwin reenactment. Its a great honour being part of the history of the reenactment, all the lads here are extremely keen and we have some history buffs who have actually bought the first kit to be a part of it, he said. For me its a privilege to be able to command a gun for example and play a crucial role in the re-enactment. It still gives the modern day troops an adrenaline rush, positioned on post as soldiers would have on February 19, 1942. For Sam Logan, son of USS Peary survivor Samuel Logan who jumped from the sinking wreckage into the burning Darwin Harbour, watching the re-enactment for the first time was an experience hell never forget. Im stunned. How do you top this? I havent seen anything in the US like this, he said. The word speechless comes to mind its really been an amazing day, this is a fabulous experience. I honour (Australia) for honouring the veterans like you do. As Mr Logans fathers story was shared by acting Chief Minister Nicole Manison, Mr Logan stood and waved to a crowd, humbled by the tale of survival. Wreaths were laid by schoolchildren and dignitar ies including Administrator Vicki OHalloran and Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis. Also in attendance were representatives from the Japanese Consul General and the United States and the United States Consul Chief. Veteran Mervyn Ey, 98, who was in Nightcliff when the bombs first fell, said the commemorations kept the history alive. Coming back means Im still able to do things and the anniversary is a very prominent thing, he said. On that day, the anti-aircraft and the infantry battalions and artillery, they were very proud of themselves. No one was scared that much that they left their posts, they can be very proud of that. I like coming back each year to hear what veterans have to say and its something in your old life that you like doing. NT Administrator Vicki O'Halloran and husband Craig O'Halloran walk to the Cenotaph Picture: CHE CHORLEY Bombardier Jack Papworth prepares Picture: CHE CHORLEY The crowd embraces the heat Picture: CHE CHORLEY Debt limit bid defeated THE Territory Government has been urged to fast-track plans to install a $6.9 billion debt ceiling on its borrowings as it tries to dig itself out of its fiscal crisis. Independent MLA Robyn Lambley introduced a private members bill yesterday to introduce a debt ceiling but it was defeated in parliament. The proposed amendments would mean the NTs debt could not exceed $6.98 billion. If the Territory were to exceed the debt ceiling, the Auditor-General would be required to prepare a report to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly. The Langoulant report, which revealed the Territory was in major financial strife, recommended the creation of a debt ceiling last year. The Gunner Government committed to putting one in place by 2021. However, Ms Lambley said she didnt trust the Government to keep its word. They are already in breach of the recommendations of the Langoulant report for spending outside the Budget, for example with a $12 million grandstand and employing more public servants, she said. Opposition Leader Lia Fi nocchiaro said the CLP supported the bill. Its interesting that the Government in its arrogance has not implemented that change themselves, even though its part of their own report, she said. Attorney-General Natasha Fyles dismissed the bill as a cheap political stunt. What we have been doing is working in a balanced approach to make sure that we protect those essential services. Its very easy to just call the shots from the opposite side, she said. For bookings, contact 8901 0792 or meetinthent@hilton.com Plan Your Event With Us Newly Refurbished and Award-Winning Conference and Event Venues City Centre Location Grand Ballroom with Seating for up to 410 Guests Connected to Darwin Entertainment Centre Suitable for Large Events up to 900 Guests