Uncovering Our Historical Gems

THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL about unearthing precious memories and experiences, the sense of nostalgia when you feel as you think back to ‘those days’. And when these times are a shared, collective experience, it’s nice to connect with others that remember, too. 

^{By Tierney White}

The Library & Archives of the Northern Territory (LANT) is on the hunt for your historical Territorian tales, with applications for the next round of the NT History Grants now open. The program was established in 1978 when the NT achieved self-governance, designed to capture, celebrate and document important historical events or stories from around the NT. It’s seen many diverse projects funded over the years. 

Derek Pugh and Richard Creswick received a grant to support their project, Tracy: 50 years, 50 stories – a book that shares stories from those that experienced Cyclone Tracy. They say it wouldn’t have been possible without the grant. 

“This grant allowed us to make the decision to complete our project … by guaranteeing the costs of production could be met. The project would not have gone ahead without the funding,” they said. 

“For self-publishers, such grants, even if they don’t cover the entire initial cost, provide the capacity to begin the creative process. In recognising a project is worthy of a grant they also provide encouragement for, and to some extent validation of, the concept.” 

Previously funded projects have included radio programs, published works, video and film production – even a theatrical play – with grants of up to $7,000 available for each project. If you’ve got some Territory gems hidden in the memory bank, there’s no time like the present to unearth them.

NT History Grants 
WHEN MON 1 JUL – MON 12 AUG (APPLICATIONS OPEN)
INFO lant.nt.gov.au

^{Photo: 12 Christ Church Anglican Cathedral}