The Northern Territory Callisthenics Association (NTCA) was established in 1983 as the governing body for Callisthenics in the Northern Territory. Its primary role is to oversee and manage all programmes that encourage, develop, and promote Callisthenics for participants and clubs in the region. The NTCA is committed to growing and developing the sport, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that “the Territory knows and loves Callisthenics.
The association's purpose is to provide a professional, supportive, and friendly environment for its members and their families to enjoy the sport of Callisthenics. Currently, the NTCA operates clubs within the Greater Darwin area, specifically in Malak, Howard Springs, Palmerston, and Jingili. However, there are no clubs currently operating in Katherine, Tennant Creek, or Alice Springs.
Callisthenics, derived from the Greek words “kallos” for beauty and “sthenos” for strength, combines various disciplines such as Gymnastics, Ballet, Folk Dance, Jazz Ballet, Apparatus (Clubs and Rods), Figure Marching, Mime, and Singing. While the sport aims to achieve beauty and strength, it also emphasises the social aspect, confidence-building, and self-esteem of its participants. Callisthenics is widely practised in Australia and is recognised as a fun and healthy way for children of all ages to stay fit.
The NTCA organises team competitions in September each year and individual events, including Solo, Graceful Solo, and Duos, in May. These events provide opportunities for participants to showcase their skills, teamwork, competitive spirit, and sense of responsibility. The association celebrates fun, flexibility, and friendship as key aspects of the sport and strives to make it accessible to everyone.
In recent news, the Intermediate Representative Team has been selected to represent the Northern Territory at the Australian Calisthenic Federation National Championships, taking place in Brisbane from July 5-8, 2023. Additionally, the NTCA has welcomed its new executive team, consisting of President Anna Collins, Secretary Melita Eassie, and Treasurer Anna McGowan. The role of Vice President is currently vacant, and interested individuals are encouraged to contact the association to express their willingness to volunteer.
For individuals interested in joining a Callisthenics club in the Darwin area, the NTCA provides contact information for Arafura Callisthenics Club in Malak, Dream Callisthenics Dance Club in Howard Springs, and Top End Callisthenics Club in Jingili and Palmerston. Further details and class times can be obtained by reaching out to the provided email address.
The NTCA's website, designed by Simple Pages, offers a user-friendly platform to explore more about the association, including information on age groups, routines, Cali skills, competitions, governance, coaching, resources, and contact details. The association prides itself on being proudly supported by various entities and looks forward to welcoming new participants to the sport of Callisthenics in the Northern Territory.