The Northern Territory and Australian flags which fly high over Darwin’s Bagot Road overpass will next week be replaced after they emerged a little worse for wear from weather conditions over the festive period.

Motorists used to seeing the flags flying proudly as they pass through The Narrows can be assured that arrangements have been made for NT Government contractors to safely ascend up to 30 metres to the top of the flag poles to make repairs.

The Department of Infrastructure maintains the flags and poles and became aware that they needed attention shortly after New Year’s Day, and the flags will be replaced on Wednesday January 13.

The reason for the longer than usual lead time is that the clip at the top of the flag pole which carries the Territory flag appears to be broken, necessitating a trip to the top of the pole by the repairing contractor.

A 25-tonne scissor lift is required to do the job as well as personnel licensed to perform this high risk work through NT Worksafe.

At this stage next Wednesday is the earliest availability of scissor lift, the contractor has advised.

The work will start at 8am, and while no delays are expected for motorists, traffic control will be in place at the corner of Bagot Rd and Stuart Highway for safety purposes.

The flags are regularly maintained by the Department and were most recently replaced in October last year.

Media contact: Shannon Rice, Communications and Media Manager, Department of Infrastructure, 0477 388 404