OUR COMMUNITIES

Proudly supporting the Anindilyakwa people across the Groote Archipelago

The Groote Archipelago is home to several vibrant Anindilyakwa communities, each with its own unique identity, culture, and aspirations. The Groote Archipelago Regional Council works in partnership with Traditional Owners, local organisations, and service providers to support strong, self-determined communities across Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island.


Below is an overview of the communities supported by GARC and the key services available in each.

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Angurugu

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Location: West coast of Groote Eylandt, along the Angurugu River

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Population: Approximately 835 residents

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Nearby Homelands: Ananja, Yedikba (Emerald River), Leske Pools, Yenbakwa

Angurugu is the largest Indigenous community in the archipelago and serves as a central hub for regional governance, education, and essential services.

  • Key services and facilities

    • School
    • Health clinic
    • Library
    • Supermarket
    • Sports facilities
    • Police post and safe place
    • Women’s Centre, Men’s Shed, and Cultural Centre
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Umbakumba

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Location: Eastern coast of Groote Eylandt

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Population: Approximately 581 residents

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Nearby Homelands: Thompsons Bay, Salt Lake, Four Mile

Umbakumba is a culturally rich community known for its strong local enterprises and coastal lifestyle. It is supported by Aminjarrinja Enterprises, which operates construction, trepang (sea cucumber) farming, and other businesses.

  • Key services and facilities

    • School
    • Health clinic
    • Supermarket and mini-mart
    • Police post
    • Aged care services
    • Local radio station
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Milyakburra

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Location: Bickerton Island

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Population: Approximately 176 residents

Milyakburra is a close-knit community deeply focused on cultural preservation and education. The community is managed by the Lagulalya Aboriginal Corporation (LAC).

  • Key services and facilities

    • School
    • Health clinic
    • Women’s Centre
    • Supermarket
    • Cyclone shelter that doubles as a cultural and training centre
    • Wurriyukwayuwa-Langwa College – a new bilingual boarding school under development to support youth leadership and cultural education

Alyangula

Alyangula is a township on Groote Eylandt that operates independently from the Groote Archipelago Regional Council. It was originally established to support mining operations and is managed separately.


However, Alyangula provides a range of essential services and facilities that are accessible to residents of surrounding communities.

  • Services accessible to surrounding communities

    • Health and emergency services
    • Retail outlets and banking
    • Sporting and recreational facilities
    • Accommodation and transport connections

GARC recognises the vital role Alyangula plays in supporting the wellbeing and development of the broader Groote Eylandt region.