Milyakburra

Milyakburra community is situated on the central eastern section Bickerton Island, in the Anindilyakwa Ward approximately 620 kilometres east-south-east of Darwin, and 8 kilometres east of the mainland, between Groote Eylandt and Blue Mud Bay, north of Numbulwar - 13 kilometres west of Groote Eylandt and the mining town of Alyangula, which was established in 1965 by Groote Eylandt Mining Company Pty Ltd (GEMCO). Milyakburra is approximately one hour by boat from Alyangula on Groote Eylandt. However, apart from the fortnightly Perkins Shipping freight barge service from Darwin to South Bay, Milyakburra is generally accessed by air. A sealed airstrip is located within 5 minutes walk of the community and can accommodate twin engine light aircraft. Travel time to Alyangula is 15 minutes, Nhulunbuy 30-40 minutes. Milyakburra has no sealed roads.

Population

The 2011 ABS Census recorded the current population at approximately 176 permanent residents.

Language

The primary languages spoken in the community of Milyakburra are Anindilyakwa and Yolŋu Matha. (2016 Census).

Clan Groups

[Writing in progress]

History

The Milyakburra community was established in 1975 as a family outstation located on the eastern side of South Bay, near Bickerton Island Airport. The Milyakburra Community Council was incorporated in 1983 and received funding to provide local government services. It became an NT association on September 19, 2002. Since July 1, 2008, the local government for Bickerton Island falls under the East Arnhem Region, specifically in the Anindiyakwa Ward of the Shire. Bickerton Island is privately owned Aboriginal land, with the landowners being represented by the Anindiyakwa Land Council located in Angurugu on Groote Eylandt.

Local Authority

Each community has its own local authority to facilitate communication and consultation between local government and the East Arnhem region. Click here to find out more about the Milyakburra Local Authority.

Explore the communities

  • If you are interested in learning more about the East Arnhem communities, we encourage you to explore the BushTel website. This website provides information about the remote communities of the Northern Territory, including their people and cultural historical influences. You can also access our interactive map of East Arnhem to view the exact locations of our nine communities and its corresponding services.


  • According to the laws of the Commonwealth and Northern Territory, obtaining a written permit is necessary for entry onto Aboriginal land. If you are considering a visit to the East Arnhem communities, you can apply for a permit here. (Note that this permit is necessary for the 6 mainland communities, excluding those situated on Groote Eylandt). 
Share by: