Umbakumba

The township of approximately 500 (2016 Census), is located in the Gulf of Carpentaria on the north-eastern coast of Groote Eylandt.

Umbakumba was established in 1938 as a base for trepanning and service point for Qantas flying boats, and then for the RAAF during WWII. After the war, the Church Missionary Society ran Umbakumba until 1966, when it was taken over by the Australian Government. In 2008, Umbakumba became part of the East Arnhem Shire Council.

Fast Facts

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders represent 96% of Umbakumba’s population. The Median age is 25 years and 85% of the population speak Anindilyakwa. (2016 Census)

Community Services

Umbakumba School is a coeducational combined school, serving Pre-school, Primary School (T – 6), Middle School (7 – 9) and Senior School (10—12). Other services include Umbakumba Store, Groote Eylandt Aboriginal Trust (GEAT) bus service, and the Council provides banking, housing, Centrelink and postal services to local residents