Yurrwi (Milingimbi)

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The Yurrwi (also known as Milingimbi) community is part of the Crocodile Island group in the Arafura Sea, approximately 500km off the coast of Central Arnhem Land and 200km West of Nhulunbuy.

The community was established in 1923 by the Methodist Overseas Mission. During World War II, airstrips were built and used as an RAAF base, however, after being bombed by the Japanese, most residents moved to the mainland/Elcho Island. The missionaries returned in 1951 to re-establish the town and opened a school.

The population of Yurrwi today is approximately 1,230. (2016 Census)

Fast Facts

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders represent 94 % of Yurrwi’s population. The median age is 26 years and 84% of the population speak Djambarrpuyŋu, while Burarra, Gupapuyngu, Wangurri and Liyagawumirr dialects are also prevalent. (2016 Census)

Health Services

Miwatj Health provides comprehensive primary health care services in Yurrwi. Our mental health program provides culturally safe mental health services/Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD)/Volatile Substance Abuse (VSA) Programs that address the needs of our Indigenous communities.

We also provide fly in/fly out services to the surrounding Homelands of Boḏiya, Laŋarra, Murruŋga Island and Ḏipirri.

Community Services

Yurrwi has a variety of services for residents. There is the Milingimbi Bilingual School K-12 and library, ALPA, a weekly barge, Milingimbi Art and Culture Centre, Manapan Furniture, Sport and Recreation, Men’s Shed, ALPA Higher Education Hub, Crocodile Rangers, Church, Outdoor WWII museum, historical sites and artefacts and a Heritage Well

Malmaldharra Health Centre
Lot 37 Madmungun Rd, Milingimbi NT 0822

08 8987 9903

08 8987 9940
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Operating Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 8am – 4:30pm
Wednesday: 8am – 12pm