Groote Eylandt means 'big island' in Dutch and is indeed the largest island in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Although official ownership of the island has been returned to the Anindilyakwa people, the Dutch were the first Europeans to record its existence. You can apply for a permit to visit Groote Eylandt by contacting the Anindilyakwa Land Council office on Groote Eylandt. Located 650 kilometres from Darwin by air, Groote Eylandt is part of Arnhem Land and permits from the Northern Land Council are mandatory for all visitors.
The Groote Eylandt landscape is typical of the Top End, light woodland savannah country fringed by mangroves on the coast. Alyangula is the main town with a population of 670 and most residents are non Aboriginal miners. Groote Eylandt is a fantastic spot for fishing and while facilities for visitors are limited, safaris can be for anglers on the trail of queenfish, trevally, tuna, billfish, mackerel, cobia, barracuda and the many reef species abundant here.
Purchase this DVD that showcases this unique part of Australia. Includes footage of Kakadu, with its lush rivers, billabongs and wetlands. Yellow Waters, Twin and Jim Jim Falls. The mysterious paintings of ancient Aboriginal artists including Arnhem Land at Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock.
Visit Litchfield National Park, Katherine Gorge and the warm waters of Mataranka Thermal Pool, plus the sandstone shapes in the Lost City near Cape Crawford.
Experience Darwin, the capital of Australia's Tropical North with it's many attractions. Learn about Alice Springs, where legendary tales of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Old Telegraph Station can be heard. The MacDonnell Ranges, Standley Chasm and Glen Helen Gorge, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the magnificent domes of Kata Tjuta ( The Olgas ) also feature.
