Groote Archipelago Regional Council

Groote Archipelago Regional Council

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GARC serves the communities of the Groote Archipelago, of Angurugu, Umbakumba, and Milyakburrua, on Bickerton Island and the surrounding homelands.

We are committed to delivering and supporting essential programs and services, supporting community development, and preserving the unique culture and environment of the region. Our responsibilities include infrastructure maintenance, waste management, youth and aged care programs, environmental protection, veterinarian, and animal management just to name a few.We work in close partnership with a

Photos from Groote Archipelago Regional Council's post 23/04/2026
23/04/2026

The Groote Archipelago Regional Council is proud to celebrate its first year of operation, marking a significant milestone for the Groote Eylandt Archipelago and its communities.

Established in April 2025 following de-amalgamation from East Arnhem Regional Council, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council was created to ensure stronger local representation and a more focused approach to meeting the needs of the region’s communities.

Over the past 12 months, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council has continued to grow as an organisation, building its workforce, strengthening governance, and delivering essential services across the region.

The Groote Archipelago Regional Council remains firmly focused on its three communities—Angurugu, Umbakumba and Milyakburra—ensuring that services, infrastructure and community outcomes reflect local priorities and aspirations.

Mayor Walsh said the first year has laid strong foundations for the future.
"We are proud to be a Council that represents the Groote Archipelago and its people. This first year has been about building our organisation, strengthening our connection with community, and delivering real outcomes on the ground."

Guided by its Annual Plan, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council has prioritised improving service delivery, strengthening community engagement, maintaining financial sustainability, and building strong partnerships to support long-term outcomes.

Mayor Walsh also acknowledged the contribution of Council staff.
"I would like to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication over the past year. Establishing a new Council is not easy, and their commitment to supporting our communities has been critical to our success."

As the Groote Archipelago Regional Council moves into its second year, it remains focused on continuing to grow as a strong, locally focused organisation and delivering for its communities.

"We are building a Council with a clear future—one that continues to listen, improve and deliver for the people of the Groote Archipelago," Mayor Walsh said.

23/04/2026

Groote Archipelago Regional Council marks one year of operations
The Groote Archipelago Regional Council is proud to celebrate its first year of operation, marking a significant milestone for the Groote Eylandt Archipelago and its communities.

Established in April 2025 following de-amalgamation from East Arnhem Regional Council, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council was created to ensure stronger local representation and a more focused approach to meeting the needs of the region’s communities.

Over the past 12 months, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council has continued to grow as an organisation, building its workforce, strengthening governance, and delivering essential services across the region.

The Groote Archipelago Regional Council remains firmly focused on its three communities—Angurugu, Umbakumba and Milyakburra—ensuring that services, infrastructure and community outcomes reflect local priorities and aspirations.

Mayor Walsh said the first year has laid strong foundations for the future.
"We are proud to be a Council that represents the Groote Archipelago and its people. This first year has been about building our organisation, strengthening our connection with community, and delivering real outcomes on the ground."

Guided by its Annual Plan, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council has prioritised improving service delivery, strengthening community engagement, maintaining financial sustainability, and building strong partnerships to support long-term outcomes.

Mayor Walsh also acknowledged the contribution of Council staff.
"I would like to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication over the past year. Establishing a new Council is not easy, and their commitment to supporting our communities has been critical to our success."

As the Groote Archipelago Regional Council moves into its second year, it remains focused on continuing to grow as a strong, locally focused organisation and delivering for its communities.

"We are building a Council with a clear future—one that continues to listen, improve and deliver for the people of the Groote Archipelago," Mayor Walsh said.

Photos from Groote Archipelago Regional Council's post 17/04/2026

Notice is hereby given that meetings of the Angurugu, Umbakumba, and Milyakburra Local Authorities will be held at their respective Council Offices.
Please view the attached posters for further information.

10/04/2026
26/01/2026

A televised funeral service honouring the life and legacy of Shane Marshall, the late CEO of Groote Archipelago Regional Council, will be held on Wednesday, 28 January at 11:15 am ACST. The service will be broadcast from the Angurugu Council Office, Lot 550 Angurugu, and all are welcome to attend.
This will be an opportunity for stakeholders, staff, and community members to come together to pay their respects and acknowledge the significant leadership and contributions Shane made during his time with Council.

For those that cannot attend but would like to honour his memory, you can find the stream on the below link:

https://vimeo.com/event/5648438

09/01/2026

Groote Archipelago Regional Council Pays Tribute to Shane Marshall

The Groote Archipelago Regional Council extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr Shane Marshall following his passing.

Mr Marshall was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Groote Archipelago Regional Council in 2024 and, during his tenure, became a valued member of the Groote Archipelago community. Through his leadership and commitment, he made a meaningful contribution to Council operations and to the broader community he served.

Mr Marshall was widely known and respected, and his passing is deeply felt across the Groote Archipelago. Council acknowledges his dedication and the positive impact he had on colleagues, community members, and stakeholders.

On behalf of the Groote Archipelago Regional Council, our thoughts are with Mr Marshall’s family and with all those grieving during this difficult time.

Council encourages community members to support one another and to seek assistance from family, friends, or local support services as needed.

04/12/2025

Dr Lauren and her veterinary surgical team are currently in Angurugu and surrounding homelands this week, providing important animal health and surgical services.

They will be in Umbakumba and the surrounding homelands from Monday to Thursday next week (8-11th Dec), and on Milyakburra on Friday the 12th.

Please contact the council office on 08 8987 7704 for any enquiries

27/11/2025

Umbakumba Movie Night – Tonight!

Join us tonight at 6:30pm for a community movie night at the laundry / Sport & Rec area!
We’ll be showing a fun family-friendly movie —

Bring a chair or picnic rug, settle in, and enjoy a relaxed night under the stars.
Everyone welcome!

27/11/2025

Angurugu Movie Night – Tonight!

Don’t miss Shrek on the big screen tonight at 6:30pm!
Join us at the oval stage for a fun family night under the stars.

Bring a chair or picnic rug, get comfy, and enjoy the movie with the community.
Everyone welcome!

Photos from Groote Archipelago Regional Council's post 24/11/2025

Groote Archipelago Regional Council is proud to be recognised as the newest Local Government Council in the Northern Territory to win the Circular Economy Award for Local Government at the recent Local Government Association NT AGM.
A promising sign of many good things to come for the Archipelago.

Want your business to be the top-listed Government Service in Angurugu?

Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.

Location

Address


Angurugu Office, Lot 550
Angurugu, NT
0822

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30am
Tuesday 8am - 4:30am
Wednesday 8am - 4:45am
Thursday 8am - 4:30am
Friday 8am - 4:30am