In Galiwin’ku, more than 80 homes were severely damaged or damaged
beyond repair after Cyclone Lam hit their community in February this
year.
More than 300 displaced residents have lived in tents at Camp Elcho
while more suitable temporary accommodation was installed in the
community.
The last of the camp residents have now
moved into the transportable homes that will provide them
with temporary accommodation while the $90 million rebuild
of the affected communities continues.
The 32 Camp Elcho tents have been packed down and are
being returned to the New South Wales Rural Fire Service this week.
Regional Recovery Coordinator, Jim Rogers said a community barbecue is
being held today (June 28) to thank all those involved in Camp Elcho.
“We would like to take this opportunity to extend
a profound thank you to the NSW Rural Fire
Service (RFS) management and on-ground staff for their
assistance during this natural disaster including the loan of the tents,” Mr
Rogers said.
“We would also like to extend our thanks
and appreciation to everyone involved in the running of Camp
Elcho, including Camp Director Bryan Hughes, the local Yolngu Camp
Supervisors, Cultural Advisors, cleaning teams and catering teams and
the DeltaReef and AEC contractors who helped establish and maintain the
camp.
“There were over 20 people working at the Camp,
including the 15 Yolngu people working in supervisor, cultural
advisor, cleaning and catering roles.
“We would like to acknowledge Karen Sheldon Catering who
provided local Yolngu staff with training for Certificate I and II in
Hospitality qualifications.”
The NT Government is now working with employment service providers and
businesses to transition the local Camp Elcho staff into longer term employment
within the community.
“We would also like to thank the NT Police and the Local Authority
members and Elcho Island leaders for their support throughout this time,” Mr
Rogers said.
Planning is underway with the East Arnhem Regional Council to restore
the football oval for the community.
The NT Government will continue working with the community to ensure
there are opportunities for long-term jobs and training for local residents
throughout the rebuilding program and into the future.
Media Contact:
Laura Verney
8999 6009 or 0428 452 179
Images:
1. NSW Rural Fire Service Staff (Left) Ian Jauncey and (Right) Toby Settree, with Charlie Yunupingu (Senior Camp Elcho Cultural Adviser) and his grandson, Willy Yunupingu.
2. Camp Elcho at establishment
3. Camp Elcho mid pack down.
