First Palumpa residents return home as recovery reaches new milestone
The first group of residents from Nganmarriyanga (Palumpa) have returned home after spending more than six weeks in evacuation centres in Darwin and Batchelor following devastating flooding in early March.
A total of 29 residents were supported to return in the first stage.
More than 260 residents were evacuated after flooding inundated homes and critical infrastructure, with around 210 people supported in temporary accommodation during the response.
Major milestone
Yesterday’s return marks a major milestone in the community’s recovery, with residents returning in stages as homes are restored and essential services come back online. Residents are only returning to homes that have been assessed, deep cleaned, safety checked and fitted with new bedding and essential household items.
Key supports are already in place, including food, water and essential supplies delivered three times per week, a pop-up school for children, and a temporary first aid facility supported by onsite ambulance services.
Medically vulnerable residents will not return at this stage and will continue to be supported in appropriate accommodation.
Significant progress
Minister for Children and Families, Robyn Cahill said the return home reflects the significant progress made in recovery efforts on the ground.
“We’ve seen a huge whole-of-government effort to restore homes and make it safe for people to return. After weeks away, seeing people step off the plane back onto their community is something really special. We will continue working alongside community to support recovery going forward,” she said.
Palumpa Elder Warren Wodidj who returned home with his family in the first group said: “It’s good to be back home I like to do everything at my Country. I miss all of it. I’m a stockman. I teach a couple of young fellas, too. It’ll be nice to get back to that – and to the quiet.”
The Northern Territory Government is continuing to work closely with the West Daly Regional Council and Thamarrurr Development Corporation to support the community through recovery.
An Emergency Declaration remains in place, with access to the community restricted and managed through the coordinated return process.
Residents remaining in Batchelor will continue to be supported until safe return options are available for all community members.
