Moving Forward Together showcases the positive impacts that our Regional Council strives to achieve across East Arnhem Land. Through the strong leadership and guidance of our Elected Members and Local Authorities, EARC delivers vital services, projects and initiatives across six remote communities and supports many homelands throughout the region. These services play a crucial role in sustaining our people, improving quality of life and creating employment opportunities.

As Ganygulpa Dhurrkay, Gumurr Gattjirrk Councillor states:

“We Yolŋu of East Arnhem Land are intertwined and deeply connected through the two pillars moieties of Dhuwa and Yirritja. Our bäpurru (clans), our riŋgitj (songlines), our yirralka (land) and our law (law). This is the foundation of our authority and governance as First Nations people.”

Cyril Bukulatjpi, Gumurr Marthakal Councillor also states importantly how:

“We Yolŋu, elect 12 Councillors from five cultural areas. From Gumurr Miwatj where the sun rises in the east, to Gumurr Miyarrka and Gumurr Marthakal of Elcho Island and the interior, to Gumurr Gattjirrk and Birr Rawarrang where the sun sets in the west. Up to another 69 people nominated from the communities and many homelands join our Councillors as representative members on six Local Authorities across our Yolŋu region.”

President, Lapulung Dhamarrandji highlights the importance of Yolŋu and Balanda working together.

“Mainly it’s about how Yolŋu and Balanda come together in understanding and to build that momentum of understand that is really meaningful for all of us. Regardless colour, for all nationalities, from different walks of life, to come together here in Australia to build a sustainable future for all of us.”

Filmed at Ramingining, Milingimbi, Gapuwiyak, Galiwin’ku, Yirrkala, Gunyangara and Gulkula (Garma Site), the short film showcases real experience of how Council services support daily life in remote communities.

EARC is dedicated to promoting the empowerment of individuals, safeguarding communities, and fostering respect for cultural diversity. We look forward to coming together for our first Council Meeting in 2026 on Wednesday 24 to Thursday, 26 February 2026. The meeting will be held at the East Arnhem Regional Council Office in Nhulunbuy with agendas and minutes available on the Council website at: East Arhnem Council Meetings

Moving Forward Together is now available to watch below: