Eastern Arnhem Land

The wildly beautiful coast and country of eastern Arnhem Land is off the beaten track and really only for the adventurous (you'll need a 4WD to get around) and those who plan carefully (you'll need a permit to visit). About 4000 people live in the region's main settlement, Nhulunbuy, built to service the bauxite mine here. The 1963 plans to establish a manganese mine were hotly protested by the traditional owners, the Yolngu people; though mining proceeded, the case became an important step in establishing land rights. Some of the country's most respected art comes out of this region too, including bark paintings, carved mimi figures, yidaki (didgeridoos), woven baskets and mats, and jewellery.