Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation

Balma

About Balma

History

Located on the southern end of a large wetland, very close to Blue Mud Bay, Bälma is the country of the Djarrwark people. They are closely connected to the communities of Gängan, Wandawuy, Djarrakpi, Barraratjpi, Yilpara, Gurka, Dhuruputjpi, Rurraŋala and Bukudal, who all refer to themselves as Djalkiripuyŋu.

In the 1970s the parents and families decided to establish a permanent base on their country at Bälma. The Bälma families have worked hard to ensure they provide the best opportunities for their children.

A successful garden has been growing for several years producing carrots, beans, bananas, etc but has come under increasing pressure from buffalo in recent years.

Koolatong River, famous for it’s fishing is close by to Balma Homeland. Please check with Northern Land Council on the current availability for the Koolatong River and to obtain a permit. Please note this permit does not give you access to Balma Homeland, only the Koolatong River recreational area.

Getting there

By Road
  • Balma is 263 kms from Yirrkala / 100kms from Gapuwiyak
  • Travel time from Yirralka in 4X4 – approx. 4 hours, depending on weather and road conditions
  • 4X4 is required to reach the homeland
  • GPS Coordinates: -13.24624897564579, 135.848907079306
By Air
  • 83 kms flying out of Gove Airport with Air Arnhem, MAF Australia or Black Diamond Aviation
Private Land

Please note that Laynhapuy Homelands are private land and not to be visited without permission. Some homelands can be accessed with the appropriate permit, please contact us for more information

More Information
For more Information on the best time to travel and road conditions, please visit the East Arnhem Land Website

Not sure where to find the right information?

We can help! Call us on 08 8939 1800 or send an enquiry