Aurukun is a local authority, one of two Aboriginal communities in Queensland which is not governed by a Deed of Grant in Trust. The key reason to visit Aurukun, apart from supplies, is the wonderful Art Centre which supplies galleries all over Australia.
Have a look at the white board where orders are waiting to be filled - you will be impressed. Aurukun art work is well represented in Brisbane's Queensland Art Gallery with the Cape York collection. On site here you can see traditional carvers and basket weavers. You can talk to artists and get an up-close dose of culture. The air-conditioned exhibition area has pieces on display.
You must plan a journey to Aurukun so you can be out before sundown so you don't contravene the Council's 'no camping' policy.
The access road into Arukun community is a main road but all other roads are Council roads which require permission to access. While Aurukun has a shop, fuel outlet, medical centre and police station, do not expect to visit the Gulf of Carpentaria. There is no public access to the ocean.
The community's site close to the Ward, Archer and Watson Rivers offers future tourism potential. Three Rivers Tavern is subject to rules of an alcohol management plan as is the carrying of alcohol into the community. Please carefully abide by these rules before entering Aurukun.
