Yirrkala is right on the tip of the Gove Peninsula. The settlement is on the low cliffs which overlook the beautiful, sparkling waters of Arafura Sea. It derives its name from the Aboriginal for 'the place on the beach where a small freshwater creek meets the sea'. Traditional owners of the land are the Gumatj and the Rirratjingu Aboriginal people.

Reverend Watson wanted to start a third mission in Arnhem Land on Melville Island but a lack of both funds and staff had prevented this. Reverend T.T. Webb had explored some of the coastal areas in the hope of finding a suitable site for such a mission.

It was he and Wilbur Chaseling who decided on Yirrkala, building the necessary houses and holding the first Christian service there in 1935. Aborigines began to settle there, although there were numerous problems with the different tribes having to live in such close proximity to one another.

The Buku-Larrngay Arts Museum is a must for anyone who visits this remote area, being home to an impressive collection of Aboriginal art work. These include all kinds of artefacts and carvings, which will provide you with a glimpse inside the wonderfully rich culture of the Aboriginal people of this area. Opening hours are 8.30 am until 12 noon, 1 pm until 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday, and from 9 am until 12 noon on Saturdays.

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