Gayŋaru Wetlands (Town Lagoon)

Gayŋaru Wetlands (Town Lagoon) is a tranquil wetland winding through stunning paperbark forests with an abundance of native wildlife. Sightings of native birds include the northern fantail, blue-faced honeyeater, white-bellied cuckoo-shrike and the brown falcon and if you are lucky you might even catch a glimpse of a crocodile or barramundi!

Gayŋaru was once a popular and fertile hunting area for Yolŋu and today the cultural significance of the area remains. The lagoon provided an important source of freshwater and food with the men hunting the gurrumatji (magpie geese) and their eggs as well as minhala (long-necked freshwater tortoise) and the women collecting water lilies and räkay (water chestnuts). 

The start of the Gayŋaru Nature Walk is about 700 meters from Nhulunbuy town centre - follow the Nhulunbuy Walk Trail Network signs to get there. The three kilometre round trail will take you on a journey following the edge of the wetlands with interpretive signing, viewing platforms and a bird hide. The signage along the way will better visitors’ understanding of the local plant and animal species of Gayŋaru and their importance to Yolŋu.

Please respect the area by not damaging the plants or signs or littering. It is important to remember not to eat any plants or berries unless in the company of a guide and to be croc wise and remain away from the water's edge.