Early Mission Period
(1904-1925)

1904

The Aurukun Mission was established by Moravians (A German Church). During this period, most of the local people still lived in the bush, maintaining their traditional lifestyles.

Tradition and Adaptation
‍

1925 - 1956

The population gradually moved closer to the mission. The nearest families settled first, while those further away arrived later.

1930s

Wik-Mungkan emerged as the lingua franca, fostering communication among different groups. Autonomy diminished as Australian law and mission regulations were enforced. Skills in cattle, sawmill operations, and carpentry were taught.

1959

Bauxite, the primary ore of aluminium, was discovered on our lands. This pivotal moment in history linked Aurukun to the broader Australian economy.

Meanwhile armed with their new skills, the outside world beckoned. Local people found work in the Torres Strait, Weipa Mine, Groot Eylandt and southern cattle yards.

Shift in Governance
(1967 - 1978)

1966

Bill MacKenzie, who dedicated 42 years to Aurukun, left. By the late 1960s, the local cattle industry was in decline.

1969

1970

The last traditional initiation ceremony was held. Beagie camp was established. Two final undiscovered, nomadic bands roamed until the 1970s – known as the ‘Tiger Mob’.

Forced State Takeover
(1978)

The Church was ousted by the State Government, formally ending the mission period.

1978

The first motorcar arrived in Aurukun.

State Control and Changes
‍(1978

Houses built by the people were demolished during the State takeover.

1985

Despite opposition, a canteen was opened. Telephones and television were introduced in the 1980s.

S
‍‍‍(198

The community faced heavy violence related to alcohol. The Alcohol Management Plan (AMP) was implemented to curb violence, crime, and health issues by restricting alcohol intake and trading hours. Improved telecommunications and the signing of the WCCCA Agreement market progress.

2003 to today

Community Development Employment Projects (CDEP) became the primary employer.   

Southern Trust businesses were established:
- Aurukun Wetland Charters
- Aurukun Earthmoving
- Wik Projects Ltd
- Weipa Multi-purpose Facility

This historical journey highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Aurukun people through significant changes and challenges, from early mission life to modern economic initiatives. Each era reflects a pivotal chapter in their ongoing story of cultural preservation and community development.

Our

Culture

Aurukun is the heartland of the Wik, Wik Way, and Kugu peoples.

The establishment of the Aurukun mission in 1904 gradually brought together people from the north and south. We became nationally recognised in the 1990s due to our historic native title claim – the Wik Claim.

For us, the land is much more than a physical space.

It's in our DNA. Our land is part of our identity and spirituality. So, it's no wonder that our concept of land ownership is also uniquely distinct from the Western norms.

We are the Wik peoples

Our

Culture

Aurukun is the heartland of the Wik, Wik Way, and Kugu peoples.

For us, the land is much more than a physical space.