Bernie McCarthy is CEO of Aurukun Shire Council, on the remote north-west coast of the Cape York Peninsula. Most residents are Traditional Owners of the land, from five spiritual clan groups.

COVID-19 poses an increased risk to indigenous populations because of their more vulnerable health status, so we are living in a biosecurity zone. All travel to our shire is restricted to essential services only, like police, healthcare staff, local government workers and fuel and freight transporters.

In January, some local unrest led to 370 people leaving the area and being dispersed in communities all over the Cape. Prior to the region closure on March 25, 74 of those people came home and others now want to return because of COVID-19. They require a permit from the chair of our local disaster management group, who is also the mayor, and a minimal number of compassionate entry permits have been granted. There is a group of 14 people currently self-isolating in Cairns waiting to come back, who have been given this approval.

Our community has responded well to self-spacing requirements. We have highlighted at the bank, post office and supermarket how many people are allowed in, and we have postponed community events (though a small Anzac service will be held with 10 invitees).

We are providing positive messages through Facebook and trying to maintain services as close to normal as possible. Food deliveries are still arriving by barge from Cairns at 90-95% of usual levels. There are some changes in aged care and childcare, but they are not closed and school is still open.

Bernie McCarthy
Chief Executive Officer
Aurukun Shire Council