27/05/2026
STATEMENT BY THE MALAK MALAK GROUP REGARDING DALY RIVER
"We, the Malak Malak people have been managing and protecting the Daly River for thousands of years, sustaining its ecological health and in recent year safeguarding its reputation as a world-class barramundi fishery.
In the aftermath of the most severe flooding in living memory, we are very concerned about environmental damage to the river, including impacts to cultural sites, riverbank stability, and changes to sand systems and water flows. Our river is in a fragile state, and it is critical that sufficient time is allowed to assess it and allow it to recover at its own pace.
Many of us are residents of Daly River and nearby communities and many of us have been displaced and unable to return to our homes for many months. This situation requires urgent and continued attention.
While we recognise the economic importance of fishing competitions to the Northern Territory and the Daly River region, the river’s recovery must be the priority. We appreciate constructive engagement with AFANT and fishing organisations and welcome their shared commitment to protecting the river for future generations.
While we have agreed that events may proceed, we must ensure that fishing competition organisers and participants work closely with us and adhere to heightened standards of environmental and cultural care while the river remains vulnerable.
As custodians, we welcome respectful use of Country, but this must not occur at the expense of the river’s recovery and cultural integrity. We will continue to actively advocate for the protection of the river during this critical period.
Those of us who remain unable to access our homes and lands, while visitor access continues, should not be forgotten. We are very happy to hear that some residents will be returning to Daly River later this week, and we urge the Northern Territory Government to ensure that all remaining residents are able to return as soon as possible."
