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Explore Cape York 78
Bamaga (Ichuru)
Bamaga is one of the northernmost towns on mainland
Australia with an official population of 600 and only 34km short
of the Tip. It’s the commercial and service centre for the NPA
with a short but fascinating history of guts, determination,
survival and cooperation.
You’ll find all your grocery needs at Ibis Supermarket. The
largest supermarket north of Weipa, it has fresh produce and
groceries arriving twice weekly from Cairns.

There’s plenty of fresh fuel (diesel and 91 unleaded) at BP
Bamaga along with groceries, ice, bait, souvenirs and a cafe
supplying takeaway food. It also has an ATM, free Wi-Fi and
fresh water to top up your water tanks and containers. Opening
from 6.30am until 8pm seven days a week.

The Bamaga Tavern offers eat-in and take-away meals, live TV
sports, beer garden and a drive thru bottle shop.

Bernie’s Kaikai bakes fresh bread, cakes, and pies daily, and is
home to Bernie’s famous ‘crayfish pie’ and ‘crocodile pie’.

Just out of town is the Bamaga Airport and the Jackey Jackey
boat ramp for access to the Jackey Jackey and Escape River
systems, and of course the east coast.

Accommodation: Cape York Peninsula Lodge - Family and
motel style rooms with ensuite (some with kitchenette)
Facilities: Restaurant & licensed bar, swimming pool, conference
facilities, vehicle hire and tours

History
In 1947, following discussions and agreement with the
government, the Saibai Island community and the people of
Injinoo, Chief Bamaga Ginau arranged for the first of the
families to move from Saibai to Mutee Head. In 1954 the Saibai
people relocated from Mutee Head to the new village of
Bamaga, named after Chief Bamaga. The chief became ill and
passed away on Thursday Island, never seeing the fruits of his
labour and leadership.