History

The community was originally formed in the mid 1950's as a Catholic Mission. Although local administration is under the Council, the work of the Church is still important. The remains of the Jesuit missions can be found on the western side of the river at Daly River Mango Farm and on Elizabeth Downs Station.

The traditional owners of the area are the Malak Malak people who live both in Nauiyu and at Wooliana downstream from the community. Other Aboriginal people began living in the area when it was first settled. Early settlers hoped to create a food bowl of the north on the Daly River. There were many attempts to grow peanuts, sugar cane, cashews and cereal crops which were all defeated by the regular rising of the river which floods the area during the wet season. By 1955, there was sufficient local population to warrant a school and a small hospital. The Nauiyu Community expanded from there.

The Nauiyu Nambiyu Community Government Council was incorporated in May, 1988 and has continued to grow with the community. The strength of its operation is to be found in the stability of the staff, the strength of the Councillors and the centralised administration involved in all areas of the community with the exception of education and health.

The Community's CDEP, with 145 participants, has provided the workforce to enable the service delivery for the Council, School, Club, Takeaway and Store to develop and keep the community strong.

 
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