Recent heavy rains in the Arnhem region have seen significant increases in water levels surrounding remote outstations, in particular those in the Maningrida area. The vast majority of these outstations have been isolated for extended periods of time and some are running dangerously low on supplies. Many have been without power for some time. The Local Counter Disaster Planning Committee met this morning at the Northern Territory Emergency Service Building in Maningrida. The following organisations were represented at the meeting; NTES (MERGS) Maningrida Progress Association Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation Dept of Health (Maningrida Clinic) West Arnhem Shire BAC Djelk Rangers BAC Tucker Run In light of the meeting and as a result of further communication with 'at risk' communities, the Local Counter Disaster Planning Committee has devised an operational plan to evacuate certain communities in a structured, controlled manner. The first evacuation took place yesterday with 8 adults and 2 children evacuated into Maningrida from Kakodbebildi Outstation. The evacuation of a further two outstations, Kolorbidahdah and Yikararkal, is underway today, with a further 8 adults and 2 children being airlifted to Maningrida. Further communities are currently being considered for evacuation. Communities able to sustain themselves but running low on supplies, yet not wishing to be evacuated, will be facilitated with food drops. Ongoing contact with remote Arnhem Land outstations continues with Police, the Bawinanga Aboriginal Council and Maningrida Health Clinic working together to orchestrate a successful operation. Media Contact Sarah Gotch 0417 770 686