Climate

There are two climatic seasons on Groote Eylandt—the “Wet” and the “Dry”, resulting from the northwest monsoon and the southeast trade winds.

Wet season:

• November to April
• 25C to 38C
• hot, humid weather with heavy rains and often spectacular thunderstorms
• average annual rainfall is about 1,300mm

Dry season:

• May to October
• 10C to 30C
• comfortably warm and dry

What’s the weather like this month? Check out the Bureau of Meteorology

Environment

Vegetation is tropical savannah woodland, consisting of mainly stringy-bark eucalypts and Darwin woolly-butt, with patches of monsoon vine forest, pandanus, paperbark swamp and cypress pine. Near the beaches, Casuarina trees and Banyan figs give shelter and shade.

Bird and animal life are prolific. Fourteen species of mammal, 39 species of reptile and over 83 bird species have been noted on Groote Eylandt. The surrounding warm Gulf waters are home to an amazing variety of marine life including five species of turtle, sea snakes, dugong, whales, sharks and an abundance of fish.

GEMCO is committed to our Environmental Management systems, which include protection initiatives such as:

• Green Bags
  In 2004, the Alyangula Supermarket discontinued the use of plastic bags for groceries, and all residents were supplied with Green Bags. The initiative has drastically reduced plastic waste entering our landfill.
• Pet management
• Dogs (desexed only) are the only pets allowed to be brought onto Groote Eylandt (maximum 2 per household). Any other pets require specific authorisation prior to coming. 
• Cats are prohibited on Groote Eylandt. A comprehensive strategy is in place to manage existing animals.
• Cane Toads 
  Not currently present on Groote Eylandt, but are an increasing threat. A management plan is currently being developed with the assistance of the NT Parks & Wildlife.
• Marine
  GEMCO monitors for marine pests on a regular basis, looking for introduced species from international ships. So far, no exotic organisms have been introduced.

Dangers are a natural part of this tropical, isolated location. They include:

• Crocodiles
• Snakes
• Spiders
• Box jellyfish
• Irukandji
• Sharks
• Tidal currents
• Cyclones

It is important to be familiar with these dangers and be prepared and safe in activities on the Eylandt.

Cyclones

The top end of Australia is subject to cyclones throughout the wet season. Up to date weather information is broadcast regularly on radio and television when cyclone activity is in the area.

It is important to be aware of the dangers associated with tropical cyclones, be prepared, and heed all warnings. Cyclone Emergency Plans are in place for the mine and the community.