The living waters of Wujal Wujal

The living waters of Wujal Wujal

Wujal Wujal is the home of the Kuku Yalanji, Kuku Nyungul and Jalunji clans – the ‘rainforest people,’ who are the traditional owners and custodians of the area. Located in a World Heritage site between Cape Tribulation and Cooktown in the Bloomfield Valley, Wujal Wujal means ‘many falls’ in the Kuku Yalanji language, and less than 500 people call it home. Accessible only by four-wheel drive, it has nonetheless had a Lutheran presence since 1885. Living Waters Lutheran Church is the name of its current congregation, bearing a direct connection to the abundance of waterfalls in the area.

In December 2023, the region was affected by record flooding. 270 Wujal Wujal residents were evacuated by Chinook helicopters to Cooktown after the town was inundated when the Bloomfield River broke its banks. Most of the homes went under, and the community continues to rebuild.

After the long hiatus triggered by the floods, church services have finally resumed at Wujal Wujal. There have been numerous challenges, including outside-community influences who wanted to end church involvement there. In God’s good timing the current community council has endorsed the important role the church plays, and the community is gradually returning to worship. In particular a small group of people have remained staunchly committed to a Lutheran community presence there.

‘They have supported the continuation of Living Waters against seemingly insurmountable odds,’ Pastor David Spanagel of Cairns Lutheran Parish explained. ‘Their trust and faith in God have been tested in recent years, and now – with thanks to God – their loyalty has been rewarded.’ Sadly, one such beloved member recently passed away. ‘We all miss her in so many ways,’ Pastor David said. ‘Rest in peace, Doreen.’

Recent weather events in 2026 have caused anxiety in the community, bringing back memories as some relive the trauma of the record flood in 2023. While the practical needs in Wujal Wujal remain pressing, spiritual and pastoral needs are equally great. ‘Please remember this beautiful community in your prayers,’ Pastor David asked. ‘We are unable to predict the future; however, we do know that this community values their connection with the Lutheran church for spiritual support and services such as baptisms, funerals and regular services as often as possible.’

The LCAQD United in Hope campaign hopes to raise $60,000 per year for the next three years, to enable and support a regional ministry in Far North Queensland, including in Wujal Wujal. The campaign recently reached the halfway point, which included a donation from LLL Australia’s $10,000 Matching Appeal. The fundraising continues, seeking to raise its first instalment of $60k by the LCAQD Convention of the Synod in early June.

‘This project is focused on calling and equipping ministry workers for Far North Queensland, so the Gospel can continue to be lived and shared in communities throughout the region,’ Queensland District Bishop Mark Vainikka said.

To find out more about the United in Hope fundraising efforts, and to donate, go to https://qld.lca.org.au/news-events/united-in-hope/ And if you feel God calling you to serve in the communities of Far North Queensland, contact Pastor David Schmidt in the LCA Queensland District Office, on 07 3511 4000.

Images: Waterfall at Wujal Wujal; Living Waters Lutheran Church; a small but determined contingent of Living Waters supporters.