Help Borroloola Houseboats Recover After Devastating Fire

A Local Icon in Crisis

Borroloola Houseboats, a much-loved part of the King Ash Bay community and a unique way for visitors to experience the incredible McArthur River, has suffered a devastating blow.

A fire—caused by a lithium battery—completely destroyed their equipment shed, along with essential tools, supplies, safety gear, and infrastructure that support daily operations and maintenance of the houseboats.

To make matters worse, the recent floods in the region have led insurance providers to revoke all coverage for the area, leaving Borroloola Houseboats without any way to claim support for the damages. This means they’re now facing the massive financial burden of rebuilding entirely out of pocket.

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Why It Matters

Borroloola Houseboats isn’t just a small business — it’s a cornerstone of tourism in the Gulf region, offering unforgettable adventures to locals, travellers, and fishing enthusiasts. The team has worked tirelessly for years to build up the business and maintain the houseboats despite the harsh conditions of the Top End.

Now, they’re faced with the unimaginable: the loss of essential infrastructure and no safety net to fall back on.

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How You Can Help

We’re asking for help to:

• Rebuild the shed and infrastructure

• Replace essential tools and equipment

• Ensure houseboat operations can continue safely

• Support the team who’ve lost so much overnight

Whether you’re a past guest who has fond memories on the water, a local who knows the value Borroloola Houseboats brings to the region, or someone who simply wants to lend a hand — every donation helps.

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Let’s Keep the Dream Afloat

This business has weathered many storms — quite literally — and with your help, we can make sure it continues to serve the community and visitors for years to come.

Please consider donating and sharing this campaign with your networks. The Top End is a place of resilience and community — and we know that together, we can help Borroloola Houseboats rise from the ashes.

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Thank you for your support

Ken & Shell McCullough

Friends and avid supporters of King Ash Bay and Borroloola Houseboats