Every year on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June, hundreds of motorbikes, cars, quad bikes and buggies descend on the small and remote community of Aputula. It’s known as the Finke Desert Race and is a multi-terrain, two-day race through desert country from Alice Springs to the small Aputula (Finke) Community. It attracts around 600 competitors from all over the country and is one of the biggest annual sporting events in the Northern Territory. It’s an exciting time of year for the community of Aputula, which normally has a population of less than two hundred people.

This year the Aputula Aboriginal Corporation has engaged Outback Stores to work with the store managers to help prepare the community for the onset of racing visitors.

Michelle and Greg Giumelli have been store managers of Aputula Store since November 2020 and know well the pressures of running a remote store.

“We have managed remote community stores across the country for over twenty years, and so can appreciate how smooth the transition has been with Outback Stores. The support that is continuously happening in the background to assist us is remarkable.’ Michelle Giumelli, co-manager of Aputula Store and employee of Aputula Aboriginal Corporation.

“In February Outback Stores started working with us and already we have seen upgrades to the store layout, new fridges and shelving, and very competitive prices of food, fresh fruit & vegetables. We welcome the ongoing support we have received for our store. It’s been long overdue and the community is very happy, appreciative and thankful for the support. See you all at the Finke Desert Race. Palya!’ Susan Doolan, Chairperson of the Aputula Aboriginal Corporation.