Just like that, the Community Industry Forum (CIF) turns six! At our most recent gathering, we took a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come. Originally established to bridge the information gap between industry, government and the Port Hedland community, CIF has evolved into something much greater, driven by collaboration, connection and shared purpose.
At May’s forum, we heard powerful reflections from long-standing members. I think community representative Joel Schreiber summed it up best:
“This is one of the best examples I’ve seen of unity in diversity and a shared focus on social prosperity. It’s not about conflict; it’s about industry and community working together. That creates real strength.”
I was pleased to share an update on our voluntary environmental initiatives which demonstrate how industry is stepping up to support both land and marine environments. We also heard engaging and honest presentations from the WA Treasury Corporation on WA’s decarbonisation journey, and from the Pilbara Development Commission on the Safe Spaces initiative, which both affirmed the value of cross-sector partnerships.
Speaking of celebrations, congratulation to Kevin Michel MLA on being re-elected as the Member for Pilbara. Kevin is a member and keen advocate of the CIF and we look forward to continuing to work with him for great outcomes for community and industry in Port Hedland. We also welcome Amber- Jade Sanderson to the new portfolio of Minister for Pilbara, which will bring welcome focus to the unique needs of our area and our people.
PHIC’s Business and Community Manager, Chantel Cullen hosted the Minister and Senior Policy Advisor, Cassandra Maney for a tour of the Port Hedland Harbour, guided by Port Hedland Seafarer’s Centre Phil Donnan. The tour focused on the human element of worldwide shipping and how collaboration can help solve the complex issues and opportunities for industry and community.
More broadly, PHIC has continued advocating for Port Hedland. Chantel and I were recently invited to meet with the Premier to discuss investment, infrastructure and liveability. We made it clear that while we welcome the establishment of a Minister for the Pilbara, we also need reduced red tape and long-term infrastructure planning to support our region’s growth.
The Premier was receptive and recognised Port Hedland’s strategic importance. His commitment to ongoing engagement and support through his advisors and Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson was encouraging.
We’ve also had recent opportunities to showcase Port Hedland’s future potential through a tour of Lumsden Point, a spot on the ABC Pilbara Morning Show, and my upcoming panel at the Future of Mining conference, where I’ll be talking about legacy, responsibility and opportunity beyond the life of a mine.
The momentum is building and so is the collaboration. Here’s to another year of working together for shared outcomes.