PHIC members contributed more than $9 million towards a range of community-based programs and activities during the 2018/19 financial year.
The figure represents contributions from BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill and Pilbara Ports Authority and is on top of other payments such as royalties, rates, and taxes paid to local, State and Federal governments.
The community contributions of $9.2 million covered general infrastructure, education and training, sport and recreation, community safety, biodiversity, and local event sponsorship.
PHIC members and their employees are also involved in community activities as volunteers, helping with education and training, speaking at conferences, and arranging site tours.
Some of the organisations to benefit include the Hedland Well Women’s Centre, Care for Hedland, South Hedland Soup Kitchen, and the Bloodwood Tree.
PHIC Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Danby said the community contributions were an important part of members’ commitment to the town.
“We’ve spoken about rates and royalties and wages and salaries, but this $9 million is a very tangible example of PHIC members’ contributions directly to town programs,” Kirsty said.
“In many cases it is our members’ employees wanting to do what they can to help the town.
“From volunteering for clean-ups to supporting local businesses and assisting with education and training, PHIC members are involved in many aspects of the town.”