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THE PILBARA DISTRICT

The Pilbara is a massive, remote area in the north-west area of Western Australia encompassing 510,000 square kilometres which is approximately 20% of the state’s total land area. It has a population of about 45 000, the majority of which are distributed unevenly throughout the western third of the region.

The region is divided into four local government areas including the shires of Roebourne, East Pilbara, Ashburton and the Town of Port Hedland which provide a well established economic and social infrastructure.

Climate

Being north of the 26^th parallel, the climate is very hot and humid in summer and warm and dry in winter. Inland areas such as Tom Price and Newman can be quite cold in the winter evenings. The Pilbara is subject to cyclones during the summer months from October through to April. The summer rain pattern often leads to transport disruptions due to road flooding.

Economic Activity

The Pilbara is rich in natural resources. The economy is based primarily on the mining and petroleum sector. Some facts and figures:

• It is the largest mineral producing region in WA accounting for 45% of the total value of mineral production.
• The major minerals produced with their approximate yearly revenues are Iron Ore ($2.5 billion), Oil and Gas ($3 billion), Gold ($220 million) and Salt ($100 million).
• Other minerals include Manganese, Tantalite, Felspar and Copper.
• The pastoral industry is based on beef cattle and sheep for wool.
• Fishing centres on fin fish (snapper, emperor, cod, sea perch and mackerel), prawns, lobsters and molluscs.
• Tourism is also a major contributor to the region’s economy with:

   

  Spectacular gorge country in the Karijini National Park
  Historic settlements at Cossack, Roebourne and Marble Bar
  Fishing and aquatic activities along the coast, especially the Dampier Archipelago
  Touring mining operations

• Manufacturing, Commerce and Construction all contribute significantly to the local economy.