ABC Pilbara in Karratha, Western Australia | Broadcasting & media production company

ABC Pilbara

Locality: Karratha, Western Australia

Phone: +61 8 9183 5010

Address: 10 De Grey Place 6714 Karratha, WA, Australia

Website: www.abc.net.au/pilbara

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25.01.2022 What do you do when you're stuck in the middle of nowhere with no mobile phone reception? Strap the phone to a drone and send it skyward... What else?

25.01.2022 Nearly two years on, it remains unclear if anyone will be charged over the deaths of more than 1000 cattle at Yandeyarra in the Pilbara and Noonkanbah in the Kimberley.

25.01.2022 A damning report on backpacker exploitation

25.01.2022 The Karratha Volume Crime team have arrested 12 people, including several children, following a spike in crime in last month. Detective Sergeant Neil Vanderplank says there were 40 other charges.

24.01.2022 Did you have issues filling up at Onslow recently? CEO Ric West of Buurabalayji Thalanyji Aboriginal Corporation spoke to ABC Pilbara:... there was a Caltex outside of town but the lease expired, so that shut down before Christmas. We were trying to co-ordinate with that to get the 24 hour fuel in at our site and that wasn’t able to be done by the supplying company. And then when staff suddenly became unavailable, it left us short. the company that is supplying has assured us that it will be going in on the 11th of January and we’ll have 24-hour fuel facilities in town.

24.01.2022 NGAJARLI TRAIL Indigenous rock art carvings known as petroglyphs at the former Deep Gorge, now renamed Ngajarli Trail, can be viewed by all, include those in wheelchairs. A ramp and stairs lead up to a small section of ancient rock art petroglyphs of the Yaburara people, now managed by the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation.... Efforts are underway by the federal and state governments to have the Burrup Peninsula rock carving heritage of over 1 million petroglyphs listed on the World Heritage List by UNESCO.

24.01.2022 Remember the photo of the dolphin wall in Esperance we posted a few days ago? Well here they are in action Does anyone else find it relaxing to watch them play in the waves? Abhinav Gupta captured this awesome footage, thanks for sharing!

24.01.2022 There is deepening confusion over the future of Western Australia's hard border, with the Health Minister saying it is time to look at re-opening, while the Premier insists the state needs to stay shut for the rest of the nation.

24.01.2022 How's this for a clever camping invention? Benny was camping in Buckland Valley with his mates when they came up with this method of cooking some roast beef. Have you got any camp cooking tips? ... : Benny Mickle

24.01.2022 BUY LOCAL INDUSTRY FORUM An industry forum was held in Karratha yesterday to advise local businesses on submitting for tenders on new infrastructure projects by WA government departments. Manager of Industry Development Andrew Griggs said it was one of a series of regional forums to bring together small to medium businesses with state government and other agencies such as Horizon Power and the Water Corporation to develop local opportunities for contractors within the Pi...lbara. Over 30 registrations showed up to the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation led forum for funded projects previously announced including: $1.7 million to install a Battery Energy System in Marble Bar to improve grid capacity and enable more customers to install solar panels $1 million towards upgrades to the Newman Wastewater Treatment Plant $1.63 million towards maintenance and infrastructure upgrades in remote Aboriginal communities including Walagunya, Irrungadji, Gooda Binya and Yandeyarra $10 million through the Regional Road Safety Program to upgrade 85 kilometres of Pilbara roads with shoulder sealing and installation of audible lines, creating around 50 local jobs $80 million for targeted maintenance programs for regional social, remote and government workers housing properties, including approximately 2,500 homes in the Pilbara $141.7 million to refurbish social housing across WAs ageing housing stock, of this, the Pilbara will benefit from approximately 130 homes $97 million to build new social housing including around 5 to 10 properties in the Pilbara $2.01 million towards upgrades of the Police radio network at locations converting from analogue to digital including across the Pilbara $490,000 for upgrades at the Karratha Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service station $710,000 for upgrades at the South Hedland Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Station See more

24.01.2022 TOTAL FIRE BAN ON FRIDAY There's a total fire ban in place on FRIDAY 8/1/21 for the following council areas in the DFES Midwest Gascoyne region: Carnarvon, Meekatharra, Murchision, Shark Bay, Upper Gascoyne, Wiluna You must not: Light, maintain or use a fire in the open air... Carry out any activity that could start a fire For details of dozens of other Total Fire Bans across the state tomorrow, click here: https://bit.ly/3oeAyXv See more

24.01.2022 Vikki Thorn from the Waifs dropped into the ABC studio for a chat and a couple of songs. She is in the Pilbara working with the Roebourne community in the lead up to the Songs for Peace concert on Saturday. This is Vikki singing a new song off her upcoming solo album. She is here with Ben Vanderwal, David Hyams and Lucky Oceans. They also sang Waifs song How Many Miles.

23.01.2022 TOTAL FIRE BAN for PORT HEDLAND, the EAST PILBARA and WILUNA on SATURDAY What CAN and CAN’T you do? A total fire ban means no fires in the open air.... ‘Open air’ means anywhere outside, including a deck, balcony, courtyard or park. Includes cities and towns. Runs 12.01am -11.59pm Saturday 14 November. Cooking outside is restricted to gas and electric barbecues only, with conditions. No "hot works" like welding or grinding. Penalties apply for breaking the rules. See Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA - http://bit.ly/2TmHQbP

23.01.2022 Extraordinary works of art, painted by children in the late 1940s, back in WA from New York and on display for the first time.

23.01.2022 MPS ASBESTOSIS DIAGNOSIS WA Greens MP Robin Chapple has recently been diagnosed with asbestosis. The 73-year-old member for the mining and pastoral region was exposed to asbestos when he worked as a mechanical engineer near Wittenoom in 1976. The declared contaminated site and former townsite was shut down in 1966 and Mr Chapple said the area needs to be cleaned up to remove any hazardous materials. He told the ABC he was diagnosed earlier this year, but still feels well.... "Ive said for many, many years, touch wood I seem to be one of the lucky ones. And then recently I picked up the diagnosis that I do have asbestosis," he said. Mr Chapple said his diagnosis had motivated him to again call for the removal of stock piles of asbestos still present at the abandoned townsite. "Its mostly one of Australias worst ecological disasters, it sits there just blowing in the wind and flowing down the Fortescue River," he said. "If there was a to be a mine rehabilitation program that was to be the mine that needs to be rehabilitated." See more

23.01.2022 WATCH! SLITHERY PASSENGER HITCHES A RIDE IN NEWCASTLE Rachael Pace and her boyfriend Kyle were shocked to find a large snake had hitched a ride while they were driving in Newcastle! Once they found a safe place to pull over, a kind neighbour came out and helped them get the snake off their car.... They then let it go into nearby bushland.

23.01.2022 Not a good year for our favourite summer fruit: the weather has caused a scarcity of mangoes - and it could get worse.

23.01.2022 You can listen to your latest local news bulletin from ABC Pilbara anytime, anywhere. In today's local bulletin: The Port Hedland community is urging the WA Health Minister to analyse air in the region for traces of asbestos and silica. ... The Australian Meat Industry Council says red meat sales in Australia have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. The Department of Primary Industries launched inquiries when thousands of cattle were found dead at the Noonkanbah Station in the Kimberley, and Yandayarra Reserve in the Pilbara, in 2019. Your local news from your local team at ABC Pilbara!

22.01.2022 Two crew members on separate ships in Western Australia have tested positive for COVID-19, with a crew member aboard a ship docked in Fremantle becoming the state's latest coronavirus case.

22.01.2022 WOULD YOU SALARY SACRIFICE YOUR MORTGAGE? Former WA National's leader Brendon Grylls has called for a reform of the fringe benefit tax in mining regions to encourage more people to buy or build houses. Mr Grylls, who heads up a consultancy business, is working with Jordan Ralph, a Principal at Mountway Finance.... They plan to lobby the Federal Government to implement a salary sacrifice type scheme for mortgages, with mining regions receiving a higher rate of fringe benefit tax. "Your employer would pay your mortgage before they submit your salary to the tax man and you drop down tax brackets because of it and less of your income has tax applied to it," Mr Grylls said. "That becomes a massive incentive for someone to essentially buy their Pilbara property in the volatile market." The Karratha Chamber of Commerce is the first CCI to support the plan. President Vaughn Corps say the chamber will be providing funding for Mr Grylls and Mr Ralph to lobby the Federal Government. "If something like this can get people out of rentals now, keep the house stocks rolling forwards getting built, recycling the houses then you won't be driving up the cost of houses so much," he said. "It'll help stop the boom bust cycle and it will get more people here."

22.01.2022 ANOTHER DRONE DELIGHT!! A lovely pic by Kylie McKay along the Ningaloo Coast The rugged beauty of the Northwest Cape ... You know we love your pics! Send em in! Dont forget! You can send your best pics in to ABC MyPhoto and see al l the best pics from around Oz at: https://www.abc.net.au/news/abcmyphoto/ kyliessv/instagram

22.01.2022 CONTENT WARNING: This video contains discussion about suicide. Theres also some strong language. The stigma around talking about mental health is proving deadly in rural australia - particularly with young men. Mary OBrien is the powerhouse behind Are you bogged mate?, and shes making change where it matters. ... Watch the full story this Sunday on Landline. And if you or someone you know needs help, theres always: MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 Lifeline on 13 11 14 Virtual Psychologist on 0488 807 266

22.01.2022 Including a successful rescue in our neck of the woods over the weekend.

22.01.2022 There is currently a scam occurring in which you receive a letter from Telstra saying you have an unpaid bill. The letter provides a number for you to call, in which they they ask you to purchase google play cards in exchange for the payment of the bill. This is a scam.... WA Police have been advised that some people from the community have already fallen victim to this so please pass this on and share with your friends.

22.01.2022 "SKULLDUGGERY" ABOUT COSSACK (NOT BEING FOR) SALE Advertisements saying the township of Cossack was 'for sale' have been changed to reflect the Government’s position that it’s an expression of interest process. Last month the Minister for Lands, Ben Wyatt announced that the Government was looking for ideas to reactivate the township of Cossack and that there was a plan to develop the area to maximise the tourism and cultural potential for the town. ...Continue reading

22.01.2022 Imagine walking outside to this... Jason snapped this picture in his backyard at Ipswich, Qld on Wednesday. He estimated the python to be at least 8 feet long. : Jason Davies via ABC Brisbane

22.01.2022 SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING #UPDATE: THIS WARNING HAS BEEN CANCELLED BY DFES The following alert has been issued by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). ... Take action with severe thunderstorms coming in parts of the Midwest-Gascoyne, Pilbara

21.01.2022 Western Australias emergency residential rent laws have been extended for another six months, barring rent increases and evictions amid the ongoing economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Not everybody is happy.... Thoughts?

21.01.2022 1,500 singers from around Australia and the world join voices in the brand-new carol, "Christmas With You", by Deborah Cheetham. We're not crying, you are.

21.01.2022 #BREAKING: Western Australia's border will reopen to New South Wales and Victoria on December the 8th, allowing travellers from those states to spend a quarantine-free Christmas in the West. DETAILS | https://ab.co/3mt9UJq The latest advice from WA's Chief Health Officer has classified the spread of coronavirus from the two states as very low risk, removing the requirement for travellers to spend 14 days in mandatory quarantine.... South Australia is still regarded as medium risk, which means tough border restrictions will remain in place for that state until at least December the 11th. What do you think of the news?

20.01.2022 NATIONAL BILBY DAY SUNDAY 13th SEPTEMBER Martu and the Threatened Species Recovery Hub from the University of Melbourne have celebrated National Bilby Day this year with a bush trip to teach children and western scientists some of the Mankarr (Greater Bilby) ecology known by Martu elders. The animals are very culturally and ecologically significant to Martu who have lived with them for many thousands of years in the western desert regions of WA.... Martu learnt how to look for Mankarr mirrka (food), jina (tracks), jawana (diggings), ngurra (burrow) and kuna (scats). The women and children also learnt how to recognise if the Mankarr tracks were old or new and if the burrows were still being occupied. Surveys are carried out by KJ Ranger teams who help to detect trends in bilby populations and support rangers in their management decisions, such as burning, and controlling feral animals and weeds. KJ Rangers and Bernard Dupont (Bilby)

20.01.2022 YOU CAN DO IT If at first you don't achieve, try try again - especially with tricky farm gates. Perseverance paid off for nine year old Charli Holloway who helps her parents at 3C Cattle Co's horseback riding centre, cattle and farmstay property at Kandanga in south east Queensland's stunning Mary Valley.... Mum Kat, is pretty proud of her effort. : Kat Holloway

20.01.2022 INDIGENOUS CAT HUNTING KEEPS BILBY POPULATIONS STABLE How good is this New research has shown Indigenous cat hunting could be the underrated tool in the fight against feral cats. The study, which puts the hunting techniques of one of the most remote communities in Australia in the spotlight, has now shown its value as one of the most effective ways of protecting threatened species in the area. Researchers say Indigenous expert trackers could potentially be drawn upon to conduct targeted cat control

20.01.2022 KARRATHA TO BE ONE OF THE GATEWAYS FOR THE COVID VACCINE? Federal government plans appear to have Karratha earmarked as an initial vaccine hub for the rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine. The government hopes to have TGA approval for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine by the end of this month. Because the vaccine needs to be transported at -70 degrees Celsius, Premier Mark McGowan said it will also mean a rollout of freezers in WA.... That will mean a group of doses are rolled out around Australia including both Perth and regional Western Australia, Mr McGowan said. He said people working in quarantine, aged care and aged care residents will be some of the first to get the vaccine. You can view the vaccine roadmap here: https://bit.ly/3bklSSY See more

20.01.2022 A Queensland farmer says he has been completely overwhelmed by the reaction to his sunflower message to the world Frederick James from Innisfail in Far North Queensland wrote "G'day world from Oz" in sunflower letters that can be seen from the sky. He said it was all about bringing joy to people around the globe in what's been a pretty tough year. Thanks, Mr James ... : via ABC Far North

19.01.2022 Have you had to get the aloe vera out this season? Had an argument with the kids about rashies and sunblock? Here's a handy mythbusting guide to remind us all about the fierce beauty of our sun...

19.01.2022 CALLS FOR ONSLOW POLICE STATION IMPROVEMENTS The Shire of Ashburton has called for an upgrade of Onslows police station, describing it as a substandard facility. The council last week voted to excise a portion of land for a new station and to petition state agencies to build it.... It comes a month after the WA Police union expressed disappointment the Onslow station missed out on an upgrade in a $13 million regional police funding announcement. The Shires CEO Kenn Donohoe says Onslow needs a new station. "One of the things that the council is really concerned about, is during cyclone events or flooding events that may occur, Onslow can become isolated," he said. "And our police officers have a, Ill call it a substandard facility there, not a modern facility." Police Minister Michelle Roberts says last months $13 million funding announcement was on top of the regular maintenance and refurbishment carried on on police stations across WA. She says the government is working with police to address a backlog of works, caused by previous governments lack of investment in regional stations.

19.01.2022 #LIVE: WA Health Minister Roger Cook with a COVID-19 update.

19.01.2022 As more exports fall victim to China's trade suspensions, there is speculation if iron ore will be targeted....

19.01.2022 Skippers and boat owners in the Pilbara are being asked to check that their vessel regos are current following an increasing number of infringement notices being issued on Pilbara waterways in recent weeks. Department of Transport safety compliance officers conducting on water and ramp inspections during the boating season issued 12 infringements at Karratha in the space of two days with seven of these for unregistered vessels. DoT Regional Operations Manager John Drumm...ond said the elevated number of unregistered vessels was a cause for concern, saying it is the skipper’s responsibility to check that the vessel’s registration is current before going on the water and that skippers who go boating without current registration face a $160 fine. Mr Drummond added that there were several tools available to assist boat owners with registrations, renewals and payment of fees. These include the Department of Transport’s DOT Direct, the DoT website, and the popular free Deckee app.

19.01.2022 AUSTRALIA-GERMANY HYDROGEN DEAL The WA Government has welcomed a deal between the Australian and German governments for a feasibility study focusing on renewable hydrogen. The study will investigate the Australian-German supply chain and opportunities for renewable hydrogen exports.... It comes after the WA Government last month announced a $22 million boost for the states renewable hydrogen industry, and indicated the Pilbara would be "front and centre" of the plan. Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan says the WA government has been working with the German government for the past two years and lay the foundations for the industry. "We welcome the Federal Governments Declaration of Intent with Germany, which will help drive forward our local hydrogen industry and support global efforts to reduce carbon emissions," she said in a statement.

18.01.2022 RED GULLY FIRE PHOTOS Wow Check out these photos of what firefighters have been facing at the Red Gully bushfire which is at emergency levels north of Perth, near Lancelin.... The images give you an idea of what crews have been tirelessly working in overnight to stop the blaze from impacting nearby communities. Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA says the outlook remains difficult for the coming days and nights, with hundreds of firefighters actively fighting the fire with support from the aerial fleet. To stay up to date with the latest emergency information, go to https://bit.ly/3pTCYvh. Nikki Woods & Luke Maddison via Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA See more

18.01.2022 TOTAL FIRE BAN for Carnarvon & Shark Bay on 20 December ALL DAY What CAN and CAN’T you do? A total fire ban means no fires in the open air. ‘Open air’ means anywhere outside, including a deck, balcony, courtyard or park. Includes cities and towns.... Runs 12.01am -11.59pm Sunday 20 Dec. Cooking outside is restricted to gas and electric barbecues only, with conditions. No "hot works" like welding or grinding. Penalties apply for breaking the rules. See Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA & https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au See more

18.01.2022 WILL THE EASING BORDER HELP FIX WORKER SHORTAGE? The Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CME) say the easing of WA’s hard border restrictions will bring in more mining workers, but it won’t fix the skills shortage. The industry adapted its restricted fly-in-fly-out practices during the pandemic to cope with the tough border measures which made it difficult to recruit specialised workers.... But from November 14, WA will allow travellers from most states and territories without requiring them to quarantine. CME policy director Robert Carruthers said there's a lot of demand for specialised workers like geologists and engineers. Mr Carruthers said although more workers will come to WA, the industry will still struggle. "There will be competition, it will be good that we have the ability to source some of that required work force from other parts of the country, but we're definitely still predicting that there'll be some sort of skills shortage and some competition in the market." he said.

18.01.2022 "Hes a pinball wizard There has got to be a twist" Lets hear about some of the crazy hobbies you know of!!

18.01.2022 Led by two school friends now in their 70s, the growing band of volunteers who make up Outback Grave Markers have researched and marked graves at more than 170 locations across the state.

18.01.2022 ROAD DAMAGE NORTH OF FORTESCUE ROADHOUSE Main Roads has reported road surface damage 10km north of Fortescue River Road House. The advice is to exercise extreme caution both directions.... Main Roads

18.01.2022 It's up and running! You now need to scan your ID whenever you purchase takeaway alcohol in the Pilbara. Let's hear your thoughts

18.01.2022 CHOMPIN' WOMBATS When dinner tastes so good you sneakily nudge your friends out of the way to get to the best bits : Tasmania Zoo

18.01.2022 The Indigenous Angel investor and entrepreneur program was announced just yesterday. This is/will be dedicated in supporting the next generation of indigenous entrepreneurs in order to grow more Indigenous businesses. CEO of Generation One as part of the Mindaroo Foundation Shelley Cable pictured here making the announcement.... She spoke with Verity on Mornings, you can find the link in the comments

17.01.2022 Man using backroad into WA caught when he runs out of fuel.

17.01.2022 PILBARA MISTLETOE DISCOVERY NOW NAMED! Scientists have officially named a species of mistletoe in the Pilbarajust in time for Christmas! The Snakewood Mistletoe is a red-flowering plant which grows on snakewood trees across the region. ... The flower has been used by Indigenous people for thousands of years, but this is the first time it has been given a scientific nameAmyema xiphophylla. What do you think of this Aussie mistletoe?

17.01.2022 CELEBRATING PLACE ART EXHIBITION Opening is tonight from 6pm and the works will be on display for this whole month at the Red Earth Arts Precinct. ... You can find what Amanda Saunders ,(Chairperson of Dampier Arts studio), had to say about what it all entails within the link below around 22:09 in :) https://www.abc.net.au//programs/mornings/pilbara/12917260

17.01.2022 What names do you call your grandparents? Or if you are a grandparent what did you opt for? ... Did you go for the traditional Nan and Pop? Or something more unique? Maybe it represents your heritage... or maybe it was a mistake by a sibling that stuck?

16.01.2022 With some funerals in Australia averaging between $4,000 and $20,000, would you consider a flatpack cardboard coffin to save on costs? "When someone dies, you're so grief-stricken and you want the very best for that person but the very best doesn't have to be the most expensive."

16.01.2022 **UPDATE: MISSING EXMOUTH SURFER HAS BEEN FOUND Police say a surfer feared missing near Exmouth has been located. Exmouth acting sergeant Brendan Byrne says the man contacted police during yesterdays search to say he was safe and well.... Exmouth Police had been searching for a surfer possibly missing in the Lighthouse Bay area. Around 10am on Sunday, a member of the public advised police a surfer appeared to be in distress, but it is not know if the surfer was able to return to the shore.

16.01.2022 Have you seen The Castle? Its pretty much that sort of battle," Port Hedland resident Tighe ODonoghue says. Profits from iron ore line the pockets of Australias biggest miners and are vital to treasury coffers. But, the fallout in Port Hedland is a thick layer of dust that covers everything. The WA Government, on behalf of the mining industry, is offering to buy out people living in the historic end of town to reduce the number of residents beside the dust-polluted port. H...owever, locals dont want to be forced out of their homes. Watch the full story TODAY on Landline at 12.30.

16.01.2022 TAFE ENROLMENTS ON THE RISE Have you recently signed up for a TAFE course? TAFE enrolments have increased significantly across WA for the first time in several years.... Enrolments across all courses have increased by 6.4 per cent compared to the same time last year. Department of Training and Workforce Development general director Anne Driscoll put it down to decreases in TAFE fees and COVID-19. "COVID has had a massive impact and for those who have been displaced, its an opportunity to open a new door." The biggest increases have been seen in civil construction and hospitality courses.

16.01.2022 Continuing our quest to share pictures of WA's most - er - unusual, Christmas decorations .... here's a Christmas Tree considered to be the most remote in Australia. In the Goldfields shire of Leonora, a Christmas Tree has been set up where some of those missing remotes in our lives now hang out Show us any unusual Christmas decorations you've seen.... Shire of Leonora

15.01.2022 LIQUOR RESTRICTIONS FOR KARRATHA, WICKHAM AND ROEBOURNE Pilbara Police have advised that in consultation with the West Pilbara Liquor Accord liquor restrictions have been put in place for Karratha, Wickham and Roebourne for today Friday 16 October and tomorrow Saturday 17 October for all take away liquor.

15.01.2022 The question is, if you're presented with a last meal on earth scenario...what would you hope for it to be? A fitting question for World Food Day today. World Food Day is celebrated every year around the world in honor of the date of the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in 1945.

15.01.2022 TURTLE ALERT!! Researchers say this is the largest aggregation of turtles they've seen at Raine Island off the tip of Cape York. Drones helped them estimate there were about 64,000 green turtles waiting to nest on the island last December.... They published research this week in the PLOS ONE scientific journal finding drones were a much easier, safer and more accurate way of surveying turtles than counting them from boats. : Great Barrier Reef Foundation | Queensland Environment Department

15.01.2022 The coronavirus-infected Vega Dream iron ore ship has set sail for the Philippines after leaving its anchorage at Port Hedland, as the union claims Australian workers were potentially exposed after using a bucket to pass items back and forth.

15.01.2022 Better COVID-safe than COVID-sorry, for these members of the crowd at the Sydney Test

14.01.2022 "I have been a neighbour of the [Big] Prawn for eight months Having that looking through the window at you at night, its not a really nice sight." This 1991 episode of A Big Country took an entertaining look at the dark side of Australias love of big things. Not the Exmouth big prawn, the Ballina one!... #RetroFocus

14.01.2022 : Ashley Boxsell via Weather Obsessed and ABC Mid North Coast

14.01.2022 The cheese toast, the spaghetti noodles that swum in water, the endless soft serve an Australian 90s icon closes its doors this weekend for the last time

14.01.2022 CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless has said it was not as simple as saying the pandemic caused the regional demand. It was more likely COVID-19 had sped up an existing trend of people wanting a sea or tree change.

14.01.2022 SHOW US YOUR HATS! The humble and much loved bush hat takes you through thick and thin, whether you work on the property, the yard or the garden. How battered is yours? Show us your true blue bush hats!

14.01.2022 #BREAKING: Fourteen passengers have been detained in Melbourne after they arrived from New Zealand under the trans-Tasman bubble arrangements.

14.01.2022 Will cash get more people into work in the regions? Eligible workers will be given a $40 daily accommodation allowance for up to 12 weeks, with individual allowances totalling $3,360.

14.01.2022 RIO TINTO REAPPEARS AT JUUKAN INQUIRY A lot has happened since Rio Tinto’s senior executives first appeared at the federal parliamentary inquiry into the company’s destruction of ancient rock shelters in the Pilbara. Three executives have resigned - but two are yet to leave the company.... Today they reappeared at the inquiry, as Rio Tinto committed to reviewing any activity that impacts on cultural sites, and to not enforce clauses in mining agreements which stop traditional owners from raising concerns about cultural heritage or stop them seeking to protect it.

14.01.2022 The Deloitte Access Economics study has found the Ningaloo Coast generated more than 1,000 jobs and contributed an additional $110 million to the Western Australian economy last year, a study has revealed. It shows tourism made up 90 per cent of economic contribution to the area, followed by commercial fishing, recreational activities, scientific research and reef management. In the 2018-19 financial year an estimated 218,000 people visited the Ningaloo Coast... One quarter of visitors were international, and each holidaymaker spent an average of $137 per day.

13.01.2022 POLICE REPEAT WARNINGS TO THOSE WHO TOW A CARAVAN A series of caravan rollovers in regional WA have prompted police to issue a warning to drivers to take care on the roads. A family of five from Albany rolled their caravan near Augusta on Sunday after losing control of their vehicle in stormy conditions. The driver Craig Smith said his partner suffered a fractured rib and swelling on her spine but thankfully their three children were unharmed.

13.01.2022 Did you know you can now listen to the daily Pilbara news bulletin online anytime, anywhere? In today's local bulletin: Six Pilbara Police Officers have been recognised for their outstanding acts of bravery in the line of duty this year. A school teacher has thanked her community for helping her five-year-old son after he was bitten by a venomous snake. ... A man charged over a string of sex attacks on women in the Kimberley has skipped court. Your local news from your local team at ABC Pilbara!

13.01.2022 #LIVE: Premier Mark McGowan with an important COVID-19 update.

12.01.2022 #BREAKING CARNARVON HIT AND RUN Police have charged a Carnarvon man over a hit and run crash with a cyclist in the Gascoyne town on Sunday night. A 52-year-old male cyclist remains in a critical condition with head injuries in Royal Perth Hospital after he was allegedly hit by a white Honda Accord on Robinson Street.... Police allege the driver did not stop and continued driving after the cyclist was thrown onto the vehicle's windscreen before landing on the road. A 36-year-old Carnarvon man is due to face Carnarvon Magistrates Court later this month on various driving offences, including dangerous driving occassioning grievous bodily harm.

12.01.2022 #BREAKING: THREE DEATHS AT MT AUGUSTUS IN THREE DAYS Three people have died in as many days near the remote settlement of Mount Augustus, police have confirmed. Full story: https://www.abc.net.au//three-deaths-at-remote-mo/12670098

12.01.2022 DID YOU TURN TO RED MEAT? "We often hear about plant substitutes, other options that are better for the environment and all the other unscientific, un-peer-reviewed positions that these companies take when overall the Australian consumer said when I am in a crisis I turn to red meat." - AMIC https://www.abc.net.au//red-meat-sales-increase-b/12851928

12.01.2022 The WA government will reinstate its hard border closure with Queensland from midnight tonight. It comes as authorities in Queensland scramble to pinpoint close contacts of a Brisbane quarantine hotel cleaner diagnosed with COVID-19 after tests confirmed she was carrying the highly-infectious UK variant of the virus. It is the first time in the nation that a person has been out in the community while unknowingly ill with the highly-infectious strain and the woman, aged in her... 20s, was out in the community for several days, before developing symptoms on Wednesday and testing positive. The Premier said anyone who has arrived in WA from Queensland since January 2 will now have to self-isolate for 14 days from when they arrived in the state. All arrivals from Queensland will now need to meet a strict exemption criteria in order to enter WA. There were no new cases of COVID-19 in WA overnight, Mr McGowan said. See more

12.01.2022 #BREAKING: WA Premier Mark McGowan with a COVID-19 update.

11.01.2022 Just a reminder that the ABC Radio Vinnies Appeal is underway! Stay tuned to ABC Pilbara for details of our challenges and up-coming auctions but - more importantly - you can donate via the ABC Pilbara website by clicking on the link at the top of the page.

11.01.2022 Wow. Things are getting a bit flooded up in the Pilbara right now. Kylie McKay, who was travelling back home from Perth recently, said she had "never seen anything like it". "What an eventful trip home to the Pilbara we had yesterday! 1000km of thunderstorms and flooded roads red rivers everywhere," she said.... Main Roads is warning of possible flooding on roads in the Pilbara. Check out the Travel Map for the latest details and take care on the roads: https://travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au/Home/Map Instagram / @kyliessv.

11.01.2022 These teenagers are probably arguing with their own teenagers now! How much (or little) has changed? #RetroFocus

11.01.2022 Five years after achieving the world's gold standard in independent certification, WA's two biggest prawn fisheries have again received Marine Stewardship Council eco-ticks, confirming they're being managed effectively and operating sustainably. The Exmouth Gulf Prawn Fishery that catches western king, brown tiger and blue endeavour prawns is operated by the MG Kailis Group, while there are seven companies involved in the Shark Bay Prawn Fishery and they focus on the popular western king and brown tiger prawns. Check out this great video, it gives an insight into what goes on out in the blue. (Supplied: WAFIC)

11.01.2022 Do you sleep walk? Sleep talk? Sleep cook? 40 per cent of Aussies dont get enough sleep? And a report has found lack of sleep has a direct cost to Australia of $26.2 billion. ... Whats the weirdest thing youve done whilst you were sleeping?

11.01.2022 Storm footage rolling through About 50kms along Marble Bar Rd Video from - Greg King

11.01.2022 With her cane folded in her lap and a podcast playing in her ears, a stranger tapped ABC reporter Nas Campanella on the shoulder. Only now can she write about what he said.

11.01.2022 What do you remember about that incredible night, two decades ago? Watch as we look back on the science, preparation and pressure behind Cathys gold medal run, tonight at 7.40pm on ABCTV and view: https://ab.co/2RmoaWw

11.01.2022 Can you identify this beautiful creature? Gary spotted it just north of Coral Bay at the shark sanctuary. "It was the most beautiful and vibrant coloured creature I’ve ever seen. I’d love to know what it is. I’ve had suggestions of sea hare, lions mane and Spanish Dancer."

10.01.2022 POLICE SEARCHING FOR MISSING WOMAN AT MOUNT AUGUSTUS Update: About 1.15pm today, the missing woman was located by searchers and she was stretchered back to a location where she could receive medical attention for dehydration, cut and bruises. Police wish to thank everyone involved in the search. -... Police are looking for a missing 74 year old woman at Mount Augustus. They were advised around 2.30pm yesterday the woman, from the Perth metropolitan area, had gone for a quick 20 minute walk on the Edney’s walk trail. When she failed to return another visitor assisted in raising the alarm. Carnarvon Police commenced an initial search of the trail and surrounds but did not locate the woman and the search was suspended until daylight today. An AMSA Rescue Jet was deployed overnight to conduct a search of the area, however the woman was not located. The search is continuing this morning with Police from Carnarvon, Meekatharra and Burringurrah, as well as DFES State Emergency Service volunteers from Carnarvon and Geraldton. Other aircraft will be tasked to fly over the area.

09.01.2022 Our interest rates are at a record low of 0.1% - but your bank may not pass it on to you, unless you ask

09.01.2022 The Australian Border Force have said a small number of detainees caused damage to the North West Point centre overnight and continue to refuse to follow the directions of authorities.

09.01.2022 An underground worker has died after an incident at Westgold Resources Limited's Big Bell mine, north-west of Cue in WA's Midwest. Westgold suspended operations at the site. In a statement, the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety's Andrew Chaplyn said inspectors were on their way to Big Bell

09.01.2022 "Five months ago I was in a bad place, I didn't know if I was going to get out, and it's just changed so quick because of Pilbara Girl. Now, I feel so good about myself, I love myself now and I feel so confident I can walk with my head held high."

09.01.2022 Research has found just 36 of 448 mining companies' 2017 public reports mentioned Aboriginal community policies Researchers found larger mining companies did better disclosing policies relating to Indigenous Australians but said there was little evidence of Aboriginal people being included in corporate leadership.

09.01.2022 Installing solar? Heres how you could save some money....

08.01.2022 Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly says even if approvals arrive earlier, it will be up to the drug companies about whether they can deliver Australia's vaccine order earlier...

08.01.2022 They've brought forward the date to July 1, as production of a coronavirus vaccine ramps up...

08.01.2022 Snakes - you can find them in our shopping centres, our backyards and our offices. So what do you do when you see a 'nope rope'? #straya

08.01.2022 Have you ever wanted a framed print of your prized catch of the day? Dunsborough artist Adam Ashdown decided to start immortalising fish in his back shed about 5 years ago and it was not long before it turned into a thriving Gyotaku art studio.

07.01.2022 #ICYMI and because record numbers of caravans are expected on our roads over Christmas.... You've heard the warnings about poorly weighted caravans You've seen the results Now here's the lab example of how to stop towing wobble and sway ... This video by Road Safety Commission shows just how weight distribution can cause serious issues when towing

07.01.2022 Today's settlement includes $721 million that was paid in May to more than 370,000 people who were wrongly pursued, plus $112 million in compensation and a decision to drop a further $398 million in debts wrongly raised.

07.01.2022 What better way to start the New Year than with news about TWO NEW SPECIES of WA peacock spider A scientific publication headed by Julianne Waldock from the WA Museum Boola Bardip a couple of weeks ago described the two new spectacular spiders and Paul Irvine, from Project Maratus shared the details of the discoveries with the ABC. MARATUS FLETCHERI...Continue reading

07.01.2022 REPORT INTO BULK CARRIER GROUNDING A transport safety investigation has found a bulk carrier which ran aground in the Pilbara port of Dampier two years ago had experienced a total electrical blackout. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has wrapped up its investigation into the March 2018 grounding of the Panama-flagged Bulk India.... It says the 298-metre vessel lost all steering because of the blackout from a failed generator, and the emergency generator had also shut down from overheating because a radiator fan belt that had failed several months earlier had not yet been replaced. It found the blackout happened 13 minutes after problems first started in the engine room, but pilots on board were not informed, meaning they could not prepare for the total loss of control of the vessel.

07.01.2022 #LIVE: WA Premier Mark McGowan and Health Minister Roger Cook with a COVID-19 update.

07.01.2022 Ever seen a dog move like this? This is a 'Hank-aroo' Hank, the Jack Russell, enjoys bouncing through the paddock of legumes in Sandigo, NSW.... : Lee Longmire Farm Dog Hank

06.01.2022 Seafood waste as the new protein... would you take it?

06.01.2022 From midnight WA's hard border will soften and the strict exemption criteria to enter the state will be scrapped. Are you glad the hard border is coming down?

06.01.2022 "THEYRE NOT CAMPING AREAS" Truck bays filled with campers and caravans, leaving little to no room for heavy haulage vehicles, has sparked safety concerns from industry who say its impacting their ability to stop and have fatigue breaks.

06.01.2022 Do take care if you are travelling south of Newman These shots were taken around 16 hours ago 40km south of Newman and 70km south. WA mainroads indicates road to Newman is clear but do be wary.... Photos courtesy of Samava Tilttray & Services

06.01.2022 #BREAKING: DISTURBANCE ON CHRISTMAS ISLAND The Australian Border Force (ABF) has confirmed an operation is underway to restore order to Christmas Island's immigration detention facility. It follows a disturbance overnight by "a small number of detainees" which caused damage to the facility, the ABF says in a statement.... The Refugee Action Coalition says at least two compounds were set alight, and says tensions had been building at the centre over the past couple of weeks. The Federal Government announced it was reopening the centre last year, after the COVID-19 pandemic impacted its ability to deport unlawful non-citizens from Australia.

06.01.2022 In between Tom Price and Paraburdoo at the moment...things at a bit of a stand still

06.01.2022 Lead singer of the British band Gerry and the Pacemakers, whose version of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' became the thunderously sung anthem for Liverpool Football Club, has died aged 78.

06.01.2022 WA Premier Mark McGowan has flagged reopening Rottnest Island, off the coast of Perth, as a quarantine facility to enable thousands of Australians stranded overseas to come home. The Federal Government wants to lift the cap on international arrivals which is currently limited to 4,000 people each week. But the WA Government says its hotel quarantine system is at capacity.... "Obviously the school holidays are coming up, lots of people have booked holidays, but the urgency of this I dont think is in the next week or two," Mr McGowan said. What do you think?

05.01.2022 On Australian story tonight.... the story of a survivor of a swift and silent killer.

05.01.2022 Where would you like to see drive-ins in the Pilbara?

05.01.2022 Martu Education Centre in Newman recently celebrated 10 years!!! It plays a vital role in the educational journey of Martu children and last week students ,teachers, families, community members and program partners to celebrate the Centre's 10 year anniversary. Established by the Polly Farmer Foundation in 2010, the Martu Education Centre offers an engaging environment for Martu students at Newman Primary School or South Newman Primary School to participate in fun, education...al activities. Brad Goodlet General Manager of operations for the Polly Farmer Foundation spoke with Mornings Verity about upcoming programs and that recognition of 10 years you can find the chat within the link below around 10:25 in https://www.abc.net.au//programs/mornings/pilbara/12917260

05.01.2022 Reckon we could/should/would do this in WA?

05.01.2022 TOTAL FIRE BAN TODAY for Upper Gascoyne, Carnarvon, Shark Bay (and Meekatharra) At these times you must not: Light, maintain or use a fire in the open air... Carry out any activity that could start a fire This includes: Open fires for the purpose of cooking, camping or outdoor entertainment are not allowed including fire pits and bonfires. Hot work such as metal work, grinding, welding, gas cutting is not allowed in the open air except for business and industry if regulatory conditions are met. Off-road activity using a four-wheel drive, quad bike, motorcycle, bobcat or similar vehicle, except for agricultural purposes or by business and industry if regulatory conditions are met. See more

04.01.2022 Meet Rarity the orphaned echidna puggle. Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors said, "since arriving as an orphan, she has doubled in size and is going from strength to strength. "Just weeks old, she requires expert care, so one of our wonderful veterinarians has taken on the responsibility of raising her around the clock!" Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors

04.01.2022 What a legend- Mr Lantzke and his herd of alpacas made regular visits to vulnerable people, ranging from school and university students to patients suffering from severe mental health trauma.

04.01.2022 ELECTION DAY! Today is the last day you can vote in the Town of Port Hedland election. If you haven’t already voted, you can cast your ballot at the civic centre until 6pm today.... If you didn’t review a ballot or have lost it, you can also get a replacement at the civic centre. The election is to vote in an entire new council and mayor. Good luck to all the candidates!

04.01.2022 Northern WA had the highest rate of heart disease deaths

03.01.2022 Car enthusiasts are hoping concessions will encourage owners to take their old cars out of their sheds.

03.01.2022 MEET CRICKET Cricket is a Murchison lad. He's just one and is starting to get the hang of riding on the motorbike in his special crate. His human mum Blair at Kirkalocka Station says he's loyal and quick to learn.... (Also he has a beautiful, happy face.) Show us photos of your working dog! Kirkalocka Station

03.01.2022 Incredible footage of what appears to be a Great White Shark swimming close to the shore at Wharton Beach in Esperance was captured over the weekend Goldenberg Nicolas who lost his drone while shooting the footage, said swimmers were in the water just 10 minutes before the shark showed up. "A young boy shouted that there was a shark, so I took the drone and went directly to it," he said.... Did you see the shark?

03.01.2022 After a bumper pre-Christmas trade, the seafood industry is calling on Australians to change one meal a week to locally-sourced seafood. "This could mean the difference between a fisher making or missing a mortgage payment, and a boat heading out of harbour, or spending another week docked."

03.01.2022 On this day in 1928 - The first Red Telephone Boxes appeared in London. Once a very common sight, they're now a rare breed. When was the last time you used a pay phone?... Are there any here in the Pilbara or Gascoyne? Or have you spotted any around WA while you've been out wandering this year?

03.01.2022 Imagine coming across this on a beach walk https://www.abc.net.au//huge-sunfish-washes-up-on/13030788

02.01.2022 Young Mitch won a hoop competition at the SLAM session in Port Hedland on Friday and received a signed basketball from Greg he was so happy!

02.01.2022 INSURANCE INQUIRY RECOMMENDS SUBSIDIES The consumer watchdog has recommended governments consider direct subsidies to residents grappling with extraordinarily high insurance costs in the state's north. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission inquiry says a quarter of households in Port Hedland are paying $6200 a year in home and contents insurance - compared to an average $1400 in other parts of Australia.... ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard says many people in high risk areas are opting out of insurance because of the cost, with 10,700 properties in WA's north uninsured. "We have seen people in real difficulty with the cost of insurance," Ms Rickard says. "We've seen around 20 per cent of people in northern Australia dropping their insurance entirely, which can obviously lead to terrible financial pain." The ACCC has made 38 recommendations, including direct subsidies to low income households and abolishing stamp duty on home, contents and strata insurance. It's also recommended insurers provide more short-term help for consumers struggling to pay premiums when they fall due, such as deferring payments, reducing or waiving surcharges for monthly payments or offering payment plans.

02.01.2022 Have you ever held the Olympic torch? 20 years ago today the cauldron was lit to open the Sydney Olympic Games. Today the Olympic spirit lives on at the Australian Sports Museum, along with Cathy Freemans incredible suit.

02.01.2022 Show us your best wildflower photos! Theye even more striking at night. Take a moment to soak in this beautiful scene in Mingenew, WA - sound on for the full effect! : ABC / Chris Lewis

02.01.2022 The State Government says it doesnt have any plans to return the Royalties For Regions Country Local Government Fund. WA Local Government Association (WALGA) president, Tracey Roberts, said the Government had been listening to requests from WALGA to bring that sort of financial support o the bush. But Minister of Regional Development, Alannah MacTiernan, didnt sound so positive. "When we came to government, we made clear that Royalties for Regions could no longer simply b...e a fund to fulfill the wish list of every local government. "We have urged local governments to work directly with government and through Regional Development Commissions to develop proposals for government funding." WALGA has requested an annual $50m fund to help foot the cost of major infrastructure projects around regional Western Australia, particularly for large and costly projects like roads.

01.01.2022 ENERGY HUB COULD BE THE KEY WA STEEL MANUFACTURING? Stage 1 of the Asian Renewable Energy Hub has been approved by the WA Environment Minister, with construction expected to start in 2022. The project will aim to provide energy generated by solar and wind to industries in the Pilbara, as well as provide markets in Asia with green hydrogen.... The first stage is for a 15GW hub with plans to eventually expanded into a 26GW operation. The Minister for Regional Development Alannah MacTiernan said a major renewable energy project in the Pilbara could drive down power prices to such an extent it becomes viable to manufacture steel in the region. "By bringing down power prices it could create a lot more industry in the Pilbara where it would start becoming a practical possibility that we could amongst other things to be manufacturing steel from our iron ore," she said. The proponents estimate it will create up to 5,000 construction jobs during the 10 year project and 3,000 jobs for the 50 year operational period.

01.01.2022 Are you prepared for the summer break? Get organised with your ABC: https://ab.co/3p4fYJv

01.01.2022 A 28-year-old woman who admitted sneaking past WAs hard border hidden inside a car being transported by a truck has won an appeal against her jail sentence.

01.01.2022 #LIVE: A bushfire update from DFES Deputy Commissioner Craig Waters. Deputy Commissioner Waters will also address fire weather conditions predicted over the coming week.

01.01.2022 #BREAKING: Mining billionaire Clive Palmer has LOST his High Court challenge against WA's COVID-19 border closures. STORY: https://ab.co/2I9Nq0M. Mr Palmer's lawyers told the High Court the closure breached section 92 of the constitution which guarantees movement between states.... But the WA government told the court the closures were justified because they were reasonable and necessary to stop the spread of the virus in the state. Several states, including Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania backed Western Australia in the case.

01.01.2022 A Broome teacher says he sang to keep his and his friend’s spirits up after the boat they were in was swamped by a wave off Geraldton, just after Christmas. Cameron Haynes suffered chemical burns from fuel in the water as the pair clung to the boat waiting for help to arrive.

01.01.2022 We've got a wonderful exhibit titled 'Celebrating Place' hosted at the Red Earth Arts Precinct for this whole month of December. It's being presented by Dampier Art Studio and City of Karratha. Artists from all over the region have submitted pieces about celebrating our Pilbara so we're wondering... What do you think is worth celebrating about our neck of the woods? ... What do you love about the Pilbara?