March 2026      

Over the past seven months, it has been our privilege to serve the people of Port Hedland as Commissioners.

We stepped into this role at a time when the organisation and the community needed stability, clarity and a renewed sense of direction. Our focus has been on restoring confidence in the Town, strengthening governance, and reinstating good council practices — including polite, respectful and constructive engagement between elected members, the administration and the community.

These foundations matter, and they are critical to the effective functioning of any local government.

We have also worked to rebuild organisational capability and ensure the Town is well positioned for the return to an elected Council.

We have made a start on this work, but there is still more to do. Continued focus, collaboration and a shared commitment across the community will be essential to achieving the outcomes we all want for Port Hedland.

We are pleased that this work will be supported going forward by the appointment of the Monitor, Mr Andrew Hammond, and the imminent arrival of the Town’s new Chief Executive Officer, Mr Dale Stewart. Together with the incoming Council, they will play an important role in continuing the progress that has been made.

We would also like to acknowledge and thank the staff of the Town. Over this period of change, they have remained committed to serving the community and supporting the work of the Commissioners. Their professionalism and resilience have been critical.

To the community, thank you for the way you have engaged with us. Your warm welcome, feedback, your patience and your willingness to be part of the conversation have been invaluable. It has helped shape our decisions and provided a clear sense of direction for the future.

As we now move toward the local government election, we strongly encourage all eligible residents to vote. Participating in the election is an important way to have your say in the future of our community.

Voting packs can be returned at the Civic Centre in Port Hedland or the South Hedland Library during business hours. Electoral officers will also be available from 8:00am to 6:00pm on election day to receive completed ballots.

This election marks an important moment for Port Hedland. A new Council will take on the responsibility of leading the Town into its next phase. We wish the incoming Mayor and Councillors every success as they take on this important role.

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve this community. It has been an honour.

It's still cyclone season - are you prepared? 

Tropical Cyclone Narelle this week showed cyclone season is far from over.

Hedland was spared the impacts of TC Narelle, however it showed we must remain prepared as cyclone season runs until the end of April.

Cyclone preparedness isn’t just an individual task; it’s a shared responsibility. By preparing early and staying informed, you play an important role in supporting emergency services, protecting your neighbours and strengthening Hedland’s resilience.

🌀 Check your emergency kit 

🌀 Cut down large branches that have the potential to become flying debris

🌀 Clear, or tie down loose items outside

🌀 Stay up to date with official weather advice here: Town's Disaster Dashboard.

Turn down the heat on smelly bins

With the summer heat well and truly here, unfortunately that also means stronger odours from bins. These smells don’t just affect comfort; they can pose environmental health risks and attract pests. Let’s work together to keep our community clean and pleasant:

 🌟 Check your bin collection day 🌟
Make sure your waste is collected on time (and not missed!)

🌟 Secure and rinse bins 🌟
Especially if something has spilled or been left open

🌟 Avoid leaving food waste exposed 🌟
Double bag where possible to reduce odours

🌟 Move your bins if needed 🌟
If your bins are near your neighbour’s windows or doors, consider relocating them somewhere else on your property - if you can.

A little effort goes a long way. Thank you for your cooperation.