The four Pilbara Councils comprise the Pilbara Ward of the Country Shire Councils Association (CSCA) of Western Australia. The CSCA has 104 Council members, with the State divided into 12 wards.
The Pilbara Ward Councils meet on a regular basis to discuss matters of common interest across the region. They work closely with other key regional bodies including the Pilbara Development Commission and the Pilbara Tourism Association.
“With the rationalisation of services by both the State and Federal Government, it is essential that we stay one step ahead of these changes,” said Cr Norman Turner, President of the Pilbara Ward. “We are continually seeking ways we can work together to provide improved services at a cheaper rate for our residents.”
The Ward is currently compiling a list of all plant and equipment to assess opportunities for resource sharing. A part time executive officer will be appointed to oversee this process and put in place processes for optimum use of plant, equipment and human resources across the region.
“In meeting the needs of our many isolated communities, infrastructure costs are very high,” Cr Turner said. “Resource sharing is seen as a key way to make best uses of our assets.”
He said that the future for the region is very bright but encouragement of the creation of new value adding industry is a priority. Job opportunities for the region’s youth are essential for the ongoing viability and prosperity of the Pilbara.
“Land availability is a current drawback,” Cr Turner said. “Although we have hundreds of square kilometres of vacant land, with native title claims little is available to build on.”
However, he added that the Councils are hopeful that agreements will be reached with Aboriginal custodians of the land to ensure a win win situation for everyone in the region.
