The Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation is encouraging people from across the Pilbara to participate in this year’s annual Yule River Bush Meeting on July 29 and 30.

The on-country discussions will consider solutions and improvements for the delivery of programs aligned to the 2024 Yule River Call to Action and Solutions Roadmap and the 2025 Community Priorities document.

YMAC Pilbara deputy co-chairperson Doris Eaton encouraged all Aboriginal people from across the Pilbara to attend and participate.

“This year’s on-country event will include important discussions on the solutions we want to see for our communities in the region,” Mrs Eaton said.

“After a lot of work progressing the Yule River Call to Action, we are ready to talk about how we want to see this action carried out, and how we want government to work with us.

“I encourage all Aboriginal people from right across the Pilbara to come along and be part of these conversations. Come and have your voices heard.”

Aboriginal Controlled-Community Organisations from across the region will share their successes and challenges on the first day, providing a space for Aboriginal community members to contribute to discussions.

Recommended solutions will be presented to senior government representatives and decision-makers on the final day.

This year’s meeting will also include important discussions about water health and safety in remote communities and commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Pilbara Strike.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Water Don Punch, Minister for the Pilbara Amber-Jade Sanderson, Commissioner for Children and Young People Jacqueline McGowan-Jones, and senior representatives from government agencies will attend.

Mr Punch announced $300,000 in funding at last year’s event, along with a commitment to return to the region to provide an update to the Yule River Working Group on actions the State Government has taken, and plans to take, in response to the call to action.

The event will also feature a range of stalls hosted by government agencies, community service providers, and ACCOs providing attendees with opportunities to connect directly with organisations working in the region.

YMAC thanked the Town of Port Hedland and Lotterywest for their support of this year’s event.