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RDA Pilbara

From not so sure to right at home – Nerida Kickett’s Pilbara story

In our latest content feature, we take a look at the people behind RDA Pilbara – how they came to live here, what made them stay and what they hope to achieve through our organisation’s advocacy.


We start our series with RDA Pilbara Chair Nerida Kickett, who is now more than half-way through her third decade of living and working in our region.


1. When and why did you move to the Pilbara and how was it that you ended up staying?

I moved to the Pilbara with my husband and two young children in 1998. We were seeking new challenges and a safer, better upbringing for our children. Initially, we weren’t sure if the rugged Pilbara lifestyle and the distance from family and friends would be sustainable for us, so we only signed a two-year contract with our employers.


Well, it turned out that not only did we fall in love with the rugged lifestyle and the unparalleled opportunities for our family (think freedom, camping, fishing), but we also discovered excellent career prospects (fortune favors the brave). We surrounded ourselves with amazing friends who became like family. Plus, our city family and friends are just a short flight away. So, we stayed and made the Pilbara our home.


2. What’s your favorite thing about living and working in the Pilbara?

I love the endless opportunities here. With hard work and dedication, you truly feel capable of making a difference—not just to yourself and your own outcomes, but to other individuals and the community at large.


The Pilbara is largely an egalitarian community. You can live in the same street as people from all walks of life and cultures and learn from each of them, benefiting from the rich diversity and insights each person offers. Unlike other places where you might move within a limited socio-economic group, here you are exposed to an amazing array of diverse experiences and perspectives.





3. Why did you decide to join the RDA Pilbara Committee and what do you see as RDAP’s key mission/purpose?


I joined the RDA Pilbara Committee because I saw it as an opportunity to positively influence outcomes for the people of the Pilbara region as well as the benefits the Pilbara provides to the economy of Australia.


Being part of the RDA’s work has been incredibly rewarding. I've met amazing people and learned so much from each of them. The profound sense of achievement we get from advocating for and supporting our community is truly fulfilling.


4. What do you like to do when you aren’t working/advocating on behalf of the Pilbara?

It might sound a little cliché, but when I’m not working for the RDA Pilbara or serving as Chair of the KDCCI, I love nothing more than spending time with my family. I am a very proud Nanna to four wonderful little people, three of whom are proud Pilbara kids. Of course, I’m enormously proud of our children too.


I also enjoy traveling with my amazing husband, whether it’s within Australia or overseas. There's so much to do and so little time to do it all!


And I’m a Justice of the Peace in case anyone ever needs help with certifying documents!

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1 Comment


Eslam Elsamahy
Eslam Elsamahy
Nov 21

Hello mrs

To the Northern Australia Regional Development Authorities,


Greetings,


I am pleased to submit a request for the "DAMA" visa on behalf of Al Azm Engineering and Metal Constructions, with the aim of joining the ambitious development efforts in the Pilbara region. Our company possesses extensive experience and professionalism in executing various projects that we believe align perfectly with the developmental vision of your region.


Al Azm is distinguished by a strong track record in multiple fields of engineering construction, including:


Comprehensive plumbing works at all stages.


Safety and protection systems such as fire and shield installations, sprinkler systems, as well as gas pipeline installations for hospitals, schools, universities, and care homes.


Steel structure constructions for all types of…


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