RDA Pilbara regularly compiles a wrap of news that's important to industries and communities in the region and also the highlights of our activities on the ground. Â
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Read on for what's been happening from February 9 to February 23.
Hydrogen Hub agreement finalised Some very positive news for the region this week, with the WA and Federal Governments finalising a $140 million agreement to build a Hydrogen Hub in the Pilbara.
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen was in the Pilbara for the announcement and met with traditional owners, industry representatives and other key stakeholders.
The Hydrogen Hub promises to be a significant addition to the industrial landscape of the Pilbara, helping diversify local economies and creating jobs and community investment - while also ensuring the world beyond our shores gets access to the clean energy it needs.
Read more: https://bit.ly/48hWpmZ
Massive investment in Scarborough Gas Project Woodside Energy has announced that JERA, Japan's largest power producer, will make a $2.1 billion investment in the Scarborough Gas project - equivalent to a 15.1 per cent stake in the development.
It's yet another sign of how important the Pilbara's energy production is to neighbouring countries in Asia, many of which have very limited gas resources of their own.
In the case of Japan, which is particularly dependent on imported energy, natural gas underpins both energy security and energy transition, as the country looks to minimise its use of coal.
Scarborough is expected to ship its first LNG in 2026.
Read more: https://reut.rs/3wscHfV
RDA Pilbara maps out 2024 The RDA Pilbara Committee recently got together for its February meeting - and more than just current matters were on the agenda.
The meeting doubled as a strategy planning session for the remainder of 2024 and there were some very productive discussions around initiatives and activities for the months ahead.
DAMA survey still open
We are still keen to hear from businesses in the City of Karratha, Town of Port Hedland, Shire of East Pilbara and Shire of Ashburton who haven't already completed our Designated Area Migration Agreement annual survey.
The survey takes less than five minutes to complete, will be open until Sunday February 25 and will help get skilled workers in occupations that are very much needed in the Pilbara.
Please take the survey at: https://bit.ly/426ncRQ
A peach of an idea in Newman There was a great article on the ABC Pilbara website over the past fortnight which highlights the spirit of innovation that has helped the Pilbara develop into a national (and international) powerhouse.
Newman might be best known for its iron ore production but since 2018 it's also been home to trial growing stone fruit - in particular peaches, nectarines and grapes.
The trial on Martu Farm has been so successful that a long-term niche opportunity for the Pilbara has been identified...provided sufficient water can be sourced.
In a development that will surprise many people outside the Pilbara (and perhaps some in it!), it turns out Newman's location 400km inland and 500m above sea level is perfect for growing stone fruit.
Read more: https://bit.ly/3SDxFA4
East Pilbara gets a new Earbus RDA Pilbara CEO Tony Simpson was delighted to have the opportunity to attend the opening of the East Pilbara's new purpose-built mobile ear health clinic.
It's been 10 years since the Earbus Foundation partnered with Wirraka Maya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation and the new bus will lead to even more positive health outcomes for our region.
The bus is decked out with artwork from children at Cassia and Marble Bar Primary Schools, featuring totems and landmarks unique to local communities.
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