Pilbara Ports has strengthened its long-standing partnership with the Port Hedland Peace Memorial Seafarers Centre through a new Services Support Deed, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the welfare of seafarers visiting the region.
The agreement with the Centre, a member of the Mission to Seafarers, recognises the important role seafarers play in global trade and the Western Australian economy, and reinforces the importance of providing essential services to seafarers in Port Hedland.
Pilbara Ports Chief Executive Officer Samuel McSkimming said the partnership reflected a shared commitment across Port Hedland’s industry to ensuring seafarers were supported during their time in port.
“Seafarers are the backbone of global trade, and it’s essential we provide a welcoming and supportive environment when they arrive in Port Hedland,” Mr McSkimming said.
“Safe and productive port operations depend on the wellbeing of everyone who works in and around the port, including the seafarers who keep global trade moving.”
“Providing seafarers with access to essential services is not just the right thing to do – it is also a core and fundamental part of operating a safe port.”
“This deed formalises an already strong relationship with the Port Hedland Peace Memorial Seafarers Centre, providing a clear framework for how we work together and ensuring the ongoing delivery of important services to seafarers.”
Under the deed, valued at approximately $1.1 million over two years, Pilbara Ports will continue to provide funding and in-kind support to enable the delivery of essential services, including transport, access to communication, seafarer centre operations, onboard visits, and welfare support.
Port Hedland Peace Memorial Seafarers Centre Chief Executive Officer Peter Bullard said the formalised partnership provided certainty for the continuation of vital services.
“We are incredibly grateful for Pilbara Ports ongoing support,” Mr Bullard said.
“This partnership enables us to continue supporting the social, material and spiritual wellbeing of seafarers visiting the port, ensuring they experience care, dignity and meaningful connection during their time in Port Hedland.”
The Centre already delivers a wide range of services focused on the wellbeing of visiting crews, including transport to and from vessels, welfare and chaplaincy services, recreational spaces, internet access and practical support.
Pilbara Ports is also progressing the development of a new Seafarers Centre in Port Hedland, which will further enhance facilities and strengthen support for seafarer welfare into the future.
Pilbara Ports has a long history of supporting the Centre, and this formalised partnership ensures continued, coordinated support and reinforces a shared commitment to meeting the needs of seafarers now and into the future.