Published on Tuesday, 27 April 2021 at 12:57:02 PM
The Town has received a $371,079 Lotterywest grant for the purpose of contributing funds towards the South Hedland Commons (The Commons) initiative, delivered in partnership with WA independent arts organisation, FORM.
The Commons will transform currently unused land between Spinifex Hill Studio and Hedland Senior High School into a new hub of communal activity, featuring a paved turning circle and performance space to host markets, events and bazaars, bollards and street lighting, reticulated lawns, landscaping for shade and more. This grant funding is targeted towards delivering the earthwork and landscaping component of The Commons.
It is envisioned for The Commons to host year round programming which celebrates South Hedland’s diversity, builds social cohesion and promotes cross-cultural understanding. Approximately 37% of people living in the local government area were born overseas, 50% have a parent born overseas and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people represent 16.7% of the population.
A place for connection, leisure and community interaction, The Commons builds on FORM’s strategic investment in Hedland in recent years, which has included the renovation of The Courthouse Gallery and the expansion of Spinifex Hill Studio.
The Town’s Strategic Community Plan 2018-2028 ensures the community is surrounded by, and has access to, attractive natural habitats, built form, parks and amenities.
Activating the currently unused land will leverage the strength of existing facilities in the area, including Wanangkura Stadium and the Matt Dann Theatre and Cinema, as well as serving as a new entry statement into South Hedland.
“The Commons represents a new step in the development of the South Hedland community”, said Member for the Pilbara Kevin Michel MLA.
“As the Member for Pilbara, I look forward to working with the project partners to maximise the benefits of this project for the Hedland community.”
Mayor Peter Carter welcomed the Town receiving the grant funding, reflecting on The Commons’ projected benefits.
“I’d like to thank the State Government and Lotterywest for granting the Town $371,079 to fund the earthworks and landscaping component of FORM’s South Hedland Commons initiative.
“The Commons will transform the land between Spinifex Hill Studio and Hedland Senior High School into space for year round gatherings to celebrate Hedland’s multicultural identity.
“The Commons supports a number of Council priorities, such as creating new spaces for community gatherings, improving landscaping and building social cohesion in South Hedland.
“I look forward to seeing The Commons take shape over the coming year.”
Above: Town of Port Hedland CEO Carl Askew, Member for Pilbara Hon. Kevin Michel MLA and Town of Port Hedland Mayor Peter Carter
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