Published on Friday, 1 May 2026 at 1:35:23 PM
A smoking ceremony was held in the Council Chambers at the Port Hedland Civic Centre to mark the commencement of the newly appointed Council and acknowledge the significance of beginning this next chapter in a culturally respectful way.
The ceremony was led by Kariyarra Elder Uncle Alfred alongside other Elders, and provided an opportunity to cleanse the space, promote positive direction, and recognise the importance of culture, connection and community in local leadership.
Organised by a newly elected Councillor, the ceremony was notable as the first time a smoking ceremony has been held indoors within the Civic Centre Council Chambers, a meaningful moment that will be long remembered as part of the Town’s civic history.
The occasion also coincided with a visit from the Hon Julie Freeman and Shane Love MLA, Leader of The Nationals WA, who joined Councillors, staff and guests in witnessing the ceremony. Those in attendance included the Town of Port Hedland’s Temporary Chief Executive Officer, Kenneth Donohoe.
Mayor Jacinta Behrend said the ceremony was a powerful and grounding way for the new Council to begin its term.
“Holding a smoking ceremony at the Civic Centre was a meaningful way to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this land and to begin our work together with respect, humility and a strong sense of connection to community,” Mayor Behrend said.
She said the newly appointed Council was grateful for the opportunity to begin its term in this way and was looking forward to getting started on behalf of the community.
“As a new Council, we are keen to get started and to serve the Hedland community with integrity, openness and respect. Beginning our term with a ceremony like this sets the tone for how we want to work together, guided by culture, collaboration and care for our town,” the Mayor said.
The Town of Port Hedland extends its sincere thanks to Uncle Alfred, the Elders and all involved for sharing culture and creating space for reflection as the new Council embarks on its term of service to the Hedland community.
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