Published on Thursday, 12 February 2026 at 9:19:49 AM
The Town of Port Hedland wishes to pay tribute to Diana Brown (nee Robinson) a deeply respected Elder, Kariyarra woman, leader, cultural custodian and advocate whose presence has shaped our community, our organisation and our connection to this community in profound and lasting ways.
Diana has been a guiding voice for decades, walking alongside the Town with strength, compassion and commitment to her community. As a Leader, and Traditional Custodian of Marapikurrinya, she carried her cultural responsibilities with pride and purpose. Her presence ensured that Kariyarra perspectives remained at the heart of conversations about land, heritage, development and the future of this region.
Her influence can be felt across Hedland, through the facilities she opened and named, the spaces she helped shape, and the Town projects she guided to ensure they honoured Country, story and truth. She brought cultural depth and meaning into many of our community initiatives, creative works and public places.
Many of our staff and community members were supported by her patience, her wisdom and her willingness to share knowledge. She helped people understand the spirit of Kariyarra Country, the importance of connection to place, and the cultural responsibilities that guide how we walk on this land. Her advocacy has helped advance land rights, protect cultural sites and strengthen the role of Traditional Owners in decisions that shape Port Hedland. She showed us that genuine partnership is built on truth, trust and respect and she embodied all three.
We are all better for having known her. We are privileged to have worked alongside her. We are grateful to have been entrusted with her wisdom. Her legacy will continue to shape our understanding of Country and strengthen the way we work, live and connect here in Hedland.
Please note her family has given permission for her name and image to be shared.
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