Town of Port Hedland Council

The Town of Port Hedland is a statutory entity constituted under the Local Government Act 1995 to provide services and facilities to a broad range of stakeholders including residents, commercial and retail business, workers and local, national and international visitors.

Newly Elected Members were sworn in on Thursday, 2 April 2026.

Mayor

Jacinta Behrend

Jacinta has lifelong involvement across local arts, sport, education and health, and was awarded the Town of Port Hedland Active Community Citizen Award in 2025. Jacinta is Chairperson of the Hedland Well Women's Centre, bringing strong governance, accountability and community leadership. She holds qualifications in law and business studies and is an AICD accredited board professional. Jacinta is guided by purpose, integrity, and accountability, and believes good leadership starts with listening and follows through with action.

Email: mayor.behrend@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0435 736 028

Deputy Mayor

Troy Melville

Troy understands the constraints and issues in town and is passionate about advocating for better health services and respite facilities for domestic violence victims and children. He is keen to get better outcomes for businesses and services in town, by engaging constructively with the new council to ensure clear and concise direction, to enable the administrative team to provide high-level outcomes for the community. Troy has been active in the Hedland sporting community and wants to ensure investment into facilities is fit-for-purpose as a prime example.

Email: councillor.melville@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Mobile:
0408 351 808

Councillor

Zoe Little

Zoe was born and raised in Port Hedland, and has a deep appreciation for our people, our resilience, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with living in a regional community. Zoe cares about ensuring the town is a safe, inclusive, and supportive place for the next generation. Being a parent in this community has strengthened her commitment to listening, advocating, and working toward practical solutions that benefit families, young people, and seniors alike.  Zoe has worked in the legal system, developing a strong understanding of government processes, legislation, and accountability.

Email: councillor.little@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0410 114 901

Councillor

Sharon Todd

Sharon is a Kariyarra woman and long-term Hedland resident who carries shared heritage and a strong commitment to the Town’s future. Sharon has worked in mining, government and is now a small business owner serving families across the Pilbara. She has strong insight into industry, community needs and how decisions impact everyday people. Sharon is an advocate for practical leadership, honest communication, and planning that protects both opportunity and liveability.

Email: councillor.todd@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0448 503 991

Councillor

Frank Edwards

Frank is passionate about making Hedland a better place now and for future generations. Frank has lived in Hedland since 1960 and has contributed to many local projects and events as well as coaching junior football. Frank has previously run pony rides professionally for the children from 2000 to 2015 as well as running two rodeos as owner and the liquor licensee.

Email: councillor.edwards@porthedland.wa.gov.au

Councillor

Russell McDowall

Russell has made Hedland home for over 10 years and is raising his family here. Russell is a local business owner who understands the opportunities and challenges facing our community. He believes Hedland's future depends on balanced leadership, sensible planning and a Council that listens to its community. Russell is focused on bringing a constructive, level‑headed voice, focusing on issues such as sustainable growth, liveability and ensuring Hedland remains a great place to live, work and raise a family.

Email: councillor.mcdowall@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0437 570 947

Councillor

Rachael Baxter

Rachael Baxter is married with three children and a parent, understands firsthand the importance of creating a safe, vibrant, opportunity-filled community for families. Rachael has been involved in local sporting committees and community initiatives over the years and has seen strength, resilience and potential within our town. Rachael is passionate about promoting mental and physical health across our community, and supporting initiatives that encourage active lifestyles, positive wellbeing and inclusive participation.

Email: councillor.baxter@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0400 771 434

Councillor

Lorraine Butson

Lorraine was previously elected to Council in 2013 and served until January 2016. She was elected again in 2023. Lorraine has a strong focus on supporting the positive efforts of community groups and programs. With a long career in health, and more than 50 years living in Hedland, Lorraine is passionate about lifting the liveability of Hedland.

Email: councillor.butson@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0483 212 320

Councillor Elect

Adrian McRae

Adrian McRae was elected to the Town of Port Hedland Council in March of 2024. The son of a fourth-generation farmer & grazier family, Adrian has lived and owned a business in Hedland for 15 years. Founder of the GBTK Group of companies, Adrian understands the issues and concerns for Hedland residents and local businesses. Experienced in hosting large international charity events and conferences, Adrian is passionate about social issues; both local & abroad. Adrian advocates strongly for improved community safety & liveability in Port Hedland.

Email: crmcrae@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0424 433 333

External Group Representation

Elected Member External Groups Representation Information Statement is available here.