Respite for carers, families

Families and carers of people with disability can now take a well-earned break after the opening of Port Hedland’s respite house, Pilbara Retreat, on Friday.

Crowds gathered, poetry was read and speeches made for the Empowering People In Communities-managed facility at Athol Street to celebrate a place supporting people with disability in the Pilbara.

The project was led by Hedland Community Living Association with more than 20 years of lobbying, development by the Department of Communities and a public tender process won by EPIC to manage the facility.

Community campaigner Joan Foley spoke passionately at the event alongside Minister for Disability Services Stephen Dawson, Kariyarra elder Alfred Barker and Town of Port Hedland Mayor Camilo Blanco.

Mr Dawson said the building was a testament to the voice of the community and supporting people with disability.

“This new facility will give people with disability, their families and carers the chance to relax and refresh, which has long-term benefits including strengthening family relationships,” he said.

“Access to the facilities will be available to all eligible people in the region, giving people across the Pilbara more choice of respite supports.”