Grey nomads learn about Hedland’s wild side

Hedland visitors learnt there is more to town than heavy industry after long-time resident Bill Dziombak talked about local wildlife during a presentation at the visitor centre.

Mr Dziombak has filmed more than 50 species of animals living, hunting and playing in Port Hedland’s coastal waters over the past eight years.

Having turned the footage into a DVD and hardcover book called Port Hedland Nature, he recently shared his wildlife discoveries with around 30 grey nomads attending the Port Hedland Visitor Centre’s weekly Tales of Port Hedland session.

“As I did when I moved to Hedland, the (tourists) have a preconceived idea the town is only an industrial town,” he said.

“They were blown away, especially by stories like how a little shark attacked me (in the area).”

“So it was great to show then all the amazing stuff that co-exists with industry.”

Mr Dziombak said while grey nomads could now tour Hedland’s port waters or BHP Billiton and Fortescue Metals Group’s iron ore ship loading facilities, they were also keen to see Hedland’s natural attractions.

He said foreshore walks to see crabs or tours of Hedland’s coral reef would likely also be popular.

For more information on Mr Dziombak’s film and book visit his Port Hedland Nature Facebook page.

The Tales of Port Hedland sessions run each Friday from 10am.