BHP has committed to two more years of its partnership with Care for Hedland, marking two decades of collaboration between the organisations.

The collaboration was renewed in a bid to support the community and environment through initiatives like Containers for Change and programs across waste management, community gardens, and school education.

BHP manager – Western Australia community, Rachel Donkin, said the continued partnership is vital in maintaining the Pilbara’s ecosystem and local community.

“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate two decades of collaboration with Care for Hedland,” Donkin said.

“There is nowhere else on earth like the Pilbara and its ongoing conservation is key to BHP and part of our commitment to healthy environments and sustainable communities.”

An independent environmental interest group, Care for Hedland is best known for its Flatback turtle monitoring program – an initiative to monitor Port Hedland beaches during nesting and hatching season.

The support from BHP has contributed to the company saving more than 63,350 eggs from predators in the past decade alone.

Additionally, 16,933 nests have been recorded and more than 532 turtles tagged with the support of hundreds of volunteers across the community.

“With more than 260 volunteers and engagement with thousands of visitors each year, BHP’s support has allowed us to transition from an organisation that was heavily reliant upon individuals, to one with a structured plan and key deliverables,” Care for Hedland operations manager Kelly Howlett said.

“We now employ over 25 staff at any one time and have plans for more circular economy focussed initiatives like a Hedland Repair Café, Timber Pallet Recycling initiative, Food Waste Diversion and Tip Shop.”

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