Pilbara groups secure $48,624 in State funding boost for community sporting events

Two Pilbara-based organisations are among the recipients of State Government funding to support sport and recreation events across WA, sharing a combined total of $48,624.

Swimming WA has secured $30,000 for its 2026 Tri Series Competition, while the Town of Port Hedland has received $18,624 through the sport and recreation events funding program to deliver its growing Ship to Shore community fun run this year.

The funding is part of a $1,779,981 investment across metropolitan and regional WA, supporting events that encourage participation, attract visitors, and strengthen communities.

Town of Port Hedland marketing and communications co-ordinator Michael Rodrigues said the Ship to Shore funding was a significant boost to an event that had steadily grown in popularity.

“The Town of Port Hedland, together with Pilbara Ports and other local partners, set out to create an event that could bring the community together and promote a healthy, active lifestyle,” he said.

“Each year, the town has seen an increase in attendance and has responded by progressively increasing the scope and scale of the event.

“Last year we saw approximately 700 runners take up the challenge, and now in its fifth year, we hope to attract even more runners from surrounding communities and hit a new record.”

Mr Rodrigues said the State Government funding would allow organisers to further expand the event and improve the experience for participants and spectators.

“The funding boost received from State Government will be used to expand event capacity and enhance the overall runner and spectator experience through enhanced safety management, improved participant amenities and targeted promotional activities to drive regional participation,” he said.

“This investment will support the event’s sustainable growth while delivering lasting benefits for Pilbara communities.”

This year’s Ship to Shore event will again begin at the Spoilbank Marina, offering multiple distances to suit all fitness levels.

“There will be the standard 6km route, a 3km mini, and the 10km extended route which we introduced last year,” Mr Rodrigues said.

“New safety management enhancements and amenity improvements will increase overall event accessibility, making it easier for families, first-time participants, and people with mobility or accessibility needs to take part more confidently and comfortably, ensuring the event is welcoming and inclusive for the whole community.”