The Pilbara community is mourning the loss of prominent WA pastoralist Lang Coppin.

Tributes poured in for the former Shire of East Pilbara councillor and deputy shire president after his death this week at the age of 76.

Mr Coppin served on the council for more than 46 years, from his election in 1977, until his retirement in late 2023.

He became one of the longest-serving and most recognisable elected representatives in the shire’s history, noted as a pilot, prospector and cattleman who lobbied extensively for agriculture and road access in the region.

Shire president Anthony Middleton said Lang’s death would be felt across the region, particularly in Marble Bar and the pastoral community.

“On behalf of council and the shire, I extend our sincere condolences to Lang’s family, friends and everyone who knew him,” he said.

“Lang gave almost half a century to representing the people of the East Pilbara.

“He was never afraid to speak plainly or push hard for the communities and industries he represented.

“He brought a lifetime of practical knowledge about pastoralism, remote roads and the realities of living and working in the northern East Pilbara to the council table.

“His voice was strong, direct and unmistakably his own. He cared deeply about Marble Bar, the pastoral industry and the future of the wider region.”

Lang’s family connection to Yarrie Station began in the 1880s, and his experience as a cattleman and pilot gave him first-hand understanding of the challenges created by distance, isolation and unreliable road access.

Throughout his time on council, he was a determined advocate for better roads and reliable infrastructure and services across some of Australia’s most remote communities.

He was closely involved in securing support for major road projects and took particular pride in the development of the Marble Bar to Alice Springs Road.

Shortly before his retirement, Lang summed up the importance of roads.

“Roads are the backbone and the economy of the area,” he said.

Lang also served as deputy shire president on several occasions, providing steady representation for Marble Bar, the northern East Pilbara and the pastoral sector.

His service was recognised in the 2013 Queen’s Birthday Honours List with the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community of the East Pilbara.

In April 2024, he was awarded the honour of Freeman of the Shire of East Pilbara, the highest civic honour council can bestow.

“The East Pilbara is a better place because Lang chose to serve it,” Mr Middleton said.

“His legacy is in the roads, services and projects he fought for, and in the generations of residents, pastoralists and community members he represented for more than 46 years.

“Lang will be remembered as a true Pilbara character and a formidable advocate whose commitment to his community never wavered.

“We honour his life and thank him for his service. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.”