Pilbara arts and pride events boosted by funding

Pilbara communities will benefit from a significant injection of State Government funding, with the City of Karratha and the Town of Port Hedland among 17 regional recipients in the 2025-26 round of the Arts Activities in Regional Communities program.

The Cook Government has committed almost $780,000 to support community-led arts and cultural activity across regional WA, with projects to be delivered during 2026 and 2027.

In the Pilbara, the City of Karratha has secured $59,809 for the 2026 Red Earth Arts Festival, while the Town of Port Hedland has received $15,100 for Unleashed — Pilbara Pride Week 2026.

Karratha mayor Daniel Scott said the funding would strengthen the region’s flagship cultural event.

“The Red Earth Arts Festival has become the premier regional arts and cultural festival and is presented by the City of Karratha with support from principal partner Rio Tinto and valued community partners,” he said.

“This year’s festival, held from 14–17 May, will offer an exciting mix of shows, performances and activations, including Indigenous artwork installations, burlesque, and award-winning performers.

“The city is pleased to have received the funding from the Arts Activities in Regional Communities program.

“This will help deliver transformative arts experiences and reinforce Karratha’s position as a vital regional cultural hub.

“The funding will help us deliver our highly successful REAF in the Regions Program, which brings activations to Wickham, Cossack, Roebourne and Point Samson and cultivates a deeper connection between communities, artists, and cultural heritage across the Pilbara.”

In Port Hedland, the funding will support the return of the popular Unleashed event as part of Pilbara Pride Week 2026.

TOPH manager events, arts and culture Khristle Barr said the town was excited to support the 2026 Pilbara Pride Festival — not only as a sponsor, but as an active partner championing diversity, inclusivity and community vibrancy.

“We are committed to working alongside local organisations and our wider community to deliver events that celebrate who we are and what makes the Pilbara unique,” she said.

“This year, the Matt Dann Theatre & Cinema is proudly bringing back Unleashed — a community favourite that blends high-energy drag, cabaret and burlesque performances into an unforgettable night of colour and creativity.”

Ms Barr said the town was grateful to the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport; and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development for the funding.

“It helps us deliver inclusive events that strengthen community connection, celebrate identity, and ensures the Pilbara has access to the same rich cultural experiences enjoyed elsewhere in the State,” she said.

Pilbara Pride Week’s dates are yet to be confirmed.