Our Shire and Our Towns
The Shire of East Pilbara is the largest Shire in the Australia covering approximately 372,571 square kilometres; larger than the state of Victoria. Driving will take 2 days to cross from east to west and 6 hours from north to south.
It's main town sites are Newman, Marble Bar and Nullagine, with a number of Aboriginal Communities namely Jigalong, Punmu and Parngurr, Irrungadji and Parnpajinya.
The Shire of East Pilbara's administrative centre is located in Newman.
Nullagine is Newman's nearest neighbour being 192 kilometres away, along the Marble Bar Road. If prospecting is your passion then the Shire of East Pilbara, being rich in minerals, is a great destination. Nullagine was the site of Australia 's first diamond discovery and was a thriving town during the gold rush period of the 1880's. Remnants of that bygone era are still evident in the region.
The Marble Bar Road is predominantly gravelled for the 303 kilometres between Marble Bar and Newman. Marble Bar has the reputation of being Australia's hottest town. Marble Bar is the gateway to explore areas such as Coppin's gap, Kitty's Gap as well as Doolena and Carrowine Gorges.
In the centre of the Shire is Karlamilyi National Park.
The karlamilyi National Park, rich in aboriginal culture and with an abundance of wildlife, is 1,283,706 hectares; is the largest national park in Western Australia and one of the largest in the world. It is also one of the most remote places in the world. The park is 420 kilometres south-east of Marble Bar and 260 kilometres from Newman.
At the northern most point of the Shire is the pristine coastal area of Cape Keraudren (Croy-don). This 4,800 hectare reserve offers breathtaking coastal views as well as fabulous crabbing and fishing. A must see for the day tripper or camper.
The Canning Stock Route, a favourite among serious 4wd travellers, has approximately 500km's of its track running through the Shire.
The Shire is abundant in plants and wildlife and offers some of the best night sky viewing platforms in the country. Indigenous artwork in its original state is dotted throughout the shire providing an array of opportunities for the adventurer or day tripper.
Wet season (October to April) sees a transformation of the landscape with many of the rivers, creeks and swimming holes providing great recreational destinations.
The mining sector dominates the Shire of East Pilbara economic landscape. Mining is estimated to contribute $16.017 billion (89%) of total output generated within the Shire. BHP iron ore mine, Mount Whaleback, located in Newman is the largest open cut iron ore mine in the world.
Our towns have survived fluctuations of fortune for more than a century. Resourcefulness and resilience, along with planning, will hold them in good stead throughout the 22nd century. The energy of our people will ensure that the heart of the Pilbara will beat on, and will beat strong.
The Shire of East Pilbara is not just about resources - it's also about resourcefulness.
Why not come and see for yourself why we call the Shire of East Pilbara home.
Economic and Community Profiles
This link contains information about the economic profile and the community profile of the East Pilbara region, including industries, tourism, workers and a summary of the population.
Maps of Our Area