The Warlawuurru Cup has become a major event in the Shire of East Pilbara showcasing football talent from across the region, with West Coast Eagles metro-based community and academy staff also in attendance.

Local youth from Newman were joined by squads visiting from Tom Price, Paraburdoo, and communities across the Western Desert; an area spanning over 600,000 square kilometres.

A convoy of service vehicles and marquees were set up around the boundary line providing an electric atmosphere for over 150 young players participating in the carnival, which saw Newman go back-to-back in the boy’s competition whilst the Eagles All Stars defeated the Swans in a pulsating girls Grand Final.

AFLW stars Lucia Painter and Jess Rentsch coached the Eagles girls whilst playing wide-ranging roles throughout the carnival, engaging with youth, stakeholders and members of the local community.

“Footy out on the red dirt is truly something special. Something the kids and families have that brings them together and creates a sense of belonging,” Painter said.

Eagles Northwest Manager Brendon Daily was thrilled with the day and highlighted the significance in having the two role models in attendance.

“Lucia Painter and Jess Rentsch were great mentors for all players and were thoroughly engaged in festivities right across the event which was tremendous,” he said.

“For the majority of the girls it was their first experience in a team environment playing competitive football, so having the two AFLW players pass on their experience and knowledge was really exciting for them.”

The 2026 event saw over 52 stakeholders attend with many venturing from across the Pilbara region to attend, alongside a large number that flew in from Perth to be part of the carnival.

BHP Principal Community Newman James Grabski said the Warlawuurru Cup showed the power of strong partnerships in bringing communities together.

“The Cup is about more than football and goes beyond what happens on the field. It’s people from all walks of life coming together for a day of connection and fun and ultimately a chance for kids to build confidence and see what’s possible for their future,” Grabski said.

"We’re incredibly proud of our partnership with the West Coast Eagles and the opportunities it creates for young people across the Pilbara. It’s about making sure kids are empowered to chase their dreams, no matter where they live."

“This year’s Carnival was no doubt the biggest and most attended event so far with in excess of 50 stakeholders from across the Pilbara at the ground, 21 of those brand new this year which was a really pleasing aspect,” Daily added.

“It is now one of the biggest events in the Shire of East Pilbara becoming a community showcase for stakeholders to network alongside other partners from around the region and beyond."

The West Coast Eagles are proud of the impact being made on youth throughout the Pilbara community in collaboration with Youth Engagement Partner BHP.