Regional Western Australia will continue to benefit from youth development and community programs powered by the popularity of football, with Waalitj Marawar and BHP extending their 20-year partnership for another three years.
Thousands of young people have participated in initiatives delivered through the partnership, including regional football carnivals, school visits from player role models, community workshops and leadership programs for women and girls.
With an emphasis on the Pilbara and Goldfields, the programs support engagement, build confidence and strengthen community connections.
These initiatives go far beyond the football field. In the Pilbara, residential youth workers deliver community-based activities across remote locations, while innovative initiatives such as aquatic football help young people stay active in hot environments, improve water safety skills and support school attendance.
The partnership also focuses on expanding opportunities for female footballers, including through a dedicated Women and Girls Academy linked to the Waalitj Marawar AFLW program, which combines football pathways with education and personal development support.
Under the renewed agreement, the Waalitj Marawar and BHP will continue delivering and growing programs in Port Hedland, Newman and the Goldfields, with a focus on youth development, inclusion, stronger cultural connection and reconciliation outcomes.
Waalitj Marawar CEO Don Pyke said:
“We are incredibly proud of our long-term partnership with BHP, and we’re delighted to extend our collaboration as we enter our third decade together.
“BHP’s support of our regional programs across WA has a significant and meaningful impact, providing opportunities for young people through football and education programs whilst connecting communities.
“As major partner, BHP has also been an integral part of our AFLW team’s journey from ambitious beginnings to our first finals appearance last year and has supported the future of male and female football at grassroots level through our academy programs.
“In building this partnership renewal, both organisations have listened carefully to community leaders to understand how we can continue delivering programs with maximum social impact.
“We’re proud of what we have achieved over the past 20 years and excited about the future together."
BHP Western Australia Iron Ore Asset President Tim Day said:
“This partnership is about so much more than football – it’s about backing the communities where our people live and work and helping give young people the best possible start in life.
“The programs give kids a safe, positive place to belong. They focus on engaging kids in healthy recreation activities, particularly after hours and during school holidays, which also provides opportunities to establish new friends and learn about healthy behaviours through the power of football.
“The team at Waalitj Marawar have developed strong connections in community, particularly with the kids, which enables them to work closely with schools and other community organisations to identify and provide extra support where it might be needed.
“From regional areas to grassroots footy, we’re proud to back initiatives that bring people together and create real opportunities. It’s a partnership we value, and we’re looking forward to collaborating for years to come.”
