Set against the striking landscapes of Western Australia’s Pilbara region, the communities of Jigalong and Yandeyarra are rich in cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. Home to the Martu and Kariyarra peoples respectively, these remote communities have embraced Royal Life Saving’s Remote Pools program since its early days. The swimming pools in Jigalong and Yandeyarra provide vital spaces for recreation, water safety education, and community wellbeing. In some of the state’s most remote and arid areas, these pools play an essential role in supporting healthier, more connected communities.

Jigalong

Jigalong is a remote Aboriginal community in the Pilbara region, located 170 kilometres east of Newman on the edge of the Great Sandy Desert. With a population of just under 300, the community is home to the Martu people, who maintain strong cultural connections and traditional ways of life. Jigalong is historically significant, once serving as a mission settlement and famously featured in the story of the “Rabbit-Proof Fence.” The swimming pool was established in 2000 and was one of the first under the Remote Pools program.

Yandeyarra

Yandeyarra, also known as Mugarinya, is a large remote Aboriginal community in the Pilbara region, situated approximately 140 kilometres south-east of Port Hedland. The community is home to the Kariyarra people and has a population of around 400 residents. Yandeyarra is known for its strong community spirit and connection to culture and land. The swimming pool has been part of the Remote Pools program since 2000.