Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation staff with their well-bandaged manikin

Kariyarra staff ready to handle any emergency

Staff from the Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation recently completed their first aid qualifications with Royal Life Saving WA and now have the skills to help in an emergency!

The Kariyarra people live around the Port Hedland area in north-west WA, from the town itself west to the Sherlock River and south to the Yule River. Kariyarra country is bound by Ngarla country to the north, Nyamal to the east and Ngarluma to the southwest.

Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation (KAC) was established in 2016 and provides native title services to the Kariyarra people. In addition, the corporation oversees Kariyarra land and sea resources to protect the region’s biodiversity and assists with development projects to support Indigenous-owned businesses within the region.

Royal Life Saving WA Community Trainer Steve O’Meara delivered the HLTAID011 Provide First Aid training course to the group on 3rd and 4th November at the South Hedland Lotteries House. Royal Life Saving WA Pilbara Development Officer Lauren Thompson facilitated the training program with KAC and assisted Steve with the lessons. 

“Now when the Kariyarra community members are on country in and around Hedland or visiting the natural waterways the region has to offer, Kariyarra staff are equipped to handle any emergency situations that may arise,” said Lauren. “From drowning, performing CPR to snake bites, bleeding wounds and broken bones, Kariyarra mob are confident and ready to assist.”

Kariyarra Communications Officer Roslyn Alec said that she and her colleagues thoroughly enjoyed the training. “I just want to thank you [Lauren] and Steve and Royal Life Saving WA for the two-day first aid training. I have the confidence to help now if it’s needed,” she said.

If your organisation or group would like to participate in a private group training session, learn more about completing this with Royal Life Saving WA at the link below.