The Pilbara region boasts a large number of natural attractions including the Dampier archipelago and the stunning gorges of the Karijini National Park. Large scale mining projects are a key player in the region and include the Woodside Energy gas to liquids plant located on the Burrup Peninsula.  Iron ore and salt are loaded for export from the Dampier port – one of the largest tonnage ports in Australia. These industries bring with them specific health needs for the population.

Karratha is located in the heart of the central Pilbara coast and is the district centre for the area. The town has a population of around 12,000 and features all the services essential to modern living, including cinemas, a large metropolitan-style shopping centre, five primary schools, two high schools as well as a TAFE College. People are attracted to the town for work opportunities and the relaxed Pilbara lifestyle.

Despite being one of the largest Centres in the Pilbara, Karratha has a great country town feel. Sport and recreation are taken very seriously – and there is lots to choose from. Being located on the coast means there is access to a wide range of water sports and excellent fishing.

The district hospital in Karratha is the Nickol Bay Hospital, a 40 bed hospital which provides a wide range of medical services to the local population and the many tourists who travel in this region during the busy tourist season.

The 24 hour A&E is supported by a Path Centre laboratory and radiology services and the hospital has two operating theatres where minor surgery, closed orthopaedic reductions and caesarean sections can be performed. As well as providing hospital cover, the DMOs also provide regular general practice clinics to the town of Onslow – a 30 minute flight from Karratha and antenatal clinics at Wickham for women of these outlying areas.

The regional hospital for the Pilbara is located in Port Headland – a town which is booming as a result of the expansion of the iron ore export industry. Living in Port Headland provides the adventure of living in the outback with the benefits of a well supported town. Recreational opportunities are plentiful and include fishing, tennis, golf, whale and turtle watching. GP Registrars with procedural skill training may also be placed at this hospital.