As a part of my time interning I’ve encountered community
relations from the both the city and regional perspectives. In the Perth city
office, strategic planning, projects and goals for the organisation and the
community are developed for the future. The other component of my time working
in community relations has been on the ground within the regional communities of
influence. I have the privilege of working with Community Relations Officers on
the ground in Tom Price and Paraburdoo. Working out in the communities provided
insight into in the ground realties and the lifestyle of FIFO workers, most importantly
I gained insight into the lifestyle of a Community Relations Officer and the
pressures and responsibilities associated with representing the company in a
small community.
Upon arriving in either town, you know you’re there for
business. The combination of the small population, isolation from other
communities and role of the mine gave a distinct impression that you arrive to
work, with the mine shaping the community. I quickly became immersed in the
towns, and found my own working rhythm, of twelve-hour working days,
exercising, eating then sleeping falling in sync with the town and its mining
heartbeat. Understanding the lifestyle and culture that surrounds these mining
camps through experiencing the way of life furthered my belief in the crucial
role of Community Relations.
Community Relations Officers within the towns are the link
between community and the mine. The role as a company representative within the
town was acutely aware due to the small size of the town. In a community where
most people know each other the personal and professional behaviour of the company
staff was frequently criticised. Venturing into the communities provided me
with the insights and pressures of small towns and communities on Community
Relations Officers.
Relevant videos are attached for greater indight into my experiences in community relations in a remote mining community.
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