AustLit

'Right to be Counted forms part of a larger cultural picture in the Pilbara, in which investment in cultural programming has resulted in greater opportunities for knowledge preservation and cross-cultural exchange. Organisations such as Wangka Maya and cultural hybrid FORM have worked intensively in the Pilbara centres of Port Hedland and Newman to create quality community-focused and cultural programming. When partnering with corporate or government bodies such as BHP Billiton Iron Ore, the Pilbara Development Commission and the Town of Port Hedland, non-profit cultural organisations like FORM can assist regional towns in achieving a more holistic sense of identity, belonging and wellbeing. Strong cultural programming also encourages industry-development in areas other than the traditional resources sector, which attracts a broader tourism demographic, including the rapidly growing cultural tourism sector. Likewise, it increases the sustainability and liveability of regional communities as it helps to attract and retain workers, residents and tourists by offering alternative avenues for commercial ventures, as well as more community participation and interaction through events and workshops.' (Source : website)