Women tell stories of an outback life

14 November 2007

The much anticipated book Red Dust in Her Veins – Women of the Pilbara, a collection of stories from women of the Pilbara region of Western Australia, was launched in Karratha in November by Rio Tinto Iron Ore CEO Sam Walsh.

The book features the stories of four indigenous and eight non-indigenous women who were born or have lived in the Pilbara. The stories are interspersed with stunning photographs of north west landscapes.

Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Sam Walsh said it was important to listen to and value the perspective of women in the male-dominated region. “Although much has been written about the economic development of this important region, there is not enough about the thoughts and feelings of its people—women, men and children. Red Dust in Her Veins helps address this imbalance,” Mr Walsh said.

He said the subject matter was relevant to Rio Tinto because it encouraged many new residents into the Pilbara. The stories showed how the Pilbara seeped into the spirits of the 12 women, despite or even because of the challenges of living in such a remote area.

Melva Stone said the book was a culmination of 15 years of dreaming that started when she joined the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

“My vision was to share the recollections of the women who had experienced this hot, beautiful and isolated place, and had to deal with the challenges that the region has thrown at them,” Ms Stone said.

“I found support for the idea of a book when I raised it with Sam Walsh in 2005, and with Rio’s sponsorship the project was up and running.”

Ms Stone and Erica Smyth produced and contributed to the book, which was written by Lisa Holland-McNair.

Mr Walsh will officially launch the book in tomorrow in Karratha. A preview with the storytellers will be available from noon at the Karratha International Hotel.

Order forms can be downloaded from www.womenofthepilbara.com.au and proceeds will be donated to the Royal Flying Doctor Services.