Telling Stories That Matter: Pilbara Community Legal Service in Jigalong
Ripple Narratives recently travelled deep into Western Australia’s remote East Pilbara region to document the powerful work of Pilbara Community Legal Service (PCLS) in Jigalong Community. Surrounded by red dirt, wide skies, and a rich Martu culture, we had the privilege of capturing how PCLS supports some of the most isolated people in the country—offering not just legal assistance, but connection, advocacy, and hope.
Through photography and a series of short documentary films, our team has been documenting the essential outreach services delivered on Country. These include domestic violence prevention, housing advocacy, financial counselling, tenancy support, and general legal assistance. But what stood out most was the deep community engagement and the care behind every interaction.
Outreach in Action
Reaching Jigalong is no small feat—it’s hundreds of kilometres from the nearest major centre. But distance doesn’t deter the PCLS team. Their outreach model is centred on building long-term trust and showing up consistently. Each trip is more than a service delivery—it's a relationship-building exercise grounded in cultural respect and real-world impact.
During our visit, we shadowed the team as they met with community members, ran workshops, and sat under gumtrees listening to the lived experiences of the people they serve. In a dry riverbed just outside town, we filmed interviews with their staff—capturing their passion, challenges, and deep commitment to justice in remote contexts.
Why Stories Like This Matter
This work is hard. It’s often unseen. And yet it’s vital. By documenting these stories, Ripple Narratives hopes to shine a light on the incredible efforts being made by grassroots organisations like PCLS to close service gaps, protect the vulnerable, and support Aboriginal communities to thrive on their own terms.
The films and photo essays we are creating will become part of a broader campaign to raise awareness, increase funding, and support the long-term sustainability of remote outreach.
To the team at Pilbara Community Legal Service: thank you for trusting us to walk alongside you in Jigalong. Your work is changing lives. We’re honoured to help tell your story.
Stay tuned as we release the documentary series later this year.
