Pannawonica
WA 6716 • Western Australia
About Pannawonica
Pannawonica is a remote iron-ore mining town in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, located approximately 1,429 kilometres north of Perth and around 200 kilometres south-south-west of Karratha, within the Shire of Ashburton. Established in 1970 to support the Robe River iron ore operations — now operated by Rio Tinto — the town was purpose-built and has a population of 685 residents according to the 2021 Census. The locality is notable for historically recording some of the highest median weekly incomes of any town in Western Australia, driven by the significant wages of mine workers.
Life in Pannawonica revolves around the mining industry, with the town providing essential services including a primary school, medical centre, recreation facilities, and a shopping centre to support its workforce community. The Pilbara's hot, arid climate — with mean maximum temperatures around 34.6°C — defines the outdoor environment, while the Robe River and surrounding rugged landscape offer a dramatic natural setting. The community is close-knit, and the town attracts workers and families on residential postings drawn by high incomes and modern mining-town facilities in a remote but functional setting.
Pannawonica falls under postcode 6716 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the North West Central (Mining and Pastoral) electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- No scheduled public bus services — N/A N/A
Commute to Perth CBD
🛣️ Fly-in fly-out (FIFO) via Karratha Airport is the primary means of travel. Paraburdoo Airport (~200 km south) also serves the region.
Within the town itself, basic amenities are accessible, but the remote location means all travel beyond the town requires a vehicle or aircraft.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Sports Way