Latest news with #FIFO
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Young Aussie reveals truth about making 'unbelievable money' in remote mining town
There are few Aussies who haven't considered picking up one of the many highly-paid jobs in Australia's booming mining industry at least once or twice in their lives. Mining workers are among the highest paid in the country, with even entry-level roles starting at over $90,000 per year. While many who opt into the industry do so on a fly-in and fly-out (FIFO) basis, there is a smaller group of Aussies moving into the regional centres to live — with free accommodation offered as a perk by many mining companies. One such couple is Georgia and David, who told Yahoo News they packed up their lives on the Gold Coast three years ago. They made a life for themselves in Port Hedland, a town so remote that the nearest major city is a whopping 17-hour drive away. But what's it actually like to live there? Georgia revealed to Yahoo News there is incredible wealth to be made in the area, but those who come should "be warned" about the tough living conditions. "It's a hard place to live," she explained, but added "the money you can make in Hedland if you have the right attitude and work ethic is unbelievable." The town is known for its major industrial port, a major hub for the mining industry, which handles millions of tonnes of iron ore and salt annually. The desert climate is particularly harsh, reaching temperatures in the 40s, and even the 50s in the summer. "It is a completely different part of the world," she said. "This summer just gone was horrific, it was awful," she said. The dust, which is so bad in parts of the town, the state government announced a $200 million, industry-funded voluntary buyback of more than 400 homes, was the biggest adjustment for Georgia. "I am a clean person, and I hate stuff on my feet. I had to mop the floors every two days. That was such a culture shock," she said. "Now I'm just covered in dust every day." Getting fresh produce is also difficult, with empty shelves commonplace due to either lack of supply or chronic staff shortages. "Whenever the shelves are stocked with fresh berries, they're gone in seconds," she said. "A lot of the time, the shelves are pretty bare." She's not just talking about recent weather events that prevented trucks from making their way into town, explaining its a common occurrence. What's more, prices are higher than in major cities. Some regional communities are paying more than double for necessities compared to prices available across Woolworths, Coles, Aldi and IGA supermarkets in the capitals. It's something the Australian government has promised to do something about by locking the price of essential grocery items in remote communities to city prices. What's more, unlike many parts of Australia where bread is baked fresh, the household staple is stored in the freezer in Port Hedland. "I remember asking where the bread is when I first moved, and the worker said it's in the freezer section," she laughed. Georgia said she would recommend her rural life to anyone who is considering a move and struggling financially. "I don't know anywhere else in Australia that offers you a higher salary but also gives you free housing," she said, adding it's all about "taking it and running with it". "I'd say do it but be warned," she sad. "The heat in summer time is disgustingly hot. The flies are really bad, the mosquitos are horrific. "What people say about having golden handcuffs is true," she said. Georgia said she witnesses many who come to the town get trapped after getting into debt buying expensive boats, cars and caravans with their large incomes. Despite some of the harder elements of living rurally, Georgia explained the incredible scenery just moments away and the lifelong friendships make the long working hours, empty grocery stores and hot weather worthwhile. "You're right on the water and that's such a beautiful place to be," she said adding that "being able to make friends who are in the same situation as you" has been invaluable. "Everyone is suffering together, and the people really make Port Hedland," she said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
West Australian
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- West Australian
Reuben De Melo: WA singer's journey from FIFO dad to touring family man after winning The Voice 2024
Unlike most emerging musical stars, former FIFO dad Reuben De Melo's life-changing victory on The Voice 2024 has afforded him more time at home with his family than ever. Removing the familiar high-vis from his wardrobe following years as a mine site rigger, the doting WA father has admitted 'life's changed heaps' as he balances time in the studio with simply being present for his three young kids and wife Olivia. 'We have actually bought a house closer to the kids' school, so a lot of positives have come out of this,' he told The West Australian. 'Obviously (I'm) not flying out to work, but I'm spending time with the kids a bit more and getting used to that sort of life being in the studio, using my time wisely, recording songs and just basically having everything in the bank to release.' With his soulful vocals striking a chord with viewers nationwide, De Melo says his newly released debut single Slow brings a 'commercial' edge to his very human sound. Ironically, it was written two years ago during his UK travels with family when he felt 'everything had become monotonous'. While the temptation might now be to trade his rawness for record sales by conforming to industry pressures, the 'father figure' is conscious of staying true to himself. 'I don't know if the world's going to change me, and if it does, I'm going to reassess,' he said. 'I think I'm going to stay true to my music, which comes from the heart and mental health, and that mining story.' What has changed, is De Melo's profile — which has seen his billing upgraded from modest Perth bars to the likes of Thursday night's Western Australian of the Year Awards. Copping second glances from strangers at the airport has become the singer's new normal, along with random photos with fans, and even messages of support from public figures such as Ben Cousins who the singer described as 'an absolute legend'. 'I have to pinch myself and go, 'You're just human mate'. But it's surreal,' De Melo said. Building a team over the past three months to propel him into the next chapter of his career, the talent is set to release additional tracks to feature on his upcoming EP which will be he'll perform on his first Australian tour this July and August. However, perhaps a sweeter reward will be his reunion with beloved The Voice coach and pop star LeAnn Rimes during her national run of shows in September. And if he's lucky, the duo's dynamic might shift from master-and-apprentice to that of equals when Rimes returns to Australia. 'She's asked me to get in the studio with her to work on a track as well, which is quite exciting. Not sure when that that will be released or anything yet, but I'm looking forward to it,' De Melo said.
Perth Now
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Perth Now
How Perth FIFO dad's life changed after winning The Voice
Unlike most emerging musical stars, former FIFO dad Reuben De Melo's life-changing victory on The Voice 2024 has afforded him more time at home with his family than ever. Removing the familiar high-vis from his wardrobe following years as a mine site rigger, the doting WA father has admitted 'life's changed heaps' as he balances time in the studio with simply being present for his three young kids and wife Olivia. 'We have actually bought a house closer to the kids' school, so a lot of positives have come out of this,' he told The West Australian. 'Obviously (I'm) not flying out to work, but I'm spending time with the kids a bit more and getting used to that sort of life being in the studio, using my time wisely, recording songs and just basically having everything in the bank to release.' With his soulful vocals striking a chord with viewers nationwide, De Melo says his newly released debut single Slow brings a 'commercial' edge to his very human sound. Ironically, it was written two years ago during his UK travels with family when he felt 'everything had become monotonous'. While the temptation might now be to trade his rawness for record sales by conforming to industry pressures, the 'father figure' is conscious of staying true to himself. Reuben De Melo. Credit: Jarryd West / Jarryd West 'I don't know if the world's going to change me, and if it does, I'm going to reassess,' he said. 'I think I'm going to stay true to my music, which comes from the heart and mental health, and that mining story.' What has changed, is De Melo's profile — which has seen his billing upgraded from modest Perth bars to the likes of Thursday night's Western Australian of the Year Awards. Copping second glances from strangers at the airport has become the singer's new normal, along with random photos with fans, and even messages of support from public figures such as Ben Cousins who the singer described as 'an absolute legend'. 'I have to pinch myself and go, 'You're just human mate'. But it's surreal,' De Melo said. Reuben De Melo. Credit: Unknown / Supplied Building a team over the past three months to propel him into the next chapter of his career, the talent is set to release additional tracks to feature on his upcoming EP which will be he'll perform on his first Australian tour this July and August. However, perhaps a sweeter reward will be his reunion with beloved The Voice coach and pop star LeAnn Rimes during her national run of shows in September. And if he's lucky, the duo's dynamic might shift from master-and-apprentice to that of equals when Rimes returns to Australia. 'She's asked me to get in the studio with her to work on a track as well, which is quite exciting. Not sure when that that will be released or anything yet, but I'm looking forward to it,' De Melo said.
9 News
3 days ago
- 9 News
'I want answers': Mum grieving after FIFO son dies on Bali holiday
Your web browser is no longer supported. To improve your experience update it here The mother of a Queensland FIFO worker who died on holiday in Bali has called his death "suspicious" as tributes continue to pour in. Noosa man Byron Haddow died on Monday morning while holidaying on the Indonesian island, prompting a flood of messages online from family, friends, fellow mining workers and a local football club. Mother Chantal Haddow said the family was "humbled and forever grateful" for the support they'd already received. Noosa man Byron Haddow died on Monday morning while holidaying on the Indonesian island, prompting a flood of messages online from family, friends, fellow mining workers and a local football club. (Instagram/@bizza_hads_) "We are still chasing answers as to how our fit healthy 23 yr old son wound up dead in his private villa," she posted in a comment on Facebook responding to some unkind comments from strangers. "No it wasn't a scooter accident! No it wasn't his first time in Bali either! "We believe it's suspicious & are going through the avenues to get it investigated which will hold up the process of not only having him returned home but also the release of any monies! "I want answers more than anyone!" Shania Chapman, who organised an online fundraiser, asked people to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers. "A son, brother, and friend to many taken way too soon," she wrote. "As many of you know he was living his life to the fullest, working away, and achieving so many things." Noosa man Byron Haddow died on Monday morning while holidaying on the Indonesian island, prompting a flood of messages online from family, friends, fellow mining workers and a local football club. (Byron Haddow) Chantal said the 23-year-old's travel insurance would get her son's body home but wouldn't cover the cost of some other things. She said the online fundraiser was set up by Byron's friends as a "kind gesture to help support us". "All donations have been made by family & friends of Byron which goes to show how truly loved he was by his community & we are very humbled & forever grateful for that," she wrote. Katie Vider said Byron, known to many as "Bizza", was the "type of guy to give the shirt off his back". "Byron was the funny, kind and considerate friend that you could always count on," she said on Facebook. Noosa man Byron Haddow died on Monday morning while holidaying on the Indonesian island, prompting a flood of messages online from family, friends, fellow mining workers and a local football club. (GoFundMe) "I can't remember how many years it's been since I met him, but I know it's been many years of love and laughter." The Buderim Wanderers Football Club, where Byron's brother Taison played, and the hugely popular Jobs in Mining Facebook page were among others to pay tribute. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been contacted for comment. Bali Indonesia Australia national World mining queensland Sunshine Coast noosa CONTACT US Property News: 'Stressful': Perth mum's dilemma after rental mix-up.
7NEWS
3 days ago
- 7NEWS
Australian FIFO worker Byron Haddow, 23, dies suddenly on Bali holiday
A beloved Australian mining worker has died while on holiday in Indonesia, sparking an outpouring of tributes online. Byron Haddow, a 23-year-old FIFO worker from the Sunshine Coast, passed away in Bali on Monday morning during an overseas trip. His parents, Robert and Chantal Haddow, said they received the heartbreaking news on Tuesday and were still coming to terms with the tragedy. They expressed their gratitude for the messages of support but asked for more time to process their grief. 'At this time Chantal, myself, and family are not sure where to look, think, and how to deal with this atm,' the grieving dad wrote on social media. A GoFundMe page has since been set up to help bring Haddow home. 'A son, brother, and friend to many taken way too soon,' the fundraiser reads. 'As many of you know, he was living his life to the fullest, working away, and achieving so many things. 'All donations will go towards helping bring Byron home to his family, funeral arrangements and expenses to help his family through this tough time.' Heartfelt tributes have flooded social media, with friends remembering Haddow's big heart and sense of humour. 'Rest in peace, my brother from another mother. You've been taken too soon,' one friend wrote. 'I'll always remember the good days, and times we have had, and the mischief we made and got up to. 'Love you always brother. You'll never be forgotten.' Another posted: 'I f****** love you bro. 'Was waiting for a message back from you bro. 'Will never forget that laughter and your ambition.' Just before his death, Haddow had posted Instagram stories from Beachwalk Shopping Centre and The Coffee Club in Legian. A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed consular assistance was being provided to the family. The cause of his death is still unknown.
