Mission to Seafarers - West Pilbara

ABOUT US 90% of the goods we enjoy have been transported by seafarers—yet these essential workers remain largely unseen and unrecognized. The Mission to Seafarers (Dampier and Port Walcott) is a not-for-profit welfare charity dedicated to serving the merchant crews calling to our ports, who make global trade possible. While container ships, bulk carriers and tankers arrive and depart daily from our shores, the seafarers aboard them often spend many months at sea (~6-9), separated from family and home. Through ship visits and our drop-in centre, we provide a vital lifeline to these invisible heroes—offering welfare and emergency assistance, practical support, communication services, and a warm welcome to all ship crews calling to our ports. We operate a free bus service for seafarers across 5 terminals and 18 berths, connecting them to our centre and the local community during their brief time ashore. We also link seafarers with organisations that can provide specialized support they might not find on their own. Whether helping with communication challenges, mental health concerns, fatigue, abandonment, piracy, or shipwreck situations, we're here for seafarers when they need us most. Our work is proudly supported by port authorities, terminal operators, local businesses invested in the export trade, and community assistance organisations. VOLUNTEER ROLES Behind every product on shelves in all stores is a seafarer who helped bring it to us. We're looking for compassionate volunteers to help us support these unseen workers. If you have skills to share, some time to spare, and a passion for the welfare of others, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a few hours a week or a month, just four hours a week can make a real difference. There are many opportunities for volunteers to assist the team at the Mission to Seafarers – West Pilbara, in a wide range of tasks; • Driving: Transport seafarers in one of our 12-seater buses between the port and our centre. Or help crew run essential errands during their brief time ashore. • Welcome and support: Be a friendly face at our drop-in centre—chat with seafarers, answer questions about the local area, and help them feel at home in an unfamiliar place. • Practical assistance: Help with shopping, assist with communication needs, or provide items seafarers require during their stay. • Ship visits: Visit seafarers on board their ships to offer support, companionship, and a listening ear to those who may be isolated at sea for many months. • Administrative and operational support: Assist with IT, social media, grant applications, helping in our shop, gardening, keeping our bus fleet clean, and maintaining our centre (mopping, dusting, tidying). • Knit for the centre: Seafarers often set out on new contracts not knowing where their ship will end up or what climates they will encounter on their travels. Create handmade items (like beanies) that our team can then give to seafarers as a warm gift and reminder that someone cares. If you can supply beanies in any colour, we would love to hear from you. JOIN US Help us bring visibility and care to the people who keep our world connected. No special qualifications are needed—just a friendly attitude and a willingness to help. Training and inductions will be provided for specific roles to ensure you feel confident and supported in your volunteer work. To volunteer or learn more, contact us at [email protected]