Tom Price, Western Australia.

This Patrol is based in Tom Price in Western Australia. The Patrol Minister visits small communities such as Marble Bar and Nullagine as well as visiting pastoral stations, some Aboriginal communities and the rangers in Karijini National Park. In addition, chaplaincy to the huge mining operations occurs from time to time.

There are also small mining operations working a range of mineral deposits in isolated areas. Also associated with the region are a few small but growing tourist attractions. It is a region of rugged beauty which tourists love.

Ministry commenced in the area in the early 1900s. A hospital was built in Port Hedland by the Australian Inland Mission (AIM) in 1915 and it became the base both for a congregation and an extended patrol ministry. The first patrol ministry was commenced by the Methodist Church in 1927 and covered Port Hedland to Marble Bar.

The weather is extreme in these areas. Summer temperatures are a constant 38 to 48 degrees with excessive humidity (almost 100%) and cyclones likely to occur between the months of November and March. These demanding climatic conditions add additional pressure and stress to people as they live in these remote areas.

The Patrol Minister offers ministry and leadership to those involved in a variety of community groups and activities in Tom Price, as well as supporting the people of the region. At times there are very few clergy in the region which adds to the magnitude of the ministry task.