
Newmanhistory6753.com
Newman town was originally constructed to house the workforce for the iron ore mine located on nearby Mt Whaleback. The town was raised from the red dirt desert of the Pilbara and many of the residents reflect on those experiences in the early days, as the town evolved from its early beginnings
Episodes

Sunday May 17, 2026
Sunday May 17, 2026
In this podcast Ronnie Wintle, in conversation with Lisa Rickert, remembers his connection with Howard Whitmore, and the early days of his apprenticeship. He also recalls some other jobs he tried, including selling life insurance. He remembers fondly how all the skills that he learnt were found during his time in the North West and how he followed the opportunities that were presented to him. He also describes how life has changed for Pilbara workers these days and compares with the hardships of the early days.

Tuesday May 12, 2026
Tuesday May 12, 2026
In this podcast Ronnie Wintle, in conversation with Lisa Rickert, recalls his drive up to Newman in the days before the town was fully established, and the hazards that presented themselves. He stayed in the Jackson Watson camp, as the SMQ had not been built yet. He describes eating at the Bechtel Pacific camp, and comments on how good the food was! He also describes his working conditions and what his job involved.

Tuesday May 12, 2026
Tuesday May 12, 2026
In this podcast Ronnie Wintle, in conversation with Lisa Rickert, describes his initial posting to Hedland as a refrigeration and air con mechanic.

Thursday May 07, 2026
Thursday May 07, 2026
In this podcast Rhonda Chapman, in conversation with Lisa Rickert and Ann Collins, remembers going out bush to camp out, especially at Weeli Wolli. Rhonda and Ann recall the early days of hockey in Newman and how soccer was the first sport played, as many of the participants were of migrant origins.

Thursday May 07, 2026
Thursday May 07, 2026
In this podcast Rhonda Chapman, in conversation with Lisa Rickert and Ann Collins, describes Bill changing from MMA to Ansett and lists some of the staff who worked with Bill. Both Rhonda and Ann describe their membership of the golf club., and also recall some of the celebrities who arrived in Newman, courtesy of Ansett.. They also discuss the beginnings of the Kindergarten in Newman.

Thursday May 07, 2026
Thursday May 07, 2026
In this podcast Rhonda Chapman, in conversation with Lisa Rickert and Ann Collins, recalls her time working in the library and her visits to Jigalong. She remembers her association with St Joseph's Church and also her involvement as treasurer with the Newman Bikies. She also recalls her daughters jobs in Newman. And the team talk about the old shopping centre and what shops were there.

Wednesday May 06, 2026
Wednesday May 06, 2026
In this podcast Rhonda Chapman, in conversation with Lisa Rickert and Ann Collins, recalls moving to Newman and some of the jobs she took on, including Community Welfare, Hospital Admin, and Newman Library. She also recalls Bill's role as JP (as was Peter Collins).

Wednesday May 06, 2026
Wednesday May 06, 2026
In this podcast Rhonda Chapman, in conversation with Lisa Rickert and Ann Collins, describes her early life in the Pilbara towns of Goldsworthy and Port Hedland, as her husband, Bill, worked for MMA.

Monday Mar 02, 2026
Monday Mar 02, 2026
In this podcast Barry Middleton, in conversation with Lisa Rickert, recalls the Market Garden and Animal Farm in Newman. He also tells of his pride in his son Anthony.

Saturday Feb 28, 2026
Saturday Feb 28, 2026
In this podcast Barry Middleton, in conversation with Lisa Rickert, describes the events that were a part of his time at the Lions Club. These included the establishment of the Animal Park, Fortescue Festival, the Fortescue Festival Ball, Scouts and various other involvements around town.


