Connectivity and community have been the core mantra of Swift Networks, and Cherratta Lodge in Karratha, Western Australia, serves as a case study for how thoughtful design and embedded cultural connections can re-imagine remote living.
In the heart of the outback town, Swift sees Cherratta, its newest client, as a model of how accommodation providers can “evolve” with the mining industry’s changing expectations.
What began as a 54-room side project between four partners has since grown into an international-standard certified, 162-room lodge, and one of the Pilbara’s most “forward-thinking” providers of workforce accommodation.
Cherratta Lodge co-founder and chief executive officer (CEO) Malcolm Wylie said as the needs of the industry shifted, he and the team realised a different approach was needed.
“From catering and facilities management through to direct relationships with our clients and suppliers, [we needed] to deliver the quality and flexibility companies required,” he said.
Defining what matters most
A hands-on approach has defined Cherratta’s success, with a focus on what matters the most: investments in its people, its facility, and sustainable partnerships.
In contrast to the “traditional mining camp”, Cherratta carries the essence of a resort rather than a remote village. Guests arrive at landscaped grounds, palm-lined walkways, a shaded pool and cabana, and modern fitness and dining spaces.
“We wanted to soften the experience,” Wylie said.
“Mining villages can feel isolated, cold and sterile; Cherratta is designed to be somewhere people actually want to stay.”
Swift Network’s role in Cherratta proves to be just as crucial as the other factors of the accommodation, with Swift TV’s specialised niche in remote entertainment and communication allowing seamless connectivity between management and guests.
“From a compliance point of view, it’s a game changer,” Wylie said. “Cyclone alerts, muster points, and policy reminders can be delivered instantly to every room.”
Co-owner Aaron Polini said it’s about improving communications and easy access to information.
“People can access everything they need, from safety updates to local events, right from their rooms,” he said.
With support for personalised experiences, Polini added that the accommodation’s goal is for guests to check in and “be welcomed by name”, with settings that remember their preferences throughout their stay and on their return.
“That sense of recognition matters when you spend so much time away from home,” he said.
Housing these entertainment consoles are rooms that feature queen-sized beds, carpeted floors, and sound attenuated walls, addressing what Cherratta said are some of the biggest challenges of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) life.
“I’ve lived in camps since I was 16; we’ve solved the problems that make life on site hard, from noise to comfort, one by one,” Wylie said.
Polini added that the design also reflects an understanding that wellbeing is personal.
“Some of our guests want quiet space, others prefer connection,” he said.
“We’ve considered this in our village design, and created areas that cater to both, so everyone feels considered.”
Partnerships and connection
Swift Networks has also worked to embed culture and strength local partnerships.
In recent years, the business has deepened its connection to Country and community, becoming a traditional owner-aligned business through welcoming Ngarluma Elder Harr Mowarin as a shareholder and owner.
“We’ve always believed the best results come from empowering our community to work with Cherratta by building long-term personal relationships,” Polini said. “That includes our local workforce and our suppliers.”
The focus has shifted from employment numbers to sustainable Indigenous business development, partnering with Indigenous enterprises to make a “longer-lasting” impact.
“When we support a business to meet our compliance and safety standards, they can employ more people and grow,” he said. “It’s about building commercial strength that lasts.”
Indigenous contractors now contribute to the Lodge’s evolving Cultural and Heritage Trail, which connects guests to the region.
“Our logo, our stories, even the pathways across the site reflect connection, to people, to Country and to industry,” Wylie said.
“It’s about sharing history and creating a deeper sense of belonging, empathy and understanding.”
Sustainability and well-being are also a core part of Cherratta’s business process, with achieving net zero by 2025 through a multi-year R&D solar energy and storage program with universities and local partners leading the way.
“It’s all of the small things; reducing the use of single-use items, reuse and recycle, take shorter showers, or adjust air-conditioning to 24 degrees when away,” Polini said.
Looking ahead, Cherratta, alongside Swift, looks to build on this momentum of connection and culture, to cultivate a future of prosperity not just for them, but also for their guests.
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