The Foundation’s first education project, Gumala Mirnuwarni, was established in Karratha/Roebourne in 1997. The project is a partnership between The Graham (Polly) Farmer Foundation, the Western Australian Department of Education and Training, the Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, Rio Tinto Iron Ore, Rio Tinto (WA) Future Fund, North West Shelf Venture Partners, and local community members.

The "Gumala Mirnuwarni" (Coming Together to Learn) project had been operating since 1997.

STEERING COMMITTEE
A Steering Committee oversees the project and provides strategic level management. The Steering Committee includes representatives from all Partnership organisations:
• The Graham (Polly) Farmer Foundation
• The Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace   Relations
• The Western Australian Department of Education and Training
• Rio Tinto Iron Ore
• Rio Tinto (WA) Future Fund
• North West Shelf Venture Partners
• Community members

STUDENTS AND THEIR ENRICHMENT CENTRE
The Partnership operates from facilities supplied by the Rio Tinto Iron Ore which includes study, tutoring, internet and kitchen facilities. Students attend for a minimum of two and maximum of four afternoons per week.  Enrichment and extension activities occur during some weekends and holiday periods. All students have an Individual Learning Plan and associated personal tutors.

The 41 students come from two public and one private secondary school.  Since its inception in 1997 the Partnership has graduated 64 students, 25 of whom have gained Tertiary Entrance, 28 of whom have gained traineeships/apprenticeships or entry to TAFE and 11 to direct employment.

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