The last resident remaining in the asbestos-contaminated town of Wittenoom, 80-year-old Lorraine Thomas, has been evicted from her home.
Her daughter, Aileen Thomas, said bailiffs and government officials arrived at the property without warning on Thursday.
Aileen said her mother struggled to comprehend the situation when she was told to pack up and go.
"I've spoken to her, she's very upset and distraught, she did not quite understand what was happening," she said.
Lorraine had been ordered to leave the town on August 31, but missed that deadline due to what the family described as personal circumstances.
'Wasn't necessary'
Aileen said her mother was preparing to move before authorities arrived and that the sudden eviction caused unnecessary stress.
"We could have done it in our own time, our own way, without all the stress and the hassle and the people telling her to up her pack things and get out, then having to watch our house being boarded up," she said.
"I'm devastated because this wasn't necessary to put mum through this.
"It could have been left alone for a couple more days."
Aileen believes her mother will be relocated to Port Hedland, where she lives.
She understands her mother will be allowed to visit the town at a later date to collect any belongings left behind and say a proper goodbye.
"We've been assured that we can go back, that they will un-board it," she said.
"[We will] try to get down, say goodbye to her husband – that's my stepdad – in the cemetery and move on with our lives."
WA Lands Minister John Carey has been contacted for comment.
