Kimberley Mineral Sands has struck a new agreement with the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley for continued and expanded access to the Port of Derby.
At minimum, the port access agreement will remain valid until mid-2040, allowing Kimberley Mineral Sands long-term access to port infrastructure and Port of Derby’s bulk handling facility.
The company said the agreement would support the future export of product from its Thunderbird Mineral Sands Project, which exports high grade mineral sands from northern Western Australia.
Kimberley Mineral Sands is a 50:50 joint venture between parent company’s Sheffield Resources and Yansteel.
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley President, Geoff Haerewa, said the new agreement would be more sustainable than previous agreements and would improve the local economy.
“We look forward to seeing the flow-on benefits to our local businesses that will have the opportunity to contract directly with the Thunderbird mines operations,” Mr Haerewa said.
“For not only does the new agreement apply widespread economic and employment benefits, but will also — once exports commence — reduce the Shire’s financial contributions at the Derby Port.
“This new agreement includes a doubling of the export charge tonnage rate and also requires Kimberley Mineral Sands to undertake additional maintenance on the part of the jetty it is leasing.
“This will enable the Shire to potentially reallocate funds previously spent on jetty operation costs to other important community initiatives.
“We are looking forward to exports commencing in 2024 to realise these benefits.”
Feature Image: Shire of Derby/West Kimberley Shire President, Geoff Haerewa (centre),
and representatives of Kimberley Mineral Sands. Photo: Sheffield Resources.
