Rio Tinto has opened its latest mining operation in Western Australia’s Pilbara, with the $2 billion project capable of producing 25 million tonnes of iron ore annually.
Launched as part of a 54:46 joint venture between the mining giant and China Baowu Group, Western Range is being lauded as a significant addition to the region.
The new mine will join Rio Tinto’s integrated network of 17 mines, 4 independent port terminals, and a rail network spanning nearly 2000 kilometres in the Pilbara.
Western Range’s development involved building a primary crusher and 18-kilometre conveyor system linked to the existing Paraburdoo processing plant.
It is also expected to sustain the mining hub for up to 20 years, while providing stability for Paraburdoo’s more than 880 residential and FIFO employees.
“Opening Western Range is an important step in Rio Tinto’s extension plans in the Pilbara and ensures the longevity of one of our oldest mining hubs, Paraburdoo, which began operating in 1972,” Rio Tinto chief executive Jakob Stausholm said.
Western Range is Rio Tinto’s first project to feature a co-designed Social, Cultural and Heritage Management Plan (SCHMP) with the Yinhawangka Traditional Owners.
In keeping with the SCHMP, announced in 2022 with the Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation, Western Range has been designed to protect significant cultural and heritage values in the area.
“I’m particularly proud of the work we’ve done with the Yinhawangka People to develop Western Range and we’ll continue to work closely together,” Stausholm said.
Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation Board chairwoman Robyn Hayden said the opening of the mine represented a shift in how their heritage was being recognised.
“We acknowledge the work Rio Tinto has done to change how they engage with us, and the steps they’ve taken to build a stronger, more honest partnership,” Hayden said.
“This is a meaningful beginning — and we stand ready to walk forward together.”
