CSI Mining Services (CSI) has used a 330t payload road train to transport bauxite ore for Rio Tinto’s Weipa project for the first time.
The contract marks several milestones for CSI, including its first project in Queensland, the first time operating at a bauxite mine site and the first time utilising multiple quad road trains.
As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mineral Resources (MinRes), CSI is a provider of pit-to-ship solutions for MinRes and Tier 1 mining clients.
MinRes’ Chief Executive Mining Services, Mike Grey, said it’s been a busy time for the team since being awarded the contract in early 2024 and commencing operations in May 2024.
“CSI has worked closely with Rio Tinto to transport the Kenworth C509 quad road trains from Western Australia to Queensland, with them being transported via a roll-on, roll-off vessel to Weipa and then driven 30km to the Andoom mine site.
“This includes transporting the road trains across the single-lane, narrow Weipa Mission Bridge, requiring a high level of planning, coordination and teamwork with Rio Tinto.
“This marks an exciting time of growth for CSI and we are proud to build on our longstanding relationship with Rio Tinto.”
CSI is operating the quad road trains from the Andoom mine site at Weipa via two haul routes. MC drivers were recruited from Weipa, Cairns and surrounding areas, with drivers offered permanent jobs.
Featured image: CSI road train crossing the Weipa Mission Bridge. Image credit: Mineral Resources.
