Article by Matt Mckenzie courtesy of Business News.
Atlas Iron’s Miralga Creek mine has produced its first iron ore, with the project built by a joint venture including Indigenous contractor East West Pilbara.
The mine, which is 100 kilometres south east of Port Hedland, will truck about 8 million tonnes of iron ore through its lifetime.
East West Pilbara undertook civil and construction works through a joint venture with Ozland, and will be involved in ongoing operations at the mine.
The business is owned by members of the Nyamal community.
Atlas is part of the Hancock Prospecting business of entrepreneur Gina Rinehart, and operates two other iron ore mines at Mount Weber and Sanjiv Ridge.
Atlas chief executive Sanjiv Manchanda said it was a significant milestone.
“The EWP contract shows how commercial relationships can provide pathways for joint prosperity as they deliver value for both parties and are linked to a productive enterprise,” he said.
