MinRes awards $24m Onslow Iron contract to Djeleanna
Mineral Resources (MinRes) (ASX: MIN) has awarded a $24m contract to local Indigenous-owned business Djeleanna Pty Ltd (Djeleanna) as part of the flagship Onslow Iron project.
This is the largest contract ever awarded by MinRes to an Indigenous-owned business, with the four-year contract covering exploration earthworks at the Ken’s Bore mine site, east of Onslow, as well as the contraction of access tracks, building drill pads, road maintenance and general earthworks.
MinRes managing director Chris Ellison says the company is proud to partner with Djeleanna.
“Businesses such as Djeleanna [have] such a strong connection to Country and this contract is an example of our commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs,” he said.
“Providing practical guidance and support, such as guaranteeing finance for equipment and plant, helps to build local capability and ensure Indigenous-owned businesses share in our success.”
MinRes general manager communities and heritage Heath Nelson says “supporting Indigenous-owned businesses has a generational impact by building expertise and skills that can be transferred across other industries for decades to come.”
This is the first contract award for Djeleanna, a Robe River Kuruma business.
As part of the contract, Djeleanna will employ approximately 10 people, including a project manager, mechanics, operators and administration staff.
The Robe River Kuruma people are the traditional owners of the land on which the Ken’s Bore mine site is located.
Djeleanna owner Bevan Wally, who grew up on Country, says the business was named after a permanent pool on the Robe River in the Pilbara, WA.
“I grew up on stations and have spent time working as a stockman and bull rider and have a deep understanding of this beautiful, ancient country,” he said.
“The support provided by MinRes has given us the confidence and capacity to help establish and grow our business.
“MinRes have shown us action and given us commitments – it’s unreal for them to invest and give us a go.”
 (ASX: MIN) has awarded a $24m contract to local Indigenous-owned business Djeleanna Pty Ltd (Djeleanna) as part of the flagship Onslow Iron project.){kind=link}