MinRes marks major milestone at Lamb Creek

Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN) has broken ground at its Lamb Creek iron ore project, following the receipt of all regulatory approvals. 

Just 50km from Minres’ Iron Valley operations, Lamb Creek will be an open pit mine with a capacity of 7.5mtpa and is expected to extend the Pilbara hub’s current production profile by more than five years, with an improved cost profile. 

The development of Lamb Creek also involves the winding-down of the current Wonmunna iron ore operation. All Wonmunna-based staff will transfer to Lamb Creek once operational, with no impact to jobs anticipated. 

In August this year, MinRes released maiden mineral resources and ore reserves for the Pilbara hub of 161mt at 57.0% iron and for 51mt at 57.5% iron. 

MinRes iron ore chief executive Chris Soccio says Lamb Creek will extend the company’s operations in the Pilbara. 

“Developing Lamb Creek supports our five-year outlook for the Pilbara Hub, which plays an important role in our iron ore portfolio,” he said. 

“I extend my thanks to the countless MinRes staff who have played a role in bringing Lamb Creek to life — for many, this project has taken years of hard work, approvals and planning. 

“It’s also important to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Lamb Creek sits — the Banjima People — with whom we have a strong relationship thanks to early and ongoing consultation.” 

Product from both Lamb creek and Iron Valley will be blended and hauled to Utah Point for export through the Port of Port Hedland. 

MinRes’ in-house engineering and construction teams have now commenced construction of the mine and supporting infrastructure, including a 16km haul road and crushing plant.