Port of Esperance welcomes new iron ore exporter

The Port of Esperance has welcomed a new iron ore exporter that will boost iron ore trade by up to 1.5mtpa.

In a new agreement with Southern Ports, Gold Valley Iron Ore will be granted access to critical iron ore infrastructure at the port, including rail receival facilities, conveyors, shed space and the ship loader.

This marks the first time a second customer has been able to access the iron ore circuit through the port and the first from the Wiluna area. Additionally, long-term customer Mineral Resources will continue to export through the shared infrastructure at the port.

Gold Valley Iron Ore is expected to export its first shipment from the Port of Esperance in September 2024.

WA Ports Minister David Michael says opening the port to a second exporter will be positive to the State’s economy.

“Opening up Port of Esperance infrastructure to a second exporter will see iron ore trade capacity maximised, resulting in a positive boost to the WA economy,” he said.

“I am pleased to see the use of the rail system for this trade, which would otherwise be trucked by road to the Port of Geraldton.

“Unlocking this groundbreaking new opportunity at the Port of Esperance is back by continued investments in our regional ports.”

WA Agricultural Minister Shelley Payne says this is a huge win for the region.

“The Port of Esperance is a vital cog in the regional economy, so this is a huge win for the local community and the wider Goldfields-Esperance region,” she said.

“Iron ore has been a vital trade commodity through Esperance port for 30 years and it is great to see that a second iron exporter has been secured.”