Rio debuts newest iron ore mine

Rio Tinto (ASX: RIO) and China Baowu Group have officially opened their joint venture, 54% and 46% owned respectively, the Western Range iron ore mine in the Pilbara region in WA.

The $3b project, completed on time and within budget, is anticipated to provide stability for Paraburdoo’s more than 880 residential and FIFO employees.

It also supports the ongoing viability of Paraburdoo town and strengthens the WA and national economies through royalties and taxes.

The opening of the site follows the completion of construction on the primary crusher and an 18km conveyor system linking to the existing Paraburdoo processing plant.

Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King says the opening is fantastic news for the Pilbara, Western Australians and Traditional Owners.

“The Pilbara is the engine room of the nation’s economy,” she said.

“Projects like Western Range will keep that engine running for future generations of Australians.”

Western Range is Rio’s first project to feature a co-designed social, cultural and heritage management plan (SCHMP) with the Yinhawangka Traditional Owners.

The SCHMP was announced in 2022, and the site has been designed to protect significant cultural and heritage values in the area.

Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation board chairwoman Robyn Hayden says this is a meaningful beginning.

“The opening of the Western Range mine represents a shift in how our heritage is being recognised and respected,” she said.

“We acknowledge the work Rio Tinto has done to change how they engage with us, and the steps they’ve taken to build a stronger, more honest partnership.”

The partnership between Rio and Baowu began in the Pilbara with the 2002 Bao-HI joint venture to develop the Eastern Range deposits in the Hamersley Ranges.

Rio Tinto chief executive Jakob Stausholm says the company will continue to work closely with the Yinhawangka People and Baowu to develop the Western Range.

“Opening Western Range is an important step in Rio Tinto’s extension plans in the Pilbara and ensures the longevity of one of our oldest mining hubs, Paraburdoo, which began operating in 1972,” he said.

“Partnering with Baowu ensures our biggest customer directly benefits with a consistent, dedicated supply of Rio Tinto’s world leading Pilbara Blend iron ore.”

First ore was processed through the Western Range system in late March this year.