BHP opens iron ore mine of the future
BHP has officially opened it’s $4.6 billion South Flank iron ore mine in the central Pilbara. It will be one of the largest operating iron ore hubs in the world expected to produce 145 million tonnes of iron ore each year, created over 9,000 jobs during construction and expected to provide more than 600 operational roles through it’s life. The Investment driven project is to support WA jobs and businesses whilst boost the economy.
As a technically advanced high-quality iron ore mine, its operations integrate the latest advances in autonomous-ready fleets, digital connectivity and modular design.
The ore from South Flank will supply global steel markets for the next 25 years, helping to build electricity, transport and urban infrastructure around the world. It was in May 2021 that BHP announced that the mine had successfully produced its first ore.
More than $4.6 billion (US $3.6 billion) of works have been awarded for the South Flank project with 41 per cent awarded to Western Australian businesses, including 37 per cent committed to businesses in the Pilbara region.
The project included an 80 million tonnes per annum crushing and screening plant, an overland conveyor system, stockyard and train loading facilities, procurement of a new mining fleet and substantial mine development and pre-strip work.
South Flank’s workforce is diverse and highly skilled, with 40 per cent female and 15 per cent indigenous operational staff.
Premier Mark McGowan says “The opening of BHP’s $4.6 billion South Flank mine is an example of how Western Australia’s resources sector is planning for the future and that WA is a secure and attractive place to invest.
