Rio Tinto, a British-Australian multinational company and the world's second largest metals and mining corporation, announced the commencement of works on the Norman Creek access at its Amrun bauxite mine in Queensland's Cape York Peninsula.
Work is underway on the project following approval of a USD 180 million investment, enabling access to the Norman Creek region's 978 million tonnes of ore reserves. Initial production is targeted for 2027. As of now, the firm has initiated early works and a final feasibility study for the Kangwinan project, aimed at boosting its annual bauxite production capacity.
This initiative unlocks around 466 million tonnes of high-grade bauxite, almost half of Amrun's 978 million tonne declared reserves, averaging 54.4 per cent alumina. Infrastructure works are already underway, including construction of a 19 km haul road, accommodation facilities and a communications tower, with production slated to commence in 2027 and full construction completion expected by 2028.
Armando Torres, Rio Tinto Pacific Operations Aluminium Managing Director, stated, "Norman Creek is another important step in securing the long-term future of our Weipa operations, and the benefits that mining brings to communities in the region, Queensland, and the nation. It will maintain jobs in the region through to at least the middle of this century, ensuring continuity for our people and the Weipa community."
In addition, the company has also commenced early works and a final feasibility study for the Kangwinan project, designed to enhance its annual bauxite production capacity. The project could boost annual bauxite production capacity from the firm's Weipa Southern operations by up to 20 million tonnes, up from the current 23 million tonnes.
If approved, Kangwinan would replace output from the Andoom mine in Queensland and the Gove mine in the Northern Territory, both slated for closure towards the end of the decade, with first production anticipated as early as 2029.
The Norman Creek investment is expected to be classified as replacement capital and is included in the group's capital guidance. These strategic investments reinforce Rio Tinto's position as the world's largest bauxite producer while supporting its decarbonisation objectives.
Also read: Rio Tinto Q2: Bauxite hits highs, aluminium rises, alumina slips slightly
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