NRW Holdings has been awarded the contract for bulk earthworks and concrete works at BHP’s Western Australian South Flank Precinct Project.
Works to be undertaken by NRW include concrete for the project’s overland conveyors and primary crushers, along with ancillary works relating to non-process infrastructure. The South Flank Precinct is located approximately 120kms north-west of Newman in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. The South Flank project will fully replace production from the 80 Mtpa (100 per cent basis) Yandi mine which is ‘reaching the end of its economic life’.
Bulk earthworks also include access tracks, clearing, pads and diversion drains. According to NRW, the company’s work on the South Flank Precinct Project also include the placement of approximately 14,000 cubic metres of concrete. The contract is valued at approximately $176 million and is expected to run for up to 15 months. The company has stated that at the peak of construction, over 350 workers will be required on site.
“The award of this contract is particularly pleasing given the long-standing association of NRW and BHP on resource projects and recognises NRW’s experience and capability in delivering projects in the Pilbara. The contract will also provide opportunities for employment and procurement for the area’s Traditional Owners, and local businesses,” announced NRW CEO and Managing Director, Jules Pemberton.
Ric Buratto, Executive General Manager for NRW, also added that the ‘core project team is already in place and key equipment is currently being made ready for early deployment to the project’.
The contract is set to commence on site in September this year.
First ore from South Flank is targeted in the 2021 calendar year, with the project expected to produce ore for more than 25 years.