Atlas Iron and BHP spent much of the first half of 2011 locked in talks over access to the infrastructure but negotiations broke down.
While BHP could return Yarrie to production - it would not comment on the future of the line if the mine was permanently mothballed - Mt Goldsworthy may still be an option for Atlas as it seeks a haulage deal for some of its undeveloped Pilbara assets.
Atlas' McPhee Creek and Corunna Downs deposits are about 120km south of Yarrie, making its rail line a potential transport option for Atlas if a linking route could be found.
AGO Price at posting:
$1.01 Sentiment: None Disclosure: Held