Yilgarn iron ore miners form association 7-October-10 by Kym Fuhrmann
Eleven iron ore producers and explorers from Yilgarn's iron province have formed a new alliance to co-operate on rail and other infrastructure.
Cashmere Iron, Cliffs Natural Resources, Fairstar Resources, Golden West Resources, Hawthorn Resources, Legacy Iron Ore, Macarthur Minerals, Mindax, Mineral Resources/Polaris Metals and Transit Holdings agreed to form an association yesterday.
The broad aims of the Yilgarn Iron Producers Association are to promote and develop infrastructure in the region; promote exploration and mining or iron; promote the interests of current and prospective miners in the area; and promote sustainable economic development.
Incoming YIPA chairman Gregory Bromley said, the co-operative development of rail and other infrastructure could turn central Yilgarn into Australia's next big iron ore powerhouse.
He said this would have a significant economic benefit to the Yilgarn-Goldfields-Esperance area.
"Having a concentration of prospective mines in such a small area with 11 billion tonnes plus of ore earmarks the province as one of great potential," said Mr Bromley.
"For example about half a dozen new mines could be serviced by about 160 km of new track plus spurs and we would be working towards upgrading the existing link to Esperance Port and co-operating in the planning issues at the Port.
"YIPA would provide a focus and a forum for co-operation and planning in these areas of common interest."
Mr Bromley praised the inaugural members for their foresight and said the State Government is supportive of the formation of YIPA and keen to assist.
"We have already met senior State officials and expect a solid contribution to WA's future by YIPA Inc".
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