Esperance port’s first shipment marks milestone for new miner

The successful delivery, storage, loading and departure of the vessel marks the first time the port has had two iron ore customers sharing its iron ore circuit assets, including shed space, ship loader and berth.

Gold Valley joined Mineral Resources Limited as the Port of Esperance’s second iron ore customer when a deal was agreed upon with Southern Ports in August.

Delivery of Gold Valley’s iron ore commenced at the start of October with a 900-kilometre journey by truck and rail from the Wiluna West mine site to Esperance ahead of the export.

A vital link in the Port of Esperance’s iron ore circuit was upgraded in the lead up to the milestone shipment through the WA Government’s $2.8 million investment in conveyor replacements.

“Western Australia’s mining industry continues to drive the country’s economy with our ports playing a critical role in connecting trade to the world,” says David Michael, Ports Minister.

“Southern Ports opening its Port of Esperance to a second iron ore customer is another example of how the ports sector is driving economic benefits for the southern regions of our State.

“The WA Government continues to invest in the growth of our ports as part of the vital supply chain that boosts our economy and to deliver when new trade opportunities arise.”

“Attracting Gold Valley’s export task to the Port of Esperance will support the jobs of workers at the port and in the rail freight supply chain,” says Shelley Payne, Agricultural Region MLC.

“It was a proud moment for everyone at Gold Valley to watch the MV Sifnos load with our Wiluna West iron ore before it heads to China,” says Yuzheng Xie, Chairman, Gold Valley.

“Exporting through the Port of Esperance has opened new opportunities for us, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Southern Ports.”