Mineral Resources (MinRes) has contracted an Indigenous-owned business for utility services at its accommodation villages across Western Australia.
The miner recently marked a milestone at its 500-room fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) accommodation at Ken’s Bore, with the first round of FIFO residents moving in to work at the Onslow iron ore project.
Now MinRes is continuing to turn its attention to the community with an aim to support Indigenous-led businesses.
BriJarCass Security secured the four-year contract at the company’s accommodation sites, as MinRes gears up for first production at Onslow Iron in 2024.
The apartment-like rooms at Ken’s Bore, known as pods, are three times the size of traditional FIFO accommodation and feature a queen size bed, laundry, ensuite and a balcony with barbecue.
The pods have been designed to be suitable for singles or couples, with the aim of encouraging a more diverse workforce at the project.
BriJarCass, which was established in Onslow in 2010, provides employment opportunities for Indigenous people, with a particular focus on Thalanyji people local to the area.
BriJarCass project manager Hayley Hayes said the contract was a fantastic opportunity for the company to grow.
“We are looking forward to expanding and can’t wait for the future, which is looking really bright,” she said.
“We are currently recruiting for people to join our team to provide utility services at Ken’s Bore mine site and strongly encourage Indigenous people to apply.”
MinRes general manager communities and heritage Heath Nelson said the contract was an opportunity for MinRes to show its support for the community by partnering with an Indigenous business.
“MinRes is committed to supporting Indigenous companies and building long-term relationships with tangible outcomes,” he said.
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