The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA (CME) congratulates BHP on achieving first ore at its new South Flank mine in WA's Pilbara.
CME Chief Executive Paul Everingham said South Flank provided both a glimpse of the future of mining and insights into current best practice in the sector.
"On behalf of CME, I'd like to congratulate BHP on this significant milestone at what is WA's biggest new iron ore mine for more than 50 years," Mr Everingham said.
"South Flank showcases many aspects of best practice, which not only BHP but CME member companies around the State strive to achieve on a daily basis.
"The diversity of the South Flank workforce, with 40 per cent female and 15 per cent Indigenous operational staff, reflects the changing nature of modern mining workforces.
"It's also extremely pleasing to see the positive relationship BHP has forged with the Banjima people and the more than $1.5 billion in works at South Flank that have been awarded to Pilbara businesses.
"With more than 9000 direct and indirect jobs created during construction and more than 600 operational roles associated with the project, South Flank will continue to generate significant employment opportunities for West Australians."
Mr Everingham said South Flank also highlighted the sector's overriding commitment to working safer, cleaner and smarter.
"The modular construction methods used at South Flank reduced exposure to some of the higher risk construction activities that would traditionally have been involved in a major project like this," Mr Everingham said.
"South Flank has also been designed from the start with a focus on technology and the use of autonomous mining equipment, including haul trucks.
"And the high-quality ore it will produce will provide for a reduction in emissions in the steelmaking processes undertaken by BHP customers."
