Final go ahead for development of lead-zinc mine in Kimberley

29/7/97

The final go-ahead has been given by the board of Western Metals to develop a new lead-zinc mine in the Kimberley.

Situated 40km south east of Fitzroy Crossing, the new Pillara mine, when fully developed, will be one of Australia's biggest underground mining complexes.

Welcoming the decision to develop the new $100 million mine, Resources Development Minister Colin Barnett said it would be a great economic benefit to the Kimberley region.

"In addition to providing employment in the area, it is also revitalising the port of Derby, which is destined to become the biggest port in the Kimberley, handling 400,000 tonnes of concentrate annually for Western Metals," Mr Barnett said.

"This new development makes Western Metals one of the biggest employers in the Kimberley region.

"It will create more than 300 jobs during construction and add another 180 positions to Western Metals' current permanent workforce of 140 people."

Media contact: Peter Harris (08) 9222 9699