Iron Ore
- Iron is the most useful metal known - we use 20 times more iron, in the form of steel, than all other metals put together.
- Western Australia's large deposits of iron ore were identified well over a century ago. In the 1890's, the WA government geologist stated that the Pilbara had enough iron ore to supply the whole world "but iron ore has no value" hence the observation was not followed up. It wasn't until 1945 that the first iron ore was mined in the state at North Windaring, near Southern Cross, to supply a small charcoal-iron plant at Wundowie.
- Iron ore mining operations are highly mechanized using sophisticated technology. The ore is mined from large open pits, crushed and then transported hundreds of kilometres by rail to ports. At the port, different types of iron ore are often blended together before being shipped overseas or interstate for processing.
- The industry has grown to become the most valuable mineral commodity sector. It enjoyed a surge in value during 2007, growing 9 per cent to a record $16.1 billion in annual sales revenue.
- Key trends indicate continued demand for Western Australia's iron ore. China, now accounting for over half of the State's export sales, will continue to be crucial in driving the growth of iron ore production in Western Australia.
To download a copy of the Iron Ore fact sheet click here.
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| Major Mineral and Petroleum Projects in Western Australia (530.84 KB .pdf) |
