The initial shipment re-ignites activity and creates regional employment opportunities
Yilgarn Iron has shipped the first load from the Port of Esperance, marking a significant uptick in iron ore exports and local job creation in the Goldfields-Esperance region. Over a five-day window, more than 176,000 tonnes of ore were loaded onto the bulk carrier MV Densa Shark and departed for China on the weekend.
When operating at full capacity, Yilgarn Iron aims to export more than four million tonnes annually. This level of production is expected to support the creation of up to 15 new operational roles at the Port of Esperance in early 2026 and lift the port’s workforce by more than one-third.
Transportation of ore from Yilgarn’s mines resumed in September, with the first iron ore trains reaching Esperance last month. This revival helps reestablish the transport corridors that connect the Yilgarn Hub with the port.
The new shipment arrives less than a year after Mineral Resources completed its last export from Koolyanobbing in the Yilgarn Hub, which Yilgarn Iron Investments acquired in June.
Yilgarn Iron is now the second customer to utilize Esperance’s iron ore circuit, joining Gold Valley, which has exported nearly 2.5 million tonnes through the port since its first shipment in October 2024.
Official comments:
Ports and Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
- It is exciting to see iron ore from the Yilgarn Hub moving again through Esperance. Increased activity from multiple customers strengthens the regional economy, creates jobs, and demonstrates Southern Ports’ ongoing progress in broadening trade across the state’s southern regions.
- The Cook Government’s targeted port infrastructure investments—such as advancing the Esperance iron ore circuit—are helping to unlock export and employment opportunities for regional communities.
Mines and Petroleum and Goldfields-Esperance Minister David Michael:
- Strong, efficient supply chains in Goldfields-Esperance have enabled Yilgarn Iron to pick up where the previous operator left off. It’s encouraging to see the logistics come together quickly and to witness further job growth across the region.
- There remains substantial potential in the Yilgarn, and we welcome a new operator driving investment to realize that potential.
Southern Ports Chief Executive Officer Keith Wilks:
- Having Yilgarn Iron as Esperance’s second iron ore exporter, only months after the previous operations paused, is a positive outcome.
- Two customers using the port’s iron ore infrastructure means higher throughput and more loading cycles, which translates to more hours for the local workforce.
- While market swings can be challenging, actively pursuing diversification of customers and cargo helps Southern Ports stay a dependable partner delivering lasting value to regional communities.
Yilgarn Iron Investments Managing Director Fergus Campbell:
- It was a pleasure to witness the loading of our first shipment at Esperance aboard the MV Densa Shark. This milestone is meaningful for Yilgarn Iron Pty Ltd, the Yilgarn region, and the communities of Southern Cross and Esperance.
- Exporting 176,000 tonnes within just under four months of taking control of the Yilgarn Iron Ore project showcases the dedication of our team and our partners, including Southern Ports and Aurizon.
- We look forward to continuing to unlock the value of Yilgarn’s iron ore resources and contributing positively to the company, the country, and the community for many years to come.
