Oakajee Port key to Mid West potential

A new deep water port and heavy industry estate at Oakajee, 20km north of Geraldton, is the key to unlocking the Mid West region’s mineral production, processing and export potential.

The proposal is for a port capable of handling more than 40 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), which is targeted to begin operations in 2013 and an appropriately buffered 6500ha industrial estate.

The Department of State Development will co-ordinate the State Government’s participation in the $1.5billion economic development project.

This will include funding construction of common-user infrastructure such as a breakwater, channel, turning basin, and road and utility access to the port and industrial estate.

Individual exporters and industries will construct and operate, or lease wharf, loading and rail facilities.

This project of national significance will trigger a major expansion of mining and processing and create a new industrial province; further securing Western Australia’s economic future.

The Oakajee Port project will bring enormous benefits to Geraldton and communities in the Mid West Region, generating a peak construction workforce of 2000 and an estimated 300 jobs in port and transport operations, and more than 8000 jobs servicing expanded mining and processing activity.

As well as iron ore, with deposits estimated to be capable of producing more than 800mt, the region produces mineral sands, base metals and a range of other mineral and petroleum products.

The Government’s investment in Oakajee signals its commitment to developing the Mid West region and to ensuring open access to infrastructure.

In addition to the social and economic benefits, user charges, sales of industrial land and revenue generated by increased economic activity will reward the public commitment to this project.     

More information about the Western Australia’s Mid West Region is available from the Mid West Development Commission www.mwdc.wa.gov.au