Lamb Creek will be an open pit mine with a capacity of 7.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) and is expected to extend the Pilbara Hub’s current production profile by over five years, with an improved cost profile.
The operation is strategically located just 50km from the business’ Iron Valley operation, with product from both sites to be blended and hauled to Utah Point for export through the Port of Port Hedland.
Map of Pilbara operations
MinRes’ in-house Engineering and Construction teams have now commenced construction of the mine and supporting infrastructure, including a 16km haul road and crushing plant.
This unique internal capability will help fast-track speed to market, with first ore from Lamb Creek targeted in Q4 FY26.
MinRes Chief Executive Iron Ore Chris Soccio said Lamb Creek would extend the company’s operations in the Pilbara.
“Developing Lamb Creek supports our five-year outlook for the Pilbara Hub, which plays an important role in our iron ore portfolio,” Chris said.
“I extend my thanks to the countless MinRes staff who have played a role in bringing Lamb Creek to life – for many, this project has taken years of hard work, approvals and planning.”
“It’s also important to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Lamb Creek sits – the Banjima People – with whom we have a strong relationship thanks to early and ongoing consultation.”
The development of Lamb Creek also involves the winding-down of the current Wonmunna iron ore operation.
All Wonmunna-based staff will transfer to Lamb Creek once operational, with no impact to jobs anticipated.
MinRes acquired Wonmunna from the Australian Aboriginal Mining Corporation in FY21 as an undeveloped project, delivering first ore just five months after construction began.
In the time since, MinRes has developed the operation, mining nine pits and exporting more than 26 million tonnes (Mt).
In August this year, MinRes released maiden Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves statements for the Pilbara Hub, demonstrating Mineral Resources of 161Mt at 57.0% Fe and Ore Reserves of 51Mt at 57.5% Fe.
The Pilbara Hub has production guidance of 9-10Mtpa for FY26.
Learn more about MinRes’ Iron Ore business.
