Argimin can now export future sulphate of potash (SOP) products through the Wyndham Port following the Western Australian and Federal Governments granting it first point of entry last week.
The first point of entry will allow international vessels and goods to enter Wyndham Port, as well as facilitate the import and export of sea containers through the installation of supporting infrastructure, providing a more direct pathway for international shipping and saving businesses transport costs and time.
“We always look for ways to support businesses and communities – which is why the changes to first port of entry will make a huge difference across the east Kimberley and Pilbara, shoring up local jobs and supply chains,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
Argimin worked closely with the WA and Federal Governments, industry bodies and potential future port users to ensure Wyndham Port received the key designation.
Argimin advocated for the status as it advanced its Mackay potash project, which is forecast to be the world’s lowest cost producer of SOP and currently contains a drainable mineral resource of 123 million tonnes. Potash is a key component in fertilisers.
The project comprises a mine, processing plant, integrated logistics chain and port facility, and includes the proposed construction of a 346km haul road, joining the Tanami Road and Great Northern Highway, to create a fully sealed transport corridor from Lake Mackay to the Wyndham Port.
Argimin managing director and chief executive officer Debbie Morrow said the Wyndham Port offers the most proximate port for the company to export its targeted future use-ready SOP products from Lake Mackay.
“The proposal by Agrimin to build a 346km haul road and export north has excellent potential to stimulate significant regional development and employment opportunities along the planned contiguous 941km sealed transport corridor including Kiwirrkurra, Balgo, Halls Creek, Kununurra and Wyndham,” Morrow said.
“To support this strategy Agrimin has executed option agreements to purchase (three) portside landholdings, delivering the opportunity to secure full mine-to-ship logistics control.”
These agreements were executed with Argimin’s haulage joint venture partner Newhaul Bulk.
Lot 701 will contain Mackay’s potash storage sheds, conveyor and jetty, while lots 713 and 714 are expected to accommodate Newhaul Bulk’s administration office, workshop and parts store, refuelling and wash facilities, hardstand for truck parking, driver training facilities and other associated infrastructure to support the Mackay haulage operation.
“Designation of Wyndham Port as a first point of entry is expected to bolster export optionality with higher container loads,” Morrow said.
“Critically, it provides Agrimin with the opportunity to import construction and operations equipment, materials, fuel and consumables via Wyndham – a dynamic that offers significant de-risking and reliability enhancement over project life.
“Coupled with the planned fully sealed transport corridor, it is designed to minimise reliance on unsealed roads and significantly longer transport options.”
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