Indigenous-owned business Coolingah will deliver the dry hire of three coaches to service Mineral Resources’ (MinRes) Wodgina lithium mine in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Under the five-year contract, a fleet of 57-seat coaches will be leased to transfer MinRes’ workforce across the Wodgina mine site. The coaches arrived on site during NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee) Week , which took place July 7–14.
Coolingah is owned and operated by Patricia Mason, a Kariyarra Elder. The Kariyarra People live near Port Hedland, which Wodgina is situated around 120km south from.
“Thank you to MinRes for believing in me and my family, and for your support making this contract possible,” Mason said.
“MinRes sees value in supporting Indigenous businesses and helping them grow and reach their potential. This contract helps open the door to future opportunities. I set up Coolingah to provide something to pass onto my children and grandchildren – this business is their future.”
MinRes general manager communities and heritage Heath Nelson said the company is committed to empowering local Indigenous businesses and their growth.
“We are proud of the close partnerships MinRes has formed with a range of Indigenous businesses, including Coolingah, which is owned and operated by a Traditional Owner on lands where we operate,” Nelson said.
“Last financial year, MinRes significantly increased our Indigenous business spend compared to the year prior and we are committed to continuing to increase our spend by identifying Indigenous businesses to work with and support in achieving their goals.
“By collaborating with Indigenous businesses, we not only support their economic growth but also contribute to the social and cultural wellbeing of the communities.”
In May, MinRes awarded a transport contract to Indigenous-owned Robe River Services for its Onslow Iron project in WA.
The five-year contract is for the lease of four 57-seat coaches to transport workers from the Ken’s Bore mine site.
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