Land Surveys is proud to have contributed to the successful delivery of Western Range.

Land Surveys is proud to have contributed to the successful delivery of Western Range.

The scale of the project is immense, involving the construction of new mine pits, a ROM (Run of Mine) pad, a primary crusher, 17km of overland conveyor, two transfer stations, and various NPI (Non-Process Infrastructure) facilities such as workshops, offices, and mine support service centres. Additionally, the project includes upgrades to COS (Coarse Ore Stockpile) and mine site roads.

Rio Tinto, in partnership with Baowu, developed Western Range — a 25 million tonne per annum iron ore project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

Western Range will sustain the current production at Paraburdoo and support the township’s livelihood for many years to come.

Mining at Western Range commenced in June 2024, with high-grade ore being trucked to Paraburdoo while construction of the new crushing and conveying circuit progressed.

First ore through the new crushing and conveying system was achieved on 25 March 2025.

This video captures the journey from site establishment to first ore, and recognises the significant contributions of the project team, contracting partners and all stakeholders who have supported us along the way.

The project is located on the land and waters of the Yinhawangka people, the first custodians of this region. We recognise their ongoing connection to Country, value the opportunity to enter and work on Yinhawangka Country, and the important role that Traditional Owners play in delivering the project.