• First Mineral Resources Ltd iron ore shipment departs Esperance Port
• McGowan Government-secured deal protected hundreds of jobs in the region 

About 110,000 tonnes of iron ore has departed Esperance Port, marking the recommencement of trade that has secured almost 500 jobs in the regions.

The shipment, loaded onto bulk carrier MV Birte Oldendorff, continued more than 20 years of iron ore trade in Esperance.

It was made possible by a McGowan Government-secured deal to assist Mineral Resources to acquire the Koolyanobbing iron ore mine, after former owner Cleveland-Cliffs shut down operations earlier this year.

Mineral Resources expects to export up to 6.25 million tonnes per annum over the next five years. The deal has helped secure about 100 port jobs, and an additional 400 jobs in mine and rail operations.

The Government has committed to time-limited royalty relief in relation to the Koolyanobbing iron ore mine, as well as reduced port charges.

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"The arrangement with Mineral Resources was all about protecting the local workforce and ensuring that mining operations continue in Esperance.

"Having met with many of the workers at the port, I know that they are relieved we've been able to secure this outcome and I expect they will be happy to have seen this shipment depart the port."

Comments attributed to Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan:

"This is a fantastic outcome for the entire local community, Esperance Port and Mineral Resources.

"The McGowan Government's support ensured that iron ore mining and exports continued in the region, and has protected hundreds of local jobs.

"Today's shipment will bring some Christmas cheer to communities in Esperance and the Yilgarn region, and we look forward to continuing to support the iron ore industry out of Esperance."

Premier's office - 6552 5000

Ports Minister's office - 6552 6200