MACA was proud to join Hancock Prospecting at the official opening of the McPhee Creek Mine in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, marking a significant milestone for one of the region’s newest iron ore operations.
Since being awarded the contract in 2023, MACA has played a key role in bringing the project from development into production. The scope of work has included infrastructure development, drill and blast, load and haul, pit dewatering and maintenance services, supporting the achievement of first ore in June.
With an expected mine life of approximately 15 years, McPhee Creek is forecast to produce around eight million tonnes of iron ore each year, contributing to the long-term growth of Pilbara iron ore production.
The official opening was attended by Hancock Prospecting and Hancock Iron Ore Executive Chairman Mrs Gina Rinehart AO, who reflected on the project’s journey from concept to production.
“The journey to get here has not been short. Feasibility work began in early 2019, the project was approved by the Hancock board in 2021, but final federal approval was not received until September 2024. Yet, once our people were able to get on with the job, first ore followed only around 19 months after construction commenced,” Mrs Rinehart said.
To mark the occasion, Mrs Rinehart unveiled a commemorative plaque and planted a bougainvillea at the camp before thanking MACA and other project partners for their contribution to bringing the mine into production.
MACA was represented at the opening by McPhee Creek Mining Superintendent Konrad Schlapfer and HSEQ Advisor Tatiana Rogala.
MACA looks forward to continuing its work at McPhee Creek, building on a long-standing relationship with Hancock Prospecting that spans more than 15 years and includes major Pilbara operations at Sanjiv Ridge and Miralga Creek.
