NRW Holdings has won a $176 million contract to provide bulk earthworks and concrete works at BHP’s South Flank iron ore project in the Pilbara, Western Australia.

The contractor, which has an order book of more than $2 billion, forecast that it was well placed to secure contracts on new Pilbara developments last month.

BHP’s $4.5 billion development 120km north-west of Newman has offered the first win in this regard, with the 15-month contract to begin in September.

NRW will require 350 workers for the job and plans to use internally sourced plant and equipment, as well as a range of hired machinery.

Ric Buratto, NRW executive general manager of civil & mining business, commented, “the core project team is in place and key equipment is being made ready for early deployment to the project.”

The contract includes bulk earthworks and concrete for the overland conveyors and primary crushers, together with ancillary works related to non-process infrastructure.

Its bulk earthworks also include access tracks, clearing, pads and diversion drains. The concrete works and associated detailed earthworks involve placement of approximately 14,000m³ of concrete.

NRW chief executive and managing director Jules Pemberton added, “The award of this contract is particularly pleasing given the long standing association of NRW and BHP on resource projects and recognises NRW’s experience and capability in delivering projects in the Pilbara.

“The contract will also provide opportunities for employment and procurement for the areas Traditional Owners and local businesses.”

• [Editor:tianyawei]