Western Australia’s Iron Ore Boom: Aurizon Begins Major New Rail Haulage Contract

Published on November 24, 2025

Aurizon, a leading freight and logistics provider, has officially launched its new iron ore rail services in Western Australia (WA). The trains now operate between Koolyanobbing and the Port of Esperance, marking a significant step forward for the mining and haulage sectors in the region. This new contract is set to run until the end of December 2029, with the capacity to haul up to 4.4 million tonnes per year using Aurizon’s existing rolling stock and infrastructure.

The launch of the service is not only an important development for Aurizon but also a major boost for the Yilgarn Iron Project, led by Yilgarn Iron, which acquired the Yilgarn Iron Ore assets from Mineral Resources in June 2025. These assets include key iron ore deposits such as Koolyanobbing, Carina, and Mt Jackson Range, along with several other historic hematite sites. The strategic investment into the Yilgarn Iron Project and the mining and haulage fleets highlights the company’s commitment to the long-term growth of the region.

A Strategic Move: Aurizon’s Role in Western Australia’s Mining Boom

With the first of the new iron ore rail services successfully delivering shipments on November 15-16, Aurizon is ramping up its operations, with full-capacity 160-wagon trains expected to operate in the coming months. Each of these trains will carry approximately 12,000 tonnes of iron ore per service, a significant contribution to the growing demand for WA’s high-quality ore. By utilizing Aurizon’s existing fleet, the company is able to provide a cost-effective and low-capital solution that leverages its deep operational expertise in the region.

“We are excited to support Yilgarn Iron as they restart operations across the Yilgarn Hub,” said George Lippiatt, Group Executive of Bulk and Containerised Freight at Aurizon. He emphasized the company’s longstanding presence in the area and reaffirmed the commitment to helping unlock future growth for the region. Aurizon’s historical expertise in the Koolyanobbing to Esperance corridor ensures that the service is built on a solid foundation, as the company previously serviced the route for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd and Mineral Resources Ltd.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for the Yilgarn Iron Project. The mining company, led by Fergus Campbell, Managing Director of Yilgarn Iron, has committed to revitalizing the Yilgarn region’s mining potential. Campbell highlighted the positive impact that this collaboration will have on local communities, noting that the Yilgarn and Esperance communities would benefit significantly from the project’s success.

Strengthening Local Economies and Communities

Yilgarn Iron’s investment into the Yilgarn Iron Ore assets signals a strong commitment to both the mining sector and the local economy. The project is expected to generate a substantial number of jobs and provide long-term economic benefits to the region. Beyond the haulage operations, the project will stimulate local businesses and create opportunities for workers in the area, further supporting regional growth.

“We are proud to be part of a project that will drive local employment and contribute to the vitality of regional communities,” said Fergus Campbell, adding that Yilgarn Iron is focused on unlocking the full potential of the Yilgarn’s iron ore resources. This includes a strategic plan to shape a bright future for both the company and its surrounding communities.

The transport of iron ore to the Port of Esperance is a critical part of the export supply chain, as the port is a key gateway for WA’s iron ore exports. The introduction of these rail services will help streamline this process, ensuring that the region’s mining industry can meet growing demand in international markets. As the global economy continues to recover, WA’s iron ore exports are poised to play an essential role in sustaining this momentum.

A Look to the Future: Growth and Investment in WA’s Mining Sector

The Yilgarn Iron Project is just one part of the broader mining boom taking place in Western Australia, particularly in the iron ore sector. With global demand for iron ore remaining strong, especially from key markets such as China, the region’s mining companies are poised for continued growth. Aurizon’s new rail services are positioned to support this growth by providing efficient, reliable transport for one of the world’s most sought-after commodities.

The partnership between Aurizon and Yilgarn Iron underscores the importance of strategic collaborations in driving regional development. By utilizing Aurizon’s existing infrastructure, Yilgarn Iron can move forward with its mining and export operations without the need for significant new capital investment. This approach ensures that the region’s resources can be tapped efficiently, with minimal environmental impact.

As the rail services ramp up and the mining operations in the Yilgarn Hub gain momentum, the economic benefits for Western Australia are expected to be significant. The Yilgarn Iron Project is not just about iron ore; it’s about supporting the long-term prosperity of the region and ensuring that WA remains a global leader in the mining industry.

Conclusion: The Future of Mining in Western Australia

Aurizon’s new iron ore rail services in Western Australia represent a major milestone for both the company and the Yilgarn region. With the backing of Yilgarn Iron, these services will provide the transport capacity needed to meet the growing demand for iron ore, while also creating jobs and supporting local communities. The partnership between these two companies is a powerful example of how industry leaders can collaborate to drive regional development and ensure that Western Australia remains at the forefront of the global mining sector.

As Aurizon continues to expand its operations in the region, the future of mining in Western Australia looks bright, with more opportunities for growth and investment on the horizon.