First Nations business to deliver critical port upgrades

Work has started on upgrading conveyor infrastructure at the Port of Esperance after Southern Ports awarded a $2.4 million contract to Aboriginal company First Nation Engineering.

The conveyor, known as CV26, has a vital role in facilitating up to 11.5 million tonnes of iron ore exports each year, as part of the Port’s iron ore circuit.

Southern Ports Chief Executive Officer Keith Wilks said upgrades to critical infrastructure across its regional ports are essential to maintaining and growing trade and he’s pleased to work with First Nations Engineering to do so.

“Ports by their very nature are exposed to harsh coastal conditions which means that to get the most out of our assets, we need to regularly maintain and upgrade them,” said Mr Wilks.

First Nation Engineering is the latest Aboriginal company to work directly with Southern Ports.

“We’re currently undertaking our largest capital works program in our history which has involved working with a number of local and Indigenous contractors and partners,” said Mr Wilks.

“And we’re thrilled to have First Nation Engineering onboard for the first time.”

The contract will involve the replacement of four conveyor galleries, with like-for-like components fabricated offsite to help minimise disruptions at the Port.

First Nation Engineering is an incorporated company established by Carey Group and CPC Engineering who have a common vision for sustainable business and Indigenous participation.

First Nation Engineering General Manager Jo Abraham said it’s the first time the business has worked with Southern Ports, however both parent companies have a long history with undertaking quality work across Southern Ports’ operations.

“We’re excited to be working with an organisation that plays such a vital role in regional WA and that is backing our vision to develop an exceptional First Nations engineering company,” said Ms Abraham.

“Our team has started the fabrication process and we’re preparing for mobilisation and installation later this year.”

Once fabricated, the components will be transported by road to Esperance in July and August ahead of the September installation.