Our Operations

Learn about our agile operating model, our current projects and how we’re looking to the horizon.

Atlas explores, develops and exports quality Pilbara iron ore like no one else.

We focus on smaller ore bodies and collaborate with contracting partners in a way that adds value for local communities, stakeholders, buyers, partners and government.

OUR OPERATING MODEL

Atlas explores, develops and ships in the direct shipping ore (DSO) format, including Atlas Fines and Atlas Lump. We size and blend ore to the required specifications and export as it is mined.

Our operating model is more agile than that of larger iron ore producers as we focus on mines with smaller footprints, which enables us to provide greater benefits for all. We are not driven to win at any cost – instead, we strongly believe in ensuring win-win benefits for local communities, stakeholders, buyers, partners and government.

We operate a contractor versus owner operated model and are proud of our collaboration with our valued partners across our mining, crushing, screening, haulage and port operations. These partners include NRW, MACA, Rivet Mining Services, MGM Bulk,Qube Bulk, Intertek (laboratory services) and Northern Rise Village Services (Camp service provider). Our employees and contractors meet and work as one team to deliver our quality iron ore products.
View map of our current operations

CURRENT OPERATIONS

Following on from our completed Pardoo, Wodgina, Abydos and Mt Dove mines, Atlas has a number of exciting projects underway to meet global demand for our iron ore.

Mt Webber Mine in operation

Our primary operation, Mt Webber, is situated approximately 230km from the Utah Point stockyard at Port Hedland, producing at around 9 Mtpa per annum. This operation comprises two mining areas: Fender and Daltons. Newly developed Daltons represents 85% of the remaining reserve and is now entering the higher quality benches of stage 2. As with many Pilbara ore bodies, quality is improving with depth. At Mt Webber mining is staged to blend higher and lower quality ores to a consistent product specification.

Corunna Downs Mine under construction

Atlas continues to progress near-term development at Corunna Downs. Corunna Downs is set to provide a significant boost to Atlas’s annual output, with an expected 4-5 Mtpa of lump and fines to be hauled by road to the Utah Point stockyard at Port Hedland. It’s expected that Corunna Downs will add 5 to 6 years to the Atlas value chain, with:

64Mt @ 57.2% Fe Mineral Resource
29Mt @ 57.0% Fe Ore Reserve..

Project tenure has been granted for Corunna Downs, and environmental approvals have been secured. The camp is currently under construction.

Miralga Creek Undergoing statutory approvals and planning

Miralga Creek is an extension of the completed Abydos Mine, and construction is due to commence in mid-2021 subject to project tenure, environmental and statutory approvals. Miralga Creek is expected to provide 9.7 Mt at 57.12% Fe Resource, for a 3-4 years mine life.

FUTURE OPERATIONS

Atlas has been moving from strength to strength in recent years, with a portfolio of exploration and development projects. We have an active exploration program in a range of commodities. Atlas is currently exploring various lithium and other metal opportunities.

McPhee Creek

Atlas is collaborating with other Hancock Prospecting Group companies on long-term growth options, including further study of its McPhee Creek Project. Pre-feasibility studies for development are progressing, with an expected 246.9 Mtpa at 56.3% Fe Mineral Resource and a 20-year mine life.

Ridley Magnetite

The Ridley Magnetite Project is 100% owned by Atlas and ideally located within the Pardoo project area less than 60km from Port Hedland. Atlas is reviewing development potential, with a 2009 pre-feasibility study demonstrating the potential for a large scale, long-life mine with competitive operating costs.

Latest News

November 24, 2020

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Article by Salomae Haselgrove courtesy of Australian Mining

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Mrs Gina Rinehart’s Speech 2020

National Mining and Related Industries Day