Fortescue supports local employment

Local service providers Force Equipment, WesTrac and Komatsu were jointly awarded a AUS$35 million service contract to conduct maintenance on Fortescue’s heavy mobile equipment in Port Hedland. Previously, the vehicles and machinery were transported to Perth for repairs, a 3200 km return trip.

CEO, Elizabeth Gaines said, “Fortescue is committed to creating economic opportunities in the Pilbara through engagement with regionally based businesses and supporting local jobs.”

“Thriving businesses are fundamental to the economic prosperity of our communities and basing the maintenance of our heaving mobile equipment in Port Hedland is a very practical, common sense approach that has significant benefits for our community.”

“Last financial year, 6% of our procurement spend was with local Pilbara businesses and for more than 10 years we’ve proudly supported local organisations involved in initiatives, activities and events in the Pilbara through our community grants programme,” Gaines said.

Town of Port Hedland Mayor, Camilo Blanco, said he was “pleased Fortescue has awarded their MCORS contract to three Hedland based businesses, helping to support local jobs for local residents.”

“Our focus as a Town has been on ensuring job creation first and foremost benefits the future prospects of locals, and particularly our young people,” Blanco said.

Force Equipment, Westrac and Komatsu each have a longstanding presence in the Pilbara and have collectively invested over AUS$20 million in local infrastructure and purpose-built facilities to deliver the services and spend AUS$15 million per year with local suppliers.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/finance-business/03042019/fortescue-supports-local-employment/