Aurukun Shire Council hosted a two-day workshop to drive economic development in the community following the announcement of Rio Tinto’s $2.6 billion bauxite mine expansion in Cape York.
Rio Tinto representatives visited Aurukun in early February to talk about the recently announced Amrun project, formerly known as South of Embley, near Weipa,
To recognise the visit, Aurukun Shire Council held a concurrent business opportunities workshop over two days to allow prospective businesses and suppliers to assess economic opportunities in Aurukun and meet with senior representatives from Rio Tinto.
The Amrun bauxite project is expected to create 1,100 jobs in Far North Queensland.
Aurukun Mayor Dereck Walpo said Council welcomed the Amrun development, and the workshops had been developed to help identify economic and social opportunities for his community.
“I believe this is an enormous opportunity which will hopefully benefit all Aurukun people, and lead to a better future for our community.
“These workshops are a great chance for businesses to come together to find out more about some of the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in Aurukun.
“Although the major purpose of Rio Tinto’s visit to Aurukun was to assess local supplier and employment capability, they also spoke on general business opportunities in regard to the Amrun project overall.”
The workshop included introduction/networking and information sessions with workshop participants; a short town tour of Aurukun’s facilities; and a project briefing and meet and greet with Rio Tinto representatives.
Suppliers of goods and services to the Amrun project and residents and organisations in Aurukun were invited to attend.
“Aside from the jobs and training opportunities created by the Amrun project, I think there will be some extra benefits for businesses.
“This should all lead to a healthier Aurukun and a better lifestyle for our residents.
“This is an exciting period for Cape York and its communities, and I have no doubt there are good times ahead for Aurukun.”
