The Northern Territory Government has granted a new manganese exploration licence covering part of Winchelsea Island to Winchelsea Mining Pty Ltd – a joint venture between the Anindilyakwa Advancement Aboriginal Corporation (AAAC) and AUS China International Mining, with AAAC being the majority partner.
The AAAC is made up of the two Traditional Owner clans of Winchelsea and benefits from this project will be shared with all 14 Anindilyakwa clans.
The unique joint venture between AAAC and AUS China International Mining came together following the successful trade mission by Chief Minister Michael Gunner and the Anindilyakwa Land Council to Rizhao, Shandong, in November 2016.
The Northern Territory is a world leader in the production of manganese with more than 100 million tonnes of manganese ore and concentrate produced to date.
If exploration on Winchelsea Island locates an economical resource, resulting in a subsequent mineral lease, the new mine would result in direct jobs for Territorians, and positive flow-on effects for Australian businesses by providing opportunities for new contracts and new tenders.
Acting Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Dale Wakefield, commented that the Territory Labor Government’s number one priority is creating local jobs.
“This is great news for Anindilyakwa and the Territory, and a great example of how working together with our Asian neighbours can deliver results for Territorians,” he said.
“Supporting the development of mineral resources in a sustainable manner will maximise economic benefits for local communities.”
