Resources boom hits Albany

Resources company Mt Magnet South received an overwhelming response from Albany residents after seeking expressions of interest for mining jobs at its new open pit gold mining operation.

The company was behind the mysterious advertisement that appeared in the Albany Advertiser last month.

It indicated the company hoped to establish a fly-in, fly-out workforce from Albany to fill a number of positions at its mine, including shift supervisors, equipment operators, plant operators, administration staff, diesel mechanics and electricians.

A company spokesperson said within a few days almost 240 people had responded.

He said the company was now completing a feasibility study, but it looked like 20 to 70 jobs could be available to Albany residents.

The mining operation is located 90 minutes from Albany by plane and employees are expected to be placed on a permanent, flexible roster.

The City of Albany and Great Southern Development Commission are also doing their own research into establishing Albany as a base for fly-in, fly-out workers.

At the same time, Grange Resources is completing a definitive feasibility study on its proposed iron ore venture at Wellstead.

While Grange Resources managing director Russell Clark acknowledged the competitive nature of attracting employees in the industry, he said he was not too concerned about the other potential projects.

“Grange is focused on being an employer of choice in the region and creating opportunity for the people of the Great Southern,” he said.

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