Rio Tinto’s iconic Argyle mine in the remote east Kimberley region of Western Australia has celebrated its final day of mining after 37 years of operation.
Arnaud Soirat, Rio Tinto’s chief executive of Copper & Diamonds said the Argyle mine has produced more than 865 million carats of rough diamonds over this period, becoming the world’s largest producer of coloured diamonds and virtually the sole source of a very small but consistent source of rare pink diamonds.
“Fifty years ago there were very few people who believed there were diamonds in Australia – even fewer could have foreseen how the Argyle story would unfold,” Mr Soirat continued.
“To arrive at this final chapter has required vision, courage and determination to overcome significant challenges to enter new territory in diamond exploration, mining and marketing.
“Today Argyle’s influence stretches into many spheres and over many continents and I am very proud to acknowledge all those people who have contributed to the discovery and development of the mine and the production of some of the finest diamonds the world has ever seen.”
Andrew Wilson, general manager of the Argyle mine said the closure process is expected to take some five years to decommission and dismantle the mine and undertake rehabilitation, followed by a further period of monitoring.
“This is an historic day for the Argyle mine and the east Kimberley region and a great source of pride for this unique Australian success story,” Mr Wilson added.
“A new chapter will now begin as we start the process of respectfully closing the Argyle mine and rehabilitating the land, to be handed back to its traditional custodians.”
Rio Tinto said Argyle will employ a smaller workforce post the final mining and diamond production activities, continuing to contribute to the local economy.
