Thiess, Yilgarn Iron in Agreement to Revive Koolyanobbing Iron Production
Global mining services provider Thiess has signed a contract with Yilgarn Iron to restart iron ore production in Western Australia’s historic Koolyanobbing district.
Harry Taruva 
Perth - Global mining services provider Thiess has entered into a two-year agreement with Yilgarn Iron to spearhead the revival of iron ore production in the historic Koolyanobbing district of Western Australia.
The contract, executed this week following a preliminary agreement signed in late 2025, formalises a partnership aimed at extracting more than 4 million tonnes of iron ore per annum.
Operations at the Yilgarn Hub, located approximately 400 kilometers east of Perth, are expected to run until at least March 2028, with provisions for further expansion as the project matures.
"We are delighted to partner with Yilgarn Iron and contribute to a new phase for the Koolyanobbing iron ore mine, a cornerstone of Australia's mining history," said Thiess Group Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Wright.
The project marks a restart for the district, which has hosted iron ore production since the 1950s.
Under the new agreement, Thiess will provide full mining services, including extraction and haulage, while focusing on sustainable development and local employment across the Yilgarn and Esperance regions.
"Through our sustainable mining approach, we will support Yilgarn Iron to deliver safe, efficient operations and achieve its production goals," Wright added.
Thiess Group Executive for Australia West, David Greig, said the regional impact of the deal is significant as the recommencement of operations would provide a substantial boost to the local economy.
"This project will make a meaningful contribution to the social and economic fabric of the community, creating jobs and supporting sustainable development across regional Western Australia," Greig stated.
The partnership comes as Yilgarn Iron, a privately owned Australian miner, seeks to optimise existing resources at the Koolyanobbing, Windarling and Parker Range sites.
By leveraging existing rail infrastructure and direct access to the Port of Esperance, the company aims to establish a stable long-term supply chain.
"Together, we are driving sustainable growth that will empower the region's communities and industries for years to come," Greig said.
Senior executives from both firms, including Yilgarn Iron Managing Director Fergus Campbell and Director David Paull, joined Thiess leadership in Perth to finalise the agreement, which is expected to begin active operations immediately.
