Aurukun Shire Council will host a two-day workshop next month 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 will be visiting Aurukun on 9 February to talk about the recently announced Amrun project, formerly known as South of Embley, near Weipa,
To recognise the visit, Aurukun Shire Council will hold a concurrent business opportunities workshop over two days (8-9 February) 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,” said Mayor Walpo.
“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 is to assess local supplier and employment capability, they will also speak on general business opportunities in regards to the Amrun project overall.”
The workshop will include 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 are invited to attend, including:
• Local residents and organisations interested in business/employment prospects
• Mechanical services
• Road construction services
• Building and construction services
• Machinery sales and service
• Training providers
• Food and beverage suppliers
• Tourism entrepreneurs
• Arts industry
• Facilities management organisations
• Government agencies (State and Commonwealth).
“Aside from the jobs and training opportunities created by the Amrun project, I think there will be some extra benefits for businesses,” said Mayor Walpo.
“This should all lead to a harmonious and proactive 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.”
If you are interested in attending the two-day workshop, please RSVP to Graham Poon, Business Development/Grants Officer, Aurukun Shire Council, on 4047 6702 or email BDGO@aurukun.qld.gov.au