Downer-Ausenco JV wins $312 million works package on Carrapateena mine in SA

OZ Minerals has awarded the joint venture between Downer EDI and Ausenco a $312 million contract for works on the Carrapateena copper-gold project in South Australia.

Scope of works under this contract will include engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) of a new processing plant – which includes the non-process infrastructures that will support operations – on the Carrapateena project.

The joint venture has also been contracted to deliver site power distribution, plant bore fields development for regional water supply as well as full communications and telemetry network for OZ Minerals’ project.

Works will begin under a limited notice to proceed (LNTP) agreement with a contract value of $100 million. Construction of the processing plant is expected to commence at the end of the first quarter of 2018.

According to Downer Chief Executive Officer Grant Fenn, the Carrapateena project plays a vital role in boosting the existing as well as future copper export capacity for the State and OZ Minerals.

“Today’s announcement builds on the joint venture partners’ extensive and specialist skills in the development of large-scale materials handling infrastructure and combines Downer’s national construction expertise with Ausenco’s world-class mineral processing capability,” Mr Fenn said.

Ausenco Chief Executive Officer Zimi Meka said that OZ Minerals and the joint venture have already developed an excellent working relationship.

“With our complementary values, people, approaches and absolute commitment to a safe and cost-effective project, we are delighted to be working with Downer and look forward to delivering a successful project for Oz Minerals,” Mr Meka said.

OZ Minerals is expecting to begin production by the second half of 2019. Construction and operation of the project is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs for the region.

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Source: Australian Mining, SBS News