More jobs result from Mount Ruby mine expansion near Ravenshoe

The expansion of an iron ore mine in Far North Queensland will mean more jobs and work for local contractors as the region looks to benefit from a critical mineral boom.

TMG has been engaged in the acquisition and exploration of mineral interests, currently targeting tin mineralisation with potential to unlock iron ore and fluorine. Photo: TMG

The expansion of an iron ore mine in Far North Queensland will mean more jobs and work for local contractors as the region looks to benefit from a critical mineral boom.

The mining lease has been approved for the expansion of the Mount Ruby mine near Ravenshoe on the Tablelands.

Once operational the expansion is expected to produce 500,000 tonnes of iron ore per year for export and employ more than 30 workers and contractors.

Queensland Resources Minister Scott Stewart said the granting of the lease showed the resources industry in Queensland continues to go from strength to strength.

“We’re backing our regional communities to ensure they get their fair share from the significant investment being made into our resources sector,” he said.

Tablelands Mining Group (TMG) is a niche mining and minerals exploration company based in the Far North Queensland mining region, west of the Atherton Tablelands and surrounds. Photo: TMG

“The lease will extend the production life of the Mt Ruby mine and provide up to 30 good, secure jobs for Far North Queenslanders.”

The extension will allow the company to continue to produce mainly iron ore, as well as measure potential for critical minerals like copper, tungsten and zinc.

“Critical minerals are needed to build the infrastructure and renewable technologies required for a decarbonised future,” Mr Stewart said.

Mount Ruby (ML 20414) and Ruby Prospect (MLA 100142) are located approximately 18 km northwest of Ravenshoe, in the Millstream locality, North Queensland. Image: Tablelands Mining Group

Critical minerals such as copper and tungsten have numerous uses, including in solar technology, wind turbine blades, drill bits, filament for lighting and for manufacturing batteries.

Once fully operational, the extension has the potential to more than double the current production capacity of Mount Ruby from 20,000 tonnes to 42,000 tonnes a month.

The mine will provide employment for around 30 staff and contractors and will continue to use local services and suppliers where available providing increased economic opportunities for the community.

The iron ore will continue to be exported through the Ports North Mourilyan site to Asia for use in steel production.

“The expansion of this project means companies across the Far North, from the Tablelands to Mourilyan will benefit for years to come.”

Originally published as More jobs result from Mount Ruby mine expansion near Ravenshoe