Rio Tinto Group Commences Work on Norman Creek after $180M Investment

Rio Tinto Group has begun work on the Norman Creek access at its Amrun bauxite mine in Queensland after a $180 million investment. The project aims to explore 978 million tons of ore reserves and is expected to start production in 2027. Rio Tinto has also started early works and a final feasibility study on the Kangwinan project to increase annual bauxite production capacity.

Rio Tinto Group has initiated work on the Norman Creek access project at its Amrun bauxite mine in Queensland following a $180 million investment. The project aims to explore approximately 978 million tons of ore reserves and is expected to start production in 2027 [1]. In addition to this, Rio Tinto has also begun early works and a final feasibility study on the Kangwinan project to enhance annual bauxite production capacity [2].

The Norman Creek access project will open up the Norman Creek region, which contains about half of Amrun’s declared ore reserves. Construction has started on a 19-km haul road, camp accommodation, and a communications tower. First production is targeted for 2027, with full construction completion in 2028 [1].

Armando Torres, Rio Tinto Pacific Operations Aluminium Managing Director, stated, “Norman Creek is another important step in securing the long-term future of our Weipa operations, and the benefits that mining brings to communities in the region, Queensland, and the nation. It will maintain jobs in the region through to at least the middle of this century, ensuring continuity for our people and the Weipa community” [1].

The Norman Creek investment will be classified as replacement capital and is included in the group’s capital expenditure guidance [1]. In addition to the Norman Creek project, Rio Tinto has also initiated early works and a final feasibility study on the Kangwinan project, which could increase annual bauxite production capacity from the company’s Weipa Southern operations by up to 20 million tonnes from the current 23 million tonnes [2]. If approved, Kangwinan would replace output from the Andoom mine in Queensland and the Gove mine in the Northern Territory, which are expected to close toward the end of the decade. First output could come as early as 2029 [2].

The Norman Creek investment is expected to be classified as replacement capital and has been factored into the group’s capital guidance [2]. These strategic investments underscore Rio Tinto's commitment to securing its position as the world's largest bauxite producer while aligning with decarbonization goals [3].

References:
[1] https://www.miningweekly.com/article/rio-tinto-to-invest-180m-in-norman-creek-to-extend-amrun-bauxite-mine-life-2025-08-13
[2] https://im-mining.com/2025/08/07/rio-tinto-continues-investing-in-australia-bauxite-operations/
[3] https://www.ainvest.com/news/rio-tinto-strategic-bauxite-expansion-powering-aluminum-chain-carbon-future-2508/