The agreement complements previous studies undertaken by Aurizon, Brockman and Atlas Mining into a proposed East Pilbara Independent Railway, and supports Brockman's application for access to part of the Fortescue Metals network. The agreement follows the founding of the NWI joint venture between Brockman, Atlas and FerrAus which will facilitate the construction of new port facilities at Port Hedland.
The objective of the deal is to develop and implement a long-term rail and port solution for the export of Brockman's iron ore, under which Aurizon would procure and operate all railway infrastructure and rolling stock.
According to Brockman, the agreement stipulates that the railway can be a new heavy-haul line developed by Aurizon, a new railway built by a third party, an existing railway operated by a third party, or a combination of these options.
