Hastings Technology Metals has completed a review of the Yangibana rare earths project agreement it shares with the Thiin-Mah Warriyangka Tharrkari Jiwarli (TMWTJ) Traditional Owners.
The review has resulted in Hastings and the TMWTJ people reaffirming their mutual commitment to developing the Yangibana project, which is located in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia.
The review included discussions around employment, training and business opportunities, as well as an evaluation of appropriate goals and targets.
The agreement between Hastings and TMWTJ people was first signed in November 2017, following the granting of the TMWTJ people’s native title claim.
To renew the agreement, the TMWTJ leaders and elders met on-country with Hastings’ leadership last week. The review was overseen by the implementation committee that was established under the agreement.
“Hastings has taken the time to listen to us and has also made time to better understand our cultural practices. Hastings have also made time and effort into taking care of our country – I am happy with the way the project is progressing,” TMWTJ senior elder Peter Salmon said.
Hastings executive chairman Charles Lew said that the company is proud of the open and transparent relationship it shares with the TMWTJ people.
“By engaging early with our Traditional Owners, we have been able to co-design and develop the project with cultural considerations in mind and to protect important heritage sites,” he said.
“I would like to acknowledge all the members of the implementation committee for their hard work and together we look forward to developing the Yangibana project which will deliver jobs, training and business opportunities for the TMWTJ people.
“It will also supply the minerals vital for the global energy transition to secure a cleaner, greener environment for future generations.”
Last month, Hastings and engineering services company thyssenkrupp expanded their offtake services contract for Yangibana.