Fortescue celebrates 15 years of milestones

Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) today celebrated the anniversary of 15 years since establishment by reaffirming the company’s ongoing commitment to local communities.  

On 18 July 2003, Andrew Forrest AO was elected Chairman of the newly named Fortescue Metals Group Ltd, marking the start of his visionary journey to create an Australian-owned iron ore group, comparable in size with the iron ore majors of the day. 

Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Gaines said Fortescue’s remarkable story over the past 15 years was testament to the hard work and determination of Founder Andrew Forrest and the entire Fortescue family. 

“In 2018, we have celebrated a number of key milestones, including 10 years since our first shipment of iron ore to China and the delivery of our one billionth tonne. We have taken 15 years to achieve what others have taken decades to do,” Ms Gaines said. 

In recognition of the local communities who have been a part of Fortescue’s journey since 2003, $50,000 in special milestone grants have been awarded to six community projects in the Town of Port Hedland, City of Karratha and Shires of Ashburton and East Pilbara: 

• Upgrading infrastructure at the JD Hardie Centre for the SLAM Basketball Program
• Installation of a child appropriate fitness track at Cassia Primary School
• Delivery of education sessions by the Hedland Women’s Refuge
• Upgrades to community accommodation facilities for the Mingullatharndo Association
• Donation of sea container and starter packs for Saving Animals from Euthanasia Newman 
• Expansion of community service provider Nintirri Centre’s op shop 

“In line with our vision to ensure the communities in which we operate benefit from our growth and success, we are pleased to celebrate the strong partnerships we have established throughout the Pilbara on our 15th anniversary,” Ms Gaines said.

“Since Fortescue was founded, we have contributed royalties of more than A$4.5 billion to the State, awarded A$2 billion in contracts to Aboriginal businesses and joint ventures, and trained and employed nearly 800 Aboriginal people through our Vocational Training and Employment Centres.

“Through our community support program, Fortescue has also provided A$1.8 million in small grants and in-kind assistance to Pilbara non-profit organisations since 2012.

“We look forward to continuing to invest in the long-term sustainability of our core iron ore business in the Pilbara, ensuring the ongoing flow of benefits to our communities and the State and nation’s economy.”