Kimberley Economic Forum highlights conflict over Argyle Mine’s rehabilitation and future

The chair of an organisation representing traditional owners say trust has been broken with Rio Tinto over the Argyle Diamond Mine closure accusing the multinational of doing it, “quickly and cheaply.” Gelganyem Group chair Kia Dowell and Rio Tinto CEO, Australia, Kellie Parker took part in a “fireside chat” at the Kimberley Economic Forum in Kununurra last Thursday which proved to be far from cosy. The chat gave attendees the opportunity to ask questions about the rehabilitation of what was one of the largest diamond mine sites in the world, in the East Kimberley, that closed in 2020 due to depletion of resources. In an interview after the event, Ms Dowell said Rio Tinto appeared to be trying to close the mine, “as quickly and as cheaply as possible” without assisting traditional owners to participate in the process. “Although it might be the closure of the mine from a Rio Tinto and asset point of view for traditional owners, it’s actually the beginning of us being able to get that country back - even though it might be decades away, “ Ms Dowell said. “So they want to make sure there are no contaminated sites, that the water is safe to drink, to make sure that it is not going to pose an environmental risk to future generations.” However, Ms Parker said Rio Tinto was committed to, “genuine collaboration and mutual understanding.” in the closure of the mine. Ms Parker posted to social media, “After 37 years of operations at Argyle, we’re working together to write the next chapter, emphasising respectful rehabilitation and sustainable futures for the region.” “While not without its challenges, this approach has the potential to shape standards for mine closure globally.” The Kimberley Economic Forum is being held at the Kimberley Grande Resort in Kununurra and is being attended by more than 150 leaders in business, industry, government and non-government sectors. The theme for the event is “Navigating North - Together, Strategically, Sustainability and as a Destination” East Kimberley Chamber of Commerce president Amanda McLean said the organisation was proud to host the forum. “Our region’s proximity to south east Asia, abundant natural resources like sunshine, land, water, and wind, along with vibrant agricultural, tourism, resources, and cultural sectors, present significant opportunities for sustainable regional growth.” The Kimberley has a gross regional output of $4.432B a year. Its major industries include pearling, aquaculture, pastoralism, agriculture, resources, cultural industries and tourism with more than 425,000 visitors a year. The forum has provided an opportunity for attendants to be updated on key infrastructure and resource projects in the region as well as new joint ventures between Aboriginal communities and industry.