Ngarliya Contracting has become the first majority Indigenous-owned business to supply fire suppression services to Mineral Resources (MinRes).

The company has been awarded a five-year contract from the iron ore miner for the provision of fire suppression maintenance and pest control services across MinRes sites.

Services are set to commence at the Ken’s Bore mine site in Western Australia.

Ngarliya director Kelly Slattery said as a Traditional Owner of the land where MinRes operates, the contract presents a transformational opportunity for local communities.

“This partnership with MinRes is a huge opportunity, offering long-term prospects and a platform for Ngarliya to develop and grow,” she said.

“Looking further, the transferable skills and services we provide across other applications – be they commercial or residential – extend beyond life-of-mine.”

Ngarliya director Arran Henry said the organisation has built the capability to deliver training and employment opportunities for local Indigenous people alongside products and services that help clients meet their site safety, emergency and rescue needs.

“As we grow, learn and expand, we hope to become a preferred supplier of these services over the next five years and beyond, while continuing to provide opportunities for local Indigenous people in the area,” Arran said.

MinRes chief executive mining services Mike Grey said the company is excited to be partnering with Ngarliya.

“This partnership marks another significant milestone in our commitment to fostering strong and enduring relationships with Indigenous businesses,” Grey said.

“The success of projects such as Onslow Iron can only be achieved through positive engagement with capable and reliable organisations such as Ngarliya.”