Leighton Contractors begins work on the Ord-East Kimberley Expansion Project
Source: Leighton - www.leightoncontractors.com.au
14 May 2010
Leighton Contractors
and Indigenous Business Australia, working as the Moonamang Joint
Venture, marked the start of construction on the first phase of the $220
million Ord-East Kimberley Expansion Project today, with the turning of
the first soil near Kununurra in Western Australia.
The first phase of
construction works is being undertaken in the Weaber Plains area of the
Kimberley region and will deliver 19km of irrigation channel, a 14km
road extension and irrigation control structures.
Premier Colin Barnett
and Regional Development and Lands Minister, Brendon Grylls, hosted the
project opening ceremony to mark the commencement of works, along with
representatives from the local indigenous Miriuwung Gajerrong (MG)
people.
Ray Sputore, Western
Region General Manager for Leighton Contractors, paid tribute to the
Miriuwung Gajerrong people and the State Government, who he said have
been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition.
“We are proud to play a
part in the expansion of the Ord River agricultural precinct, with today
marking a significant milestone for the East Kimberley region,” he said
at today’s opening.
“Through this project,
we aim to enhance local workforce participation and make a significant
contribution to improving social and economic opportunities,
particularly for the local Miriuwung Gajerrong people.”
“Leighton Contractors
are pleased to be working in partnership with Indigenous Business
Australia and the State Government to deliver a project which is
strategically important for developing the region and enhancing social
capital.”
The first phase of the
project is scheduled for completion in January 2011.
ENDS
For further information
please contact:
Susan Pantall,
Communications Manager, Leighton Contractors (Perth)
T: (08) 9324 6277