30 | Unlocking potential The company’s minerals extraction operation, based at Nine Mile near Westport, processes sand from local farmland to produce heavy mineral concentrate (HMC). T T from page 29 Westland Mineral Sands “We see ourselves as part of the community and the community as part of us. It is important that we are an active participant in the community, because people in our community are also part of our WMS team.” Environmental stewardship is also at the forefront of WMS’s operations. “We are committed to positive environmental and community outcomes, and have established a dedicated environment and sustainability team with three full-time employees to focus on this area,” says Andrea. The company’s minerals extraction operation, based at Nine Mile near Westport, processes sand from local farmland to produce heavy mineral concentrate (HMC). This concentrate is exported primarily to Asia for further processing for various industrial applications. WMS’s approach to mining is focused on multiple minerals including rare earth elements (REEs), which are needed for the green tech revolution. The company’s long-term vision for the West Coast is ambitious. With over 20,000 hectares of licenses across the region, WMS aims to establish a sustainable 50- to 100-year business. The company’s three-phase plan involves increasing production from 100,000 tonnes to a minimum 1,000,000 tonnes per annum, with the potential to expand into more advanced processing operations in the future. Strengthening community ties Westland Mineral Sands (WMS) continues to demonstrate its dedication to the West Coast community through a series of significant contributions and sponsorships. The company’s donation of $150,000 to the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, underscores its commitment to local development and environmental preservation, says Andrea Manley, chief operating officer of WMS Group. The contribution will aid in mitigating rising construction costs and support on-going maintenance of the trail, which has become a vital asset for both residents and visitors to the region. WMS’s community engagement has also seen the company establish itself as a key supporter of local sports, sponsoring Buller Rugby and the popular Westport Whitebait Festival. These initiatives not only promote community spirit, but also contribute to the region’s cultural identity, says Andrea. We recognise there is more to life than work and our sponsorship of local community groups and events is one way we can contribute.” Education forms another cornerstone of WMS’s community contribution. In partnership with Development West Coast, the company has instituted a $32,500 student scholarship aimed at fostering expertise in the critical minerals sector. “Creating a pipeline of talent is critical to making sure our business can continue to grow,” says Andrea. “We will welcome award recipients into our company on study completion, where we will help get them started in their careers.” Additionally, WMS supports rural education through its involvement with REAP Aotearoa, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing local talent and skills by holding a Discovery Day for local students. “We are committed to positive environmental and community outcomes, and have established a dedicated environment and sustainability team....” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ALLAN DEVINE ENGINEERING LTD General & Marine Engineers GREYMOUTH • Marine Engineering and Survey Work • On Site Plant Maintenance • Hydraulic Repairs & Fault Finding Proud to Partner with Westland Mineral Sands As a service provider PH: 0274 334 905 | EMAIL: allan@devineengineering.co.nz Westland Mineral Sands
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