Gudai-Darri (formerly Koodaideri) is a modern iron ore mine in the Pilbara region, operated by Rio Tinto.
Commodity
Iron ore
Owner
Rio Tinto
Operator
Rio Tinto
Operating Status
operating
Mining Method
Open pit
History
Gudai-Darri (formerly Koodaideri) is Rio Tinto's most technologically advanced iron ore operation. Approved in 2018 and beginning production in 2022, it is the first new mine Rio Tinto has built in the Pilbara in over a decade. The mine was designed from the ground up with automation and digital technology as core features.
Why It's Iconic
Gudai-Darri is one of Rio Tinto's newest Pilbara operations, designed with advanced technology and automation from inception.
Scale and Production
Gudai-Darri has a planned capacity of 43 million tonnes per annum of iron ore. The mine is expected to operate for over 40 years, making it one of Rio Tinto's most significant long-life assets.
Equipment
Technology and Autonomous Systems
Processing Infrastructure
Gudai-Darri processes ore through a state-of-the-art crushing and screening plant designed for high automation. The plant includes a robotic sample preparation laboratory — a first for the Pilbara. Ore is transported by rail to Port Hedland.
Workforce
Approximately 600 employees during full production, with a high proportion of FIFO from Perth. The operation is designed for remote operation capability.
Common Roles
Common Rosters
Major Milestones
- 2018: Project approved by Rio Tinto board
- 2022: First production
- 2022: Robotic laboratory commissioned
- Ongoing: Rio Tinto's most technologically advanced mine
Interesting Facts
- Rio Tinto's first new Pilbara mine in over a decade
- Designed with autonomous haulage from day one
- Features a robotic sample preparation laboratory — a Pilbara first
- Expected mine life of over 40 years
- Built with digital twin technology for real-time optimisation
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