The new facility has a swimming pool, indoor gym and cricket nets
Mineral Resources (MinRes) has formally opened its Mungala Resort to provide accommodation for its fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers amid accommodation challenges in Western Australia's resources sector.
MinRes said the resort, which took its name from a local Aboriginal word meaning "Red Hill," is leading the mining services provider's efforts in setting the standard for facilities and food for FIFO workers.
Mungala Resort accommodates FIFO workers at the Ken's Bore mine site, which is under the Onslow Iron project. It is located opposite Ken's Bore Airport and is serviced by MinRes Air flying directly to the site. Its features include:
MinRes also worked with the Robe River Kuruma (RRK) people, the Traditional Owners of the Country at Ken's Bore mine, to ensure that they are reflected in the project.
"Close engagement with the Robe River Kuruma people has supported Onslow Iron's development and fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural significance of these lands – and Mungala Resort now offers lasting recognition of our partnerships," said Chris Ellison, managing director of MinRes, in a statement.
Ellison said he believes they have created "a new standard for mine site accommodation and wellbeing."
"Through innovative design, we believe we have created something truly unique in Australia," Ellison said.
"We recognise traditional mining camps must evolve to meet the needs of our people, grow female participation and build a more diverse and productive workforce. At Mungala Resort, that included providing rooms that are suitable for singles and couples."
Currently, 23 couples are accommodated at the resort, according to MinRes. Almost a quarter of employees at the Ken's Bore mine site are also women, higher than at its other sites.
Ellison added that mental health is also a focus for the company.
"In addition to providing free and confidential support, we wanted an environment where people feel safe and healthy. Mungala Resort is more than just a place to sleep, it's a home away from home," he said.
The new resort comes amid challenges faced by FIFO workers around accommodation.
Initial findings from Monash University research found that getting a good sleep after long working hours is a major challenge for FIFO workers. Jack Tooley, lead author of the research, said sound levels and noise insulation are the "most important thing to FIFO workers."
"FIFO workers aren't asking for yoga rooms or game lounges. They're asking for peace, privacy, rest and passive socialisation," Tooley told the Australian Financial Review.
MinRes Director of People Andrea Chapman said the facility at Onslow Iron was their opportunity to take care of their people.
"We are confident this investment will help Onslow Iron attract and retain talent, deliver better health outcomes for our people and contribute to the project’s success," Chapman said in a statement.
"While Mungala Resort leads our efforts to redefine the on-site experience, ongoing upgrades across other MinRes sites also aim to deliver the best possible employee experience."
