The Pilbara region in Western Australia is known for its mining sites, particularly focusing on iron ore production. Major mines in the area are operated by Rio Tinto, BHP, and Fortescue Metals Group, with Rio Tinto running twelve mines, BHP operating seven, and Fortescue operating two. The Marandoo mine, owned by Rio Tinto Iron Ore, is located in the Shire of Ashburton and produces 15 million tonnes of iron ore annually.
In addition to iron ore, the Pilbara region is rich in gold, lead, manganese, and copper, with mining activities for these resources concentrated in the central-southern and western parts of the region. Spanning about 505,000 square kilometers, the Pilbara region contains significant iron ore deposits and granite pegmatites. The Hamersley Range within the Pilbara holds 80 percent of Australia's identified iron ore reserves, making it a major iron ore province globally.
Moreover, within the Pilbara region lies the Karijini National Park, divided into northern and southern sections by mine and rail infrastructure. This area not only hosts various mineral resources but also serves as a home to diverse natural landscapes and wildlife within the Karijini National Park.