Auriga Group, the leading port services company in Australia, is proud to announce that it has been awarded a major double-digit term contract from Rio Tinto. This new contract will provide Aviation Marine Pilot Transfers services in Dampier and Port Walcott in the Pilbara region.

The award of this contract marks an exciting milestone for Auriga Group, as the group continues to expand their operations and provide critical port infrastructure access to vessels calling at Australian ports. To support the contract, three modern Airbus H135 Helionix helicopters will be used, along with the construction of a state-of-the-art air base at Karratha airport. 

This agreement between Auriga Group and Rio Tinto is a testament to Auriga’s commitment to providing quality port services across Australia. Auriga have been able to utilise their expertise in marine and aviation to ensure safe and efficient marine pilot transfers can occur, under all situations. 

“We are very pleased to be partnering with Rio Tinto on this initiative,” said Trent Lonsdale, CEO of Auriga Group. “Auriga is committed to providing the highest quality service possible for our clients, and this new contract allows us to demonstrate our ability to deliver on our promises.” 

Auriga Group is committed to supporting local Indigenous communities and engagement through their recruitment efforts and partnerships. As part of this commitment, the group is offering targeted scholarships for Indigenous First Officers, as well as Apprentice Engineer positions open exclusively to Indigenous candidates in the region. This initiative is equally bolstered by other training pathway programs for Cadet Pilots and First Officers. 

“We are extremely proud that we can offer these opportunities,” said Chief Operating Officer, Keith Thompson. “It is important that we support local Indigenous communities where possible, and along with other career pathway and community initiatives, I am confident that these initiatives will make a real difference.” 

“The award of this important Rio Tinto contract provides an excellent opportunity for all current and future professional rotary wing aviators and engineers to join our team at various functional levels”, said Mr. Thompson. 

“We will continue to augment exiting career pathway programs and will be going to market in the coming months with further announcements and recruitment activities for line captains, first officers, engineers, and apprentices.

Auriga Aviation’s recruitment activities are well-advanced in preparation for the start of operations next year. Auriga looks forward to welcoming talented individuals into their team who share the Group’s commitment for delivering quality service solutions whilst importantly maintaining high levels of safety as the foundation of everything they do.

Auriga Group continues its mission of providing safe, competent, and efficient solutions through its various operating divisions while expanding its operations throughout Australia. The success of this new contract is just one example of how Auriga can deliver excellent results for their partners.