Fraser Beattie

MMJ Phytotech has announced plans to spin-out its medical cannabis-focused Canadian subsidiaries onto the TSX Venture Exchange through the reverse takeover of a resources company.

Perth-based private mining contractor Barminco has posted a 30.7 per cent rise in operating profit for the 2016 financial year, with the company optimistic about prospects in the gold sector for the year ahead.

Western Australia’s hospitality and agricultural industries have welcomed the federal government’s decision to amend its planned backpacker tax, but the tourism body says it will cost the state jobs nevertheless.

Perth-based Crusader Resources has announced a $10 million capital raising to fund ongoing work at its Juruena gold project in Brazil.

Fortescue Metals Group has started the search for a new chief financial officer after Stephen Pearce handed in his resignation to pursue an international role, on the same day the iron ore giant announced the appointment of a new director of operations.

Recently revitalised Eastern Goldfields plans to begin producing gold at its Davyhurst operation by March next year, with the company awarding a $12.5 million contract to GR Engineering Services to bring the nearby processing facility out of care and maintenance.

Bill Marmion will pick up the transport portfolio in a minor cabinet reshuffle that also includes the introduction of two new ministers; Paul Miles and Mark Lewis.

The competition watchdog says it won't oppose Vocus Communications’ proposed acquisition of Nextgen Networks, plus two development projects, for up to $861 million.

Perth-based Emeco Holdings has gone into a trading halt ahead of announcing fresh merger plans, with Queensland-based Orionstone and Victoria-based Andy’s Earthmovers earmarked as the other players.