Mark Beyer

Nedlands-based TFS Corporation has announced the purchase of an established Indian sandalwood plantation, with the purchase expected to boost its net profit as a result of a revaluation of the trees.

Respected Aboriginal leader Wayne Bergmann has launched an extraordinary attack on Buru Energy, after the oil and gas company announced a landmark agreement with the Noonkanbah Aboriginal community.

At a time when most miners and explorers are becoming more risk averse, Perth minnow Prospect Resources is venturing into Zimbabwe.

Rail operator Aurizon has written off $19 million it has spent trying to develop an infrastructure solution for iron ore producers in the East Pilbara, including Atlas Iron and Brockman Resources.

The Aboriginal community that was at the centre of a major land rights dispute, sparked by oil exploration at a remote Kimberley cattle station in the early 1980s, has announced its support for a gas 'fracking' program planned by Perth company Buru Energy.

The resources sector continues to be critical to WA’s prosperity but smaller, less glamorous industries also have great stories to tell.

Baosteel and Aurizon look set to gain control of Aquila Resources after the iron ore hopeful rejected a takeover proposal from Mineral Resources, and instead recommended its shareholders accept the current $3.40 per share offer.

Business News’ annual mining services review highlights the large and diverse number of companies exporting their skills and expertise.

FEATURE: While most of its peers have been taken over by larger companies, Perth-based mining software developer Micromine has stayed independent while building a global business.