Where do all the mine workers retire to after a long day at the mines? BHP Billiton has recently constructed two eco-villages in Newman that is setting the standard of accommodation for mine workers. The eco-village is all about sustainability and these eco-units have received a five-and-a-half-star energy efficiency rating. Neville took a tour of the village to see how they were doing their bit to reduce their environmental footprint.

With the hot temperatures, the units have been designed with a number of cooling strategies which are impressive and effective. They are built in positions which minimise heat from the sun, keeping the units cool in the summer. A high pitched roof and 2.7 metre high ceilings improve air circulation. The verandah on the front shades the living area, while the polished concrete floors are thick and moderate the temperature indoors. The air conditioning system is environmentally friendly and uses 30% less power than non-inverter units. Solar hot water systems are used which is one of the best things one can do to build an eco-friendly household. The showerheads are AAA rated which saves up to 11 litres of water per minute. Louvered awnings block the overhead sun from getting into the house and allow light breezes through.  The flooring on the deck is made from recycled rubber which would otherwise end up in landfill. The windows are made out of pyrolitic glass which reduces solar gain by 45% and UV radiation by 99%.

There are two eco-villages in Newman. The one on Nicholls Place contains 37 one-bedroom, one-bathroom eco units. These are designed for semi-residential employees. The other eco-village is located on Gun Club Road and has 59 eco units.

The Pilbara accommodation development program is one example of BHP’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled workers to the Pilbara in a sustainable manner.

Contact:
Newman Visitor Centre
Corner Fortescue Avenue and Newman Drive, Newman WA
Postal address: PO Box 303, Newman WA 6753
Phone: +61 8 9175 2888
Fax: +61 8 9175 2964
Email: newmanvc@bigpond.com
Website: www.newman-wa.org