WA Aboriginal site near Rio Tinto mine more than 50,000 years old, new study reveals

Traditional owners say the latest excavation at Aboriginal sacred site Yirra is globally significant and needs to be protected. Photograph: Archae-aus

An Aboriginal sacred place located 65 metres from a land bridge used by Rio Tinto to haul iron ore is at least 50,000 years old, with new research finding evidence of occupation during the height of the last ice age.

The mining giant, which funded the latest excavation, has promised to ensure the site “is preserved for future generations”.