The quarry is owned and operated by Tom Congoo and his Family, the traditional owners of the Native Title and yields high quality Porphyry stone ranging from earthy ochre and reds to green/blue grey hues. Porphyry Stone is a high glass (silica) content volcanic stone structured in parallel slabs and is highly regarded as a non-slip oil resistant paving product for exterior surfaces. It is stronger
and harder wearing than bluestone or granite and has been used for centuries for walling, paving and roads, in the form of cobblestones and random mosaic tiles. This exciting new collaboration began when Keith Davies from Jarby’s Logistics, an Indigenous Training and Mentoring Business contacted Andrea Tomaselli from Italian Porphyry on behalf of Tom Congoo and family for information and advice on the logistics of production, marketing and distribution of Australian Porphyry Stone. The result was the establishment of Featherstone Quarries a partnership that is dedicated to the promotion and production of high quality Australian porphyry and the training and welfare of this indigenous family in Far North Queensland. Our joint venture is currently providing on-site training for indigenous employees and is supported by the Metropolitan South Institute of Tafe. Training includes the various skills needed to run, maintain and develop quarry operations, including plant and machinery licenses and tickets, Hospitality and Catering, Housekeeping, First Aid and Occupational Health and Safety Courses. Tom Congoo, Indigenous Elder and traditional owner of the title says ‘It is important that our people have pride in their work and earn their living from their land’. Quarry operations began in early July and Australian Porphyry Stone will be available throughout Australia from August 2010
