The FMG Matilda is the fifth vessel in the FMG ore carrier fleet and the first of four remaining ore carriers to be built at the Guangzhou Shipyards in China, after the arrival of Nicola, Grace, Sophia and Sydney from the Yanzijiang Shipyards in Jiangsu Province.

The FMG Matilda has been designed for FMG’s port infrastructure.

When FMG’s VLOC fleet is complete it will meet about 12% of the miner’s total shipping requirements.

Using the fleet will also improve loading rates and maximise tonnage, as well as make manoeuvring through the port and channel safer.

The ship was welcomed into port by FMG chairman Andrew Forrest and his family, and families of FMG’s residential workforce who participated in the traditional blessing ceremony on board.

“The name of this vessel – Matilda – is especially poignant for us as it is named after our baby girl who passed from us just before her birth,” Forrest said.

“Children are our future and must be given every opportunity to reach their full potential. It is a privilege for Nicola and I, through Fortescue's success, to be able to support a range of early childhood innovations in Matilda's honour, through the Minderoo Foundation’s Thrive by Five initiative.”

FMG chief financial officer Ian Wells said FMG was particularly proud of its strong connection to Port Hedland through the residential workforce and it was a pleasure to welcome some of the Pilbara-based families on board to celebrate the ship’s arrival.