A landmark decision after a 51-day trial with more than 4,000 documents only scratched the surface of the complex relationship between some of the state's mining pioneers and their heirs.
Rival heirs are entitled to Gina Rinehart-led Hancock Prospecting's iron ore royalties over some mining tenements in the Pilbara, the state's highest court ruled.
It has been softer year for DFD Rhodes after bumper profits in recent years, with the family office reporting an $86 million profit largely on the back of iron ore royalties.
The family company established by Pilbara mining pioneer, the late Don Rhodes, has reported another bumper profit as it continues to benefit from very large iron ore royalty payments.
A low-profile WA family that has amassed a $300 million fortune from iron ore royalties has come to prominence by developing a head office in West Perth.
