Red 5's Red Hot June Quarter

Tajha Pritchard
open pit mine

Red 5, the owner of the King of the Hills (KOTH) gold mine, has announced another remarkable achievement with a fourth consecutive month of record-breaking gold production. The company's June 2023 operations update revealed that the mine produced an impressive 61,705 ounces of gold.

This strong quarterly production puts Red 5 comfortably within the upper range of their guidance for the second half of the 2023 financial year, which projected a production of 90,000 to 105,000 ounces. Furthermore, the company expects their all-in sustaining costs to fall within the estimated range of $1,750 to $1,950 per ounce.

Located in the eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia, the KOTH gold mine has proven to be a significant asset for Red 5. In June, the mine yielded 24,033 ounces of gold, a notable increase from the 19,039 ounces recorded in May. The results continue the positive trend of monthly production performances for Red 5.

The June production figures were achieved by processing 0.45 megatonnes of ore, with an average head grade of 1.79 grams per tonne and a remarkable gold recovery rate of 93.4 percent. Red 5 stated that this throughput rate, exceeding the mine's original capacity of 4.0 megatonnes per annum, is expected to be sustained in the upcoming 2024 financial year.

In addition to their outstanding production results, Red 5 recently welcomed Russell Clark as the new independent non-executive chair of the board. With the KOTH gold mine's progress and solid outcomes, the company is optimistic about the future and looks forward to the next phase of growth under Clark's guidance.

Krakatoa Resources Finds High Grade Lithium

Tajha Pritchard
krakatoa map

Krakatoa Resources Limited (ASX: KTA) has made a noteworthy lithium discovery at the King Tamba project in Western Australia. Assay results from a recent geochemical sampling program revealed multiple rock-chip samples with lithium values exceeding 2% Li2O, including a peak assay of 4.3% Li2O. The project also displayed a highly enriched mineralized zone over 800m, containing lithium, cesium, rubidium, tantalum, and niobium.

The newly identified Wilsons Prospect, located in close proximity to the historical mining zone, outcrops over 250m and has shown significant lithium potential. Krakatoa Resources plans to expand its soil sampling coverage across the larger King Tamba tenement package to uncover additional lithium-rich areas. The company is conducting mineralogy and lithium deportment studies to determine the minerals hosting the high lithium content.

With preparations underway for an upcoming drilling program, Krakatoa Resources is poised to further explore the lithium potential beneath the surface. The positive assay results and the strategic positioning of the King Tamba project highlight its importance as a promising area for future lithium mining and development.

Westgold Record Gold Yield

Tajha Pritchard
Gold

Westgold Resources, a prominent gold mining company based in Western Australia, achieved a record gold yield in May, showing an impressive eight percent increase compared to the previous month. The exceptional performance was driven by the Bluebird mine, which serves as one of the primary ore sources for Westgold's Meekatharra processing plant.

During May, the Bluebird mine produced 49 thousand tonnes (kt) of ore with an average gold grade of 4.0 grams per tonne (g/t), resulting in a yield of 6.3 thousand ounces (koz) of gold. This surpassed the production figures of 48kt at 3.7g/t and 5.8koz in April.

The consecutive record-breaking production month at Bluebird underscores the growing momentum and success of the operation, as acknowledged by Westgold Resources. Wayne Bramwell, the Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm for the Bluebird underground operation, attributing the increased output to improved operational execution and a deeper understanding of geological controls.

Westgold's accelerated surface drilling activities and completion of infill drilling from underground platforms indicate the potential for further expansion. Data from the drilling program suggests that the mine could achieve a monthly production capacity of over 50,000 tonnes once fully operational.

These accomplishments at the Bluebird mine contribute to Westgold Resources' ongoing success, as the company continues to focus on safe and responsible mining practices while striving for operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Promising Results for Mineral Resources Exploration Program

Tajha Pritchard
exploration geologist

Mining company Mineral Resources has reported promising early results from its exploration program at the Mt Marion lithium mine. The drilling confirmed the presence of lithium-bearing pegmatites at significant depths, highlighting the site's exploration potential. Mineral Resources conducted approximately 34 kilometers of drilling in 2023 and plans to double its capacity by the year-end. Additionally, the company terminated an agreement with Ganfeng Lithium for converting spodumene concentrate into lithium battery chemicals. Mineral Resources remains optimistic about the future of Mt Marion and its strong position in the lithium market.

Mineral Progress for Regis Resources

Tajha Pritchard
gold ore

Regis Resources, a leading mid-tier Australian gold producer, has unveiled its annual mineral resource and ore reserve update for the 2022 calendar year. The report showcases significant progress aligned with the company's long-term strategy and provides a strong foundation for future growth initiatives.

A notable highlight from the update is the commendable performance of underground reserves, which have exceeded depletion for the second consecutive year. This achievement can be attributed to new findings at the Duketon gold project and the Tropicana joint venture. Jim Beyer, CEO of Regis Resources, expressed satisfaction with the results, emphasizing the company's investment in these mines and the gratifying reserve growth realized within a short time frame. Beyer further highlighted the potential for continued growth as the mines continue to explore deeper underground. With a robust reserve life of eight years and operations exclusively located in Australia, Regis Resources is well-positioned to achieve long-term growth objectives and deliver superior returns to shareholders.

The report also reveals that as of December 31, 2022, the group's ore reserves amounted to 3.6 million ounces (Moz), with mineral resources totaling 7.0 Moz. The year witnessed an increase of 210,000 ounces (koz) in new ore reserves and an additional 400 koz in new mineral resources, effectively offsetting the depletion incurred during the calendar year.

Regis Resources maintained moderate long-term gold price assumptions for reserves and resources calculations, with a weighted average of $1800 per ounce and $2430 per ounce, respectively. This prudent approach ensures realistic projections for the company's gold assets.

In addition to the positive reserve and resource updates, encouraging early results were obtained from the Garden Well exploration decline at the Duketon project. These findings highlight the potential for new production areas and increased ounces per vertical meter. As a result, an exploration target has been established, signaling further growth opportunities and expansion potential.

Regis Resources' annual mineral resource and ore reserve update demonstrate their positive trajectory and commitment to sustainable growth in the gold mining sector. With consecutive years of underground reserves outpacing depletion and promising exploration outcomes, the company is well-poised to capitalize on growth opportunities and generate favorable outcomes for its shareholders.

 

Government Grant for Lynas Expansion Project

Tajha Pritchard
mt weld

Lynas Rare Earths, a leading mining company, has secured a $20 million grant from the Federal Government's Modern Manufacturing Initiative. The grant will support the development of a new processing capability for apatite-rich ores at the Mt Weld ore body. The project, in collaboration with ANSTO and Mt Weld Mining, aims to create a two-circuit process to remove apatite and increase recoveries. The Apatite Leach Circuit will be established at the Mt Weld site, creating 90 jobs and contributing to the Mt Weld expansion project. Lynas will also partner with universities to optimize the circuit and up-skill students. The new circuits will unlock additional value from the ore body and extend the mine's operating life.

 

Northern Star Expands Superpit

Tajha Pritchard
Northern Star Superpit

In a significant development for the mining industry, the board of Northern Star Resources has given the green light for the expansion of the Fimiston Mill, a key component of the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines' (KCGM) Super Pit. The expansion, which will increase the mill's capacity from 13 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) to 37Mtpa, comes with a price tag of $1.5 billion and is scheduled for completion in 2026.

Situated in the heart of the Kalgoorlie goldfields, the Super Pit stands as one of Australia's largest open-pit gold mines, encompassing the Mt Charlotte underground mine, as well as the Fimiston and Gidji processing plants.

Northern Star's Managing Director, Stuart Tonkin, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Today marks an exciting day for Northern Star and a momentous new chapter for this world-class asset. The board's decision to approve the KCGM mill expansion and optimization signifies the next stage in revitalizing our largest asset, as well as the surrounding district, for decades to come."

Tonkin further emphasized the financial advantages of the project, asserting its contribution toward realizing the company's strategy of generating superior returns for shareholders. With a productive start to the year at the Super Pit, Northern Star has seen an increase in gold resources to 57.4 million ounces (Moz), while maintaining steady ore reserves of 20.2Moz.

The Managing Director expressed confidence in the site's ability to continue delivering substantial value, stating, "Our confidence in the economics of KCGM, as a long-life, low-cost gold mine, has been further reinforced throughout the feasibility study phase."

Expanding the processing capacity of KCGM will not only strengthen Northern Star's portfolio but also significantly enhance free cash flow generation, moving the company towards its long-term objective of positioning within the second quartile of the global cost curve.

Tonkin also highlighted the project's significance in terms of sustainability, job creation, and local investment. He stated, "The project is important in our sustainability journey and will also sustain hundreds of local jobs, economic and social investment, and local procurement opportunities in the Goldfields region."

The expansion of the Fimiston Mill marks a major milestone for Northern Star Resources, propelling them towards a future of increased gold production, enhanced financial performance, and a continued commitment to sustainable mining practices.

Galileo Mining Discovers New Palladium-Platinum Rock Formation at Norseman Project, Unlocking Exciting Potential

Konrad Forrest
Galileo

Galileo Mining Ltd (ASX: GAL) has made an exciting breakthrough in its exploration efforts at the Norseman project in Western Australia. The company recently announced significant exploration results from drilling activities conducted to the north of the Callisto palladium-nickel discovery.

The Managing Director of Galileo Mining, Brad Underwood, expressed his satisfaction with the findings, emphasizing the importance of the anomalous intersection encountered during the exploration drilling. The assays revealed the presence of a new type of rock formation containing palladium and platinum, which is distinct and separate from the rock hosting the Callisto discovery located 600 meters to the south.

This discovery holds tremendous significance as it confirms that the enrichment of platinum group elements (PGE) at Callisto is not limited to one rock formation. It opens up exciting possibilities for further exploration and resource expansion within the Norseman project area. Underwood stated, "Drilling an anomalous intersection over such a wide zone is a significant result from exploration drilling at our Norseman project."

The Norseman project has been a focus for Galileo Mining due to its strategic location and previous successful discoveries. The identification of this new rock formation with PGE mineralization adds to the company's understanding of the geological potential in the area. It also enhances investor confidence and highlights the project's significance as a valuable contributor to Australia's mining industry.

Galileo Mining remains committed to further exploration and resource delineation at the Norseman project. The discovery of the separate rock formation containing palladium and platinum resources underscores the project's potential for long-term success. The company's ongoing efforts to unlock the area's mineral wealth demonstrate its dedication to maximizing the project's value.

Situated in a region renowned for its mineral resources, the Norseman project presents a prime opportunity for Galileo Mining. The company's exploration success positions it well for future advancements and resource expansion in the area. Investors and stakeholders eagerly await updates on the company's progress as it continues to unlock the potential of the Norseman project.

Galileo Mining's breakthrough in discovering the new palladium-platinum rock formation showcases its expertise in exploration and highlights its commitment to sustainable resource development. With a solid presence in the Australian mining sector, the company is poised to make further strides in uncovering valuable resources and contributing to the nation's economic growth.

As Galileo Mining continues its exploration activities, industry experts and investors eagerly anticipate future developments, recognizing the company's potential to uncover additional mineral resources within the Norseman project. The newfound opportunities presented by the palladium-platinum rock discovery solidify Galileo Mining's position as a key player in the Australian mining industry.

Rare Earth Element discovery at the Mount Squires Project

Konrad Forrest
REE

Caspin Resources Limited (ASX: CPN) has announced a significant discovery of Rare Earth Element (REE) mineralization at the Mount Squires Project in Western Australia. The discovery marks the first significant REE mineralization in the West Musgrave Province, and the finding was made despite the tiny scale of the assay program.

Caspin’s CEO, Greg Miles, was enthusiastic about the discovery, saying, “This is a sensational discovery given the tiny scale of the assay program.” He added that while the company had long recognized the potential for rare earth mineralization at Mount Squires, the focus had been on nickel, copper, and gold until now.

The recent-assaying of Duchess aircore holes has identified significant shallow REE mineralization. The drill holes include a 46m length with 0.71% total rare earth oxide (TREO) from 32m, a 19m length with 0.41% TREO from the surface, a 7m length with 0.32% TREO from the surface, and a 10m length with 0.14% TREO from 36m.

The assays indicate a significant proportion of high-value light and heavy rare earth elements in TREO. Notably, the NdPr:TREO averages 19%, the HREE:TREO averages 28%, and the Dy2O3:TREO averages 2.9%. There is also the potential for credits from accessory base metals.

The rhyolite volcanic host rock is strongly enriched with REE, and there is likely secondary enrichment through weathering and hydrothermal processes. The discovery highlights the potential to identify significant deposits of REE elsewhere in the project, and a geological review is underway.

Miles also noted that the discovery highlights the potential for REE mineralization throughout the project, with potentially more targets beyond the Duchess Prospect. An upcoming RC drill program will test extensions and obtain samples for metallurgical test work.

Caspin Resources Limited’s discovery of significant REE mineralization at the Mount Squires Project is an exciting development for the company and the industry. As exploration continues, there is the potential for further discoveries and the identification of significant deposits of REE.

KANGAROO HILLS LITHIUM DISCOVERY EXTENDED

Konrad Forrest
Future Battery Minerals

Future Battery Minerals Ltd (ASX: FBM) has reported assay results from four high-priority holes at its Kangaroo Hills Lithium Project (KHLP) in Western Australia. The results have extended the lithium discovery, confirming the continuation of mineralisation beyond the previously discovered KHRC011. The drilling programme has so far identified a pegmatite unit of 200m in width, up to 30m in thickness, and at least 300m in length. The mineralisation remains open along the strike at a flat minus (-) 20-degree dip. The results indicate that the project could be highly significant for FBM, with a considerable amount of lithium potentially being present in the identified pegmatite unit.

The four holes that were drilled were immediate step-outs north, south and east from KHRC011, which returned 29m @1.36% Li2O. All four holes identified a thick pegmatite unit that is interpreted to be the same host rock of the high-grade lithium mineralisation. The drill holes were prioritised for assaying in order to better understand the immediate continuation of mineralisation and aid modelling of this important host rock before diamond core drilling (DD).

The assay results received from the four holes returned thick and shallow high-grade Lithium (Li) in spodumene-bearing pegmatite, including 27m @ 1.32% Li2O from 64m (KHRC017), 19m @ 1.03% Li2O from 42m (KHRC015), 16m @ 1.09% Li2O from 11m (KHRC022), and 12m @ 1.02% Li2O from 8m (KHRC021). The assays for 23 more holes drilled during Phase 2 drilling are still pending.

The company is extremely pleased with the results, which confirm the significance of the initial KHLP discovery. Diamond drilling (DD) has now commenced, with the first hole (KHDD001) infilling between KHRC011 and KHRC015. The aim of the DD programme is to confirm the orientation of the pegmatite and provide an important bulk sample for early stage mineralogical and metallurgical analysis. FBM Technical Director Robin Cox commented on the assay results, stating that the company is keen to better understand the mineralogy and metallurgy of this important discovery through the DD programme.