Ore and waste are mined using conventional open pit mining methods. The operation utilises selective mining techniques to separate ore and waste. Provision has been made for drilling and blasting all primary and oxide materials.
Utilising the Company's owner-operator fleet, an accelerated waste-stripping programme commenced in Q4, focusing on:
- Stage 5 west wall pushback and Stage 4 west remediation to recommence mining H2 2021;
- Eastern area preparation works ahead of commencement of the contractor waste-stripping programme;
- Pioneering works on the north section of the Sukari hill in preparation to commence open pit mining on the Cleopatra Zone.
The Sukari underground mine is a trackless diesel mine, with all equipment rubber tyred and self- powered. The workings are accessed via a ramp system declining at a gradient of 1 in 7. Levels are typically developed at 15 metre vertical intervals, although this is dependent on orebody geometry and mining method.
Mining method: Long-hole stoping, room and pillar, avoca modified.
Backfilling will continue during 2021, using cemented rock fill, wich allows a bottom-up mining method. This has proven effective at maximising extraction of the orebody, improving geotechnical ground support, and reducing overall dilution and good for waste management in the underground operations. Study and design work is well advanced for the implementation of paste fill plant in 2022, wich wil ........
