Kingston Resources Ltd (ASX:KSN) is winding back the clock at the Southern Ore Zone (SOZ) underground mine as it prepares for the next stage of development at the Mineral Hill Project in the Cobar Basin of New South Wales.
The gold and base metals producer is eager to restore the NSW mine to its former glory, kicking off proceedings with safety checks, ventilation reinstallation and power and pumping development.
Kingston hopes to get the drill bit spinning in 2023’s December quarter when it’ll focus on infilling and extending the underground resource at SOZ.
While there’s still a way to go, it’s hoped the revitalised mine will leverage existing development and infrastructure to facilitate a low-cost restart.
The underground portal, secondary ventilation fan installation and pumping work at Mineral Hill underground.
Laying the groundwork
Kingston Resources managing director Andrew Corbett said the team was excited to go back underground at SOZ and restore the ore zone’s mining operations.
“The already established extensive infrastructure, both underground and on surface, is an enormous advantage for Kingston,” he explained.
“This is the groundwork for a sustainable, long-term operation and our whole team is dedicated to the success of this project.
“We look forward to keeping the market updated on our progress.”
Mineral Hill’s SOZ currently boasts a mineral resource of 3.8 million tonnes, weighing in at 1.29 g/t gold, 19.2 g/t silver, 0.9% copper, 1.6% lead and 1.4% zinc.
As it gears up for underground mining, Kingston hopes it can prove up inferred portions of the resource and test likely depth extensions, solidifying its resource base for the next phase of mining at Mineral Hill.
The Mineral Hill mining lease mapped against the Southern Ore Zone.