Galena Mining Ltd (ASX:G1A) has reached a key milestone at its Abra Base Metals Mine in the Gascoyne Region of Western Australia with the underground development reaching the top of the Abra orebody.
The first ore heading underground has been reached on the 1300mRL access drive with underground development at this point being 2,949 metres and first ore is 250 metres below the surface.
The project remains on track for first concentrate production in the first quarter of 2023.
Underground managers Jared Murton and Brodie Edwards enjoying reaching first ore.
“Another significant step”
Managing director Tony James said: “Reaching first ore underground delivers another significant step in bringing the Abra project online.
"The first cut in the portal was taken in October 2021 and now 2,949 metres later and 250 metres below surface we have reached the orebody.
"Special acknowledgement needs to be given to Byrnecut and the Abra mining team for achieving this milestone and everyone involved should be very proud of what they have achieved.”
Progress of the Abra underground mine development to October 31 (yellow).
Underground development
The second underground development Jumbo has commenced at Abra in line with multiple headings being established and underground development is expected to increase accordingly.
Underground grade control drilling continues and the 6-metre diameter return airway shaft drilling has been completed in November through to the surface.
Commissioning progress
The company is also making progress with commissioning, which is underway in in several key areas of the processing facility, while the hybrid power station is now commissioned.
On October 20, the site changed over to mains power station with the commissioning of the Pacific Energy hybrid 10MW gas/solar/BESS power station.
Mains power energisation of crushing and screening sections.
Power system fully integrated
On November 10, the system was fully integrated with the successful integration of the 6MW solar panels.
The mine and general site infrastructure is now running on mains power and plant commissioning to date includes the energisation of the crushing/screening sections.
"It’s also important to acknowledge Pacific Energy and the Abra project team for the faultless commissioning of the power station and completing the full integration of the solar system,” James added.
CFO Craig Barnes showing high-grade ore underground at Abra.