A cohesive approach to optimisation of the Woodlark Gold Mine in Milne Bay Province is producing positive results.
Mine operators Geopacific Resources Limited announced in a statement that many technical aspects of the mine have been investigated in detail and consequently, work is centered on assessing optimisation opportunities.
They include modular construction techniques; refining the processing plant flow sheet and technology.
Geopacific says considerable effort is being applied to optimising mining with areas of interest, including optimal mine design, refining grade-scheduling to shorten the capital paycheck period and equipment selection.
The company adds that capital savings directly affect the financing period of the mine, while operational cost directly affect the size of the gold reserve and optimising both provides for a robust project.
“Woodlark is a solid project – a multi-million-ounce gold deposit with approvals in place to build a 1.8 Mtpa (million ton per annum) plant and opportune timing in the mining cycle,” reads the statement.
“Woodlark is beneficially differentiated by being on an island. Cost-effective modular build options and operational logistics come into play because we are located on the coast with access in protected bay with deep water.
“Our focus is to optimise Woodlark and take it into production. We are taking a comprehensive approach to our review and optimisation work program, with positive results and encouraging levels of progress – evident in this update."
Loop file photo