Meeka Metals closer to first gold

As processing plant works near completion, Meeka Metals (ASX: MEK) anticipates first gold production in the coming months from its flagship Murchison gold project.

Following the successful installation of the power station at the site in May the plant has been energised in advance of full commissioning.

Open pit mining operations continue at the St Anne’s North and Turnberry Central sites as ore stockpiles continue to grow.

“With power to the plant and ore stocks on the ROM we are on track for commissioning and first gold in the coming weeks,” says Meeka Metals managing director Tim Davidson.

Ore drive development is expected mid-year following the underground establishment at the Andy Well mine approaching completion with power and services connected to the site and the installation of primary ventilation.

“Additionally, with the expansion of the oxide open pits and bringing forward of the underground mines we made the decision to expand the accommodation village,” Mr Davidson said.

Expansion of the accommodation village began in April this year to house the growing work force at the project following the recruitment of highly skilled personnel for the processing and maintenance team as well as a new underground mining team.

“This expansion has now been completed, bringing capacity to 160 rooms and allowing us to operate the open pits and underground mines concurrently, getting more high-grade ore to the mill sooner,” Mr Davidson said.

Installation of a new administration complex and underground change house were also completed to service the company’s underground mining workforce.

Meeka continues to push forward with production aiming to grow ore stockpiles in anticipation of the full commissioning of the plant.