Avenira receives approval to begin mining operations at Wonarah

Avenira (ASX:AEV) has received approval from the Northern Territory Government authorising 40,000t of ore extraction from the Wonarah direct shipping ore (DSO) phosphate project.

Northern Territory Deputy Chief Minister and Mining and Industry Minister Nicole Manison approved the Mine Management Plan (MMP) under the Mining Management Act 2001, enabling mining to begin at Wonarah.

Ms Manison says this is huge news for the Territory.

“In huge news for the Territory economy and a big win for jobs in the Barkly, Avenira has met its regulatory obligations and is now authorised to commence mining,” she said.

“The Wonarah phosphate project further cements the Territory’s reputation as a globally significant hub for resources and critical minerals.

“We have the resources the world needs to transition to net-zero emissions and green energy and we support the projects that make this happen.”

The authorisation approves an initial test pit targeting 5000t of marketable direct shipping ore (DSO), the commencement of mining at the project to mine an estimated 35,000t of ore and surface grade control drilling to support detailed mine planning for the remaining DSO operations.

The authorisation enables staged expansion of Wonarah with customary conditions including submitting an amended MMP with findings of surface grade control drilling, pathway to development and consideration of site rehabilitation. This includes other supporting documents that demonstrate appropriate management of environmental risks.

Avenira chairman and chief executive Brett Clark says the company is delighted with the approval.

“This [the approval] is a crucial step in delivering our mining project, which will provide feedstock for our proposed LFP cathode production plant,” he said.

“Completing this project will see Darwin become a key supplier of critical materials to the global battery market.

“The signing of the MMP follows the conclusion recently of formal agreements with our technology partner Aleees, which shows this project is moving forward very positively.”