PERTH (miningweekly.com) – ASX-listed Galaxy Resources has assured shareholders that despite the recent heavy rainfall in Western Australia, the company’s Mount Cattlin lithium operation continues apace.
The Mt Cattlin and the general Ravensthorpe area experienced extensive unseasonal rain, with some 240 mm falling.
The rain caused a temporary two-day suspension of mining operations; however, Galaxy noted that there was sufficient material on the run-of-mine pad during this period, meaning that no production delays are expected.
The process plant has continued uninterrupted.
Galaxy told shareholders that minor repairs have been required to on-site haulage roads and walkways; however, the recently upgraded site drainage worked according to plan and little water accumulated in the operating areas.
Meanwhile, the company noted that it was working with its logistics partners and the Port of Bunbury on a short-term shipping solution to ensure the planned 15 000 t shipment later this month, can be loaded.
Road access from Mt Cattlin to Esperance has been restricted as a result of severe flood damage to roads and infrastructure. Galaxy has around 10 000 t of export product in storage at the Esperance port, with the next shipment vessel expected to arrive on February 22. Galaxy does not expect the Esperence road access to be fully operational to enable the balance of the export shipment to be trucked to Esperance port before the arrival of the ship.