PERTH (miningweekly.com) – Gold miner Resolute Mining reported a 1% increase in gold production and a 6% increase in sales for the September quarter, on the back of improved performance from its Syama operations, in Mali.

Gold production in the three months to September reached 90 387 oz, up from the 89 134 oz produced in the June quarter, while gold sales for the quarter increased from 84 944 oz to 90 404 oz.

Resolute on Thursday reported that the Syama sulphide operation produced 44 746 oz during the quarter under review, a 5% increase on the previous quarter, on the back of improved grades. The oxide operation also delivered higher production at 13 876 oz, up from the 12 726 oz in the June quarter.

At Mako, in Senegal, Resolute produced 31 765 oz of gold, down slightly from the 33 649 oz produced in the June quarter. Resolute noted that while ore tonnage at Mako continued to increase during the quarter, mine grade reduced by 11% compared with the June quarter, in line with expectations.

Meanwhile, group all-in sustaining costs (AISC) for the quarter also fell by 2%, to $1 513/oz.

Gold sales for the quarter increased from the 84 944 oz sold in the June quarter to 90 404 oz, while the average realised price for gold sales remained stable at $1 809/oz.

“Resolute recorded its fourth consecutive quarter of increased production, despite a historically challenging wet season. Operations at Syama continue to progress, capitalising on the increased capacity of the sulphide processing circuit with a record 44 746 oz of gold poured from the sub-level cave mining operation,” said CEO and MD Terry Holohan.

“During the quarter Resolute was pleased to announce a 40% increase in mineral resources to two-million ounces at Syama North where gold is being discovered at about $10/oz. These results confirm the potential for a new openpit operation adjacent to the Syama processing complex.

“As a result, a prefeasibility study investigating low capital expansion options for the Syama North satellite pit and enhancement of the crushing and milling circuit performance commenced. In addition, a heliborne aeromagnetic survey of the 85 km strike was completed, which provides detailed aeromagnetic information to aid the interpretation of regional structures in the Syama Belt.

“While cost pressures continued to be experienced, full year production and cost guidance of 345 000 oz at an AISC of $1 425/oz, has been maintained.”