Mine development for MMG Limited’s Dugald River project continues to progress ahead of schedule, bolstered by what is believed to be a new world record for mine development.
Barminco, a specialist underground hard rock mining contractor engaged by MMG to conduct Dugald River mine development, used a single twin boom jumbo and in cycle shotcrete to advance mine development 700.4 metres during April.
This is almost 100 metres more than what is believed to be the previous record for single jumbo mine development – a 603.1 metre monthly advance by the Barminco joint venture, AUMS, in Africa.
In congratulating the Dugald River team for their achievement, MMG Queensland Operations Manager Mark Adams said that the likely record and progress of the mine development was the result of a strong partnership between MMG and Barminco.
“This result shows what a strong partnership between client and contracting partner– based on a firm commitment to safety and productivity – can achieve.”
Barminco Chief Executive Officer Peter Stokes said that, critically, the achievement was made without injury or incident.
“The safety of our workforce always comes first –this progress demonstrates that safety does not need to be compromised to achieve high productivity and efficient outcomes.”
MMG is prioritising mine development during 2013 as it works to optimise operating plans for the Dugald River project. Barminco was awarded a two and half year contract for mine development and other works in February 2012.
Surface works, including bulk earthworks, are also underway as part of Dugald River development.
MMG’s Dugald River project is based on one of the world’s largest known undeveloped zinc deposits, located about 65 kilometres from Cloncurry. The project is on track to deliver the first shipment of Dugald River concentrates during the fourth quarter of 2015.
MMG is a global resource company which mines, explores and develops base metals deposits around the world.