Name of the Project
Big Bell gold mine expansion.
Location
Cue, Western Australia.
Project Owner/s
Westgold Resources.
Project Description
The expansion of the Big Bell mine will include a new longhole, open stoping (LHOS) operation below the existing sublevel cave.
Envisaged is the construction of a mine capable of producing 93000 oz/y over the 16-year life-of-mine for total production of 1.32-million ounces.
The LHOS will extend baseload feed by accessing the deeper extensions of the Big Bell orebody, without impeding productivity from the current sublevel caving.
Development of the deeper extensions will use the existing mining fleet and mine infrastructure, opening a second production front and increasing the overall mined grade through more selective mining.
To establish this second production front, an LHOS operation with paste fill methodology will be used below the current sublevel caving footprint. This methodology will ensure that greater grade selectivity is available to Westgold, and optimises the management of the stress regime in the mine.
Potential Job Creation
Not stated.
Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
The project is highly value accretive, with a net present value of $313-million, and a payback of five years.
Capital Expenditure
Not stated.
Planned Start/End Date
First ore from the LHOS is expected in the first half of 2025.
Latest Developments
None stated.
Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
Westgold Resources, tel +61 8 9462 3400 or email perth.reception@westgold.com.au.