Hillgrove Resources' (ASX:HGO) board approved the start of development at Emily Star as the third underground mining front at the Kanmantoo copper mine in South Australia, according to a Friday Australian bourse filing.
Drilling across the upper levels of Emily Star confirmed geological continuity and grade distribution consistent with the existing geological model for the project. Once online, it is expected to achieve a 2
million tonnes-per-annum run rate at the mine.
Stoping is planned to begin in the second half of 2027, following completion of decline development and establishment of the required level accesses.
The capital required to bring Emily Star into production is estimated to be AU$20 million to AU$22 million.