Siana mine build update
Rain, statistically above the wet season average, continues to restrict some construction activities.
The government station at Surigao recorded 983mm of rain in February 2011, compared with the 30 year average of 389mm. This brings the calendar year total to 2.8 metres which is 288 percent of the long term average.
The consistent extent of the rain in the region has caused the nearby 35 km long Lake Mainit to break its banks flooding lake shore communities. The Siana mine safety and response team has also rescued stranded inhabitants from the villages immediately surrounding the mine.
Whilst the mine site drainage system has performed well, the sodden nature of the ground and the high humidity has restricted certain activities. In particular, the 300m3 concrete pour for the crusher and SAG mill have been postponed for over six weeks.
Meanwhile, the pit dewatering is progressing satisfactorily at rates up to 1,400 litres per second, with the former mine benches and ramp being progressively exposed.
All off-site activities, principally the receipt of process plant equipment and fabricated steel is on the original delivery schedule.
The recruitment of process plant personnel has seen appointments to the positions of Plant superintendent, senior and junior metallurgist. Interviews for the positions of Operations Manager and Exploration and Technical Manager, reporting the Managing Director, commence shortly.
A date for the first gold pour will be advised post pouring, curing and certification of the mill foundations.
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