Golden Eagle Mill Refurbishment Proceeding On Schedule

VANCOUVER - Novo Resources Corp. reported a further operational update from its Beatons Creek gold project and Nullagine processing facility (Golden Eagle Mill). Development at Beatons Creek and refurbishment at the Golden Eagle Mill continue to make excellent progress, on schedule and within budget. Recent key milestones achieved include: Golden Eagle Mill refurbishment proceeding on schedule; Mining contractor selected; Ongoing grade control drilling; and Site personnel (including contractors) now totaling 77.

Iron Mine Contracting Pty Ltd (IMCPL) has been awarded ‘preferred contractor’ status for the surface mining contract. Mobilization planning is well underway. Mobilization of mining equipment to site is due to commence in the next month. Grade control reverse circulation drilling is progressing well with high density (10m x 10m drill hole spacing and 0.5m sample interval). Drilling was initially completed across an area of haul road excavation essential to providing initial haulage access. Currently, drilling is being undertaken in some of the first areas to soon be excavated and stockpiled. Sample dispatches are frequently being transported to MinAnalytical for gold PhotonAssay.

Construction of laydown pads for the major contractors has commenced. It is important to note that this, and haulage road construction, are the only significant pre-development items remaining ahead of progressing works at Beatons Creek. Works continue on the Golden Eagle Mill maintenance and upgrades. Offsite key componentry refurbishment including screens, cyclone underpan, pumps and other minor items continues in accordance with schedule. Work in the leach tanks and launders continues to plan, with water blasting, sandblasting, tank repair and baffle replacement being completed as required. Painting is now well underway with the application of high quality paint which is expected to significantly extend the life of the tanks.

The civil works contractor has mobilized to site to pour foundations for the upgraded Acacia reactor unit and for the major contractor’s workshop, in addition to remedying damaged tank bunding. The GR Engineering Services (GRES) scope currently stands at approximately 35% complete, with works continuing on schedule and within budget with no material issues or problems encountered thus far. Long lead items have all been ordered and arrival dates remain within the refurbishment schedule.

CEO and Director, Rob Humphryson, said, “We are delighted to welcome IMCPL as Novo’s preferred primary mining contractor at the Nullagine Gold Project. IMCPL made a strong impression upon Novo management with their culturally aligned approach to safety, personnel management and most importantly their commitment to meaningful Aboriginal engagement. IMCPL has clearly articulated an intent to work collaboratively with Novo to optimize mining equipment, methods and costs as evidenced by mobilization of a predominantly new fleet to underpin high levels of productivity and reliability. We look forward to a long and productive relationship with IMCPL. GRES and subcontractors continue to perform an outstanding job with all works continuing safely and to plan.”