The $110 million Mungari gold mill project near Kalgoorlie in Western Australia was officially opened on Saturday by Mines Minister, Bill Marimon.
The Minister congratulated mine owners, La Mancha Resources, saying the project would create hundreds of jobs for Goldfields residents.
“What we see here is the sort of excellence that builds on Western Australia’s rating as the world’s number one mining investment destination,” Mr Marmion said.
“And with the challenges that have faced the gold industry, this investment could not have come at a better time.”
Mill recruitment is complete, with 40 positions filled, but the production efficiency of the new plant means La Mancha can also re-activate its White Foil open pit mine. Previously, White Foil’s lower-grade ores were unviable.
“Re-opening White Foil will employ 30 extra La Mancha staff, plus another 50 drill and blast contractors, taking the total workforce to 280,” the Minister said.
“It’s good news for the Goldfields, too, that all staff will be living locally. I’m also pleased to see the high level of specialised training being offered to workers.”
When mining and mill processing is at full capacity later this year, La Mancha’s gold production is expected to increase to 160,000 ounces a year.
The heart of the Mungari mill was machined in Perth but major components came from as far afield as Poland and Belgium.
“West Australians engineered it, powered it and, finally, positioned it with laser precision,” Mr Marmion said.
“This is the sort of WA resources industry opportunity I’m proud to support and encourage.”
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