Queensland grants Metro leases for Bauxite Hills mine development

PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Queensland government has granted ASX-listed Metro Mining three mining leases over its Bauxite Hills mine.

Minister for State Development and Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the granted leases were critical for the A$35.8-million bauxite mine project to proceed into planned production.

“Granting these leases allows Metro Mining to consolidate and unlock the potential of the significant bauxite reserve that exists on the western Cape York Peninsula, and generate hundreds of jobs for the region,” Lynham said.

Metro MD Simon Finnis said on Tuesday that the granting of the mining leases continued Metro’s development momentum for the Bauxite Hills mine, with first production remaining on track for the second quarter of 2018.

Construction of the project has already started.

Lynham said the Bauxite Hills project, located about 100 km north north-east of Weipa, would bring substantial economic benefits to Queensland.

“The mine will produce bauxite for export and is planned to operate for an initial 17 years with opportunities for extending the life based on the known resources in the area.

“The start-up production rate of approximately two-million tonnes of bauxite per annum is proposed increasing to approximately six-million tonnes over a four year period.

“Up to 200 people are expected to be employed with a 30% indigenous workforce target incorporating traineeships and apprenticeships and training requirements, plus provision for local and regional procurement.

“Pre-approved construction had commenced at the mine site and Metro Mining anticipates commencing mining operations in April next year, following the wet season.”