Larvotto delivers first ore ahead of commissioning

Larvotto Resources (ASX:LRV) has transitioned from developer to producer-in-waiting, delivering the first development ore from the Metz underground mine to surface stockpiles.

The achievement marks a pivotal moment for the Hillgrove antimony-gold project, keeping the operation firmly on track for its scheduled process plant commissioning in August.

The milestone saw investor confidence surge, with the company’s share price climbing over 9% following the announcement.

The rapid progress is underpinned by an underground campaign led by contractor PYBAR.

To date, crews have advanced 170m of new development and rehabilitated nearly two kilometres of existing drives.

The scale of the safety and structural works is evidenced by the installation of 20,000 rock bolts, a necessary precursor to the full-scale underground production ramp-up.

Additionally, vertical raise boring for a new ventilation shaft has commenced ahead of schedule, ensuring the mine’s infrastructure can support the increasing operational intensity.

Managing Director Ron Heeks praised the site team’s precision, noting that the project remains both on time and within budget.

“We are looking forward to becoming not only Australia’s next critical mineral producer but also its largest antimony producer,” Heeks stated.

As refurbishment of the processing plant nears completion, Hillgrove is poised to become a significant player in the critical minerals sector.

The project is forecast to produce an average of 40,556 ounces of gold and 4,878 tonnes of antimony annually over its initial eight-year mine life.

At the time of reporting, Larvotto Resources’ share price was $1.53.