Larvotto Resources Advances Hillgrove Antimony-Gold Project in New South Wales
Aurally, the Australian resources firm Larvotto Resources has announced significant progress regarding the definitive feasibility study (DFS) for its Hillgrove antimony-gold project, located in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Despite encountering some delays due to necessary engineering modifications, the company is moving closer to completing this crucial study. These modifications are vital as they include a shift from a wet tailings storage facility to a more environmentally sustainable dry stack landform, alongside the integration of insights gained from ongoing metallurgical testing aimed at optimizing the processing methods.
The adjustments highlight Larvottos commitment to minimizing environmental impacts while ensuring progressive rehabilitation during the project's lifecycle. This approach is essential given the heightened global focus on sustainable mining practices.
As part of the DFS, Larvotto Resources has opted for conservative commodity price assumptions, projecting gold prices at $2,400 per ounce and antimony prices at $25,000 per tonne. Interestingly, these estimates are significantly below the prevailing market rates, which currently stand above $3,100 per ounce for gold and over $60,000 per tonne for antimony. Such conservative pricing may reflect a cautious approach by the company as it navigates market fluctuations.
In addition to the DFS, Larvotto is actively advancing its exploration initiatives, employing four diamond rigs that operate double shifts on-site. This dynamic exploration strategy is supported by an expanded team of approximately 30 employees and contractors, all dedicated to continuously generating results related to mineralization and identifying future drilling targets. The ambitious exploration efforts are crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of the Hillgrove project.
To further strengthen its community relations, Larvotto has inaugurated the Hillgrove Hub, a community engagement center dedicated to fostering connections with the surrounding regions of Armidale and Hillgrove. This hub will serve multiple purposes, including facilitating the hiring of local employees and providing a space for residents to access information directly from Larvotto representatives.
Ron Heeks, Managing Director of Larvotto Resources, expressed pride in the companys contributions to the local economy. He stated, "As the project progresses with the DFS nearing completion and exploration activities ongoing we are proud to be creating employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, and delivering critical minerals that will contribute to both the regional and national economy.
In a notable financial move, Larvotto Resources signed a non-binding term sheet in March 2024 with Wogen Resources and Xcelsior Capital, valuing at $8 million (approximately A$12.62 million), to facilitate the ongoing development of the Hillgrove project. This partnership further underscores Larvottos proactive approach to securing necessary funding and support for its mining operations.
The Hillgrove antimony-gold project is poised to play a significant role in meeting both local and global demand for these essential minerals, and Larvottos initiatives underscore its commitment to responsible mining and community engagement.