Development & Mining
Open pit and underground development
The first gold was produced from the Engenho Project in June 2008, marking the completion of all commissioning processes at the mine and the Company’s transition to gold production.
The main underground Galeria ore body is being accessed through a modern decline development from the bottom of the existing open pit. Initial mining activities focused on the remnant Bola orebody within the open pit wall, while the major orebodies below the existing open pit are developed.
The primary ore sources and mine infrastructure have been developed in a manner to ensure ongoing access to the underground ore body in a cohesive and consistent manner to ensure the long-term efficiency and productivity of the mine.
Mining operations have been professionally undertaken with excellent productivity and planning. Ground conditions have been excellent and decline development rates have exceeded mine development records in Brazil.
Jumbo operating underground at Engenho
The stoping method adopted at Engenho, combined with good ground conditions, continues to provide good productivity and the development of the mine below the open pit floor remains robust.
