Hey Pact, Open Cut is used dependent on a number of factors but...

Hey Pact,

Open Cut is used dependent on a number of factors but several early indiactors are strip ratio, orebody geometry, grade and size of deposit. Strip ratio, is the ratio between overburden (waste) and ore in tonnes. It is worth noting that it is not just in relation to the depth of the orebody below surface (closer to the surface generally the lower the ratio) but also the strike/dip of the orebody. A shallow dipping orebody will require a large surface area to be cleared to remove it (orebody remaining within the pit shell design) using open pit methods. This can be a reason for starting a boxcut from a surface if the orebody is on a shallow dip but had good consistent grade.

Generally good grade, steep dip and close to surface will see an open pit with the potential for an underground portal closer to the orebody from the finished mined pit shell. These can been seen through out the Goldfields, as generations pass and ore grades become viable as the gold price rises.

Input or feedback most welcome.

Dissapointed to see this retrace today, quite shocked really. That said a few drill holes do not make a mine, so lets hold tight and see what the next few campaigns of drilling show us. Then things will really get nice and green in the new year!