SOUTHERN Cross Gold is progressing the Sunday Creek project at Clonbinane, moving to the next stage of its exploration decline tunnel.
The next stage involved finalising a box cut on Thursday. This meant that controlled blasting had to be involved with a licensed shotfirer carrying out to a detailed blast plan.
The box cut had to be completed as, according to Southern Cross Gold, the ground conditions had hardened to a point where an excavator could not have dug up the rock, and anticipated this would be the case.
Southern Cross Gold, in a public notice, said the effects would be noticeable, but controlled and carefully managed to meet regulator standards so as to not impact local residents.
Southern Cross Gold CEO and President Mike Hudson said this marked a significant event as countdown commenced to the opening of the exploratory tunnel.
“Commencing construction of the box cut is a significant milestone for the project and the local community,” he said.
“The Sunday Creek project will create opportunities for local contractors, suppliers and skilled workers, including apprenticeships and training.
“We want local people to share in the economic and social benefits the Sunday Creek project can deliver.”
