Chalice puts Gonneville before EPA

Chalice Mining is an Australian-based mining company that is primarily focused on the exploration and development of base metals and gold projects. One of its key projects is the Gonneville nickel-copper-platinum (Ni-Cu-PGE) deposit located in the Fraser Range region of Western Australia.

The Gonneville project is situated approximately 1,100 kilometers northeast of Perth and 150 kilometers south of Leinster. The deposit is known for its high-grade Ni-Cu-PGE mineralization, which is of significant interest due to the increasing demand for these metals in various industries, particularly in the production of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.

In March 2023, Chalice Mining announced that it had submitted a mining proposal for the Gonneville project to the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). The proposal outlines the company's plans for developing the deposit, which includes constructing a processing plant, establishing infrastructure for mining operations, and implementing measures for managing environmental impacts.

The proposed mining method for Gonneville is open pit, with a planned production rate of approximately 15 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) over a mine life of around 15 years. The project is expected to create around 550 jobs during construction and approximately 350 jobs during the operational phase.

The mining proposal includes a comprehensive environmental management plan that aims to minimize the impact on the surrounding environment. Key aspects of this plan include the use of best available technologies for dust suppression and water management, rehabilitation of disturbed areas, and the implementation of measures to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage sites.

Chalice Mining is targeting first production from the Gonneville project in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and other necessary permits being granted. The company is currently conducting further studies and engaging with stakeholders to refine the project design and optimize its economic and environmental outcomes.

In summary, Chalice Mining's Gonneville Ni-Cu-PGE project is a significant development opportunity for the company and Western Australia's mining industry. The proposed mine is expected to produce high-grade Ni-Cu-PGE ore over a 15-year mine life, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy while minimizing environmental impacts through a comprehensive environmental management plan. The company is currently progressing through the regulatory approval process with a view to beginning construction in 2027.