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Highlights
Ore sourced from early underground blocks directed toward processing
Parallel vein systems prioritised for targeted extraction
Diverse narrow-vein mining methods implemented to maintain grade
Vertex Minerals (ASX:VTX) has reported further progress at the Reward Underground Mine in New South Wales, marking a key phase in its underground development strategy. Ore has been sourced from early stope areas, transported, and positioned for processing through the existing access portal.
Ore handling and processing
Material extracted from stopes and development strips has been moved to designated stockpiles for processing. This flow ensures a continuous link between production and surface operations, supporting efficiency across blasting, bogging, and haulage cycles.
Geological targets
The company has identified the Mica 1 and Mica 2 veins as priority zones for extraction. These structures are closely aligned and allow selective mining while maintaining grade discipline. Their parallel orientation provides flexibility for operational planning and supports multiple access points for ore recovery.
Stope preparation
Preparations have been advanced along strike to extend operational flexibility. Stopes are being set up to allow selective scheduling, enabling mining teams to shift between panels depending on ground conditions and ore availability. This setup provides a steady material flow to surface stockpiles.
Mining approaches
Reward Underground Mine employs a range of narrow-vein mining approaches. These include airleg gallery and shrink stoping, jumbo cut-and-fill, and narrow-vein longhole open stoping. Each method is selected based on ore body geometry and stability, with the intent to manage dilution and maintain ore quality.
Material control and grade focus
The approach to grade control incorporates close-spaced sampling and geological mapping. This ensures alignment with mineralised zones and helps sustain consistent ore movement to the processing stage.
Infrastructure and services
The underground infrastructure includes ventilation systems, power supply, and communication networks. These services allow operations to advance deeper into the mine while maintaining stable working conditions and equipment performance.
Production sequencing
Production is sequenced to allow multiple activities across different headings. While some panels undergo drilling and blasting, others are in haulage and rehabilitation stages. This rotation helps balance ore movement and prevents delays in processing.
Safety and operational controls
Safety protocols focus on ventilation monitoring, ground support installation, and strict access procedures in fired areas. Backfill practices are applied to reinforce stopes and maintain stability during ongoing development.
Upcoming priorities include monitoring ore continuity from current stopes, evaluating geological reconciliation, and refining extraction methods to ensure ongoing operational stability. These elements remain central to the continued advancement of the Reward Underground Mine project.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the Reward Underground Mine located?
It is situated in New South Wales, Australia. - Which ore zones are being prioritised?
Focus is on the Mica 1 and Mica 2 veins. - What mining methods are applied?
Airleg gallery, shrink stoping, jumbo cut-and-fill, and narrow-vein longhole stoping.
