The prospect of a lengthy shutdown of its Century zinc mine due to intense rainstorms has forced Australian miner New Century Resources to turn to its now-controlling shareholder Sibanye-Stillwater for up to $A30M in short-term support.
The hydraulic mining operation at Lawn Hill in NW Qld has been confined to essential safety and maintenance activities for over a week due to site conditions and blocked access roads.
New Century says restarting production may take 2-3 weeks, subject to no further significant rainfall. Mining activities are then likely to be limited to about 75% capacity at least until mid-late April, leaving an initial prediction of 15,000-20,000t lost zinc metal production.
Sibanye, which has built its shareholding to 78% under a $US103M takeover offer, confirmed it will work with New Century to meet its debts.