The ore, which is now stockpiled at the complex’s surface, was obtained over two stages, 70,000t and 30,000t, with bulk sampling partner Technica Group. 

The two are now turning their attention to services installations including underground power supply and ventilation, as well as site work for its mill. Development work beneath the surface is expected to resume once again in the second quarter of next year.

Harte, which owns 100% of the property, is also working on an updated resource model and technical report for both the Sugar Zone deposit and the Middle Zone deposit that was recently discovered.

“The work completed by Technica to date has placed the company in an excellent position as the mining method, operating expenses, dilution and recoveries have been established and the installation of critical mine services will provide the foundation for full commercial production,” president and CEO Stephen Roman said, also recognising Kabi Lake Forest Products for its contract work on the mine’s infrastructure and general surface contracting.

Sugar Zone, located east of Thunder Bay and Marathon near White River in southern Ontario, Canada, contains an indicated resource of 980,900t (grading 10.13g/t) for 319,280 ounces of contained gold and an inferred resource of 580,500t (grading 8.36g/t) for 155,960oz of contained gold.