Metro Mining (ASX:MMI) reported that its Bauxite Hills operation in Queensland and marine divisions completed their first quarter maintenance programs and are in the process of mobilization to commence production and shipping, according to a Thursday Australian bourse filing.
Mining and screening are projected to start on March 15 and ship-loading is set to start by March 17, subject to weather.
Maintenance was focused on reliability at higher operating rates and was completed on time and within the allocated AU$7 million budget. This included the full disassembly/demobilization of the barge loader for refurbishment and strengthening as well as pontoon maintenance.
In 2024, shipments reached 5.7 million wet metric tonnes, up 24% from 2023, and it achieved demonstrated expansion project run rates of over 7 million wet metric tonnes per annum in the fourth quarter.
Planned shipments are expected to be 6.5 to 7 million wet metric tonnes during the current year.
Its shares rose 6% on market close on Thursday.