Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) has achieved another milestone, kicking off transport of spodumene direct shipping ore (DSO) from its Finniss Lithium Mine in the Northern Territory to Darwin Port.
Crushing of the lithium ore began on Wednesday, with the first load of DSO trucked from Finniss this morning.
The DSO will be trucked from Finniss to Darwin Port over the coming weeks with the loading of the ship to commence at the end of the month.
“The transportation of DSO today is another significant milestone for Finniss, and is a very positive step towards our objective to export from Darwin Port before the end of the year,” said CEO Gareth Manderson.
What’s more, Core has appointed senior operational leader and mining professional Mike Stone as its new chief operating officer (COO).
Meanwhile, Samantha Rees started her duties as the executive general manager of people and culture.
First sale of spodumene
Last month, Core completed the first sale of a spodumene DSO product from its Finniss Lithium Mine.
The 15,000 dry metric tonnes (dmt) DSO sale was tendered on a cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) basis to several pre-screened participants active in the lithium-ion battery supply chain.
Demand for the spodumene DSO material was strong, with the DSO cargo sold for US$951/dmt.
New appointments
The appointment of Mike Stone follows the resignation of Blair Duncan, whose leadership was instrumental in the development of Finniss.
Stone has held multiple leadership positions across numerous commodities in the resources industry.
He has operated and worked in large and smaller open pit and underground environments and brings valuable experience working in Northern Australia, in addition to strong safety, environment, community relations and mining expertise.
Samantha Rees brings 25 years of experience as a senior human resource practitioner with knowledge and insights accumulated across mining, manufacturing, health and not-for-profit organisations.
Rees will support the business to achieve its operational, financial and growth aspirations through the people and culture lens.