Algae and mining: A new frontier in sustainable site rehabilitation

Algae might seem an unlikely candidate to help transform Australia’s post-mining landscapes, but a new CSIRO -led project suggests these tiny aquatic organisms could provide sustainable futures for mine sites, surrounding ecosystems, and local communities. Looking down the microscope at the microalgae Nannochloropsis Australia’s mining sector is approaching a crossroads—where economic legacy and environmental responsibility must find common ground. A new CSIRO -led study, supported by the Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies (CRC TiME), suggests that one of the most promising bridges between these imperatives may come from an unexpected source: algae. Though small in stature, algae are emerging as giants in their potential to transform post-mining landscapes. The study, developed in partnership with the University of Queensland and Murdoch University , proposes that algae-based technologies could reduce mining’s environmental footprint while seeding new...

Hillgrove progresses Indonesian gold project

Australian-listed Hillgrove Resources has awarded a contract for drilling to commence in mid-April 2010 at its Sumba Project in Indonesia's East Nusa Tengarra province. Initial target is high grade epithermal gold mineralisation within the Pahandanjal Prospect. The drill program will utilise two man portable drill rigs which are purpose built for working in steep terrain. The first rig will arrive early to mid April, and the second rig in June. One of the drill rigs will then be sent to Pelitilira Prospect in Central Sumba in the second half of 2010.

An Exploration Mining Business License has been awarded to Hillgrove’s Indonesian joint venture partner, PT Fathi Resources. The tenement area covers over 999 sqkm. Hillgrove has an 80% economic interest in the project.