The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
The 777 Mine, the flagship of HBMS, has moved from project stage to production phase with hard work and commitment from a dedicated group of employees. The 777 shaft was successfully developed and equipped by a contractor, with the first ore being hoisted to surface in July last year. During the last months of 2003, ore was mined by the contractor prior to handing over to Hudson Bay crews, who took the mine to production in a very short period of time. "The 777 shaft and hoisting operations are extremely modern, using the latest technologies, and I am pleased to say that the transition from an old Callinan, South Main shaft to a new 777 high tech operation has gone extremely smoothly," said Russell Rood, President of the HBMS Mining Division. Since taking over from the contractor in December 2003, the 777 Mine has met production targets every single month and it is expected that one million tons will be mined this year, which is in line with targets set last year. Further production increases are expected in 2005 when the tonnage will be increased to 1.1 million tons. Planning includes another increase in 2006. The 777 Mine has allowed HBMS to maximize production through the Flin Flon concentrator and this has impacted the financial position of the Company. Currently there are approximately 190 employees working at the 777 Mine and it is intended that further increases will be made as production levels increase. The entire mine project cost approximately $200 million and, as far as HBMS is concerned, it has been money well spent as it not only extends the life of the Company, but also allows it to be more economically viable.
