Project history

  • 1857: Identification of pyrite in Wainisavu creek area.
  • 1935 – 1937: Discovery of Wainisavu mineralisation by Whitehall Exploration Ltd.
  • 1968 – 1980: Exploration by the Viti Copper Joint Venture (Central Mining Finance, AMAX, CRA)
  • 1978 – 1980: Mining pre-feasibility study undertaken and completed by Viti Copper JV (managed by CRA)
  • 1983: Exploration tenements expire (SPL 1014)
  • 1986: Exploration tenements granted to WMC (SPL 1238)
  • 1986 – 1989: WMC exploration for gold until March
  • 1991: Exploration tenements granted to Placer Pacific Ltd (SPL 1367)
  • 1992: SPL 1352 granted to Placer for the purposes of evaluation of Waisoi deposits
  • 1993 – 1994: Placer complete economic evaluation study on Waisoi deposits
  • 1994 – 1995: Placer explore for additional higher grade mineralisation (>0.5%Cueq) to improve mining project economics
  • 2001 – 2007: Nittetsu Mining acquire exploration tenements (SPL 1420) and undertake exploration activities
  • 2005: Negotiations begin between Nittetsu and Newcrest Mining Limited to form a joint venture
  • 2007: Joint Venture agreement finalized
  • 2008: Namosi Joint Venture commences exploration of SPL 1420
  • 2010: SPL 1420 Renewal
  • 2011: SPL Renewal
  • 2015: SPL extended for another 5 years.