Summit Minerals (ASX:SUM) has suspended its maiden drilling program at its 100% owned Barra Lithium Project due to unforeseen mechanical issues relating to the drill rig.
The company had completed a total of 24m of drilling before the activities were suspended. More specifically, hydraulic pump issues that were unable to be rectified after multiple attempts, which led to operational delays and staff shortages during the holiday period.
As Summit has already completed ground mapping and sampling across the Barra project that has highlighted multiple, newly discovered quartz outcrops, the intention remains to reevaluate the program in Q1 2025.
The company says the decision to restart will be based on the program requirements, alongside the progress of Summit’s ongoing exploration activities in Brazil.
Managing Director Gower He says while the temporary suspension of the Barra Lithium Project’s maiden drilling program is undoubtedly a disappointing end to the year 2024, it is important to recognise the significant progress we have made across our Brazil projects.
“From uncovering promising new quartz outcrops at Barra to advancing our exploration activities in Brazil and other high-potential regions, our team continues to deliver results that enhance the value of our projects,” He says.
“We remain committed to reassessing the drilling program in the new year, leveraging our strong foundation of technical expertise and strategic focus to drive sustainable growth. In the meantime, we look forward to receiving approval for the stage one drilling permits for our Equador (Niobium) Project.”
Write to Adam Orlando at Mining.com.au
Images: Summit
