Estrella Resources has kicked off bulk sample extraction at its Ira Miri manganese project in Timor-Leste, aiming to produce up to 30,000 tonnes of high-grade ore for appraisal and export. This milestone sets the stage for deeper geological insights and stronger international partnerships.
- Market sample extraction commenced targeting 30,000 tonnes of high-grade manganese
- Local contractors operate a sizable fleet for excavation and transport
- Ore to be shipped via barge from Lautem port for export and testing
- Strong community engagement and environmental management underway
- Next steps include concession transfer, ore assaying, and buyer engagement
A Significant Step for Ira Miri
Estrella Resources Limited (ASX, ESR) has officially begun market sample extraction activities at its Ira Miri manganese project in Timor-Leste. The company aims to produce up to 30,000 tonnes of high-grade manganese ore, marking one of the first bulk mineral extractions under Timor-Leste’s modern Mining Code. This initiative not only represents a key operational milestone but also positions Estrella to engage more effectively with international offtake partners.
Local Expertise and Logistics in Action
The extraction work is being carried out by an entirely local Timor-Leste-based contractor fleet, including excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and trucks specially equipped for wet-season conditions. Operations are progressing from multiple pit levels to accelerate development, with first ore exposure expected imminently. Once extracted, the manganese ore will be transported approximately 17 kilometres to the Lautem barge landing site, where it will be shipped offshore for export.
Geological Insights and Commercial Potential
Estrella’s Managing Director, Chris Daws, highlighted the importance of this bulk sample in generating valuable geological data and strengthening relationships with potential buyers. The project focuses on a highly prospective zone with impressive manganese grades, including intersections exceeding 50% manganese content. This data will underpin the creation of a product specification sheet, essential for marketing and sales efforts.
Community and Environmental Commitments
Alongside operational progress, Estrella continues to maintain robust community engagement programs and environmental management practices. Topsoil and overburden are being carefully managed for rehabilitation purposes, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainable development. Local community leaders remain actively involved, reinforcing the social license to operate in this emerging mining region.
Looking Ahead
Next steps for Estrella include the formal transfer of the mining concession into its incorporated joint venture company, detailed sampling and assaying of the mined ore, and active engagement with prospective buyers for sale and export. The company has pledged to keep shareholders informed as the project advances, signaling a potentially transformative phase for manganese mining in Timor-Leste.
Bottom Line?
Estrella’s Ira Miri sample extraction is a pivotal move that could unlock new manganese opportunities for Timor-Leste and the company alike.
Questions in the middle?
- How will assay results influence Estrella’s commercial negotiations with buyers?
- What timelines are anticipated for transitioning from sample extraction to full-scale production?
- How might regional infrastructure and regulatory factors impact export logistics?