Hillgrove Resources confirmed record copper production for the last three months from its Kanmantoo Copper mine, around 55km from Adelaide.

In its quarterly update to the stock exchange, the Adelaide miner also reported record mill throughput and head grade at its processing plant on site, as well as achieving record quarterly sales volume.

Hillgrove’s Managing Director and CEO Greg Hall said recent operational changes had been effective.

“The change in mine practices through the newly configured and Hillgrove operated mining fleet has continued to reap dividends for the Kanmantoo operating performance,” Hall said.

“This can clearly be seen in the reduction in mining dilution, increased mining tonnes, and improved feed grades to the mill.

“Our processing plant group has also continued to improve throughput rates, run time and copper recovery, all resulting in an increase in copper produced.”

The company said the recent arrival and commissioning of two new Liebherr 9350 300 tonne excavators provide both improved productivity and lower costs by allowing a ramp up in the volume of tonnes moved from the mining pits.

“This quarter has set the foundation for the operating performance for the next twelve months,” Hall said in his outlook.

“With increased copper production and further improvements expected at Kanmantoo, and recognising the continued demand for copper and our strong hedge position, I believe the year ahead will be an exciting and rewarding one.”

The Kanmantoo Copper Mine is located around 55km from Adelaide.