First blasting at Kathleen Valley underground lithium operation

Liontown Resources Limited has made a press release informing about its successful commencement of underground production stoping at the Kathleen Valley Lithium Operation’s Mt Mann orebody, with the first blast fired right on schedule.

Underground lithium milestone

As Australia’s first underground lithium mine, this milestone marks a major step forward in our transition from open-pit to underground operations, unlocking key benefits:

• Cleaner ore extraction, minimizing waste contamination.
• Higher lithia recoveries (exceeding 70%.), supporting improved throughput.
• Optimized ore fragmentation for enhanced processing.

Good results

During trials in March, underground ore delivered impressive results: Head grade of approximately 1.5% Li₂O. Recoveries exceeding 70%, with further optimization on the horizon.

Liontown Resources informed that it focus remains on advancing the decline, opening additional working areas, and progressively ramping up underground operations. By Q4 FY26, the Kathleen Valley mill is expected to be supplied solely by underground volumes and stockpiles, targeting high-margin ore to maximize value.

Proud milestone for Liontown

Antonino (Tony) Ottaviano, Liontown ResourcesCEO has stated: “The successful commencement of underground stoping at our Kathleen Valley Lithium Operation on schedule is a proud milestone for Liontown. This achievement was made possible by advanced planning, the dedication of our team and the support from our mining partner, Byrnecut, ensuring the first stope blast at Mt Mann proceeded as planned. As part of normal preparations and planning, we undertook underground ore trials in the March quarter, in advance of first stoping, to understand the optimal plant performance settings. The trials delivered results in line with our study work, which reinforces our confidence in transitioning to full underground operations. This milestone further strengthens our foundations for long-term value creation and future shareholder returns.”

Liontown is leading the charge in innovation and sustainability with this pivotal achievement in Australia’s lithium industry.