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Talvivaara Mining Company Interim Report for January-March 2012

Press Release: Talvivaaran Kaivososakeyhtiö Oyj – 16 hours ago

finance.yahoo.com 




Stock Exchange Release
Talvivaara Mining Company Plc
25 April 2012

Talvivaara Mining Company Interim Report for January-March 2012

Production impacted by environmental process modifications and
unscheduled improvement measures in metals recovery

Highlights

  • Nickel production of 3,374t, adversely impacted by process modifications at the metals recovery plant
  • Net sales of EUR 39.0m
  • Operating loss of EUR (11.4)m
  • Significantly strengthened financial position; EUR 83m raised from equity placing and EUR 110m from bond issue(1)
  • Uranium permitting progressed with a European Commission confirmation under the Euratom Treaty and the Finnish Government permit under the Nuclear Energy Act
  • Harri Natunen appointed CEO from 26 April 2012
  • Full-year production guidance maintained at 25,000-30,000t nickel, but production expected to be at the lower end of the range as previously indicated
  • (1) The EUR 110m senior unsecured bond was settled in April and is therefore not included in Q1 2012 financial figures.

    Key figures

    EUR million Q1
    2012
    Q4
    2011
    Q1
    2011
    FY
    2011
    Net sales 39.0 66.5 66.5 231.2
    Operating profit (loss) (11.4) 14.9 11.6 30.9
    % of net sales (29.3)% 22.5% 17.5% 13.4%
    Profit (loss) for the period (14.9) 3.7 2.0 (5.2)
    Earnings per share, EUR (0.06) 0.01 0.00 (0.04)
    Equity-to-assets ratio 31.8% 27.9% 32.5% 27.9%
    Net interest bearing debt 422.2 455.7 325.8 455.7
    Debt-to-equity ratio 107.9% 141.3% 82.8% 141.3%
    Capital expenditure 14.7 21.6 10.4 79.1
    Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period 85.9 40.0 144.7 40.0
    Number of employees at the end of the period 498 461 413 461
    All reported figures in this release are unaudited.

    CEO Pekka Perä comments: "The first quarter of 2012 was a difficult period for Talvivaara with disappointing production and financial performance. In January, we installed and commissioned a new water recycling system, which is anticipated to reduce our raw water intake by approximately 65-75% when in full utilisation. Whilst this takes us yet another step closer to a closed circuit and marks a proactive step in executing our sustainability strategy, the installation process caused downtime at the metals recovery plant and thereby impacted first quarter production volumes.



    In March, all of us at Talvivaara were faced with the terrible news that one of our employees had lost his life in a very unfortunate accident. Whilst the circumstances surrounding the fatality are still being thoroughly investigated, we have taken all the possible measures and precautions to make the workplace both technically and operationally as safe as possible. After the incident, we stopped the metals recovery plant in order to make preventative occupational safety-related modifications and improvements, and we have paid even closer attention to occupational safety guidelines and monitoring. All our thoughts and sympathy at Talvivaara are with the family and friends of our late colleague.



    Despite the disappointing first quarter performance, I am quite pleased with the underlying positive developments in our operations. In particular, recent analysis of ore samples taken from heap section 3 indicates nickel recoveries of up to 85% in less than two years of leaching, which exceeds our expectations. Last year`s problems in primary heap reclaiming are also being overcome through process changes we have already implemented, which we believe will help us to offset the recent issues, as well as achieve the 2012 guidance and ramp up towards full capacity.

    From a financial perspective, our first quarter results reflect the unsatisfactory production volumes and a generally unfavourable nickel price environment. The nickel price rallied to above USD 21,000 per tonne at the start of 2012 but subsequently retreated to USD 17,000-18,000 per tonne in February and March primarily due to prevailing economic conditions. Whilst we cannot be pleased with the results, they are characteristic to our ongoing ramp-up phase, and we expect material improvement as production volumes increase going forward. Importantly, we also took significant steps to increase our financial flexibility through the EUR 83 million equity placing and EUR 110m bond issue during the quarter.



    This is my last set of results as the CEO of Talvivaara, and as I look back, I am extremely thankful to everyone at Talvivaara for their hard work and commitment throughout the planning, construction and ramp-up phases of the Sotkamo mine. We have had our share of challenges and issues, some of which still remain. Operationally, we have continued to face commissioning issues, but at the same time, we have established a solid track record in overcoming them with a clear plan for increasing production to full capacity over the next few years.



    As I look forward, our vision for Talvivaara as a growing, profitable and sustainable mining company is as clear as ever. As of tomorrow, Harri Natunen will take on the CEO role to steer the Company towards full production. As Executive Chairman, I look forward to helping the Company grow and, knowing Harri, I have full confidence in him and the team to overcome our remaining challenges and take Talvivaara forward to stable, profitable full-scale production and beyond."



    Incoming CEO Harri Natunen comments: "Over the past month, I have been preparing for my role as the CEO of Talvivaara and observing the Company`s operations in full detail. Whilst not without its challenges, I have full confidence in our ability to overcome the remaining issues and take the Sotkamo mine to full production.



    From an operational perspective, all of our production processes have already been proven to achieve design capacity, but we have yet to achieve full scale operational stability on a consistent basis. To do that, we will continue to pay attention to management systems and organisational design as well as a culture of continuous improvement. Having already witnessed the high ambition and energy of the organisation, I have no doubt in my mind that we will reach our goal and 50,000 tonnes of nickel per annum nameplate capacity - it is only a matter of time.



    As for environmental and social issues, these are a clear priority for us and we will continue our ongoing hard work to minimize our environmental impact. We have recently made significant additional investment commitments to catalytic burning and reverse osmosis technologies which will enable us to continue reducing emissions into air and water. Through these and other efforts we are well on our way to becoming an industry leader in sustainable mining and we also seek to support the outcome of these technical efforts with efficient and transparent communication with our neighbours and other stakeholders.



    I very much look forward to using my full experience to help the capable and motivated team at Talvivaara to take the Company forward. Whilst we still have some issues to solve, we also have a clear roadmap to overcoming them and to regaining the confidence of our stakeholders. Finally, I would like to congratulate Pekka and the team for the incredible project they have developed and the solid foundation on which further success can be built."

    Enquiries:

    Talvivaara Mining Company Plc. Tel. +358 20 712 9800
    Pekka Perä, CEO
    Saila Miettinen-Lähde, Deputy CEO and CFO

    Merlin PR Tel. +44 20 726 8400
    David Simonson
    Anca Spiridon

    Webcast and conference call on 25 April 2012 at 12:00 BST/14:00 EET

    A combined webcast and conference call on the January-March 2012 Interim Result will be held on 25 April 2012 at 12:00 BST/14:00 EET. The call will be held in English.

    The webcast can be accessed through the following link:
    qsb.webcast.fi 

    A conference call facility will be available for a Q&A with senior management following the presentation.

    Participant - Finland: +358 (0)9 2313 9201
    Participant - UK: +44 (0)20 7162 0025
    Participant - US: +1 334 323 6201

    Conference ID: 914118

    The webcast will also be available for viewing on the Talvivaara website shortly after the event.

    Financial review

    Net sales and financial result

    Talvivaara`s net sales for nickel and cobalt deliveries to Norilsk Nickel and for zinc deliveries to Nyrstar during the quarter ended 31 March 2012 amounted to EUR 39.0 million (Q1 2011: EUR 66.5 million). The net sales decreased by 41.3% compared to Q4 2011 mainly due to lower than expected metals production. The product deliveries amounted to 3,522 tonnes of nickel, 8,333 tonnes of zinc and 96 tonnes of cobalt.

    The Group`s other operating income amounted to EUR 1.4 million (Q1 2011: EUR 0.3 million) and resulted mainly from indemnities on losses.

    Materials and services amounted to EUR (34.9) million in Q1 2012 (Q1 2011: EUR (36.3) million) and other operating expenses were EUR (18.9) million (Q1 2011: EUR (13.7) million). The largest cost items were production chemicals, particularly hydrogen sulphide, external services and maintenance.

    Employee benefit expenses including the value of employee expenses related to the employee share option scheme of 2007 were EUR (7.8) million (Q1 2011: EUR (6.8) million). The increase was attributable to the increased number of personnel.

    Operating loss for Q1 2012 was EUR (11.4) million (Q1 2011: profit of EUR 11.6 million), and the operating margin was (29.3)%. Regardless of the decrease in production, operating costs remained at broadly the same level as in Q4 2011 particularly due to maintenance-related cost items across production stages.

    Finance income for the period was EUR 1.7 million (Q1 2011: EUR 1.1 million) and consisted mainly of exchange rate gains. Finance costs of EUR (9.6) million (Q1 2011: EUR (9.4) million) were mainly due to interest and related financing expenses on borrowings.

    Loss for the period amounted to EUR (14.9) million (Q1 2011: profit of EUR 2.0 million), reflecting the delivery volumes and incurred operating costs. Earnings per share were EUR (0.06) (Q1 2011: EUR (0.00).

    Total comprehensive income for the period was EUR (14.9) million (Q1 2011: EUR (0.6) million). In Q1 2011, total comprehensive income included a reduction in hedge reserves resulting from the occurrence of the hedged sales.



    Balance sheet

    Capital expenditure in Q1 2012 totalled EUR 14.7 million (Q1 2011: EUR 10.4 million). The expenditure related primarily to earthworks in secondary leaching, gypsum pond and uranium extraction circuit. On the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 March 2012, property, plant and equipment totalled EUR 765.7 million (31 December 2011: EUR 762.0 million).

    In the Group`s assets, inventories amounted to EUR 268.3 million on 31 March 2012 (31 December 2011: EUR 240.4 million). The increase in inventories reflects the ramp-up of production and the consequent increase in the amount of ore stacked on heaps, valued at cost.

    Trade receivables amounted to EUR 47.8 million on 31 March 2012 (31 December 2011: EUR 64.0 million). The decrease in trade receivables reflects the decrease in nickel and zinc deliveries compared to Q4 2011.

    On 31 March 2012, cash and cash equivalents totalled EUR 85.9 million (31 December 2011: EUR 40.0 million).

    In equity and liabilities, total equity amounted to EUR 391.3 million on 31 March 2012 (31 December 2011: EUR 322.6 million). Talvivaara raised EUR 81.5 million, net of transaction costs, through an issue of 24,589,050 new shares in Q1 2012. In addition, perpetual capital loan interest cost of EUR 2.8 million was capitalized in equity. A total of 111,747 new shares were subscribed and paid for in Q1 2012 under the company`s stock option rights 2007A and the entire subscription price amounting to EUR 0.3 million was recognized in equity.

    Borrowings increased from EUR 495.7 million on 31 December 2011 to EUR 508.2 million at the end of March 2012. The changes in borrowings during the quarter included a repayment of commercial paper notes amounting to EUR 7 million and the drawdown of EUR 20 million under the revolving credit facility.

    Total advance payments as at 31 March 2012 amounted to EUR 247.4 million (31 December 2011: EUR 247.3 million). Talvivaara received a total of EUR 1.8 million in advance payments during Q1 2012 based on the uranium off-take agreement with Cameco Corporation, whilst the advance payment from Nyrstar was amortised by EUR 1.7 million as a result of zinc deliveries.

    Total equity and liabilities as at 31 March 2012 amounted to EUR 1,231.0 million (31 December 2011: EUR 1,156.7 million).

    Financing

    In March 2012, Talvivaara issued a EUR 110 million senior unsecured bond, guaranteed by Talvivaara Sotkamo Ltd. The 5-year bond had an issue price of 100%, pays a coupon of 9.75% and is callable after 3 years. The transaction was settled and the notes listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki in April, hence the financial impact of the bond is not included in the Q1 2012 figures.

    In February 2012, Talvivaara completed an issue of 24,589,050 new shares representing approximately 10 per cent of the number of the existing shares of the Company. Through the equity placing, Talvivaara raised EUR 82.6 million before commissions and expenses. An Extraordinary General Meeting of Talvivaara resolved to approve the share issue in March and the new shares were subsequently registered in the Finnish Trade Register.

    Currency option programme

    Talvivaara has entered into a currency option programme comprising USD options for three months from April 2012 through June 2012. The monthly obligation is USD 5.0 million and protection is USD 5.0 million. The collar ranges from 1.1350 to 1.5000.

    Production review

    Alongside stabilised metals production, Talvivaara`s operational focus during the first quarter was on sustainability and environmental aspects of the Company`s operations as well as on occupational safety. These focus areas required production stoppages and temporary process alterations that adversely impacted the production output, which amounted to 3,374t (Q1 2011: 4,215t) of nickel and 7,890t (Q1 2011: 6,363t) of zinc.

    In metals recovery, overall optimization of the process continued to make progress. Issues in hydrogen sulphide production, that had caused extended downtime in metals production during the second half of 2011, have been addressed through improved temperature control by amended operating procedures and a focus on ensuring the availability of spare parts inventory. The reliability of Talvivaara`s hydrogen sulphide generators, and consequently the entire metals recovery process, has significantly increased as a result. However, a production stoppage was required in January for the installation of a new water recycling system reducing raw water intake by approximately 65-75% when fully utilised. As part of the undertaken process change, the Company has also temporarily maintained excess water in circulation thereby somewhat diluting metal grades in solution. Furthermore, during the latter part of March, Talvivaara made occupational safety-related preventative improvements at the plant, which required an unscheduled stoppage and also negatively impacted production.

    The mining department continued to match the ore demand by crushing and waste rock demand by earthworks, in particular the construction of secondary heap foundations. Emphasis continues to be on ore mining. The department produced 3.0Mt of ore (2.2Mt) and 1.5Mt of waste (5.2Mt).

    In materials handling, the performance and reliability of the crushing circuit continued to improve with periods of record output. However, the overall availability of the circuit did not yet reach the targeted level and required continued focus on planning and execution of maintenance procedures. Primary heap reclaiming, which severely restricted the overall crushing and stacking of ore in 2011, also improved through a new operating procedure that was implemented in early 2012. The new reclaiming process is expected to remove the remaining capacity utilisation limitations in materials handling, and enable the entire process to operate at the required level. Crushing and stacking of ore in Q1 2012 amounted to 3.0Mt (2.2Mt).

    In bioheapleaching, the new primary heap section 2 was completed and the reclaiming of primary heap section 3 commenced. Following the continuous process development in bioheapleaching, primary heap section 3 has been the most successful heap section to date. Recent analysis of ore samples taken from heap section 3 indicates nickel recoveries of up to 85% in less than two years of leaching, which exceeds the Company`s expectations. Furthermore, secondary leaching has progressed well, confirming that metal content remaining after primary leaching is effectively recovered through secondary leaching.

    During the quarter, nickel grades in primary heap sections were stable at slightly below 2 g/l, and in the secondary heap stable at approximately 1 g/l. Accordingly, the average nickel grade pumped to metals recovery was somewhat below 2 g/l. Metal grades in solution reflected the dilution impact of a process change-related temporary increase in the amount of water in circulation, as well as the impact of cold weather. Grades started to develop positively again in March, reflecting improving water balance, increasing solution temperature and the completion of the new primary heap section 2.

    Production key figures



    Q1
    2012
    Q4
    2011
    Q1
    2011
    FY
    2011
    Mining




    Ore production Mt 3.0 3.2 2.2 11.1
    Waste production Mt 1.5 2.0 5.2 17.0
    Materials handling




    Stacked ore Mt 3.0 3.2 2.2 11.1
    Bioheapleaching




    Ore under leaching Mt 38.6 35.6 26.5 35.6
    Metals recovery




    Nickel metal content Tonnes 3,374 4,769 4,215 16,087
    Zinc metal content Tonnes 7,890 10,524 6,363 31,815
    Sustainable development, safety and permitting

    Safety

    In March, one of Talvivaara`s employees regrettably lost his life in the vicinity of the metals recovery plant. Increased hydrogen sulphide concentrations had been detected in the area, and work had been suspended in accordance with occupational safety guidelines. Authorities are investigating the accident and have informed the Company that when found, the victim was not wearing the compulsory gas detection and protective gear. The fatality has been disturbing to everyone at Talvivaara, and crisis counselling has been made available for personnel. A safe working environment and safe working practices remain top priorities for Talvivaara, and the Company initiated an unscheduled stoppage in late March with a focus on preventative occupational safety-related improvements. Certain process clarifications were also requested by the relevant authority, the Finnish Safety and Chemical Agency (Tukes), and these were subsequently provided by the Company to the satisfaction of the authority (see Events after the review period).

    At the end of the first quarter, the injury frequency among the Talvivaara personnel was 11.8 lost time injuries/million working hours on a rolling 12 month basis (31 March 2011: 13.7 lost time injuries/million working hours).

    Environment

    Talvivaara continued to comply with environmental permit limits for water emissions during the first quarter, apart from an isolated incident causing no permanent environmental effects. Sulphate and sodium emissions have continued to decrease as a result of process improvements and increased water circulation. Talvivaara also commissioned an independent third party to model the water quality development of nearby lakes over the next few years, which was completed during the quarter. Based on the model, water quality will continue to improve and no permanent damage has been caused to nearby lakes. However, Talvivaara is committed to further improving process water quality through more efficient process water treatment and increased recycling.

    Hydrogen sulphide (odour) emissions and dust emissions to air have also remained within the permitted limits, apart from distinct point sources at the screening building and metals recovery plant. During 2012, dust emissions will be addressed through a new dust removal system at the screening building and hydrogen sulphide emissions through catalytic burning of hydrogen sulphide gases.

    In order to improve timely and transparent communication on environmental matters with the neighbouring communities and other interested stakeholders, Talvivaara launched a specific website for this purpose in January. The Finnish language website, www.paikanpaalla.fi, reviews environmental data and events in blog format and aims to provide region-specific information in an easily understandable and concise form.

    Permitting

    In January, Talvivaara received a positive opinion on its uranium recovery process from the European Commission under the Euratom Treaty. In its opinion, the European Commission considered that uranium recovery at the Talvivaara mine complies with the goals set by the Euratom Treaty and may improve the supply security of nuclear fuel in the European Union. In March, Talvivaara also received a licence from the Finnish Government to extract uranium as a by-product from its existing operations pursuant to the Nuclear Energy Act. The permit is valid throughout the life of the mine, however, no longer than until the end of 2054.

    Following completion of the Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") programme, the EIA process for the potential expansion of the Talvivaara mine was initiated during the first quarter. The EIA covers options to expand production capacity up to 100,000t of nickel per annum, and also the option to refine nickel sulphide into LME-quality nickel metal.

    Talvivaara`s existing environmental permit is currently being renewed under a standard process. The renewed permit is anticipated to be received during 2012.

    Business development

    Uranium production

    Talvivaara is preparing for the recovery of uranium as a by-product of the Company`s existing operations. Uranium occurs naturally in small concentrations in the Talvivaara area and leaches into the process solution along with Talvivaara`s main products. Annual uranium production is estimated at 350tU (ca. 770,000 pounds), corresponding to approximately 410t (900,000 pounds) of yellow cake (UO4), and Talvivaara`s entire uranium production will be sold under a long-term agreement to Cameco Corporation.

    Following receipt of the construction permit in August 2011, Talvivaara commenced construction of the uranium recovery facility, which will be completed during the current year. The permitting process for uranium production is ongoing and the start of uranium production is further subject to, among others, environmental permit approval and chemical authorisation. The decision on the environmental permit is expected in 2012.

    Production expansion - Operation Overlord

    Conceptual studies relating to production expansion beyond 50,000tpa of nickel continued during the quarter, with a particular emphasis on permitting. The scoping studies are based on the target of doubling the presently planned production to approximately 100,000tpa of nickel. Whilst studies relating to various processing options continue, it appears relatively likely that a substantial part of the expanded production would be LME-quality nickel metal, i.e. Talvivaara would integrate its production one step further downstream.

    During the first quarter, the Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") programme for the expansion was completed and EIA hearings commenced. Permitting is anticipated to proceed to the submission of an environmental permit application in late 2012.

    No investment decisions relating to the production expansion have yet been taken. Provided the investment is pursued, it is envisioned to be carried out in a modular fashion to allow spreading out of the expenditure over an estimated 5-6 year period starting around 2014. The modular approach also allows commissioning of the equipment and processes sequentially in the order of the process stages, which is expected to reduce the risk of serious start-up issues.



    Energy strategy

    Talvivaara`s energy strategy is focused on building an environmentally sound portfolio of low-cost capacity allowing the Company to be energy self-sufficient in the longer term. Talvivaara`s electricity need is currently approximately 45MW, and is expected to increase significantly if the Company proceeds with the planned capacity expansion and further refining of nickel into LME-quality metal.

    During the first quarter, Talvivaara increased its capacity share in the Fennovoima nuclear project in Finland from approximately 10MW to approximately 60MW. The Company is also studying, amongst others, on-site windpower production, bioenergy and utilization of energy generated in the production process.

    Risk management and principal risks

    In line with current corporate governance guidelines on risk management, Talvivaara carries out an ongoing process endorsed by the Board of Directors to identify risks, measure their impact against certain assumptions and implement the necessary proactive steps to manage these risks.

    Talvivaara`s operations are affected by various risks common to the mining industry, such as risks relating to the development of Talvivaara`s mineral deposits, estimates of reserves and resources, infrastructure risks, and volatility of commodity prices. There are also risks related to counterparties, currency exchange ratios, management and control systems, historical losses and uncertainties about the future profitability of Talvivaara, dependence on key personnel, effect of laws, governmental regulations and related costs, environmental hazards, and risks related to Talvivaara`s mining concessions and permits.

    In the short term, Talvivaara`s key operational risks continue to relate to the ongoing ramp-up of operations. While the Company has demonstrated that all of its production processes work and can be operated on industrial scale, the rate of ramp-up is still subject to risk factors including the reliability and sustainable capacity of production equipment, and eventual speed of leaching and metals recovery in bioheapleaching. In addition, there may be production and ramp-up related risks that are currently unknown or beyond the Company`s control.

    The market price of nickel has historically been volatile and in the Company`s view this is likely to persist, driven by shifts in the supply-demand balance, macroeconomic indicators and variations in currency exchange ratios. Nickel sales currently represent close to 90% of the Company`s revenues and variations in the nickel price therefore have a direct and significant effect on Talvivaara`s financial result and economic viability. Talvivaara is, since February 2010, unhedged against variations in metal prices. Full or substantially full exposure to nickel prices is in line with Talvivaara`s strategy and supported by the Company`s view that it can operate the Talvivaara mine profitably during the lows of commodity price cycles.

    Talvivaara`s revenues are almost entirely in US dollars, whilst the majority of the Company`s costs are incurred in Euro. Potential strengthening of the Euro against the US dollar could thus have a material adverse effect on the business and financial condition of the Company. Talvivaara hedges its exposure to the US dollar on a case by case basis with the aim of limiting the adverse effects of US dollar weakness as considered justified from time to time.

    Liquidity and refinancing risks may arise as a result of the Company`s inability to produce sufficient volumes of its saleable products, particularly nickel, unexpected increase in production costs, and sudden or substantial changes in the prices of commodities or currency exchange rates. Talvivaara seeks to reduce liquidity risk by close monitoring of liquidity in order to detect any threat of adverse changes in advance so as to allow for sufficient time to secure access to adequate credit or other funding on reasonable terms. Talvivaara also seeks to maintain a balanced maturity profile of its long-term debt in order to mitigate refinancing risks.

    Personnel and management

    The number of personnel employed by the Group on 31 March 2012 was 498 (413).

    Wages and salaries paid during the three months to 31 March 2012 totalled EUR 6.6 million (Q1 2011: EUR 5.9 million).

    As part of the Group`s long term incentive plan, the employees of Talvivaara have established a Group personnel fund to manage the earnings bonuses paid by Talvivaara. In accordance with its bylaws, the fund will invest a substantial proportion of its assets in Talvivaara Mining Company shares. The fund is managed by personnel representatives elected by the employees.

    Harri Natunen, 56, was appointed Talvivaara`s CEO effective as of 26 April 2012. Mr. Natunen has had an over thirty-year successful career in mining and metallurgical operations internationally, serving Outokumpu from 1981 first in Finnish projects and subsequently on assignments in Norway and South America. In Chile, his experience ranged from building management systems to supervising the ramp-up of processes in early stage operations, such as the Zaldivar copper bioheapleaching and hydrometallurgical project. Upon his return to Finland, Mr. Natunen held management responsibility of large operations in full production, such as Outokumpu`s zinc division and ferrochrome operation including the Kemi mine. He also led the successful modernization of the Outokumpu Kokkola zinc plant, focusing on streamlining the organization and improving cost control, and almost doubling production. Mr. Natunen`s latest position prior to joining Talvivaara was as Director, Zinc Production and Business Development at Boliden AB in Sweden 2008-2012, where he held responsibility over the Kokkola, Finland, and Odda, Norway, zinc operations.

    Shares and shareholders

    The number of shares issued and outstanding and registered on the Euroclear Shareholder Register as of 31 March 2012 was 270,591,300. Including the effect of the EUR 85 million convertible bond of 14 May 2008, the EUR 225 million convertible bond of 16 December 2010, the Option Scheme of 2007 and share subscriptions registered on 13 March 2012, the authorised full number of shares of the Company amounted to 315,839,103.

    The share subscription period for stock options 2007A was between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2012. By 31 March 2012 a total of 1,830,087 Talvivaara Mining Company`s new shares had been subscribed for under the stock option rights 2007A. A total of 53,727 stock option rights 2007A remained unexercised following the end of the subscription period.

    The share subscription period for stock options 2007B is between 1 April 2011 and 31 March 2013. No new shares of Talvivaara were subscribed for under the stock option rights 2007B in Q1 2012 and a total of 2,284,337 stock option rights 2007B remain unexercised. A total of 2,333,000 option rights 2007C were issued to 250 key employees and the subscription period for stock options 2007C is between 1 April 2012 and 31 March 2014. A total of 2,333,000 stock options 2007C remain unexercised.

    In February 2012, Talvivaara completed an issue of 24,589,050 new shares representing approximately 10 per cent of the number of the existing shares of the Company. An Extraordinary General Meeting of Talvivaara Mining Company Plc. resolved on 12 March 2012 to approve the proposal by the Board of Directors on the share issue in deviation from the shareholders` pre-emptive subscription rights. The new shares were registered with the Finnish Trade Register on 13 March 2012.

    In addition, the Board of Directors has resolved, on the basis of the authorisation granted by the Extraordinary General Meeting held on 12 March 2012, to issue special rights entitling to subscribe up to 184,428 new shares, in order to carry out an adjustment to the conversion price, as a result of the equity placing, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the convertible bonds due 2013. Accordingly the maximum number of ordinary shares that may be issued upon conversion is 11,677,591 shares. Due to an adjustment to the conversion price of the convertible bonds due 2015, as a result of the placing, the maximum number of ordinary shares that may be issued upon conversion is 27,180,708 shares.

    As at 31 March 2012, the shareholders who held more than 5% of the shares and votes of Talvivaara were Pekka Perä (21.0%), Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Company (8.8%), Solidium Oy (8.5%) and Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company (6.2%).

    Events after the review period

    Clarifications requested by the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency Tukes

    Following the fatal incident involving an employee of Talvivaara, the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency Tukes requested Talvivaara to provide a clarification on occupational safety procedures at the Talvivaara mine. At the time of the request, Talvivaara was carrying out a maintenance stoppage with special focus on occupational safety-related areas. Talvivaara delivered the requested clarifications between 3 April and 5 April 2012. On 5 April 2012, Tukes confirmed the provided clarifications to be satisfactory, and Talvivaara re-started the metals recovery plant subsequent to completion of the maintenance work.

    Uranium permitting update

    On 3 April 2012, Talvivaara was informed by the Northern Finland Regional State Administrative Agency that the Company`s environmental permit for uranium extraction and the general update of Talvivaara mine`s environmental permit are to be processed together. Consequently, the Company expects a minor delay in the uranium permitting process. The permitting authorities have informed Talvivaara that a decision on the environmental permit for uranium extraction will be made during 2012. Talvivaara aims to start uranium recovery in 2012, as soon as all the necessary permits have been obtained.

    Issuance and listing on Nasdaq OMX Helsinki of senior unsecured bond due 2017

    On 4 April 2012, Talvivaara Mining Company Plc issued a EUR 110 million senior unsecured bond, guaranteed by Talvivaara Sotkamo Ltd. The 5-year bond had an issue price of 100%, pays a coupon of 9.75% and is callable after 3 years. The notes were issued in principal amounts of EUR 1,000 and were listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki on 13 April 2012.

    Announced investments in environmental technology

    On 24 April 2012, Talvivaara announced investments in environmental technology amounting to more than EUR 13 million. The new technologies will improve the quality of effluent waters, reduce odour emissions into the environment and limit dust emissions. The investments consist of reverse osmosis technology to improve the quality of effluent waters and a catalytic burning unit to treat hydrogen sulphide (odour) gases, as well as a water recycling system and drilled wells reducing water intake from nearby lakes. Dust emissions will be reduced by a new dust removal system at the screening hall. The investments are part of Talvivaara`s environmental improvement strategy announced in January 2012.

    As a result of the measures taken in 2011-2012, Talvivaara has already significantly reduced the sulphate and manganese content in effluent waters. The new water treatment investments will further considerably reduce the levels of sodium, sulphate and manganese in effluent waters by the end of 2012. The lower permit limits proposed by the Company for 2015 will hence be achievable already in early 2013.

    Short-term outlook

    Operational outlook

    Talvivaara maintains its full-year 2012 production guidance at 25,000-30,000 tonnes of nickel. However, following the first quarter production volumes, the Company has less flexibility within the guidance range and expects full-year production to be closer to the lower end of the range. Near-term production volumes will depend on realised capacity utilisation rates of the metals recovery plant following the late March - early April stoppage and development of metal grades in pregnant leach solution.

    In line with earlier guidance, total operating costs in 2012 are expected to amount to approximately EUR 250 million including leasing. Capital expenditure in 2012 is expected to amount to EUR 40-50 million excluding construction of the uranium extraction circuit, and approximately EUR 90 million including the uranium extraction circuit.

    Market outlook

    Nickel and base metals prices more broadly moved higher in early 2012 as concerns over the global growth outlook and European sovereign debt crisis somewhat abated. Whilst other base metals prices have remained relatively stable, the nickel price has declined from USD 21,000-22,000/t in early February to USD 17,000-18,000/t in early April as market participants have been assessing the prospect of new nickel production capacity entering the market and the economic development and commodity utilisation rate of China.

    Whilst several new large-scale nickel projects are being developed, Talvivaara expects the nickel market to remain broadly balanced from a demand-supply perspective. Several new laterite nickel projects have continued to face commissioning issues and appear financially uncompetitive at the current nickel price level. Chinese NPI production is also expected to balance the market, as the utilisation rate of this capacity tends to quickly react to variations in the nickel price. NPI capacity may also be impacted by the announced Indonesian ban on nickel ore exports.

    Barring a severe global recession, Talvivaara continues to see the longer-term nickel price support level at around USD 20,000/t, supported by marginal costs of production and the price level required to incentivise new nickel projects.

    25 April 2012

    Talvivaara Mining Company Plc.
    Board of Directors



    CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
    (all amounts in EUR `000) Unaudited
    three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Audited
    three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Net sales 39,027 66,467
    Other operating income 1,357 336
    Changes in inventories of finished
    goods and work in progress
    22,478 12,781
    Materials and services (34,921) (36,310)
    Personnel expenses (7,819) (6,795)
    Depreciation, amortization, depletion
    and impairment charges
    (12,664) (11,198)
    Other operating expenses (18,889) (13,664)
    Operating profit (loss) (11,431) 11,617
    Finance income 1,717 1,092
    Finance cost (9,646) (9,387)
    Finance income (cost) (net) (7,929) (8,295)
    Profit (loss) before income tax (19,360) 3,322
    Income tax expense 4,451 (1,372)
    Profit (loss) for the period (14,909) 1,950
    Attributable to:
    Owners of the parent (13,561) 171
    Non-controlling interest (1,348) 1,779
    (14,909) 1,950
    Earnings per share for profit (loss) attributable to the
    owners of the parent (expressed in EUR per share)
    Basic and diluted (0.06) (0.00)

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
    (all amounts in EUR `000) Unaudited three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Audited three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Profit (loss) for the period (14,909) 1,950
    Other comprehensive income,
    items net of tax

    Cash flow hedges - (2,544)
    Other comprehensive income, net of tax - (2,544)
    Total comprehensive income (14,909) (594)
    Attributable to:
    Owners of the parent (13,561) (1,864)
    Non-controlling interest (1,348) 1,270
    (14,909) (594)

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
    (all amounts in EUR `000) Unaudited
    As at
    31 Mar 12
    Audited
    As at
    31 Dec 11
    ASSETS
    Non-current assets
    Property, plant and equipment 765,652 761,985
    Biological assets 7,334 7,688
    Intangible assets 7,307 7,371
    Deferred tax assets 31,892 26,398
    Other receivables 2,910 2,902
    Available-for-sale financial assets 4,201 630
    819,296 806,974
    Current assets
    Inventories 268,261 240,436
    Trade receivables 47,839 64,027
    Other receivables 9,662 5,249
    Derivative financial instruments 1 10
    Cash and cash equivalent 85,949 40,019
    411,712 349,741
    Total assets 1,231,008 1,156,715
    EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
    Equity attributable to owners of the parent
    Share capital 80 80
    Share issue - 278
    Share premium 8,086 8,086
    Other reserves 535,127 449,532
    Retained earnings (166,467) (151,129)
    376,826 306,847
    Non-controlling interest in equity 14,494 15,733
    Total equity 391,320 322,580
    Non-current liabilities
    Borrowings 419,368 467,161
    Advance payments 235,734 235,569
    Provisions 5,174 6,036
    660,276 708,766
    Current liabilities
    Borrowings 88,816 28,515
    Advance payments 11,684 11,684
    Trade payables 32,913 33,677
    Other payables 45,998 51,478
    Derivative financial instruments 1 15
    179,412 125,369
    Total liabilities 839,688 834,135
    Total equity and liabilities 1,231,008 1,156,715
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS` EQUITY

    A. Share capital
    B. Share issue
    C. Share premium
    D. Hedge reserve
    E. Invested unrestricted equity
    F. Other reserves
    G. Retained earnings
    H. Total
    I. Non-controlling interest
    J. Total equity

    (all amounts in EUR `000)
    A B C D E F G H I J
    1 Jan 2011 80 91 8,086 7,494 401,612 31,399 (80,067) 368,
    695
    16,
    895
    385,
    590
    Profit (loss) for the period - - - - - - 171 171 1,
    779
    1,
    950
    Other comprehensive income
    - Cash flow hedges - - - (2,035) - - - (2,
    035)
    (509) (2,
    544)
    Total comprehensive income for the period - - - (2,035) - - 171 (1,
    864)
    1,
    270
    (594)
    Transactions with owners









    Stock options - (91) - - 125 - - 34 - 34
    Perpetual capital loan - - - - - - (1,801) (1,
    801)
    (450) (2,
    251)
    Incentive arrangement for Executive Management - - - - - 23 - 23 - 23
    Senior unsecured convertible bonds due
    2015, equity
    component
    - - - - - 9,018 - 9,
    018
    - 9,
    018
    Employee share option scheme









    - value of employee services - - - - - 1,868 - 1,
    868
    - 1,
    868
    Total contribution by and distribution to owners - (91) - - 125 10,909 (1,801) 9,
    142
    (450) 8,
    692
    Total transactions with owners - (91) - - 125 10,909 (1,801) 9,
    142
    (450) 8,
    692
    31 Mar 11 80 - 8,086 5,459 401,737 42,308 (81,697) 375,
    973
    17,
    715
    393,
    688
    31 Dec 11 80 278 8,086 - 404,070 45,462 (151,129) 306,
    847
    15,
    733
    322,
    580
    01 Jan 12 80 278 8,086 - 404,070 45,462 (151,129) 306,
    847
    15,
    733
    322,
    580
    Profit (loss) for the period - - - - - - (13,561) (13,
    561)
    (1,
    348)
    (14,
    909)
    Other comprehensive income









    - Cash flow hedges - - - - - - - - - -
    Total comprehensive income for the period - - - - - - (13,561) (13,
    561)
    (1,
    348)
    (14,
    909)
    Transactions with owners









    Stock options - (278) - - 579 - - 301 - 301
    Perpetual capital loan - - - - - 2,353 (1,777) 576 109 685
    Share issue - - - - 81,534 - - 81,
    534
    - 81,
    534
    Incentive arrangement for Executive Management - - - - - 23 - 23 - 23
    Employee share option scheme









    - value of employee services - - - - - 1,106 - 1,
    106
    - 1,
    106
    Total contribution by and distribution to owners - (278) - - 82,113 3,482 (1,777) 83,
    540
    109 83,
    649
    Total transactions
    with owners
    - (278) - - 82,113 3,482 (1,777) 83,
    540
    109 83,
    649
    31 Mar 12 80 - 8,086 - 486,183 48,944 (166,467) 376,
    826
    14,
    494
    391,
    320

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
    (all amounts in EUR `000) Unaudited
    three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Audited
    three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Cash flows from operating activities

    Profit (loss) for the period (14,909) 1,950
    Adjustments for

    Tax (4,451) 1,372
    Depreciation and amortization 12,664 11,198
    Other non-cash income and expenses (5,785) (5,980)
    Interest income (1,717) (1,092)
    Fair value gains on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (5) (145)
    Interest expense 9,646 9,387
    (4,557) 16,690
    Change in working capital
    Decrease(+)/increase(-) in other receivables 14,707 1,343
    Decrease (+)/increase (-) in inventories (27,825) (15,522)
    Decrease(-)/increase(+) in trade and other payables (12,558) (14,393)
    Change in working capital (25,676) (28,572)
    (30,233) (11,882)
    Interest and other finance cost paid (841) (1,810)
    Interest and other finance income 225 269
    Net cash generated (used) in operating activities (30,849) (13,423)
    Cash flows from investing activities
    Purchases of property, plant and equipment (14,571) (10,371)
    Purchases of intangible assets (93) (23)
    Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 18 -
    Proceeds from sale of biological assets - 184
    Purchases of available-for-sale financial assets (3,571) (38)
    Net cash generated (used) in investing activities (18,217) (10,248)
    Cash flows from financing activities

    Proceeds from share issue net of transactions costs 81,177 -
    Realised stock options 301 34
    Proceeds from interest-bearing liabilities 20,000 -
    Perpetual capital loan - (3,042)
    Proceeds from advance payments 1,787 7,000
    Payment of interest-bearing liabilities (8,269) (1,226)
    Net cash generated (used) in financing activities 94,996 2,766
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 45,930 (20,905)
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period 40,019 165,555
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 85,949 144,650
    NOTES

    1. Basis of preparation

    This year-end report has been prepared in compliance with IAS 34.

    The interim financial information set out herein has been prepared on the same basis and using the same accounting policies as were applied in drawing up the Group`s statutory financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2011.

    2. Property, plant and equipment
    (all amounts in EUR `000) Machinery
    and
    equipment
    Construction
    in
    progress
    Land
    and
    buildings
    Other
    tangible
    assets
    Total
    Gross carrying amount at 1 Jan 12 361,245 41,344 273,921 224,796 901,306
    Additions 1,774 14,416 - - 16,190
    Disposals (34) - - - (34)
    Transfers 356 (757) 365 36 -
    Gross carrying amount at 31 Mar 12 363,341 55,003 274,286 224,832 917,462
    Accumulated depreciation and
    impairment losses at 1 Jan 12
    66,791 - 32,644 39,886 139,321
    Disposals (17) - - - (17)
    Depreciation for the period 7,398 - 3,041 2,067 12,506
    Accumulated depreciation and
    impairment losses at 31 Mar 12
    74,172 - 35,685 41,953 151,810
    Carrying amount at 1 Jan 12 294,454 41,344 241,277 184,910 761,985
    Carrying amount at 31 Mar 12 289,169 55,003 238,601 182,879 765,652

    3. Trade receivables
    (all amounts in EUR `000)
    31 Mar 12 31 Dec 11
    Nickel-Cobalt sulphide 42,244 55,258
    Zinc sulphide 5,595 8,769
    Total trade receivables 47,839 64,027

    4. Inventories

    (all amounts in EUR `000)

    31 Mar 12 31 Dec 11
    Raw materials and consumables 19,362 14,016
    Work in progress 236,118 213,629
    Finished products 12,781 12,791
    Total inventories 268,261 240,436

    5. Borrowings

    (all amounts in EUR `000)

    Non-current 31 Mar 12 31 Dec 11
    Capital loans 1,405 1,405
    Investment and Working Capital loan 57,903 57,863
    Revolving Credit Facility - 49,110
    Senior Unsecured Convertible Bonds due 2015 219,399 217,138
    Senior Unsecured Convertible Bonds due 2013 81,520 80,796
    Finance lease liabilities 37,004 37,444
    Other 22,137 23,405
    419,368 467,161
    Current
    Investment and Working Capital loan 1,430 1,430
    Revolving Credit Facility 69,194 -
    Commercial papers 1,500 8,481
    Finance lease liabilities 16,692 18,604
    88,816 28,515
    Total borrowings 508,184 495,676

    6. Advance payments

    (all amounts in EUR `000)

    Non-current 31 Mar 12 31 Dec 11
    Deferred zinc sales revenue 219,565 221,187
    Deferred uranium sales revenue 16,169 14,382
    235,734 235,569
    Current
    Deferred zinc sales revenue 11,684 11,684
    11,684 11,684
    Total advance payments 247,418 247,253

    7. Changes in the number of shares issued
    Number of shares
    31 Dec 11 245,781,803
    Stock options 2007A 220,447
    Share issue 24,589,050
    31 Mar 12 270,591,300

    8. Contingencies and commitments
    (all amounts in EUR `000)
    The future aggregate minimum lease payments
    under non cancellable operating leases

    31 Mar 12 31 Dec 11
    Not later than 1 year 1,943 1,919
    Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years 780 929
    Later than 5 years 15 37
    2,738 2,885
    Capital commitments

    At 31 March 2012, the Group had capital commitments amounting to EUR 32.4 million (31 December 2011: EUR 14.5 million) principally relating to the completion of the Talvivaara mine, improving the reliability and expansion of production capacity. These commitments are for the acquisition of new property, plant and equipment.

    Key financial figures of the Group
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Net sales EUR `000 39,027 66,467
    Operating profit (loss) EUR `000 (11,431) 11,617
    Operating profit (loss) percentage (29.3 %) 17.5 %
    Profit (loss) before tax EUR `000 (19,360) 3,322
    Profit (loss) for the period EUR `000 (14,909) 1,950
    Return on equity -4.2 % 0.5 %
    Equity-to-assets ratio 31.8 % 32.5 %
    Net interest-bearing debt EUR `000 422,235 325,822
    Debt-to-equity ratio 107.9 % 82.8 %
    Return on investment (0.6 %) 1.3 %
    Capital expenditure EUR `000 14,664 10,394
    Property, plant and equipment EUR `000 765,652 727,539
    Derivative financial instruments EUR `000 - (1,092)
    Borrowings EUR `000 508,184 470,472
    Cash and cash equivalents
    at the end of the period
    EUR `000 85,949 144,650

    Share-related key figures

    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Earnings per share EUR (0.06) (0.00)
    Equity per share EUR 1.51 1.53
    Development of share price at
    London Stock Exchange



    Average trading price1 EUR 3.53 6.69
    GBP 2.94 5.71
    Lowest trading price1 EUR 2.82 5.99
    GBP 2.35 5.12
    Highest trading price1 EUR 4.30 7.28
    GBP 3.59 6.22
    Trading price at the
    end of the period2
    EUR 2.89 6.58
    GBP 2.41 5.82
    Change during the period 20.4 % -2.4 %
    Price-earnings ratio neg. neg.
    Market capitalization at the
    end of the period3
    EUR `000 781,369 1,614,566
    GBP `000 651,584 1,426,792
    Development in trading volume
    Trading volume 1000 shares 37,271 11,420
    In relation to weighted average
    number of shares
    14.9 % 4.7 %
    Development of share price at OMX Helsinki
    Average trading price EUR 3.51 6.77
    Lowest trading price EUR 2.64 5.91
    Highest trading price EUR 4.35 7.34
    Trading price at the end of the period EUR 2.91 6.60
    Change during the period 16.7 % -6.6 %
    Price-earnings ratio neg. neg.
    Market capitalization at
    the end of the period
    EUR `000 786,880 1,619,403
    Development in trading volume


    Trading volume 1000 shares 68,673 38,020
    In relation to weighted average number of
    shares
    27.5 % 15.5 %
    Adjusted average number of shares 249,665,643 245,344,901
    Fully diluted average number of shares 249,665,643 245,344,901
    Number of shares at the end of the period 270,591,300 245,364,096
    1) Trading price is calculated on the average of EUR/GBP exchange rates published by the European Central Bank during the period.

    2) Trading price is calculated on the EUR/GBP exchange rate published by the European Central Bank at the end of the period.

    3) Market capitalization is calculated on the EUR/GBP exchange rate published by the European Central Bank at the end of the period.

    Employee-related key figures
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Wages and salaries EUR `000 6,581 5,857
    Average number of employees 483 407
    Number of employees at the end of the period 498 413

    Other figures
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 12
    Three
    months to
    31 Mar 11
    Share options outstanding at the end of
    the period
    4,665,064 5,937,822
    Number of shares to be issued against
    the outstanding share options
    4,665,064 5,937,822
    Rights to vote of shares to be issued
    against the outstanding share options
    1.7 % 2.4 %

    Talvivaara Mining Company Plc
    Key financial figures of the Group
    Return on equity Profit (loss) for the period
    (Total equity at the beginning of period + Total equity at the end of period)/2
    Equity-to-assets ratio Total equity
    Total assets
    Net interest-bearing debt Interest-bearing debt - Cash and cash equivalent
    Debt-to-equity ratio Net interest-bearing debt
    Total equity
    Return on investment Profit (loss) for the period + Finance cost
    (Total equity at the beginning of period + Total equity at the end of period)/2
    + (Borrowings at the beginning of period + Borrowings at the end of period)/2
    Share-related key figures
    Earnings per share Profit (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company
    Adjusted average number of shares
    Equity per share Equity attributable to equity holders of the Company
    Adjusted average number of shares
    Price-earnings ratio Trading price at the end of the period
    Earnings per share
    Market capitalization at the
    end of the period
    Number of shares at end of the period * trading price at end of period
    Talvivaara Interim Report for January-March 2012 25.4.2012

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92617)4/25/2012 6:22:29 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Talvivaara sees nickel at $20,000/tonne

    reuters.com 

    HELSINKI, April 25 | Wed Apr 25, 2012 2:20am EDT


    (Reuters) - Finnish miner Talvivaara forecast nickel prices would be around $20,000 per tonne in the long term, after reporting a quarterly operating loss due to cheaper nickel.

    Its January-March operating loss was 11.4 million euros ($15.1million) compared to a profit of 11.6 million euros a year ago. It warned last week of a loss, after nickel prices fell to around $17,000-18,000 per tonne during the quarter.

    Talvivaara's cash and cash equivalents fell to 85.9 million euros at the end of March versus 144.7 million euros a year earlier. ($1 = 0.7574 euros) (Reporting by Helsinki Newsroom)

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92618)4/25/2012 6:26:38 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Endurance Gold: Gold Soil Anomalies Discovered on the Mccord Creek Property, Livengood, Alaska

    Tue, 24 Apr, 2012 12:50 AM EDT

    ca.finance.yahoo.com 

    Vancouver, British Columbia CANADA , April 24, 2012 /FSC/ - Endurance Gold Corporation (EDG - TSX Venture), is pleased to announce that two significant gold-in-soil anomalies were discovered during the 2011 geological and geochemical sampling program on the 100% owned McCord Creek Gold Property .

    The McCord property is located in the eastern extension of the Livengood gold district and immediately adjoins International Tower Hill's ("ITH") Livengood Property on the eastern side. In August 2011, ITH reported in-situ measured, indicated and inferred resource (at 0.50 grams per tonne cut-off) of 13.1 million ounces of gold (see the ITH website for complete disclosure). As summarized in the release of October 20th and August 11th, 2011 the McCord claims were located to cover the stream catchment area for two encouraging gold anomalies in stream sediment samples collected from McCord Creek and analysed by the State of Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys in 2005. The McCord Property has not been glaciated and thus the stream sediment anomalies were considered to have a local source.

    In October 2011, a program of grid-based and power auger assisted soil sampling (167 soil samples), geological mapping, prospecting, and rock sampling (32 rock samples) was completed. A final report compiling the 2011 program was received in late February 2012. Soil sampling identified five gold-in-soil anomalies (greater than 10 parts per billion ("ppb")). The two largest soil anomalies are 850 by 250 metres, and 650 by 200 metres in size. The maximum soil value exceeds 100 ppb gold. These two soil anomalies fall within the catchment area of McCord Creek.

    Additional soil sampling and trenching is proposed for 2012.

    ENDURANCE GOLD CORPORATION

    Robert T. Boyd
    Per:
    President & CEO

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT
    Endurance Gold Corporation
    (604) 682-2707, info@endurancegold.com
    www.endurancegold.com

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from the expected results. Robert T. Boyd, P.Geo., President, CEO and Director, is a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 and supervised the compilation of the information forming the basis for this release

    To view this news release as a web page, please click on the following link: usetdas.com 


    ENDURANCE GOLD CORPORATION
    #1700, 750 West Pender Street
    Vancouver, B.C. V6C 2T8
    Tel: (604) 682-2707 Fax: (604) 681-0902



    Source: Endurance Gold Corporation - (TSXV: EDG.V - News)
    Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. fscwire.com 

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92619)4/25/2012 6:27:48 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Aurizon Mines Ltd.: Preliminary Metallurgical Testwork at Marban Indicates Favourable Gold Recoveries

    Press Release: Aurizon Mines Ltd. – Tue, Apr 24, 2012 7:30 AM EDT

    finance.yahoo.com 




    VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire -04/24/12)- Aurizon Mines Ltd. (TSX: ARZ.TO - News)(AMEX: AZK - News) is pleased to announce the results of preliminary metallurgical testing for two composite samples from the Marban property conducted by SGS Mineral Services. Ore cyanidation testing produced results ranging from 95.4% to 97.6% gold recoveries. The Marban property is located in the Malartic gold camp in the Abitibi Region of Quebec.

    Two gold-bearing composite samples were examined at the SGS Mineral Services. The #1 composite, containing an assay grade of 1.24 grams of gold per tonne, was designed to test the metallurgical response of a lower grade envelope. The #2 composite, containing an assay grade of 4.59 grams of gold per tonne, was designed to test the metallurgical response of a higher grade envelope. After 48 hours, gold recoveries ranged from 95.4% to 97.6% for composite #1 and 95.7% to 97.3% for composite #2. Finer grinding typically increased the gold recovery at the cost of higher cyanide consumption.

     

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Table #1 Ore cyanidation recovery results
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Size P80 Recovery 24 hours Recovery 48 hours Calculated Head
    Sample (micron) (%) (%) grade (g/t Au)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 1 173 86.0 95.4 1.19
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 1 83 87.2 96.5 1.15
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 1 62 86.5 97.6 1.24
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 2 153 76.6 95.7 4.95
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 2 82 83.6 97.3 4.82
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 2 62 76.2 97.0 4.90
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Gravity separation testing on the #1 composite showed a 41.3% Gravity Recoverable Gold (GRG). Gravity separation testing on the #2 composite showed a 56.5% GRG. The combination of gravity recovery and cyanidation of the gravity tail did not increase the overall gold recovery. This demonstrates that while this concept could be beneficial from a plant design perspective, gravity recovery is not essential to obtaining good recoveries from these two composites.

     

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Table #2 Gravity recovery
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Calculated Head
    GRG (Gravity Gravity concentrate grade
    Samples Recoverable Gold) (%) grade (g/t) (g/t Au)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 1 41.3 756 1.03
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Comp. 2 56.5 4061 4.19
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Bond ball mill testing indicated that the two composites fell in the medium-soft to medium range of hardness compared to the SGS database (10.1-10.9 kWh/t).

    While this test work is preliminary in nature and has only been performed on two composite samples, the Company is very pleased with these initial results which suggest high gold recoveries utilizing conventional processes.

    Testing on the residue samples from composite #1 and #2 suggests that acid generation is highly unlikely to occur from these samples.

    Aurizon can earn up to a 65% interest the Marban Block property under the terms of an option agreement dated July 5, 2010 between NioGold Mining Corporation ("Niogold") and Aurizon. The initial 50% interest can be earned by incurring expenditures of C$20 million over three years, completing an updated NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate, and by making a resource payment for 50% of the total gold ounces defined by the mineral resource estimate. NioGold is the project operator during the initial earn-in period (see news release dated July 6, 2010).

    Qualified Person and Quality Control

    Samples selection, collection and preparation was conducted under the supervision of Yan Ducharme, M.Sc., P.Geo. (OGQ), Niogold's Exploration Manager and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

    Information regarding the metallurgical testwork has been prepared by or under the supervision of Simon Lacasse, eng, Project Officer - Metallurgy of Aurizon Mines Ltd. and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

    About Aurizon

    Aurizon is a gold producer with a growth strategy focused on developing its existing projects in the Abitibi region of north-western Quebec, one of the world's most favourable mining jurisdictions and prolific gold and base metal regions, and by increasing its asset base through accretive transactions. Aurizon shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "ARZ" and on the NYSE Amex under the symbol "AZK". Additional information on Aurizon and its properties is available on Aurizon's website at www.aurizon.com.

    Forward Looking Statements and Information

    This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities regulations in Canada and the United States (collectively, "forward-looking information"). The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date of this news release. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information.

    Specifically, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding metallurgical testworks with respect to gold recoveries and acid generation on the Marban property. Forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable, including the assumptions that the current price of and demand for gold will be sustained or will improve. However, forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the risk that actual results of exploration activities and test work will be different than anticipated, that required supplies, equipment or personnel will not be available or will not be available on a timely basis or that the cost of labour, equipment or supplies will increase more than expected, that the future price of gold will decline, that the Canadian dollar will strengthen against the U.S. dollar, that mineral resources are not as estimated, that actual costs or actual results of reclamation activities are greater than expected; that changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined may result in increased costs, of accidents, labour disputes and other risks generally associated with exploration, unanticipated delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing or in the completion of exploration activities, as well as those factors and other risks more fully described in Aurizon's Annual Information Form filed with the securities commission of all of the provinces and territories of Canada and in Aurizon's Annual Report on Form 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

    U.S. Registration (File 001-31893)


    Contact:

    Aurizon Mines Ltd.
    George Paspalas
    President & CEO
    604-687-6600
    Aurizon Mines Ltd.
    Martin Bergeron
    Vice President Operations
    819-874-4511
    Aurizon Mines Ltd.
    Investor Relations
    jennifer.north@aurizon.com
    Aurizon Mines Ltd.
    604-687-6600 or Toll Free: 1-800-411-GOLD (4653)
    604-687-3932 (FAX)
    info@aurizon.com
    www.aurizon.com

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92620)4/25/2012 6:29:03 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Gold Canyon Intersects 188 Meters at 1.93 Grams Per Tonne Gold and 3 Meters at 41.37 Grams Per Tonne Gold at its Springpole Gold Project

    Press Release: Gold Canyon Resources Inc. – Tue, Apr 24, 2012 1:19 PM EDT

    finance.yahoo.com 




    VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire -04/24/12)- Gold Canyon Resources Inc. ( GCU.V - News)( GDCRF.PK - News) ("Gold Canyon" or "the Company") is pleased to announce assays from its 2012 winter drill program at its 100% controlled Springpole Gold Project, located 110 kilometers northeast of the Red Lake Mining Camp, Ontario, Canada. Hole SP12-118, a hole testing deeper parts of the Portage Zone, intersected 188.3 meters at 1.93 grams per tonne gold (618 feet at 0.056 oz per ton gold) including 71 meters at 3.80 grams per tonne gold (233 feet at 0.111 oz per ton gold). Another hole, SP12-119A intersected 3 meters at 41.37 grams per tonne gold (10 feet at 1.208 oz per ton gold) in a new high-grade structural zone.

    Drill Collar Map: media3.marketwire.com 

     

    -- Diamond drill hole SP12-118 was drilled on the 0+450 meter section line
    at an azimuth of 220 degrees true north and an inclination of -45
    degrees. This hole tested deeper parts of the Portage Zone in this area
    and intersected 188.3 meters at 1.93 grams per tonne gold (618 feet at
    0.056 oz per ton gold) including 71 meters at 3.80 grams per tonne gold
    (233 feet at 0.111 oz per ton gold). These results are very similar to
    those encountered in hole SP11-106 (127.5 meters at 3.51 grams per tonne
    gold announced in a news release date January 27, 2012) drilled on the
    0+500 meter section line 50 meters to the northwest. This higher grade
    shoot remains open at depth.
    -- Diamond drill hole SP12-119A, a vertical hole situated on the 0+600
    meter section line, intersected 3 meters at 41.37 grams per tonne gold
    (10 feet at 1.208 oz per ton gold) in a previously unrecognized high
    grade structural zone between the Portage and East Extension zones. The
    exact orientation and width of this high-grade structure is uncertain at
    this time.
    -- Diamond drill holes SP12-113 and SP12-117A, both situated on the 0+300
    meter section line and drilled at an azimuth of 220 degrees true north
    and an inclination of -45 degrees, tested peripheral parts of the
    Portage Zone. Both holes intersected long intervals of gold
    mineralization (please refer to table) in areas approximately 50 meters
    beneath the National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101) compliant resource
    model, which was announced on February 27, 2012.
    -- Diamond drill hole SP12-114 was drilled on the 0+250 meter section line
    at an azimuth of 220 degrees true north and an inclination of -45
    degrees and tested deep extensions of the Portage Zone in this area.
    Although this hole failed to test the full width of the Portage Zone, it
    encountered 115.6 meters at 1.11 grams per tonne gold (379 feet at 0.032
    oz per ton gold) before ending in mineralization at 569.6 meters. This
    represents a true depth of approximately 400 meters below surface, is
    one of the deepest intercepts yet drilled in the Portage Zone, and
    extends approximately 80 m below the NI 43-101 compliant resource model.
    -- Two vertical diamond drill holes, SP12-115 and SP12-116, and hole SP12-
    121, drilled at an azimuth of 220 degrees true north and an inclination
    of -45 degrees, all fall on the 0+850 meter section line and test deeper
    extensions of mineralization in this area. All three holes encountered
    multiple mineralized intervals (please refer to table) typical of this
    transitional area between the Portage and Main zones. Of particular
    note, the deepest intercept in hole SP12-116 falls approximately 120
    meters beneath the NI 43-101 resource model.
    -- Diamond drill hole SP12-120 was drilled on the 0-250 meter section line
    at an azimuth of 220 degrees true north and an inclination of -45
    degrees and tested the strike extension of the Portage Zone. Although
    this hole was terminated early due to deteriorating ice conditions, it
    intersected a very long interval of gold mineralization, 202 meters at
    0.51 grams per tonne gold (663 feet at 0.015 oz per ton gold) before
    ending in mineralization. It is believed that this hole cuts across the
    lower grade upper margin of the Portage Zone and that the higher grade
    core of the system plunges beneath this intercept. Two vertical holes
    drilled from barges will further test this area once the ice has cleared
    from the lake.

    "We are pleased to see many of these recent drill holes demonstrate good continuity of mineralization beneath the current NI 43-101 compliant resource," comments Dr. Quinton Hennigh, technical advisor to, and director of, Gold Canyon. "We are also intrigued by the new high-grade zone discovered between the Portage and East Extension zones. Hole SP12-120 provides our first strong evidence for the extension of the Portage Zone to the southeast. We have aggressive plans to follow up on all of these results once our barge-based drill campaign begins in a couple weeks."

     

    Summary of Drill Results from Holes SP12-113 through
    SP12-121
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Gold
    (grams Gold
    From To Length per Length (oz per
    Hole (meters) (meters) (meters) tonne) (feet) ton)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    SP12-113 232.0 237.0 5.0 1.07 16 0.031
    242.0 267.0 25.0 0.44 82 0.013
    275.0 278.0 3.0 0.63 10 0.018
    285.5 290.0 4.5 0.40 15 0.012
    332.0 413.0 81.0 0.72 266 0.021
    450.0 474.0 24.0 1.30 79 0.038
    SP12-114 27.0 34.0 7.0 0.73 23 0.021
    71.0 75.0 4.0 1.46 13 0.043
    223.0 227.0 4.0 3.07 13 0.090
    383.0 394.0 11.0 0.43 36 0.013
    454.0 569.6 115.6 1.11 379 0.032
    Hole ends at 569.6 meters in badly broken, mineralized rock
    SP12-115 230.0 265.0 35.0 0.64 115 0.019
    331.0 335.0 4.0 1.18 13 0.034
    349.0 354.0 5.0 1.42 16 0.041
    377.0 380.6 3.6 2.55 12 0.074
    508.0 512.0 4.0 0.86 13 0.025
    SP12-116 108.0 112.0 4.0 0.74 13 0.022
    124.0 202.0 78.0 1.11 256 0.032
    214.0 218.0 4.0 2.08 13 0.061
    233.0 241.0 8.0 3.25 26 0.095
    includes 238.0 239.0 1.0 15.61 3 0.456
    255.0 315.0 60.0 0.62 197 0.018
    342.0 364.0 22.0 0.67 72 0.020
    SP12-117 Hole lost at 75.2 meters
    SP12-117A 177.1 181.0 3.9 0.63 13 0.018
    210.0 214.0 4.0 0.61 13 0.018
    221.0 231.5 10.5 0.66 34 0.019
    239.0 248.0 9.0 0.59 30 0.017
    279.3 395.0 115.7 0.77 379 0.022
    SP12-118 78.0 124.0 46.0 0.66 151 0.019
    160.5 348.8 188.3 1.93 618 0.056
    includes 276.0 347.0 71.0 3.80 233 0.111
    includes 276.0 279.0 3.0 18.17 10 0.531
    includes 295.0 297.0 2.0 14.74 7 0.430
    includes 326.0 329.0 3.0 12.00 10 0.350
    SP12-119 Hole lost at 21.0 meters
    SP12-119A 66.0 79.5 13.5 0.41 44 0.012
    87.0 97.5 10.5 0.42 34 0.012
    117.0 126.0 9.0 0.58 30 0.017
    160.0 165.0 5.0 1.77 16 0.052
    240.0 247.0 7.0 18.02 23 0.526
    includes 240.0 243.0 3.0 41.37 10 1.208
    256.0 261.0 5.0 3.01 16 0.088
    includes 257.0 258.0 1.0 13.03 3 0.380
    303.0 306.0 3.0 1.38 10 0.040
    SP12-120 16.0 26.0 10.0 0.60 33 0.018
    125.0 327.0 202.0 0.51 663 0.015
    Hole ends at 327.0 meters in mineralized rock
    SP12-121 244.0 263.5 19.5 1.54 64 0.045
    397.0 410.0 13.0 0.50 43 0.015
    442.0 450.0 8.0 0.66 26 0.019
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Weighted averages were used to calculate all reported intervals.
    Reported intervals apply a 0.2 gram per tonne gold (0.006 oz per ton gold)
    lower cutoff.
    Internal dilution within reported intervals does not exceed core lengths of
    10 meters.
    Intervals of no recovery were given a gold grade of 0 in the weighted
    average calculations above.
    1 troy oz = 31.103 grams
    Conversion factor - grams per tonne to troy oz per short ton; g/t divided by
    34.2857 or g/t multiplied by 0.0292
    1 meter = 3.28 feet

    Core was logged then split using diamond saws with one half sent for analyses and the other half stored for future reference. Quality control programs include the use of field and laboratory duplicates, standards, blanks, and internal and external check assaying. Certified sample standards were submitted with the normal sample stream. Gold and silver assays were completed by SGS Canada Inc. in Red Lake and Toronto, Ontario using a 30 gram charge, fire assay, with an ICP finish. For over limit assay results, initial assays in excess of 10.0 grams per tonne Au, a gravimetric finish is utilized.

    Update on 2012 Diamond Drill Program

    Four core rigs are currently operating on land at Springpole. Drilling from four barges is expected to begin within two weeks once the ice melts from the lake. To date, approximately 14,000 meters of drilling have been completed at Springpole in 2012. The Company plans to aggressively target areas for growth with the aim of revising the Springpole resource in early 2013.

    About Springpole

    Springpole is an alkaline intrusion hosting a gold system that represents a potentially new style of Canadian Archean Shield gold deposit. The Portage Zone is hosted by a trachytic porphyry intrusion displaying polyphase autolithic breccias that host gold mineralization. Other zones, including the East Extension and Main, consist of high-grade veins and pods hosted in diatreme breccias composed of intrusive and country rock fragments. These breccias surround the northwest and northern margins of the Portage Zone. The known mineralized zones underlie a total known area of about 4 square kilometers representing only about 15 percent of the greater alkaline intrusive complex which remains yet to be explored.

    On February 27, 2012, Gold Canyon announced an updated NI 43-101 compliant resource estimate for Springpole, effective February 27, 2012, which included an indicated mineral resource of 1.22 million ounces gold and 4.82 million ounces silver and an inferred mineral resource of 2.45 million ounces gold and 11.58 million ounces silver (cut-off grade of 0.4 grams per tonne gold). Tonnage and grades were reported as 30.0 million metric tonnes at 1.26 grams per tonne gold and 5.0 grams per tonne silver for the indicated category, and 60.0 million metric tonnes at 1.27 grams per tonne gold and 6.0 grams per tonne silver for the inferred category. A technical report detailing this resource was filed by the Company on April 10, 2012 and is available through the Internet on the Canadian System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com.

    Quinton Hennigh, Ph.D., P.Geo. is the Qualified Persons pursuant to National Instrument 43-101 responsible for, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information contained in this news release. Dr. Hennigh is acting as a technical adviser to, and a director of, Gold Canyon.

    About Gold Canyon Resources Inc.:

    Gold Canyon is engaged in the acquisition and exploration of mineral and precious metals properties. The Company controls a 100% interest in the Springpole Gold - Horseshoe Island Gold, Platinum, Palladium Project and Favourable Lake Poly-metallic property currently under option to Guyana Frontier Mining Corp. pursuant to an option and joint venture agreement entered into in December 2005 - all in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada.

    Through its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, Gold Canyon Resources USA Inc., the Company controls a 100% interest in the Cordero Gallium Project situated in Humboldt County, Nevada, U.S.A.

    Gold Canyon entered into a REE Joint Exploration Agreement with the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) in January 2009.

    Additional information can be found on the Company's website: www.goldcanyon.ca

    Akiko Levinson, President & Director

    Cautionary Note Regarding Mineral Resources

    Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues. The quantity and grade of reported inferred resources in any estimation are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these inferred resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured mineral resource category.

    Cautionary Note to U.S. Readers Regarding Estimates of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resources

    This news release uses the term "inferred resources." We advise U.S. investors that while this term is recognized and required by Canadian regulations, it is not recognized by the SEC. "Inferred resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an "inferred mineral resource" will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of "inferred mineral resources" may not form the basis of a feasibility study or prefeasibility studies, except in rare cases. The SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" as in-place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. The term "contained gold ounces" used in this news release is not permitted under the rules of the SEC. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of a measured, indicated or inferred resource exists or is economically or legally mineable.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release contains statements that constitute "forward looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 or "forward looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian provincial securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements often, but not always, are identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "targeting" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "would", "should", "could", or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward- looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the timing and nature of permitting studies, the timing and nature of infrastructure developments and construction, projections of future optimization, production timeline targets, the timing of negotiations with third parties, and the timing and nature of future exploration programs which are dependent on projections which may change as drilling continues, or if unexpected ground conditions are encountered. In addition, areas of exploration potential are identified which will require substantial drilling to determine whether or not they contain similar mineralization to areas which have been explored in more detail. The description of the extent of mineralized zones is not intended to imply that any economically mineable estimate of reserves or resources exists on any of Gold Canyon's projects.

    The forward-looking statements that are contained in this news release are based on various assumptions and estimates by Gold Canyon and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. As a consequence, actual results might differ materially from results forecast or suggested in these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gold Canyon to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ include; risks relating to fluctuations in the price of gold; the inherently hazardous nature of mining-related activities; uncertainties concerning resource estimates; results of exploration, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, inability to obtain required regulatory approvals, unanticipated difficulties or costs in any rehabilitation which may be necessary, market conditions and general business, economic, competitive, political and social conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including assumptions regarding general market conditions, timing and receipt of regulatory approvals, the ability of Gold Canyon and other relevant parties to satisfy regulatory requirements, the availability of financing for proposed transactions and programs on reasonable terms and the ability of third-party service providers to deliver services in a timely manner. Although Gold Canyon has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors which cause actual results to differ. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and Gold Canyon disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.


    Contact:

    Gold Canyon Resources Inc.
    (604) 682-3234 or Toll free: 1 (888) 242-3234
    (604) 682-0537 (FAX)
    info@goldcanyon.ca
    www.goldcanyon.ca
    Gold Canyon Resources Inc.
    Leo Karabelas
    Investor Relations
    (416) 543-3120
    leo@frontlineir.com

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92621)4/25/2012 6:44:51 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Giyani Gold Acquires Additional Claims at Abbie Lake-Keating Gold Project

    Press Release: GIYANI GOLD CORP. – 10 hours ago

    finance.yahoo.com 




    OAKVILLE, ON, April 25, 2012 /CNW/ - Giyani Gold Corp. ( WDG.V) ("Giyani Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has acquired an additional 985 Ha of claims in the form of certain surface and mineral rights situated in Keating Township, Ontario (the "Lands"), contiguous to Giyani Gold's Abbie Lake-Keating Property. This acquisition positions the Company with a total of 8,760 Ha located in a highly prospective geological setting for gold.

    Mr. Bob Middleton , VP of Exploration, stated: "A portion of these newly acquired Lands host an extension of the quartz - eye porphyry previously identified on the Abbie Lake-Keating Property. This is significant as the largest discoveries and producing mines in the Timmons region host similar porphyries."

    The Company and 2299895 Ontario Inc. ("2299895"), a subsidiary of the Company, have entered into an agreement with 2099840 Ontario Inc. o/a Emerald Geological Services ("Emerald"), a private arms-length entity to the Company, which entitles 2299895 to acquire a 100% interest in the Lands in exchange for a combination of consideration comprised of: $126,600 in cash payable over three years; $100,000 in exploration expenditures and other work programs, and up to 200,000 shares in 2299895 over a period of three years, which shares are exchangeable into shares of Giyani Gold, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions. The total current value of the maximum consideration payable if all conditions are satisfied is $426,600 . Under the terms of the agreement, Emerald has agreed to relinquish its license and rights in the Lands and to allow 2299895 to acquire its interest and rights in the Lands under license from a private corporate entity that is arms-length to the Company and is the owner of the Lands, in exchange for an annual fee payable to that party.

    The exploration program was supervised by Robert S. Middleton P.Eng. Mr. Middleton acted as the Qualified Person for the Company.

    Corporate Appointment

    Giyani Gold has appointed Ms. Jo-Anne Archibald from DSA Corporate Services Inc. ("DSA") as Corporate Secretary. Ms. Archibald is currently the President of DSA, a trusted name in the delivery of corporate secretarial services for reporting issuers.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    On behalf of the Board of

    Giyani Gold Corp.,
    "Duane Parnham"
    Executive Chairman

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92622)4/25/2012 7:07:47 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Sparton and Waseco Resources Inc. to Explore Nevada Gold ProjectTERMINATION OF OSISKO OPTION

    Press Release: Sparton Resources Inc. – Mon, Apr 23, 2012 8:51 AM EDT

    finance.yahoo.com 




    TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - April 23, 2012) - SPARTON RESOURCES INC. (TSX VENTURE: SRI.V - News), (the "Company ') is pleased to announce that effective April 19th 2012 it has entered into an option agreement (the "Agreement") with Waseco Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE: WRI.V - News), whereby Waseco may acquire a 75% interest in all of the Company 's rights, and take on certain obligations related to the SBD gold project near Battle Mountain, Nevada. The SBD claims had previously been subject to an agreement with Purple Gold Corporation which terminated unexercised in January 2012 (See Sparton News Releases dated June 22 and July 14, 2011). Going forward, the project will be referred to as the Battle Mountain Ridge Project.

    AGREEMENT

    Under the Agreement Waseco will spend $900,000 over a 3 year period to earn a 75% interest in the property, and will incur all other required costs (including the year 2012 costs) to maintain the property in good standing during the option period. Upon exercising the option the Company and Waseco will form a joint venture (75% Waseco and 25% Sparton) to further explore and develop the property. Waseco will be operator of the work programs on the claims and will give Sparton the first right to tender for any contracted exploration activities on the claims at normal industry rates.

    Other terms of the Agreement include:





    -- If either party is diluted down to a 10% interest in the joint-venture,

    that interest shall be converted into a 1% net smelter return royalty

    ("NSR");

    -- If the property is subsequently sold to a bona fide third party, the 1%

    net smelter return royalty holder will forfeit the NSR and receive 10%

    of the net proceeds of the sale.



    The property is subject to a 5% NSR to the original lease holders, of which 2 1/2 % can be bought at any time for US$ 1.5 million.

    The Agreement is subject to the Company and Waseco's respective board's and any required regulatory approvals.

    WORK PROGRAM and PROPERTY

    The SBD claims are in the heart of the Battle Mountain Area gold producing district, located between Goldcorp-Barrick's Marigold Mine and Newmont's Phoenix Gold Mine operations. The property is adjacent to one of Newmont's Trenton Canyon Mine open pits and mineralization is very similar to that previously mined at Trenton Canyon.

    There is a non-NI 43-101 compliant historical gold resource reported from the claims for one of the three known gold zones containing 2,933,000 short tons grading 0.023 (av.) ounces per short ton (0.80 grams per metric tonne) gold (about 80,000 ounces). This was delineated by a previous operator in 1997. This grade is consistent with grades of other deposits in the Battle Mountain Area and the zone is open at depth and along strike. Two other discrete zones of gold mineralization were located by past drilling and incompletely tested.

    Work programs managed by Sparton since 2006 have generated numerous new geophysical and geochemical targets on the claims and confirmed the older drilling data with seven drill holes completed in 2007. One of these drilled in the east central part of the claim group located a new zone of gold mineralization.

    Sparton is pleased to be working closely with Waseco in planning the new work programs. The property is fully permitted and bonded for a new drilling and has the potential to host significant new gold mineralization.

    OSISKO OPTION TERMINATION

    The Company has received notice that Osisko Hammond Gold has terminated its option agreement to acquire an interest in the West Hammond and Clement Lake claim blocks near Atikokan, Ontario. Osisko completed extensive surface sampling limited geophysical and geochemical programs, and one drill hole on the West Hammond claims during 2011 and early 2012.

    This drill hole was located behind three of the Sparton holes reported earlier (see Sparton News Release dated May 10, 2010) on the South Shear zone of the West Hammond Claims. The Osisko hole intersected a number of narrow zones of gold mineralization below the Sparton intersections within a 200 metre wide alteration zone with anomalous gold values. The best intersections were 3.36g/t gold over 1.5 metres and 1.76 g/t gold over 1.5 metres (core lengths).

    The Osisko work report indicates that a significant number of induced polarization and geochemical anomalies remain untested, particularly on the West Hammond claims and recommends follow up work on these. Osisko's obligations under the option agreement will terminate once the assessment work filed for the work program is approved by the Ontario Ministry of Mines and Northern Development and this is expected on or before April 30, 2012.

    The Company is evaluating the data and planning follow up work on the highest priority remaining targets on the claims this coming season.

    Sparton's subsidiary drilling company EDCOR Drilling Services continues to operate two machines under contract to Osisko Hammond Gold. These are doing condemnation and infill drilling on Osisko's Hammond Reef program. The contract work is expected to continue through the 2012 year.

    Sparton's international exploration, development, and evaluation programs are being carried out under the direct supervision of A. Lee Barker, P. Eng., P Geol., the Company's President and CEO who is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-1

    Statements in this release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, save and except as may be required by applicable securities laws.

    This news release and the information contained herein does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States and securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or exemption from registration.

    We Seek Safe Harbour.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.


    Contact:
    A. Lee Barker
    Sparton Resources Inc.
    President and CEO
    416-366-3551 or Mobile: 416-716-5762
    416-366-7421 (FAX)
    info@spartonres.ca
    www.spartonres.ca

    Chairman
    Edward G. Thompson
    416-366-6083
    416-366-2713 (FAX)
    egt@interlog.com

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92623)4/25/2012 7:08:55 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Pacific Bay Exploration Program Underway at July Uranium Project

    Press Release: Pacific Bay Minerals Ltd. – Mon, Apr 23, 2012 9:00 AM EDT

    finance.yahoo.com 




    VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire -04/23/12)- David H. Brett , President and CEO, Pacific Bay Minerals Ltd. (TSX-V: PBM.V - News) (the "Company") reports that the Company has commenced an exploration program at the July uranium project in Chubut Province, Argentina. The program will consist of prospecting, mapping, sampling, soil geochemistry and trenching of known mineralized zones. The Company is earning a 90% interest in the property from state owned Petrominera Chubut, S.E.

    "The Cerro Solo region of Chubut has emerged as the top uranium district in Argentina," said Pacific Bay CEO David Brett. "Discovery potential is high in this very under explored region."

    The July property is a mineral claim located inside the Company's larger, 400sq KM Regalo property and about 35 KM north East of the state owned Cerro Solo uranium deposit. Situated within the favorable Los Adobes formation, the July hosts two previously discovered uraniferous paleo-channels that have been traced in outcrop for approximately 250 meters on surface, measuring 1 to 5 meters in width. Along strike of these zones, the Company has recorded high scintillometer readings for 1,500 meters. The shallow dipping structures are near surface and have significant potential. A brief reconnaissance of the July Project by Pacific Bay in March of 2011 returned grab samples up to 0.108% and scintillometer readings up to 9,000 counts per second.

    Dr. Bernard Free, Ph.D., who examined the July property in 2011, stated: "The mineralization style at July has also been confirmed on Pacific Bay's adjoining Regalo claims, where a helicopter supported prospecting operation last year produced highly significant results. A zone measuring approximately 1.5km by 1.0km produced significant grade uranium mineralisation from a number of randomly selected surface exposures. Pac Bay considers this a maiden discovery confirming the uranium potential of the widespread host stratigraphy on the entire Regalo property."

    The technical disclosures in this news release were reviewed and approved by Dr. Richard Culbert, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Samples collected and referenced in this news release were submitted to and analysed by Alex Stewart Group located in Mendoza, Argentina.

    Pacific Bay Minerals Ltd.

    David H. Brett, MBA, President & CEO

    The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.


    Contact:

    Pacific Bay Minerals Ltd.
    David H. Brett, MBA
    President & CEO
    604-682-2421
    604-682-7576 (FAX)
    www.pacificbayminerals.com

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92624)4/25/2012 7:27:47 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Argex announces successful Lac Brule initial metallurgy

    Press Release: ARGEX MINING INC. – Mon, Apr 23, 2012 8:00 AM EDT

    finance.yahoo.com 




    • RESULTS DEEMED BETTER THAN LA BLACHE
    • AIRBORNE SURVEY COMPLETED
    MONTREAL , April 23, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Argex Mining Inc. ("Argex ") (TSXV: RGX.V - News) (FSE: ASV) (OTCBB: ARGEF) announced today that it has successfully completed preliminary testing of the Lac Brûlé massive mineralization using the patented CTL process. The testing demonstrated improved leaching results than the ones obtained using the La Blache massive mineralization. In addition, Argex completed a high resolution airborne geophysical survey covering the main area of the Lac Brûlé property, including the recently acquired claim block from Quinto Mining Corporation.

    Bench Testing of the Lac Brûlé Massive Mineralization

    During the first quarter of 2012, Argex, in collaboration with Process Research Ortech of Mississauga, Ontario , completed bench scale testing of the Lac Brûlé massive mineralization using the patented CTL process.

    Bench testing initial results are as follows:

    • 94% of the TiO2 leached (compared to 92% of TiO2 leached for La Blache).
    • 95% of the V2O5 leached.
    • 99% of the iron oxides leached.
    "With the higher TiO2 average grade of 34% vs. the 18% TiO2 in the La Blache mineralization and lower iron content, it is expected that the throughput with similar capital expenditure would be approximately 90% higher than what would have been obtained with La Blache. I am pleased with the progress we have made, and we will be running the existing pilot plant with Lac Brûlé material over the next few months to make TiO2 pigment." said Argex's Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Enrico Di Cesare . "As part of our due diligence process, we are now conducting batch testing on higher grade TiO2 ilmenite concentrates selected from existing feedstock producers from around the world. This pre-qualification of potential feedstock will be used as part of advanced-stage studies."

    The patented closed-loop CTL Process involves the leaching of titanium-bearing ore material in chloride acid media under conditions for both iron and titanium in the ore to be leached into solution. The energy efficient process operates at atmospheric pressure and does not require pre-treatment of the ore (no oxidation and/or reduction is required). The CTL Process operates with relatively low concentration of hydrochloric acid and avoids the need to handle chlorine, carbon or carbon containing chemicals at very high temperatures.

    "The CTL Process has shown an enormous flexibility to operate successfully on different ore bodies," commented Roy Bonnell , President and Chief Executive Officer of Argex, " which should provide us with even greater optionality in growing the company as we move forward."

    The sample processed was collected by Quinto in 2005 as part of a trenching program completed on the Lac Brûlé main deposit (Lens A) and stored in the nearby municipality of Longue-Rive since then.

    High-resolution Airborne Survey

    In January 2012 , Argex mandated Geotech Ltd of Aurora, Ontario ("Geotech") to conduct a high-resolution magnetic and electromagnetic helicopter-borne geophysical survey of the Lac Brûlé property using the VTEM plus time-domain system. During February and March 2012 , a total of 1,590 line kilometres were flown by Geotech with 60-metre line spacing. The preliminary survey data has been validated for quality control by Argex's geophysical consultant and the final report is expected in the coming days.

    "This survey allows us to get a detailed geophysical picture of the known massive hemo-ilmenite deposits occurring on the property," stated Argex's Vice-President, Mining and Geology, André Laferrière. "This new geophysical dataset will significantly enhance our understanding of the geology in the area, which will help us optimize the next exploration program on the property."

    Lac Brûlé Property

    The Lac Brûlé Property covers part of the Labrieville anorthosite complex which hosts known magmatic iron oxide deposits strongly mineralized in titanium. Historical exploration work completed on the property in the 50's and 70's outlined three massive ilmenite lenses. An internal study completed in 2005 following definition drilling completed on Lens A and Lens B reported a mineral resource estimate totalling 3.8 million tonnes and having an average grade of 30.1% TiO2. Such tonnage is however not confirmed by the recent NI 43-101 report.

    A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves and Argex is not treating the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves.

    The technical information disclosed in this news release has been reviewed and approved by André Laferrière, P.Geo., Qualified Person for Argex as defined by National Instrument 43-101 for the Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    About Argex Mining Inc.

    ARGEX MINING INC. is a near-term producer of commodities that the world needs: Titanium Dioxide, Iron and Vanadium Pentoxide. With a primary goal of advancing rapidly towards production, Argex has adopted a simple and low-risk strategy for the scale-up of its proprietary process that allows it to produce high purity TiO2 directly from run-of-mine material from its 100% owned deposit.

    The process is running continuously at the mini-plant in Mississauga, Ontario. The closed-loop process is environmentally friendly and produces minimal inert tailings.

    Additionally, the Company owns 100% of the Mouchalagane property, which is a large Labrador Trough iron ore property that represents further potential upside for the Argex shareholders.

    Forward-Looking Statements and Disclaimer

    This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All information and statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are forward-looking information. Such statements and information may be identified by words such as "about", "approximately", "may", "believes", "expects", "will", "intends", "should", "plans", "predicts", "potential", "projects", "anticipates", "estimates", "continues" or similar words or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based on the best estimates available to Argex at this time and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Argex's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. A description of the risks affecting Argex's business and activities appears under the heading "Risk Factors" in Argex's Amended and Restated Annual Information Form dated January 14, 2011 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. No assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking information in this press release will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits that Argex will derive therefrom. In particular, no assurance can be given as to the future financial performance of Argex. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof and Argex undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. The reader is warned against placing undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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    To: LoneClone who wrote (92625)4/25/2012 7:29:08 PM
    From: LoneClone   of 100505
     
    Gentor Resources receives excellent results from initial metallurgical test work on high-grade Massive Sulphide from the Mahab 4 Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide deposit in Oman

    Press Release: Gentor Resources Inc. – Tue, Apr 24, 2012 8:00 AM EDT

    finance.yahoo.com 





    Figure 1. Summary of Rougher Testwork Results (CNW Group/Gentor Resources Inc.)

    A composite drill core sample of primary massive sulphides from Mahab 4 with a head grade of 9.77% copper was successfully upgraded by means of standard flotation conditions to produce marketable concentrate grades of 20-27% copper at recoveries of 90-94% copper.

    TORONTO , April 24, 2012 /CNW/ - Gentor Resources Inc. ("Gentor") (TSX-V: GNT.V - News) (OTCQB: GNTOF.PK - News) and its Omani partner Al Fairuz Mining Company LLC are pleased to announce the results of initial flotation testwork on its flagship Mahab 4 Cyprus-type copper discovery in Block 5.

    Gentor commissioned Wardell Armstrong International based in Cornwall UK to provide a programme of scoping flotation testwork initially on a composite sample of high grade massive sulphide copper mineralisation from its recently drill evaluated Mahab 4 deposit.

    Testwork Summary

    Standard testwork using nominal parameters for Oman massive sulphides was applied as a base case to a combined massive sulphide-semi-massive sulphide sample grading 9.77% copper, producing a copper recovery of 85% to an acceptable 20.2% copper concentrate. Follow-up rougher tests summarised in Figure 1 below - using the base case but varying the initial conditions - produced a variety of higher grade concentrates with lower recoveries. However, finer grinding applied to allow 80% passing 40 microns released more copper tied up within pyrite grains to give a +90% copper recovery.

    Subsequent cleaner tests summarised in Figure 2 below have shown that it is possible to achieve either:

    • a circa 20.0% copper grade to 94% recovery from roughing alone; or
    • a circa 27.5% copper grade to 90% recovery from roughing + one stage of cleaning.
    Dependent on the copper grade the concentrate contained 30-50% of the sulphide ore content. The efficiency of the cleaner process determined that regrinding options appear to add little benefit. This test work therefore suggests that a relatively simple process using standard techniques and reagents is applicable for the Mahab 4 massive sulphides.

    Gentor is now preparing a wider selection of ore type core samples including stringer zone and lower grade massive sulphides in order to determine standard testwork treatment parameters for the range of important bulk ore types at Mahab 4.

    Gentor's President & CEO Dr. Peter Ruxton commented: "Gentor is very pleased with these encouraging initial metallurgical tests that confirm our expectations that the high-grade massive sulphides at Mahab 4 will be readily treatable to produce a clean economic concentrate. We have now approved further feasibility test work on a range of typical Mahab 4 ore types to obtain a comprehensive understanding of flotation conditions for this deposit."

    Test Work Program

    In order to maximise the efficiency of the preliminary program the experiences and parameters of flotation treatment of various Oman Cyprus-type VMS deposits was utilised and incorporated into this phase of test work to provide initial test conditions.

    In addition, a detailed mineralogical examination of the composite sample was undertaken in order to determine factors such as the main sulphide and gangue minerals present, their liberation sizes and degrees of alteration. The massive sulphide ore type at Mahab 4 has a simple mineralogy comprising dominant early brecciated pyrite, partly replaced at all size levels by chalcopyrite and minor sphalerite; in a silica rich gangue.

    This enabled identification of the most appropriate grind size, for each sample prior to undertaking additional flotation tests in order to optimise reagent conditions including defining collector type and dosage, flotation pH, and circuit configuration including number and length of cleaning stages.

    Resultant base case conditions established included:

    • Grinding D80: 60µm
    • pH 11.5
    • 200g/t Cytec A238 collector
    The final program recently completed involved ten rougher tests and five cleaner tests.

    Rougher Results

    FT1 the first test for the MS head assay of 9.77% Cu (0.069% Cu (sol)), 46.96% S (0.29% S (sol)), and 0.30 mg/kg Au gave an excellent rougher flotation response of 85% recovery to 20.2% Cu concentrate. This provided a strong basis from which to move forward with further testwork to investigate the effect of pH, collector dosage and primary grind size on flotation performance and subsequently the collector type efficiency.

    These further tests showed:

    • FT2 - Increasing flotation pH from 11.5 to 12.0 resulted in a reduction in copper recovery after 10 minutes of flotation from 83.7% to 77.8%. The grade of concentrate was, however, approximately 2% higher in the concentrate suggesting that the increased pH was depressing chalcopyrite that was associated with pyrite.
    • FT3 - Increasing the amount of collector added from a total of 200g/t (FT1) to 300g/t resulted in an increase in copper recovery from 84.9% to 94.2% after 10 minutes. The increase in recovery did however result in a reduction in the grade of concentrate of approximately 3.2% to 17.1% Cu.
    • FT4 - Reducing the primary grind size from 80% passing 60µm to 80% passing 40µm resulted in an increase in copper recovery of 8.1%, when compared with FT1, to 93.1%. The results also showed that despite the increase in recovery, there was no detrimental effect on concentrate grade with levels of circa 20.5% Cu being maintained.
    Based on these results, it would appear that a finer primary grind size is of more benefit for increased recovery than increased collector dosage. Therefore the second stage of testwork involved four rougher flotation tests using this finer grind size to again look at the effect of pH along with alternative copper collectors on flotation performance.

    Test conditions and results are summarised as follows;

    • FT5 - Repeat of test 4 (200g/t A238 at a grind size of 80% passing 40µm) but with initial flotation pH increased from 11.5 to 12.0. Results showed that the increase in pH increased the maximum grade of concentrate that was achievable, however, there was no improvement in overall recovery.
    • FT6 - Repeat of test 4 but with the Cytec Aero 238 collector substituted for SIPX. Dosage levels were maintained. The results showed that the alternative collector provided the highest copper recovery observed to date of 97.2%, however, the grade of concentrate was just 12.6% Cu. When the grade of concentrate was increased to >20% Cu, recovery fell to levels which were below that which could be achieved using the previous selective collector.
    • FT7 - Repeat of test 6 but with collector dosage reduced to 75% of original level. Results showed that the test achieved higher concentrate grades than test 6 although recovery levels were lower.
    • FT8 - Repeat of test 4 but with primary grind size reduced from 80% passing 40µ to 80% passing 30µm. The results showed that the reduction in primary grind size resulted in a circa 2% increase in copper recovery at 'lower' grades (circa 22-23% Cu) but that as concentrate grade increased recoveries fell to levels achieved at coarser grind sizes.
    Based on these results, it would appear that the best conditions identified to date are those of the test 4 regime as seen in Figure 1. Consequently, two additional tests were performed based on this regime but with the flotation pH reduced from 11.5 to 10.5. The first test (FT9) was performed using Aero 238 whilst the second (FT10) was performed using SIPX. Based on the responses shown in Figure 1 it would seem that the lower pH produces a less economical result and the Aero 238 performs much better than the SIPX, therefore overall the test 4 conditions appear close to optimal for this material.

    Cleaner Results

    A program of five cleaner tests were conducted that confirmed minimal treatment with standard conditions and reagents was required to produce an acceptable range of concentrates ranging from 20-27% Cu with commensurate high copper recoveries of 90-94%. Furthermore, given that these results show that only one stage of cleaning is required, it was considered unnecessary to proceed with the proposed locked cycle testwork which might be more appropriate for subsequent evaluation of lower grade MS ores.

    A final report on this work is not yet available however a summary of testwork results is presented in Figure 2. This indicates that tests FC2 and FC5 appear to optimise the copper recovery above 90% with a minimum concentrate value of 20% Cu, and that finer grinding in FC5 provides up to 2% better recovery in concentrates up to 27% Cu, but at higher grades does not improve performance and is of marginal value. Therefore it is suggested no regrind may be necessary for this high-grade material.

    Locality plans of the Oman concessions including the Mahab 4 deposit are found on the Company 's website:http://www.gentorresources.com/s/NewsReleases.asp?ReportID=517002

    Qualified Person

    The results disclosed in this press release have been reviewed, verified (including sampling, analytical and test data) and compiled by senior geologists under the direction of Dr. Peter Ruxton who is a Professional Member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (I.M.M.M.), the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer and a "qualified person" (as such term is defined in Canadian National Instrument 43-101 as promulgated by the Canadian Securities Administrators).

    Technical Report

    Additional information with respect to the Company's Omani properties is contained in the technical report prepared by Venmyn Rand (Pty) Ltd, dated December 31, 2010 and entitled "National Instrument 43-101 Independent Technical Report on Block 5 and Block 6 Copper Projects, Semail Ophiolite Belt, Sultanate of Oman held by Gentor Resources, Inc." A copy of this report can be obtained from SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

    About Gentor

    Gentor is a mineral exploration company whose projects include copper and gold properties in the Sultanate of Oman and a molybdenum-tungsten-silver property in East Central Idaho, U.S. The Company's strategy is to create shareholder value by developing highly prospective mineral properties around the globe, with current focus in the Sultanate of Oman. In Oman , Gentor is partnered with Al Fairuz Mining Company LLC on its Block 5 exploration tenement and Al Zuhra Mining Company LLC on Block 6.

    Cautionary Notes

    Forward-Looking Information: This press release contains forward-looking information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding metallurgical testwork and other exploration results, potential mineral resources, potential mineralization and the Company's exploration and development plans) are forward-looking information. This forward-looking information reflects the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, copper recoveries being less than those indicated by the metallurgical testwork carried out to date (there can be no assurance that copper recoveries in small scale laboratory tests will be duplicated in large tests under on-site conditions or during production); risks related to the exploration stage of the Company's properties, the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, changes in world copper or gold markets and equity markets, political developments in Oman , uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration results and other geological data and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration business. Forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is provided and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

    The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") permits mining companies, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only those mineral deposits that a company can economically and legally extract or produce. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any disclosure of mineralization contained in this press release is economically or legally mineable. U.S. investors are urged to closely consider all of the disclosures in the Company's reports filed pursuant to the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934 which may be secured from the Company, or from the SEC's website at sec.gov 

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Figure 2. Summary of Cleaner Testwork Results (CNW Group/Gentor Resources Inc.)

    Image with caption: "Figure 1. Summary of Rougher Testwork Results (CNW Group/Gentor Resources Inc.)". Image available at: photos.newswire.ca 

    Image with caption: "Figure 2. Summary of Cleaner Testwork Results (CNW Group/Gentor Resources Inc.)". Image available at: photos.newswire.ca 

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