News

As most members of the community are aware, in May 2020 Bowdens Silver lodged the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Development Application with the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment for the Bowdens Silver Project. During the public exhibition period, submissions were received from community members, public organisations as well as State and Local Government agencies. The public submission process showed overwhelming public support for the Project with 79% of all submissions in favour of the Project proceeding. Importantly, no Government agencies objected to the Project and only sought clarification on certain points relevant to their role.

Since that time, Bowdens Silver has been preparing the Response to Submissions which is not only a necessary part of the approvals process but importantly responds to all themes raised during the public submission process. Our Response to Submissions Report is currently being finalised and will be released shortly. At that time, further information will be provided to the community outlining the main themes and outcomes of that work.

In March 2021, Bowdens Silver submitted its Mining Lease Application (“MLA 601”) for the development of the Bowdens Silver Project which forms part of the approvals process.

Exploration work also continues to forge ahead and has expanded with four drill rigs now on-site. Drilling will be predominantly targeting mineralisation below the current proposed open cut pit and nearby extensions with mineralisation remaining open at depth. General exploration work is also planned on some surrounding properties and further afield in agreement with landholders. This work is testing our wider geological modelling of the mineral rich systems. All exploration and subsequent rehabilitation will fall in line with NSW Government approvals. Drilling is likely to continue until at least the end of 2021.

As the Bowdens Silver Project progresses through the approvals process, pre-development work will continue to increase focusing on optimisation of the Project as a whole including detailed design work for the mine infrastructure. To accommodate the increased activity our team has also grown with six new staff in our geology, field services, farming and administration teams. Our Community Investment Program continues to operate which provides sponsorships for a range of organisations and events within the local area across our core areas of support including, education, community, sport, safety and arts and culture. As our Project continues to develop, this program will expand.  Input and ideas from community members regarding funding for meaningful community projects are always most welcome.