## Groote Eylandt Manganese Mine to Remain Closed Until 2025 Following Cyclone Damage
The Groote Eylandt manganese mine, a major source of the mineral used in steel production, will not resume exports until January 2025 at the earliest. This extended closure is a consequence of the extensive damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Megan, which struck the island in March 2023.
The cyclone brought record rainfall and wind gusts exceeding 100 kilometers per hour, causing significant damage to the mine's infrastructure. A bulk carrier loaded with 40,000 tonnes of manganese was battered against the wharf, rendering it unusable. Additionally, heavy rainfall and flooding destroyed parts of the mine's haul road and bridge, further hindering operations.
South32, the mining company operating the Groote Eylandt mine, has confirmed that mining activities remain suspended and there will be no manganese exports until sometime between January and March 2025. The company is currently evaluating alternative shipping options to mitigate the impact of the wharf outage.
Engineering studies are underway to assess the damage to the wharf and haulage road bridge. These studies will determine the final schedule and capital costs for repairs. South32 has not yet disclosed the financial impact of the cyclone damage and the suspension of mining.
The closure of the Groote Eylandt mine has also caused fuel shortages on the island. Diesel and petrol are only available one day per week, with diesel purchases limited to $50 per vehicle. South32 is currently delivering diesel and food to Groote Eylandt via its barge facility.
The company remains focused on the safety and wellbeing of its workforce and the Groote Eylandt community. They are working to restore operations as quickly as possible and minimize the impact on the island's residents.