Agrimin, Kalium hit potash milestones

Two budding WA sulphate of potash producers have both reached project milestones today, with Agrimin awarding a port contract, while Kalium Lakes has given the green light to develop its Beyondie project.

Agrimin has appointed Kerman Contracting to undertake the engineering design works for the Wyndham port facility, which is a key part of its $545 million Mackay potash project.

Geotechnical and topographic work programs have been completed at the site and Kerman has commenced the engineering design for the definitive feasibility study.

The Wyndham port facility is planned to include a truck unloading hopper, covered storage sheds, granulation equipment, workshops and offices.

Agrimin said it intends to engage a separate contractor for the design and construction of the associated barge loading facility.

Lake Mackay is expected to yield 426,000 tonnes per annum of SOP, with first production slated for the final quarter of 2022.

The project covers around 5,000 square kilometres.

Kalium Lakes has officially commenced work on its $216 million Beyondie project, which makes it the first company to start work on a commercial-scale sulphate of potash project in Australia.

Kalium completed a $72 million capital raise in August to have the project fully funded, following loans from German bank KfW for $102 million and Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility for $74 million, as well as a $15 million working capital facility from Westpac.

First production is scheduled for late 2020.

Shares in Agrimin were up 1.9 per cent to 54 cents each at 12.30pm AEST.

Shares in Kalium Lakes were flat at 50 cents each at 12.30pm AEST.