Havilah Resources welcomes relief measures implemented by South Australian Government

Havilah Resources Ltd (ASX:HAV) welcomes the six-month deferral of mineral exploration licence fees announced by the South Australian Minister for Energy and Mining, Dan van Holst Pellekaan. Additionally, the State Government has granted a 12-month waiver of exploration expenditure commitments with both measures implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Preserving cash resources The company said it was grateful for these two initiatives, which would have an immediate benefit in preserving its cash resources. In announcing the measures, the Minister said: “The Marshall Liberal Government has implemented an immediate deferral of mineral exploration licence fees and annual petroleum and geothermal licence fees due in the next six months. “These licence fees will now not be due until December 31, 2020. “In addition, there is a 12-month waiver of committed expenditure for all mineral exploration licence holders.” “Working closely with resources industry” He said: “The junior exploration sector is suffering disproportionately from the disruptive effects of the pandemic response, with many smaller companies already operating for some time in difficult financial markets finding it tough going in the current health emergency. “During these difficult times, it is essential that government continues to work closely with the resources industry to keep them operating while maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for their people, to aid in the eventual recovery.” Kalkaroo drilling With exploration remaining a permitted activity in South Australia, Havilah continues its exploration drilling program at Kalkaroo under strict observance of COVID-19 guidelines. The company is drilling on the Kalkaroo Mining Lease with its own drilling crew, comprising a total of six people. Havilah is pro-actively exercising all safe practices to ensure the health and well-being of its employees and the community in accordance with guidance provided by the Australian Government’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) health alert website and relevant South Australian Government directives. The drill crew is operating out of Havilah’s exploration base camp on Kalkaroo Station, which is a remote and isolated location within South Australia’s northeast. There is neither contact with local communities nor visitation from outsiders.