Rubicon continues to advance its Phoenix Gold Project.  5.4 MW of Hydro One power was connected to the site during Q4, 2011. This power will enable the operations team to carry out the construction necessary to build the mine infrastructure and prepare the location for operation. Construction of the headframe extension which was also completed during Q4, went smoothly and without incident. Rubicon has now commissioned the refurbished hoist plant that will be capable of reaching a depth of 1,800 m (6,000 ft). The new system is now ready for use including preparation for shaft sinking from 338 meters down to 610 meters in 2012.

Operations Update Presentation - December 2011 (click text above or thumbnail at right to view presentation)
10 MVA Power Substation The main power supply for the mine and mill will be grid power supplied by Hydro One. The initial “Offer to Connect” has been approved for 5.3 MVA which will carry the operation through to initial start-up, and it is hoped that this will be expanded to 10 MW as we get closer to production.
244 Level - Shaft Station Level 244 is the second level to be developed by Rubicon Minerals on the Phoenix project and the sixth level to be developed on the property. Level 244 enables operations to develop the stoping blocks between 244 and 305 Levels.
Communications line being installed Spring 2011 Included in the major infrastructure is the fibre optic line which is carried in on the hydro power line.
14' Diameter Hoist Being Assembled The bottom half of the fourteen foot hoist drum being lifted into place by a crane. The hoist was commissioned in October 2011.
Power Line Substation and Headframe Major infrastructure of the Phoenix Gold Project showing the power line, substation, compressor building, headframe as well as the old hoist room/change-house and the new hoist foundation.
Second Egress Landing In order to transition into possible production, a second egress is required to be in place.
Two Half Drums on Its Foundation The bottom of both drums sitting on the foundation that has been lined up with the headframe.
Hoisting Plant Assembly
Hoist Room Building Being Erected
View of the Hoist Room Being Erected