FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PART I |
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Item 1. | | Business | | 5 |
Item 1A. | | Risk Factors | | 23 |
Item 1B. | | Unresolved Staff Comments | | 30 |
Item 2. | | Properties | | 30 |
Item 3. | | Legal Proceedings | | 35 |
Item 4. | | Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders | | 35 |
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PART II |
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Item 5. | | Market for Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases | | |
| | of Equity Securities | | 36 |
Item 6. | | Selected Financial Data | | 38 |
Item 7. | | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of | | |
| | Operations | | 38 |
Item 7A. | | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk | | 46 |
Item 8. | | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data | | 50 |
Item 9. | | Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure | | 50 |
Item 9A. | | Controls and Procedures | | 50 |
Item 9B. | | Other Information | | 51 |
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PART III |
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Item 10. | | Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance | | 52 |
Item 11. | | Executive Compensation | | 57 |
Item 12. | | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related | | |
| | Stockholder Matters | | 59 |
Item 13. | | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence | | 60 |
Item 14. | | Principal Accounting Fees and Services | | 61 |
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PART IV |
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Item 15. | | Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules | | 63 |
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SIGNATURES |
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PART I
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
THIS FORM 10-K CONTAINS "FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS". FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE STATEMENTS CONCERNING ESTIMATES, PLANS, OBJECTIVES, GOALS, STRATEGIES, EXPECTATIONS, INTENTIONS, PROJECTIONS, DEVELOPMENTS, FUTURE EVENTS, PERFORMANCE OR PRODUCTS, UNDERLYING (EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED) ASUMPTIONS AND OTHER STATEMENTS THAT ARE OTHER THAN HISTORICAL FACTS. IN SOME CASES FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THE USE OF FORWARD-LOOKING WORDS SUCH AS “ESTIMATED,” "BELIEVES," "EXPECTS," "MAY," "WILL," "SHOULD," OR "ANTICIPATES," OR THE NEGATIVE OF THESE WORDS OR OTHER VARIATIONS OF THESE WORDS OR COMPARABLE WORDS, OR BY DISCUSSIONS OF PLANS OR STRATEGY THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES. MANAGEMENT WISHES TO CAUTION THE READER THAT THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, STATEMENTS REGARDING THE COMPANY’S MINING OPERATIONS, RESERVE ESTIMATES, GOALS, COMPETITIVE TRENDS AND OTHER MATTERS THAT ARE NOT HISTORICAL FACTS ARE ONLY PREDICTIONS. NO ASSURANCES CAN BE GIVEN THAT SUCH PREDICTIONS WILL PROVE CORRECT OR THAT THE ANTICIPATED FUTURE RESULTS WILL BE ACHIEVED. ACTUAL EVENTS OR RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY EITHER BECAUSE ONE OR MORE PREDICTIONS PROVE TO BE ERRONEOUS OR AS A RESULT OF OTHER RISKS FACING THE COMPANY. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS SHOULD BE READ IN LIGHT OF THE CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS AND IMPORTANT FACTORS DESCRIBED IN THIS FORM 10-K, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO "RISK FACTORS” SHOWN AS ITEM 1A AND IN MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. THE RISKS INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH A SMALL, EARLY-STAGE COMPANY THAT HAS ONLY A LIMITED HISTORY OF OPERATIONS, THE COMPARATIVELY LIMITED FINANCIAL RESOURCES OF THE COMPANY, THE INTENSE COMPETITION THE COMPANY FACES FROM OTHER ESTABLISHED COMPETITORS, AND THE VOLATILITY OF GOLD PRICES IN THE MARKETPLACE. ANY ONE OR MORE OF THESE OR OTHER RISKS COULD CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THE FUTURE RESULTS INDICATED, EXPRESSED, OR IMPLIED IN SUCH FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. WE UNDERTAKE NO OBLIGATION TO UPDATE OR REVISE ANY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT TO REFLECT EVENTS, CIRCUMSTANCES, OR NEW INFORMATION AFTER THE DATE OF THIS FORM 10-K OR TO REFLECT THE OCCURRENCE OF UNANTICIPATED OR OTHER SUBSEQUENT EVENTS.
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As used herein, the term “the Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Eastern Goldfields, Inc., a Nevada corporation and its subsidiaries unless otherwise noted.
Item 1. Business
General
Eastern Goldfields, Inc., (the “Company" or "EGI") is the parent company of Eastern Goldfields SA (Proprietary) Limited, (“EGSA”), a corporation organized under the laws of the Republic of South Africa. EGSA conducts all of the Company’s business operations in South Africa through its South African subsidiary corporations.
Eastern Goldfields, Inc. was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada on July 15, 1998, originally under the name of Fairbanks Financial, Inc. The Company was established as a business management, marketing and consulting firm to serve both the emerging and established business entrepreneur. From July 15, 1998, up to and including September 23, 2005, the Company has had minimal operations and earned total revenues of $44,300 generated from its initial activities.
On or about September 23, 2005, the Company had a change of control via a purchase of the controlling shareholder ownership interest and the appointment of new officers and directors. The Company then redirected its business efforts and on September 23, 2005 it purchased 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of EGSA. EGSA was formerly known as Makonjwaan Properties Keurboom One Five (Pty) Ltd. and originally was incorporated on November 16, 1993, with the main business activity being that of investment property. The common or ordinary stock was 100% held by Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (Pty) Ltd (“MIMCO”). All rental income earned by EGSA from the leasing of the property from the date of incorporation until the sale of its property on May 20, 1999, was assigned to MIMCO. This company remained dormant until being sold to EGI.
On July 27, 2005, this company changed its name to Eastern Goldfields SA (Pty) Ltd and it changed its principle business activity to that of an investment holding company. On October 1, 2005, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, EGSA, acquired, via a share exchange, 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of Eastern Goldfields Limited (“EGL”), a South African gold producer and developer corporation. This share exchange agreement for the acquisition of EGL by EGSA was undertaken in order to achieve compliance with the Exchange Control Regulations of the South African Reserve Bank. EGL conducts mining operations in the Barberton Greenstone Belt area of the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. On October 25, 2005, the Company changed its corporate name to Eastern Goldfields, Inc. to more accurately reflect its business operations.
The economic substance of this acquisition or merger was that EGI issued new equity to the shareholders of EGL in exchange for 100% of EGL’s common stock. This share exchange for the acquisition of EGL by EGI’s wholly owned South African subsidiary, EGSA, was accounted for as a reverse acquisition, and, accordingly, for financial statement purposes, EGL was considered the accounting acquiror and the subject transaction was considered a recapitalization of EGL rather than an acquisition by the Company. Accordingly, the historical financial statements prior to this share exchange are those of EGL, however, the name of the consolidated corporation going forward is Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
EGL itself is a South African holding company which has three South African subsidiary corporations; namely, Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (Pty) Ltd. (“MIMCO”), Eastern Goldfields Exploration (Pty) Ltd. (“EGE”) and Centurion Mining Company (Pty) Ltd. (“Centurion”). The Company’s “mineral rights” or “claims”, as more specifically described in “Item 2. Properties”, are held in the name of EGL itself and in the names of EGL’s South African subsidiaries.
On May 30, 2008, EGSA acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of Barberton Mines Limited, also a South African gold producer and developer corporation.
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Our Objectives
To the extent that we are able, we are pursuing a strategy of growth in our mineral reserves through optimization of current operations, exploration and prudent acquisitions. We believe that if we are successful in implementing our business plan, we have the personnel and properties necessary to make the transition from our current production status as a small mining company to a “junior resource company”. Although a “junior resource company” is generally defined as a company dedicated to mineral exploration, in the gold mining industry a “junior resource company” is considered to be a mining company with a minimum annual production of 100,000 oz. of gold. We are lead by an experienced management team and Board of Directors that are made up of professional engineers, geologists and financiers who have significant hands-on experience at every stage of gold exploration, development and production.
We hold mineral claims covering 16,000 hectares (approximately 40,000 acres) in the Barberton Greenstone Belt of South Africa, which has been an active mining district for more than 100 years, yet is still largely under-explored. Our producing mine, the Lily Mine, operated profitably as an open pit operation under current management from 2000 until end of 2008, with production of about 12,000 ounces of gold annually from the various open pit locations within the Lily mining title area. Effective January 2009, production at the Lily Mine is from underground operations. However, we cannot assure you that these profitable operations will continue or, if they do continue, that they will continue at the same level and to the extent of historical levels.
If we are successful, and to the extent that we are able, we intend to continue operations at the Lily Mine through underground activities. Accordingly, in September 2005, the Company raised $2,750,000 via a Phase I private placement offering of 630,000 restricted common shares. This Phase I funding was primarily utilized to conduct a Phase 2 diamond drilling program (discussed below) which did confirm and enhance the results of earlier preliminary studies with respect to reserves located at the Lily Mine area.
The results of this Phase 2 diamond drilling program were incorporated in the April 2006 pre-feasibility study prepared by us to assess our future development. The possibility of extending the open pit was considered in addition to the building of a new underground mine. The pre-feasibility study concluded that a new underground mine would provide a better return on investment, particularly as the mineral reserves in the upper region of the mine could be easily accessed. The pre-feasibility study also concluded that additional drilling should be carried out in order to place greater confidence in the estimation of the Company’s mineral reserves.
The international mining consultant firm of Behre Dolbear was engaged by the Company to provide an independent expert opinion on the pre-feasibility study. Senior personnel from Behre Dolbear's London and Toronto offices visited Lily Mine during May 2006 to complete this due diligence work. Behre Dolbear endorsed the recommendation to carry out additional drilling (Phases 3 and 4).
Diamond drilling phases 3 and 4 were successfully completed during 2007. These drilling phases were financed by additional private placements in 2006 and 2007. The continued success of drilling encouraged management to embark in June 2007 on the compilation of a full Bankable Feasibility Study (“BFS”), a project managed by Turgis Consulting (Pty) Ltd. The BFS was completed on March 7, 2008, with the combined services of a number of recognized consulting firms. These drilling programs greatly increased the reserve estimates, subsequent financial viability and life of mine at the Lily Mine and have been included in the BFS. We have the estimates provided by the BFS to assist us in managing our business and in preparing the disclosures shown throughout this Form 10-K and in other reports that we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While we believe that the assumptions used and the resulting estimates made in the BFS are accurate, we cannot assure you that these estimates will not change or be reduced as a result of further information that we obtain in the course of our operations. For these and other reasons, these estimates may be subject to risks and uncertainties that are beyond our control.
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Phase 5 drilling, totaling 8,722 meters, focused mainly on further infill drilling (6,810m) between Lily Main open pit and the Rosie’s Fortune open pit. The remainder of the drilling was targeted at parallel structures and extensions within the mining license area. The results of this drilling are given in a later section of this registration document.
To the extent that the Company is able, the following objectives were set:
• To raise sufficient funds to develop the Lily Mine into a full underground operation in 2009 in line with the BFS;
• To raise sufficient funds to refurbish the plant at the nearby Barbrook Mine, purchased by EGSA in May 2008. Completion of this acquisition necessitated a revision to the BFS mining plan to make provision for the processing of Lily Mine’s underground ore at the refurbished Barbrook plant and assumes that the plant at the Barbrook Mine can be refurbished for operation in 2009 to process the Lily ore. Prior to the Barbrook plant becoming operational, underground ore will continue to be transported to the existing Makonjwaan processing plant;
• To investigate the viability of re-opening the Barbrook and Worcester Mines;
• To investigate the viability of treating surface material at some of the Company’s projects in the Barberton Goldfield;
• To continue exploration on all other company properties;
• To continue investigating other potential acquisitions.
There can be no assurance that the we will be successful in achieving any of our objectives. We are a relatively small competitor in the gold mining industry and there are many variables that are beyond our control. Further, the price of gold and the ability to acquire capital for mining development is often influenced by cyclical and macro-economic conditions that can not easily be predicted.
Overview of the Company’s Mining Operations
Our mining operations are defined as follows:
• The search for and location of mineralized deposits with mine development potential;
• The determination of the quantity (tonnage), quality (grade) and continuity of a mineralized deposit necessary for its classification as a mineral reserve;
• The demonstration, through a recognized engineering and economic study, or Bankable Feasibility Study, of the commercial viability of any identified mineral reserve; and
• The commencement of mine development and mineral production utilizing existing or newly constructed mineral processing facilities.
In order to better understand our mining operations and its mineral exploration and drilling programs, a description of these activities is provided.
Mining Operation Terms and Definitions
The following mining terms and definitions will be of assistance in understanding our present and contemplated mining operations:
Mineral Deposit
A “mineral deposit” is defined as a concentration of mineralization which may be such as to constitute a perceived ore body. It will have been delineated by appropriate drilling and/or underground sampling to support a mining operation producing sufficient tonnages and average grades of metal(s) to be economically viable. Under SEC accounting rules, a “mineral deposit” does not qualify as a mineral reserve until a comprehensive evaluation, based upon unit costs, grades, recoveries, and other modifying factors are taken into consideration in an economic feasibility.
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Mine Development
A “mine development” is defined as the preliminary activities undertaken for the specific purpose of exploiting a “mineral deposit” so as to make the actual ore extraction possible.
Reserve
That part of a mineral deposit which could be economically and legally extracted or produced at the time of the reserve determination. Reserves are customarily stated in terms of “ore” when dealing with metalliferous minerals and the quantity of “reserves” is based on estimates obtained by management consistent with generally accepted practices in the industry and as provided by studies undertaken to evaluate the extent of reserves.
Proven Reserves
Reserves for which (a) quantity is computed from dimensions revealed in outcrops, trenches, workings or drill holes; grade and/or quality are computed from the results of detailed sampling, and (b) the sites for inspection, sampling and measurement are spaced so closely and the geologic character is so well defined that size, shape, depth and mineral content of reserves are well-established.
Probable Reserves
Reserves are estimates for which quantity and grade and/or quality are computed from information similar to that used for proven reserves, but the sites for inspection, sampling, and measurement are farther apart or are otherwise less adequately spaced. The degree of assurance, although lower than that for proven reserves, is high enough to assume continuity between points of observation. However, all calculations are based on current estimates and are subject to revision or reduction as additional information is obtained by the Company.
South African Mining Legislation
The current South African mining legislation promulgated under Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 2004 (“MPRDA”) seeks, among other things, (i) to expand opportunities for historically disadvantaged people to enter the mineral industry and obtain benefits from the exploitation of mineral resources, and (ii) to promote employment, social and economic welfare as well as ecologically sustainable development. In order to convert an old order mining right to a new order mining right, the holder is compelled to lodge a social and labor plan and an undertaking on how it is intended to expand opportunities for historically disadvantaged persons to enter the mineral industry. Further, for purposes of mining right conversions effective May 1, 2004, the MPRDA (incorporating the Mining Charter) requires mining company ownership for historically disadvantaged South Africans at 15% during the first five years and 26% in 10 years, such transfer of ownership to be at fair market value. Accordingly, on February 2, 2006, and pursuant to the requirements of MPRDA, EGL sold 26% of its ordinary stock to Lomshiyo Investments (Proprietary) Limited (“Lomshiyo”) for a consideration of R9,900,000 (equivalent to $1,630,000 at the time of this sale). Lomshiyo is a South African corporation whose majority shareholders are historically disadvantaged persons.
As indicated above, the MPRDA dictated the sale of this 26% interest to Lomshiyo. Other than the sale of this 26% interest, there are no other anticipated costs for compliance with the requirements of MPRDA.
Since our redirection, our activities have been limited primarily to the production of gold and the implementation of preliminary exploration programs on those properties in which it has an interest. Prospecting and mining rights are held in the South African subsidiary companies and are consolidated in the north eastern portion of the Barberton Goldfield. These rights include a mining license for the Lily Mine and various prospecting rights granted to the Company’s various subsidiary corporations. The total area covered by these Mineral Rights is in excess of 16,000 hectares (approximately 40,000 acres). See “Item 2. Properties”.
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Description of EGI’s Mining Operations
Eastern Goldfields Limited (“EGL”)
The following is a specific discussion of the ownership and operation of those mining claims that are held in the name of EGL:
1. Number of Claims: 14,518 hectares (21,338 acres)
2. Location and Means of Access to Claims: These claims are located in the areas referred to as the Jamestown and Albion Claims Group. These claims include the dormant Worcester Gold Mine which is located 19 kilometers north of the town of Barberton and 25 kilometers from the city of Nelspruit (capital of the Mpumalanga Province) where EGL has its headquarters.
3. Description of Claims: These claims encompass approximately 21,338 acres of exploration ground. This area includes portions of the Sheba Hills Claims Group, the Jamestown West Claims Group, the Barberton Townlands Claims Group, the Albion Claims Group and the Worcester Claims Group.
Numerous old workings, other than the Worcester Mine, exist within this claim area and include: Bonnie Dundee, Independent, Connat, Mary Hope, Great Britain and other smaller prospects.
4. History of Previous Operations: The Worcester Mine has been the focus of sporadic attention since the mine was first opened in 1887. Total recorded gold production until production ceased in 1991 was approximately 200,000 ounces of gold. The mine and surrounding area has been explored by various companies and individuals using geological mapping, air photo interpretation, soil and rock chip geochemistry, geophysics, trenching, underground mapping and channel sampling and finally surface diamond drilling. The property has been dormant since its closure in 1991 to the present time.
5. Present Condition of the Property: Exploration has been planned in phases over the claim area. The first phase was focused on two specific locations.
• Worcester Mine – Drilling commenced on November 1, 2006 and was completed on November 14, 2008. A total of 20 holes were drilled. NQ drill core size was used to assure sufficient sample material. A total of 8,550 meters, including non-directional wedges, was drilled (WS1 - WS20). A further 2 holes were drilled along strike to the north in the vicinity of the nearby New Independent Mine, which also falls within EGL’s claim boundary. A total of 548.34 meters was drilled (IND1 – IND2) to investigate the continuity between the Worcester mineralized zone and that which forms the New Independent ore body. Further exploration is anticipated.
• Jamestown Claims - 8,500 line meters of surface geochemical soil sampling and ground magnetics supported by detailed structural and geological mapping was initiated in September 2006. This initial focus was on the extension of the Worcester mineralized zone eastwards towards the Bonnie Dundee prospect along the Albion Fault, a major structural feature responsible for the mineralization within most of the prospects mentioned above. An initial phase of field work has been completed and results accompanied by geological interpretation have been submitted for continued investigation and ongoing exploration planning.
6. Description of Rock Formations and Mineralization: The Worcester Mine and other prospects are located in the Jamestown Schist Belt which is a north-westerly trending synclinal feature of metamorphosed mafic and ultramafic rocks stretching from the well known Consort Mine (Barberton Mines Limited – Pan African Resources PLC) to the east to beneath the Transvaal Drakensberg escarpment in the west. The belt varies from 1 to 6 kilometers in width and is the northwestern arm of the main Archaean Barberton Greenstone Belt. The schist belt is bounded in the northeast by the porphyritic Nelspruit granite and in the southwest by the Kaap Valley granite pluton. A number of strong structural features exist parallel to the syncline axis and splays off these features generally host the zones of gold mineralization.
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The main lithological units are the Theespruit and Komati Formations of the Lower Onverwacht Group. Minor layers of argillaceous sediments of the Fig Tree Group are evident and form the core of the syncline. Also included are small layered ultramafic bodies belonging to the Tjakastad Sub-group of the Onverwacht Group. Small granite domes have been noted close to the Worcester Mine.
With respect to specific mineralization of the Worcester Mine, the quartz vein located therein is white to gray in color, slightly foliated in appearance and contains slivers of siliceous basic schist, flecks of fuchsite and bits of chlorite, biotite and talc. Free-milling gold occurs as blebs, smears and flakes along the fractures in the vein. There is a minor sulphide component (listed in decreasing order of content) of pyrite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, sphalerite and traces of tetrahedrite.
Barbrook Mines (Pty) Limited (“Barbrook”)
1. Number of Claims: Barbrook consists of a Mining Authorization covering 2,286 hectares. (5,715 acres)
2. Location and Means of Access to Claims: The main area of concentration is the Barbrook Mine which is situated on the main road between the towns of Kaapmuiden and Barberton and approximately 65 kilometers from the city of Nelspruit where EGL headquarters are located.
3. Description of Claims: These claims cover areas of the northeastern part of the Barberton Greenstone Belt, six kilometers south of the Lily Gold Mine (also owned by EGI). The Barbrook Mine mining and exploration rights incorporate a number of historical underground mines. These underground workings provide immediate and direct access to the respective ore bodies and, therefore, facilitate early evaluation of the viability of re-opening the mine.
4. History of Previous Operations: Barbrook is a consolidation of numerous (more than 10) ore bodies that have been explored and exploited to varying degrees and by different methods over the last 70 years.
In 1975, Rand Mines Exploration Company (Pty) Limited (“RME”) and Anglo America Corporation of South Africa (“AAC”) each acquired 50% interest in a newly formed company, Barbrook Mining and Exploration Company (Pty) Limited (“BMEC”). A feasibility report was produced in October 1995 after a soil geochemical programme covering 7,000 meters of strike was followed by an extensive programme of diamond drilling (45,000 meters) and underground mining development (6,500 meters). Mineral reserves were estimated by RME at 14.9 million tons with an in situ grade of 7.0 grams per ton (“g/t”) of gold (“Au”).
In 1987, BMEC was listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (“JSE”) and the name was changed to Barbrook Mines Limited (“BML”). The listing raised South African Rands 41 million (equivalent to about $20 million at the time) to finance underground development and the construction of a 25,000 tons per month processing plant.
In 1994, BML was purchased by a consortium led by Rand Merchant Bank who successfully implemented open pit mining of oxide ores. In late 1995, the consortium sold BML to Caledonia Mining Corporation (“Caledonia”) who continued open pit mining operations until April 1995. Caledonia completed various phases of underground exploration and treated a total of 455,000 tons of ore. Caledonia treated 207,350 tons of sulphide ore at a recovered grade of 4.65g/t. The mine was closed in December 2006 due to labor unrest.
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Barbrook has a well established surface infrastructure (plant, workshops, laboratory, tailings dam, etc.) and extensive underground development of more than 50 kilometers (about 31 miles). Access to the mine is via two adits on 7 and 10 Levels, respectively, separated from each other by 150 meters. To date, very little exploration has been done and no development exists below 10 Level, which is at surface river elevation. All ancillary utilities are operational.
5. Present Condition of the Property: The Barbrook Mine complex comprises three open pit operations: Maid O’ Mist, Clifford Scott and French Bob and underground workings at the French Bob, Taylors and Daylight Sections. The central portion of the lease area contains the metallurgical plant and surface infrastructure and is located in the relatively flat terrain in the Low’s Creek Valley. This is surrounded by dissected BML in which the various adits leading to the underground workings are located. The undulating topography of the area results in the logistical convenience of facilitating access to the underground excavations at elevations above the position of the metallurgical plant on the valley floor. Consequently, tramming ore from the underground workings, particularly 10 Level, is gravity efficient.
Access via 7 Level which is used for men and materials, and 10 Level, the main access to the mine is also the main ore tramming level. All reserves that were part of the original Barbrook mining plan were situated within areas already accessed by development. The mined ore gravitates through a series of ore passes to draw points on 10 Level from where it is trammed to the main plant tip.
Surface right permits have been granted to Barbrook for the purposes of shaft and adit development sites, waste rock disposal sites, plant tailings, storage areas and processing plant. These sites are all currently in use and are considered adequate for the long-term needs of the mine. The tailings dam has a twenty year capacity at a production rate of 25 000 tons per month.
6. Description of Rock Formations and Mineralization: Like Lily Mine, Barbrook is situated within the Barberton greenstones which are deformed into a series of synclines and anticlines. Resultant shearing occurred preferentially in the anticlinal folds and listric fault zones flanking the synclines. Gold mineralisation was structurally controlled along and within these ductile fracture zones.
The ore bodies at Barbrook are associated with two such fracture zones trending east-west, respectively known as the Barbrook Line, to the south, and Zwartkoppie Line, about 1 km to the north. Both the Barbrook Line, which contains most of the known gold deposits, and the Zwartkoppie Line can be traced over 100 km of strike. Gold mineralisation occurs in lenses and pods in close proximity to the banded iron formations at the base of the Fig Tree greywacke, often where they are in contact with altered ultramafic schists.
Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (Pty) Limited (“MIMCO”)
MIMCO is a South African company incorporated on October 20, 1987 with its principle business activity being that of gold mining activities. On November 4, 2004, EGL acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of MIMCO via a share exchange. A brief description of past and current mining operations is given below:
The following is a specific discussion of the ownership and operation of those mining claims that are held in the name of MIMCO:
1. Number of Claims: 1,040 hectares (1,530 acres)
2. Location and Means of Access to Claims: The main area of concentration is the Lily Mine which is situated on the main road between the towns of Kaapmuiden and Barberton and approximately 70 kilometers from the city of Nelspruit where EGL headquarters are located.
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3. Description of Claims: These claims cover areas of the northeastern part of the Barberton Greenstone Belt, south and west of the Barbrook Gold Mine (recently acquired by EGL). These claims include the old Makonjwaan and Sofala open pits and many other old workings, adits and trenches from earlier prospecting operations.
4. History of Previous Operations: MIMCO has been in operation since 1989 when its ore processing plant was commissioned to initially treat ore from the Makonjwaan open pit as part of a four year planned operation. This was next followed by a five year treatment operation for the Sofala open pit mine. MIMCO then entered into a joint venture agreement with Cluff Mining SA under which the ore from the Svengali open pit mine was treated for one year while exploration work was being carried at Lily Mine.
The Lily Mine, MIMCO’s primary operation, was discovered in 1888, began production in 1891 and was worked sporadically by various operators until 1997. The mine was purchased by MIMCO in 1997 and after additional mapping, trenching and reverse circulation drilling, open pit mining commenced in June 2000.
In June 2000, the Lily Mine operation was initiated. During the period 1997-1999 extensive exploration was completed which included trenching, 68 reverse circulation drill holes (2,576m) and detailed field mapping.
• The Lily Main open pit operation commenced in 2000 and was closed in October 2006. In this period 1,012 million tons were successfully extracted at an average grade of 2.89 g/t to an elevation of 510 meters above mean sea level (“amsl”).
• Production was immediately replaced, after a short reverse circulation drilling program (1,222m), by the Lily East pit, essentially an easterly on-strike extension of the Main pit. Production at Lily East pit commenced in October 2006 and continued until June 2007 when it was discontinued due to safety factors. A total of 770,000 tons were extracted at an average grade of 2.59 g/t.
• Immediate production in July 2007 after a further reverse circulation drilling exercise (798m) continued on the Rosie’s Fortune open pit also situated on the easterly strike extension of the Main Lily zone. The operation was discontinued in December 2008 as sufficient run-of-mine ore was being extracted from the new underground development. A total of 187,607 tons were extracted at an average grade of 2.55 g/t.
5. Present Condition of the Property: Underground development was initiated in June 2007. 2 Level adit, the main adit portal, enters into the west wall of the original Lily Main Pit. The final conversion from open pit mining to underground mining and stoping began in January 2009. Thereafter underground operations will produce the required run-of-mine tonnage. Current underground mine planning is guided by the BFS, completed in March 2008, by Turgis Consulting (Pty) Ltd (South Africa).
6. Description of Rock Formations and Mineralization: Two styles of gold mineralization occur in the ore zone. The first consists of partially refractory gold related to pyrrhotite, being the major sulphide, together with minor arsenopyrite, chalcopyrite, pyrite/marcosite, pentlandite and sphalerite. The host rock is typically well sheared, altered by chlorite and carbonate, silicified and contorted. The second style of gold mineralization is free, native gold associated with quartz and quartz-carbonate veins which are erratically distributed throughout the ore zone.
Gold mineralization is erratically distributed along the numerous steep south dipping anastamosing shears in the altered shale-chert-amphibolites. This broad zone of gold mineralization is called the “Lily Zone”. The more intense the shearing, the thicker and more continuous the gold mineralization is.
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The oxide-hosted gold mineralization is represented by a mixture of quartz veining, sheared and altered greywacke with chert bands in which occur stringers, disseminations and bands of earthy to shiny red to brown gossan after pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite and pyrite. In the transition zone, the gossan may be more siliceous and contain specks of fresh pyrrhotite and minor arsenopyrite and pyrite.
Based on pit floor mapping, reverse circulation (“RC”) chip logging and core logging, it has been noticed that sulphides associated with gold mineralization generally occur as fine-grained disseminated specks and ‘clouds’, irregular grains and blebs of pyrrhotite with minor pyrite. The better-mineralized material includes massive, fine grained pyrrhotite, needles and laths of arsenopyrite with minor pyrite, chalcopyrite and bornite.
Eastern Goldfields Exploration (Pty) Limited (“EGE”)
EGE is a South African company which was incorporated on July 7, 1994. The principle business activity is that of a holder of mineral rights in the Barberton greenstone belt of South Africa. An exploration program was carried out in the 1990’s under the supervision of Vaaldiam Resources Limited of Canada. The results of this exploration program identified various target ore body prospects but these prospects were not followed up at that time due to declining gold prices. EGL acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common stock of EGE on September 30, 2004 via a share exchange. EGE remains dormant to the present time.
The following is a specific discussion of the ownership and operation of those mining claims that are held in the name of EGE:
1. Number of Claims: 6,772 hectares (9,953 acres)
2. Location and Means of Access to Claims: These claims include the Sheba Hills area which is in the northeast trending strip of mountainous country between the well known Sheba Mine (Barberton Mines Limited – Metorex Group) and Lily Mine. These claims located approximately 14 kilometers northeast of the town of Barberton which is a 45 minute drive from EGL’s Nelspruit headquarters cover the Monty’s Mine, Golden Mamba and Royal Sheba East prospects.
3. Description of Claims: These claims consist of 9,953 acres which will be the subject of various planned exploration programs as part of the Sheba Hills Claims Group. Priority exploration programs within this geographic area will be the Monty’s Mine area and the Golden Mamba Mine area.
4. History of Previous Operations: This area has been prospected since the late 1800’s and various shallow diggings have been excavated but yielded no production of consequence. The Golden Mamba Mine was mined briefly in the 1950’s. Gold production was minor at about 0.72 kg from an estimated 350 tons. It is understood that production ceased when the grade of ore dropped below 17 grams per ton.
5. Present Condition of the Property: A phased regional exploration program began as planned in the last quarter of 2006. The first phase of exploration involved 52,000 line meters of surface geochemical soil sampling and ground magnetics supported by detailed structural and geological mapping. The exploration grids identified specifically focused on three existing old prospect target areas situated within the greater EGE prospecting license area. These areas covered the farms Crystal Streams North and South, situated west of Lily Mine and on the same Lily fault, and Royal Sheba East, east of Sheba Mine and on the same Sheba Fault.
6. Description of Rock Formations and Mineralization: The rock formations underlying the Golden Mamba Mine property are the lower stratigraphic units of the Fig Tree Group within the Ulundi Syncline. Folding has deformed the rocks into tight easterly plunging isoclines. Gold mineralization occurs in quartz veins or discontinuous quartz lenses in meta-sediments or in folds and fracture systems in the deformed iron formations.
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Centurion Mining Company (Pty) Limited (“Centurion”)
Centurion is a South African company which was incorporated in 1966 with its principle business activity being that of gold mining activities. MIMCO acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of Centurion on April 1, 1990 via a stock exchange. On October 31, 2005, EGL acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of Centurion also via a share exchange.
The following is a specific discussion of the ownership and operation of those mining claims that are held in the name of Centurion:
1. Number of Claims: 1,367 hectares (2,009 acres)
2. Location and Means of Access to Claims: The claims in this area are accessed via the Barberton-Malelane road and the Sheba Mine road about 20 kilometers northeast of the town of Barberton. The topography is rugged and the claims can only be reached in most cases by existing old dirt roads and tracks.
3. Description of Claims: These claims are in an area of 2,009 acres which surround the dormant Bonanza Mine in the area designated as the Stateland Claims Group. These claims cover areas of the north central part of the Barberton Greenstone Belt, immediately north of the Sheba Gold Mine and enclose the Bonanza Gold Mine and many old workings, adits and trenches.
4. History of Previous Operations: No reliable history is currently available with respect to mining operations, other than Bonanza Mine, on these claims.
Centurion, under MIMCO, commenced operations in 1979 as an ore dump re-treatment operation. This activity continued for approximately two years when underground mining operations commenced at the dormant Bonanza mine. These underground mining operations were terminated in 1989 due to the low price of gold. Exploration drilling was carried out in 1990 which did not yield additional ore reserves. Various feasibility studies were carried out to retreat the company's remaining ore dump reserves. These remaining ore dump reserves were deemed non-viable again due to the declining price of gold. Bonanza also remains dormant to the present time.
5. Present Condition of the Property: A phased regional exploration program was commenced in November over a small target area within the prospecting license claims. The exploration program, which focused on the extension to the dormant Bonanza Mine, consisted of detailed surface geochemical soil sampling and ground magnetics for an estimated 10,000 meters. A detailed desktop study covering the old Bonanza mine workings was also completed to assist in identifying potential targets. This data will assist in directing future exploration to be planned.
6. Description of Rock Formations and Mineralization: The Bonanza Mine area contains the gold mineralized occurrence and is located in the Moodies Group quartzites adjacent to the nearby Sheba Gold Mine (which up to 1990 produced 1,390 kilograms of gold from 256,000 tons of ore) along a suite of shears and fractures immediately north of the Sheba Fault.
Gold mineralization is contained in 2 sub-parallel north dipping fracture hosted reefs. These reefs are connected by a shallow dipping ore body between the north and south fractures. Previous minor exploration has demonstrated the presence of gold mineralization west of the existing workings and has confirmed the eastern extension of the south fracture.
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EGI - Mining Operations
The Lily Mine has been the main mining operation for EGI in the last 8 years. A brief summary of operations to date is given below.
• The Lily Main open pit operation commenced in mid 2000, after an extensive reverse circulation drilling (68 holes, 2,576m) and trenching programme in early 2000. It was finally closed in October 2006. In this six year period, 1,012 million tons were successfully extracted at an average grade of 2.89 g/t. Waste stripping ratio was approximately 6:1 for this successful open pit operation.
• Production was immediately replaced, after a short reverse circulation drilling program (1,222m), by the Lily East pit, essentially an easterly on-strike extension of the Main pit. Production at Lily East pit commenced in October 2006 and continued until June 2007 when it was discontinued due to safety factors. A total of 770,000 tons were extracted at an average grade of 2.59 g/t.
• In July 2007, after a further reverse circulation drilling exercise (798m), production commenced from the Rosie’s Fortune open pit, also situated on the easterly strike extension of the Main Lily zone. This operation was stopped in December 2008 as sufficient run-of-mine ore was being extracted from the new underground development. A total of 187,607 tons were extracted at an average grade of 2.55 g/t.
• The underground operation was started in June 2007. Guided by the BFS mine plan, primary development completed to date includes the ramp incline to 1 Level and the decline to 3 Level. Underground mining methods involve mechanized, long-hole drilling and blasting within geologically and grade controlled stoping widths between levels spaced 20 m apart with a stoping back of 16 m to minimize dilution. Reef zones and stope blocks are delineated by flat, up-dip and down-dip, short-hole underground drilling from hangingwall drive cubbies spaced at a maximum of 25 m intervals.
• Total primary development completed to date is approximately 2,300 meters. Run of mine ore is mainly from development, with stoping expected to begin in January 2009.
Ore hauling is undertaken with mechanised equipment along specifically sized reef drives, hangingwall drives and ramps. Current access to the underground mine is via a main portal from the Lily Main open pit which has been back-filled to 2 Level elevation (550 amsl).
Run of mine (15,000 t/month) ore is currently hauled via road to the existing Makonjwaan Plant (17km) and is processed in a simple JET-LEACH CIP metallurgical circuit. This will, however, change as soon as the Barbrook plant refurbishment is completed and production will then increase to 25,000 t/month.
Proved Mineral Reserves for EGI relate only to the current underground operations at Lily Mine. Underground development began at Lily Mine in mid 2007 and is now sufficiently advanced to also deliver ore from stoping. Proved Reserves as at December 2008 amount to 200,000 tons at 3.14 g/t Au (20,000 oz).
Probable Mineral Reserves also relate only to underground Mineral Resources at Lily Mine. Probable Mineral Reserves as at December 2008 amount to 5.2 million tons at 3.14 g/t Au (525,000 oz).
Proved and Probable Mineral Reserves were estimated by EGI at a gold price of US$900 per ounce and at an exchange rate of US$1 = ZAR10.00. This is in contrast to the US$850.00 and US$1 = ZAR7.25 respectively applied in 2007 when the quoted Mineral Reserves referred only to the now depleted open pit material.
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EGI – Company Drilling Program
The focus of exploration diamond drilling during 2008 was on two principal assets, namely, Lily Mine and Worcester Mine. A summary of the drilling results at each of these two projects is given below.
Lily Mine - Lily drilling was again focused on increasing the density of drilling within areas of interest and also investigating areas that have been neglected in previous phases. Therefore, Phase 5 consisted of 28 infill-drilling holes that were spread over the mining area from the most easterly boundary to the most westerly. Results are variable and only those relevant to the published reserves and mineralized material statement have been included. Six holes outside the mineral reserve area were drilled to prove the extension of the mineralized zone in depth. They were purely exploratory and their results will be included in further exploration planned for the future. Five holes were drilled in the upper extremities of the mine, above the current development areas, to delineate the ore body nearer to the oxide/sulphide interface.
Lily Mine – Results of Exploration Drilling completed during 2008
Hole | Phase | Depth (m) | Date | Main Reef- Average |
ID | | Actual | Defl | Month | Year | g/t | Cm | cmg/t |
LD66 | 5 | 590.48 | 85.00 | Jan | 2008 | 0.51 | 427 | 218 |
LD67 | 5 | 319.40 | 12.80 | Jan | 2008 | 0.73 | 356 | 260 |
LD68 | 5 | 695.00 | 0.00 | Jan | 2008 | 2.06 | 209 | 431 |
LD69 | 5 | 400.80 | 0.00 | Feb | 2008 | 2.98 | 918 | 2736 |
LD70 | 5 | 367.45 | 0.00 | Feb | 2008 | 1.72 | 96 | 165 |
LD71 | 5 | 560.48 | 35.00 | Feb | 2008 | 2.10 | 455 | 956 |
LD72 | 5 | 509.48 | 28.00 | Feb | 2008 | 3.19 | 356 | 1136 |
LD73 | 5 | 235.55 | 0.00 | Mar | 2008 | 0.00 | 0 | 0 |
LD74 | 5 | 552.43 | 27.00 | Mar | 2008 | 1.68 | 1200 | 2016 |
LD75 | 5 | 195.45 | 0.00 | Mar | 2008 | 0.69 | 180 | 124 |
LD76 | 5 | 151.70 | 0.00 | Apr | 2008 | 1.22 | 180 | 220 |
LD77 | 5 | 220.35 | 0.00 | Apr | 2008 | 1.22 | 180 | 220 |
LD78 | 5 | 58.25 | 0.00 | Apr | 2008 | Hole | Abandoned | |
LD79 | 5 | 142.50 | 0.00 | Apr | 2008 | 1.23 | 305 | 375 |
LD80 | 5 | 377.48 | 16.00 | Apr | 2008 | 3.88 | 100 | 388 |
LD81 | 5 | 398.48 | 28.70 | May | 2008 | 0.91 | 100 | 91 |
LD82 | 5 | 169.70 | 0.00 | May | 2008 | 0.00 | 0 | 0 |
LD83 | 5 | 98.55 | 0.00 | May | 2008 | 1.56 | 171 | 267 |
LD84 | 5 | 181.20 | 0.00 | Jun | 2008 | 1.73 | 137 | 237 |
LD85 | 5 | 140.00 | 0.00 | Jun | 2008 | 3.05 | 479 | 1461 |
LD86 | 5 | 213.20 | 0.00 | Jun | 2008 | 1.51 | 236 | 356 |
Total | | 6364.00 | 147.50 | | | | | |
Worcester Mine – A total of 7 holes (4,200m) with deflections was completed on this project during 2008. This takes the total drilling to 9,400m. Drilling was primarily focused on identifying the depth extension of the Main Worcester reef below the existing old mine workings.
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Worcester Mine – Results of Exploration Drilling completed during 2008
| | Depth (m) | | | Worcester Reef |
Hole ID | Phase | Actual | Defl | Month | Year | Grade | Width |
| | (m) | (m) | | | (g/t) | (cm) |
WS14 | 3 | 440.48 | 26.14 | Jan | 2008 | 0.68 | 272 |
WS15 | 3 | 371.48 | 28.17 | Feb | 2008 | 1.19 | 128 |
WS16 | 3 | 587.48 | 55.28 | Mar | 2008 | 4.85 | 831 |
WS17 | 3 | 275.48 | 0.00 | Sep | 2008 | Tr | |
WS18 | 3 | 671.48 | 40.48 | Oct | 2008 | 5.88 | 90 |
WS19 | 3 | 665.48 | 63.63 | Oct | 2008 | Tr | |
WS20 | 3 | 664.48 | 25.00 | Nov | 2008 | 1.51 | 850 |
WS4 Deep | 3 | 153.62 | 0.00 | Nov | 2008 | 4.76 | 549 |
WS7 Deep | 3 | 112.70 | 0.00 | Nov | 2008 | 2.41 | 647 |
Total | | 3,942.68 | 238.70 | | | | |
Sufficient information has been gathered during these three phases of drilling to warrant the drafting of a pre-feasibility study for this project.
A “deflection” is a planned “wedge” (directional or non-directional) off at a predetermined depth down a long diamond drill hole to economically achieve an additional intersection and sample of a geological zone of interest. A metal wedge is placed down the hole to a specified depth and then the hole is re-drilled from this position. The drill rods deflect off at a slight angle to the original hole and continue through the zone of interest yielding a second core string for logging and assay sample analysis.
The drilling intersections of each of the zones of economic interest are sampled based on a geological selection and reported as a weighted average grade over a true width of the respective mineralized section.
The results, shown in the tables above, of the exploration diamond drilling programs have continued to successfully confirm the geological models of both the Lily Mine and Worcester Mine ore bodies. Further exploration will more accurately define the ore body strike limits and consistency in depth.
From the results of geological and structural analyses and interpretation, the Lily Mine and Worcester Mine ore bodies can be inferred to continue in depth and, therefore, are reported as “open ended”.
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EGI’s Mineral Reserves
The Company’s mineral assets are summarized in the table below:
Company | Principal Asset | Asset Status |
MIMCO | Lily Mine | Production/Development/Exploration |
Makonjwaan Mine | Dormant Mine |
Imperial Mine | Dormant Mine |
BARBROOK | Barbrook Mines | Dormant Mine/Mining Evaluation/Exploration |
EGL | Worcester Mine | Dormant Mine/Exploration |
CENTURION | Bonanza Mine Centurion | Dormant Mine/Exploration Dump Material |
EGE | Various | Exploration |
The specific location of these mineral assets is shown below:
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Lily Mine, being the only operational mine for which sufficient technical and economic studies had been completed at the date of reporting, contains a Mineral Reserve which is based on estimates developed consistent with industry practices.
Mineral Reserves of the Company at its Lily Mine as at December 31, 2008, are 5.4 million tons at an in situ grade of 3.14 g/t Au (545,000 oz). These were determined from the updated tonnage-grade table derived from the block model which supports the proposed mine design and production sequence based on the Bankable Feasibility Study (“BFS”) of 2008.
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Proved Reserves relate only to the current underground operations at Lily Mine. Underground development began at Lily Mine in mid 2007 and is now sufficiently advanced to also deliver ore from stoping. Proved Reserves as at December 31, 2008, amount to 200,000 tons at 3.14 g/t Au (20,000 oz).
Probable Reserves also relate only to underground operations at Lily Mine. Probable Reserves as at December 31, 2008, amount to 5.2 million tons at 3.14 g/t Au (525,000 oz).
Proved and Probable Reserves were estimated by EGI at a gold price of US$900 per ounce and at an exchange rate of US$1 = ZAR10.00. This is in contrast to the US$850.00 and US$1 = ZAR7.25 respectively applied in 2007 when the quoted Mineral Reserves referred only to the now depleted open pit material.
EGI Lily Mine |
Mineral Reserves |
Reserve Category | As at December 31, 2008 | As at December 31, 2007 | As at December 31, 2006 |
Tons (000) | g/t | Oz (000) | Tons (000) | g/t | Oz (000) | Tons (000) | g/t | Oz (000) |
Proved | 200 | 3.14 | 20 | 132 | 2.12 | 9 | 93 | 2.58 | 8 |
Probable | 5,200 | 3.14 | 525 | 5,769 | 3.00 | 556 | 2,089 | 5.34 | 358 |
TOTAL | 5,400 | 3.14 | 545 | 5,901 | 2.98 | 565 | 2,182 | 5.22 | 366 |
Modifying Factors. The high sample variability experienced in the underground exposures of the reefs resulted in a revision of the geological understanding of the Lily Zone and a concomitant redefinition of the reef widths used in the mining block model. The average cut-off grade was, therefore, marginally increased for the calculation of Mineral Reserves due to the selection of a more confined modeling envelope. All other modifying factors referred to in the BFS have been retained.
At Lily Mine, the underground Proved Reserves were calculated from the grade-tonnage table, derived from the block model, at a cut-off of 2.25g/t. They comprise approximately one year of mining production. Proved Mineral Reserves Pay Limit Assumptions (2009) are as follows:
LILY MINE – Underground Section |
Operating Cost – Monthly Average | R | 5,616,250 |
Tons Milled—Monthly Average | t | 14,750 |
Cost per Ton Milled | R/t | 381.00 |
Gold Price | US$/oz | 900.00 |
Exchange Rate | R/US$ | 10.00 |
Gold Price | R/Kg | 289,000 |
Yield Required (recovered Au g/t) | g/t | 1.32 |
Mill Recovery | % | 90 |
ROM Yield (recovery + residue) | g/t | 1.46 |
Mine Call Factor | % | 90 |
Operating Pay Limit (ROM g/t) | g/t | 1.63 |
“R” denotes South African Rand
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Probable Reserves have been estimated for the area extending from the base of the discontinued Lily Main, Lily East and Rosie’s Fortune open pits down to approximately 10 Level, 220 m below surface.
Mill Tailings Capacity Analysis
The original pre-feasibility study and current Bankable Feasibility Study make provision for the utilization of the existing Makonjwaan processing plant and tailings dam facilities while a new plant and tailings dam are constructed at the Lily Mine site during the build-up phase of the underground mining. Utilization of the existing plant is, therefore, merely a transitional phase in the build-up to processing the full production from underground at the new plant.
The current maximum milling rate is 180,000 t/a. The existing tailings dam capacity, revised in early 2007 to 360,000 tons as from December 31, 2006, allows for a further 24 months at maximum production rates.
Since completion of the Bankable Feasibility Study (“BFS”) on the underground Lily Mine, EGI acquired the neighboring mine, Barbrook Mines Limited (“Barbrook”). The acquisition was primarily motivated by the opportunity to secure a second-hand plant in good condition for processing the Lily Mine’s underground ore rather than construct a new plant as described in the BFS. The Barbrook plant is capable of treating 30,000 tons per month after refurbishment with a large, licensed tailings dam.
The foregoing calculations represent estimates that may or may not prove to be accurate. While the Company’s management believes that the calculations and studies it has made are accurate, the Company may discover additional new information which may significantly reduce the economic feasibility of these projects. As a result, all of the estimates are subject to change as the Company obtains additional information.
Mineralized Material – All EGI Assets
;
Mineralized Material tonnages and grades are estimated in situ over the true reef widths and include mineralization at zero g/t Au cut-off. It is our policy to report estimated Mineralized Material as an inventory of all gold mineralization having a reasonable chance of being brought to account given favorable technical and economic conditions. These are only estimates and while we believe that we have made these estimates on a reasonable basis consistent with past practices, our estimates may be changed or reduced later as we make further evaluations in light of additional information. We are aware that estimates in the mining industry can be subject to dramatic changes. The following table reflects the mineralized material as “in place grade and tonnage”:
EGI All ASSETS |
Total Mineralized Material |
| As at December 31, 2008 | As at December 31, 2007 | As at December 31, 2006 |
Tons (000) | g/t | Tons (000) | g/t | Tons (000) | g/t |
Mineralized Material | 5,400 | 3.14 | 5,828 | 3.19 | 5,856 | 2.05 |
The substantiation of our Mineralized Material was primarily as a result of the continued successful diamond drilling exploration at the Lily Mine and Worcester Mine as well as revised modelling techniques applying more scientific and geological controls.
At Lily Mine 8,720 meters of diamond drilling were completed during 2008. This brings the total amount of core from surface exploration diamond drilling to 28,860 meters (109 diamond drill holes) since mid 2005. The aim of this extensive drilling exercise was twofold:
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• To extend Mineral Reserves along strike and in depth. Drilling has successfully identified the mineralized zone over 2,000 meters of horizontal strike to 600 meters of vertical depth below surface.
• To infill between existing drill intersections in certain areas, thereby upgrading the estimation confidence of the Mineral Reserves within the planned underground section of the extended Lily ore body.
The resultant revised Mineral Reserves allow for a Life of Mine of 16 years with a production capacity of 32,000 tons per month. Underground development commenced in mid 2007. To date, 2,200 meters of primary development and associated stope preparation have been completed. Production commenced in January 2009.
The acquisition of Barbrook in mid-2008 has the following twofold positive impact on EGI as a Group:
• The planned underground mining operations at Lily Mine, as reported in the BFS (March 2008), required the construction of a new processing plant on site. The existing processing plant at Barbrook, once refurbished, will substitute for a new plant. The purchase price of Barbrook was less than half the budgeted cost for the proposed new plant. The plant, complete with a large slimes dam, is located less than half the distance from Lily Mine (6 km) than its current operating Makonjwaan plant facility (17 km).
• Barbrook contains substantial defined Mineral Resources (>2 million oz) and a well developed underground infrastructure including some 50 km of development and readily accessible areas for mining. Extensions to the processing plant will be required to treat the metallurgically complicated ore bodies once mining commences at Barbrook. This is currently being investigated.
To the extent we are able, we planned to geologically model and re-evaluate Barbrook by commencing exploration and primary development with the objective of bringing Barbrook Mine successfully into initial production by the end of 2009.
At Worcester Mine a further 4,180 metres of exploration diamond drilling was completed during 2008, bringing the total amount of core recovered since 2006 to 9,385 meters. Additional drilling was successful in confirming the down-dip extension of the Worcester mineralized zone below the old mine workings, thereby increasing the overall estimated Mineralized Material. If our present plans can be achieved and if we are able, we anticipate that this project will proceed to pre-feasibility status during early 2009.
Although exploration has continued on EGI’s other principal mineral assets, no changes have been made to the estimated Mineral Reserves reported in 2007 of these exploration targets.
The Company’s Mining Consultants
In mid 2007 we decided to embark on the compilation of a full Bankable Feasibility Study for the Lily Mine project. The services of a number of mining consultants were integrated under the leadership of Turgis Consulting (Pty) Ltd, a world renowned mining and engineering consultancy based in Johannesburg, South Africa. This Bankable Feasibility Study was completed on March 7, 2008.
The document combined the services of the following accredited consultants:
• Turgis Consulting (Pty) Ltd – South Africa: Responsible for the life-of-mine design, scheduling, financial analysis and the compilation of the entire BFS.
• MDM Engineering – South Africa: Responsible for the design of the new processing plant.
• ECMP (Pty) Ltd – South Africa: Responsible for the design of the tailings processing and facility.
• RWO Kersten – South Africa: Responsible for all underground rock mechanics engineering.
• Knight Hall Hendry – South Africa: Responsible for surface ground geotechnical analysis and recommendations.
• Earth Science solutions – South Africa: Responsible for all environmental issues pertaining to the new Lily Mine project.
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While the BFS utilizes estimates and assumptions that are consistent with industry practices, there can be no assurance that the conclusions reached by the BFS may not later be revised and the estimates contained therein reduced on the basis of additional information and upon estimates made thereon. We are aware that estimates used in the mining industry can be subject to dramatic changes.
Anticipated Life of Lily Mine Operation
Open Pit Operations - The Open Pit operations at the Lily Mine continued throughout 2008 and ceased in December 2008.
Underground Operations - It will be necessary for us to raise additional capital to build the first phase of the new underground mine. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in raising this additional capital, or if it is successful, that we can do so on terms that are reasonable in light of our current circumstances.
The BFS is calculated from current reserves over an estimated mine life of 14 years. In this period and using these estimates, the project has projected revenue of ZAR2.96Bn for a projected operating expenditure of ZAR1.38Bn, a projected capital expenditure of ZAR488M yielding projected profit before tax of ZAR1.093Bn. This projected 14 year life is inclusive of mine development and construction. While these projections are based on the estimates and assumptions contained in the Bank Feasibility Study (“BFS”) which utilizes methods consistent with industry practices, there can be no assurance that these estimates or the resulting conclusions of the BFS will not be later revised or reduced as further information is obtained or as mining operations are further undertaken.
From a technical risk perspective, we believe that the project has risk levels that are acceptable to our existing internal risk parameters. Our perception of the risk characteristics is based on several factors. These are: (1) the geology is well known and will be managed by personnel who are familiar with it; (2) all of the methods employed are proven, and are now currently being practiced in early mining; (3) the mine has already recruited the core of the team required to operate and manage the mine; and (4) from a metallurgical perspective, the ore is well known, full test work has been undertaken and the mine already has a history of processing the ore. However, there can be no assurance that our current perception of the risks associated with the mine may not be later changed after further studies and evaluations are completed. In that event, we may perceive that the risks associated with the project may be substantially greater than that described in this section and referenced elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
Administrative and Operational Offices
We currently maintain a U.S. office at 1660 Hotel Circle North, Suite 207, San Diego, CA 92108-2808. The telephone number is (619) 497-2555. This facility is provided to us by our U.S. securities attorney. Further, our operations are conducted from our office at 8 Streak Street, P.O. Box 820, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa. The telephone number is 011 27-13-753-3046.
Employees
We currently have 218 employees other than our officers and directors. During the year we employed Mr. A W Knight, a highly experienced mine manager as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer. Mr J Symonds, a certificated Mine Manager was replaced by Mr. R Knight as acting Mine Manager. We anticipate that, as circumstances and market conditions allow, we will likely continue to hire additional staff as necessary.
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The Gold Market
After the price of gold declined to approximately $250 per ounce in 2001, it has risen steadily in the last few years and through most of 2005 it was traded in a fairly narrow price range between approximately $410 and $450 per ounce. The price increased in the third quarter of 2005 and reached the year’s high of $536.50 on December 12, 2005. This trend continued into 2006 and exceeded $700-an-ounce level for the first time in 26 years. As investors diversified their accounts with more gold investments, the price of gold rose 38 percent in 2006 to $709.10 per ounce on May 11, 2006 (January 1, 2006 - $513.00) and 63 percent since the start of 2005 (January 1, 2005 - $435.60). However the range for 2006 was $600-$650. The steady rise since 2006 of the gold price is widely considered to reflect a relative decline of the U.S. dollar to other foreign currencies along with general strength in commodity prices. This surge, however, is believed to be due to geopolitical tensions, higher oil prices and inflation. The price of gold tends to rise during times of uncertainty because many investors view it as a hedge against inflation and as a hedge against a weaker dollar. Adding to the demand is the speculation of world central banks which will sell their U.S. dollar reserves and buy gold.
The price of gold continued to rise into 2008 amid one of the most chaotic years in financial markets in recent history. Gold’s performance is especially impressive considering the massive wealth destruction that took place elsewhere in financial markets. Global equities and many commodities, for example, lost approximately half their value over the course of 2008. Price reached a new record in the first quarter of the year ($1,011/oz on March 17, 2008 on the London PM fix) driven by safe-haven inflows in the run up to the Bear Stearns crisis. It tested this record again in the third quarter, trading as high as $986/oz on July 15, 2008, (day after the US Treasury and Federal Reserve Bank announced plans for a joint bailout of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac). The gold price traded lower for the next two months, before spiking back up to $905/oz on September 29, 2008 (the day the US House of Representatives rejected a $700 billion rescue plan for the US financial system). Price ended the year 2008 at $869.75/oz, on the London PM fix, $36/oz higher than end-2007, while the average gold price rose by $175.33/oz to $871.85/oz.
With respect to our competitive position in the gold production industry, our market share is negligible versus that of the major gold producers. Relative market share of similar size competitors is also insignificant. We are a relatively small operator in a fragmented market which is dominated by larger companies with significantly more resources than we currently possess or any resources that we are likely to acquire in the foreseeable future.
We have no ability to control or influence the market price of gold. In the event that the market price for gold declines, our profitability and cash flow will also decline. For these and other reasons cited elsewhere in this Form 10-K, we face risks and uncertainties over which we have little or no control.
Reports to Security Holders
The public may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 101 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is http://www.sec.gov. The Company’s internet address is www.easterngoldfields.com .
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Our operations and our securities are subject to a number of substantial risks, including those described below. If any of these or other risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and operating results, as well as the trading price or value of its securities could be materially adversely affected. No attempt has been made to rank these risks in the order of their likelihood or potential harm. In addition to those general risks enumerated elsewhere in the document, any purchaser of our common stock should also consider the following risk factors:
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Lack of Diversification: Our business, assets, and operations are concentrated in South Africa and the mining of gold. As a result, we are not diversified and to that extent we face continuing challenges to achieve stable revenues, profits, and cash flow while also remaining exposed to the risks associated with this concentration.
Small Company, Limited Resources & Need for Additional Capital: We are a small company with limited financial resources relative to the many competitors in our industry. In the event of any unexpected problems or difficulties in our business and operations, we may not have the ability to obtain sufficient additional capital on terms that are reasonable in light of our current circumstances and market conditions. Further, we currently estimate that we will need to raise $15,000,000 in additional capital. We have not received any assurances that this additional capital can be obtained or if it is obtained, that can be obtained on reasonable terms and in a timely fashion to allow us to execute our plans.
Limited Trading Market for Common Stock: Our common stock is presently traded in the over-the-counter Bulletin Board and is quoted on the “OTCBB Market”. Our stock trades on a limited and sporadic basis and we cannot assure you that a continuous liquid trading market will develop or, if it does develop, that it will be sustained for any continuous period.
Share Capital: We have a significant number of shares authorized but unissued. These shares may be issued without stockholder approval. Significant issuances of stock would further dilute the percentage ownership of our current stockholders and could likely have an adverse impact on the market price of the common stock. As of April 3, 2009, we have an aggregate of 150,595,014 shares of Common Stock and 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock authorized but un-issued and 554,228 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance. All of such shares of common stock and such shares of preferred stock may be issued without any action or approval by our stockholders. Further and under the provisions of our Articles of Incorporation, our Board of Directors has the ability, without obtaining stockholder consent, to issue one or more series of preferred stock each with such dividend, liquidation, conversion, voting or other rights which could adversely affect the voting power or other rights associated with our common stock. Additionally, we may in the future issue debt securities, secured or unsecured, which may have limitations or restrictions on the payment of dividends and which will have priority in the event of liquidation or dissolution. As a result, an investor who purchases our common stock may hold legal claims to our assets that will be subordinate to the claims asserted by superior holders. Finally, any such shares issued would further dilute the percentage ownership of our current stockholders and would likely have an adverse impact on the market price of the common stock.
Lack of Profits and Negative Cash Flow: During the year ended December 31, 2008, we recorded a net loss of $2,961,451 compared to a net loss of $1,404,432 for the year ended December 31, 2007 and negative cash flow during both periods. While we believe that if we can successfully implement our business plan and if market and competitive conditions allow, we may achieve profitability and positive cash flow, we can not assure you that we will achieve profitability and positive cash flow or if we do achieve these goals, that we can sustain profitability and positive cash flow in the future.
Extension of Loan & Covenants Granted to Investec: On October 30, 2008, we entered into an extension of the $10,000,000 bridging loan with Investec Bank Limited. Under the terms of the loan, we are obligated to pay interest to Investec and repay all principal due to Investec on May 29, 2009. Further, and in addition to other provisions, we granted Investec 820,000 common stock purchase warrants and agreed to provide Investec with monthly management reports. In the event that we are not able to repay the full amount of the $10,000,000 loan from Investec on or before the May 29, 2009,then, absent an extension of the loan or some other re-negotiation of the loan, we could stand to lose our principal subsidiary with current business. While we believe that the agreement extending the existing bridging loan serves our long-term interests, and we believe that we will be successful in repaying the loan on or before the May 29, 2009 date, we can not assure you that we will be successful in repaying the loan as required. In the event that we are not successful, any holder of the Company’s Common Stock could stand to lose all or substantially all of their investment.
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Lack of Dividends: Our board of directors determines whether to pay dividends on the Company’s issued and outstanding shares. The declaration of dividends will depend upon our future earnings (if any), our capital requirements, our financial condition and other relevant factors. Our board of directors does not intend to declare any dividends on our Common Stock for the foreseeable future. We anticipate that we will retain any earnings to finance the growth of our business and for general corporate purposes.
Competition & Lack of Diversification: Gold properties eventually become depleted or uneconomical to continue mining. As a result, our long-term success is dependent on our ability to acquire, discover, develop and mine new properties. The acquisition of gold properties and their exploration and development are subject to intense competition. Companies with greater financial resources, larger staffs, more experience and more equipment for exploration and development may be in a better position than us to compete for such mineral properties. If we are unable to locate, develop and economically mine new properties, it most likely will not be able to be profitable on a long-term basis. In addition, all of our assets and operations are concentrated in the mining business described in this Form 10-K and we have no current plans to diversify into any other business activity.
Reliance Upon Estimates & Matter of Estimated Reserves: Our business and the plans described in this Form 10-K rely, in large measure, upon estimates that we received from others (including those in the Bankable Feasibility Study) used in combination with our own assessments. While we continue to evaluate the geological information that we use, we cannot assure you that the estimates recited in this Form 10-K are accurate or that we will not later revise and lower our estimated reserves which may adversely impact our financial performance. Estimates used in the mining industry can change dramatically and all of our estimates may be revised or reduced on the basis of later received information and estimates.
Limited Trading and Limited History for our Common Stock: Our common stock trades on a limited and sporadic basis and, as a result, there is only limited liquidity in our common stock. Further, our common stock has had only a limited trading history on the Bulletin Board Market. As a result and given the limited trading market for our common stock, the price of our common stock may be far more volatile and unpredictable than the prices of common stocks and other securities that have a long and established trading history.
Possible Rule 144 Stock Sales: Many of the shares of our outstanding Common Stock are "restricted securities" and may be sold only in compliance with Rule 144 adopted under the Securities Act of 1933 or other applicable exemptions from registration. As revised effective February 15, 2008, Rule 144 generally now requires that a holder of our restricted Common Stock hold these “restricted securities” for at least six months from the date at which they were acquired before undertaking any public re-sale of the restricted Common Stock pursuant to Rule 144. And if the holder is an “affiliate” (as defined in Rule 144(a)(1) or was an “affiliate” in the immediately preceding 90 day period), then the holder must also satisfy certain other requirements of Rule 144. As a result of the revision to Rule 144 that became effective February 15, 2008 (including but not limited to the shorter holding period under Rule 144(d)), potential and actual sales of our Common Stock by our present shareholders may have a depressive effect on the price of our Common Stock in the marketplace.
Government, Environmental, and Legal Risks: Our operations are subject to South African and local laws and regulations regarding environmental matters, the abstraction of water, and the discharge of mining wastes and materials. Any changes in these laws could affect our operations and economics. Environmental laws and regulations change frequently, and the implementation of new, or the modification of existing, laws or regulations could harm us. While we believe we do not currently have any material environmental obligations, exploration activities may give rise in the future to significant liabilities on our part to the government and third parties and may require us to incur substantial costs of remediation.
Operational Hazards and Responsibilities: Our operational activities are subject to a number of risks and hazards which include but not limited to the following:
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• environmental hazards;
• industrial accidents;
• labor disputes;
• unusual or unexpected geological or operating conditions;
• changes in regulatory environment;
• natural phenomena such as severe weather conditions, floods, earthquakes; and
• other hazards
These occurrences could result in significant damage to, or destruction of, mineral properties or production equipment, personal injury or death, environmental damage, delays in mining, monetary losses and possible legal liability. The occurrence of these operational hazards could adversely affect our mining operations by limiting production or the closure of the mines themselves.
Limited Insurance Coverage: We are not insured against any losses or liabilities that could arise from its operations either because insurance is unavailable or because the premium cost is excessive. The payment of such liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and, depending on the extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of its assets and operations. Exploration for gold involves hazards, which could result in us incurring substantial losses and liabilities to third parties for pollution, accidents and other hazards. We have public liability insurance of $1,500,000 but, if we incur uninsured losses or liabilities, the funds available for the implementation of our business plan will be reduced and our assets may be jeopardized. The payment of such liabilities may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and, depending on the extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of its assets and operations.
The Bankable Feasibility Study (“BFS”): The BFS contains estimates and assumptions regarding the feasibility of our mining operations which may later prove to be inaccurate as additional information becomes available. While we believe that the BFS was conducted in a responsible fashion and the estimates, assumptions, and methodology of the BFS follows standards that are consistent with industry practice, the amount of Reserves, Proven Reserves, and other projections may be later significantly reduced as we obtain additional information. The extent of any reduction in these estimates and their magnitude can not be known at this time. We are aware that estimates in the mining industry can be subject to dramatic changes. For these reasons, we can not assure you that we will not later discover that our estimates need to be significantly reduced as we complete further work on our mining properties.
Commercial Viability and Reserves: Our ability to discover a viable and economic mineral reserve on its properties is subject to numerous factors, most of which are beyond our control and are not predictable. If we are unable to discover such reserves, we most likely will not be able to establish a profitable commercial mining operation on these properties. Exploration for gold is speculative in nature, involves significant financial risks and is frequently unsuccessful. Few properties that are explored are ultimately developed into commercially producing mines. Our long-term profitability will be, in part, directly related to the cost and success of exploration programs. Our gold exploration programs entail risks relating to the following:
• location of economic ore bodies;
• development of appropriate metallurgical process;
• receipt of necessary government approvals; and
• construction of mining and processing facilities at sites chosen for mining
The commercial viability of a mineral deposit is dependent on a number of factors including the following:
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• the price of gold;
• exchange rates;
• the particular attributes of the deposit (i.e. size, grade and the proximity to infrastructure);
• financing costs;
• taxation;
• royalties;
• land tenure;
• land use;
• water use;
• availability and cost of power source;
• importing and exporting gold; and
• environmental protection
The effect of these factors cannot be accurately predicted and any one of which could adversely affect our ability to operate. Further, we have little or no control over these variables and the magnitude of any one risk or any group of risks and the extent to which they may adversely impact us can not be predicted with any accuracy.
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Profitability: We anticipate that our ability to achieve and sustain profitability and positive cash flow will likely be dependent primarily on our ability to locate, explore, develop and mine additional, commercially viable properties. There is intense competition for the acquisition of gold properties. If we are unable to accomplish this, it most likely will not be able to be profitable on a long-term basis. Gold properties eventually become depleted or uneconomical to continue mining. As a result, our long-term success is dependent on its ability to acquire, discover, develop and mine new properties. The acquisition of gold properties and their exploration and development are subject to intense competition. Companies with greater financial resources, larger staffs, more experience and more equipment for exploration and development may be in a better position than us to compete for such mineral properties. If we are unable to locate, develop and economically mine new properties, we most likely will not be able to achieve profitability, positive cash flow, or both on a long-term basis.
Foreign Country Location: All of our property interests and all of our operations are concentrated in South Africa. The risk of doing business in a foreign country could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. We face risks normally associated with any conduct of business in foreign countries, including various levels of political and economic risk. The occurrence of one or more of these events could have a material adverse impact on our current and future operations which, in turn, could have a material adverse impact on our future cash flows, earnings, results of operations and financial condition. These risks include the following:
• prevalence of various diseases at the mining sites;
• security concerns;
• adverse weather such as rainy season;
• labor disputes;
• uncertain or unpredictable political and economic environments;
• war and civil disturbances;
• changes in laws or policies;
• mining policies;
• monetary policies;
• unlinking of rates of exchange to world market prices;
• environmental regulations;
• labor relations;
• return of capital;
• taxation;
• delays in obtaining or the inability to obtain necessary governmental permits;
• governmental seizure of land or mining claims, limitations on ownership;
• institution of laws requiring repatriation of earnings;
• increased financial costs;
• import and export regulations; and
• establishment of foreign exchange regulations.
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Any such changes may affect our current mining operations and ability to undertake exploration activities in respect of present and future properties in the manner currently contemplated, as well as its ability to explore and eventually develop and operate those properties in which we have an interest or in respect of which we have obtained exploration rights to date. Certain changes could result in the confiscation of property by nationalization or expropriation without fair compensation. We have no plans to diversify our operations or business to any other country and we do not anticipate that we will diversify our operations or business outside of South Africa at any time in the foreseeable future.
Uncertainties as to Title Matters in the Mining Industry: While we we believe that we hold legal title and rights of ownership to conduct our existing mining operations, any defects in such title may cause us to forfeit our rights in mineral properties and could jeopardize our business operations. If the title to or our rights of ownership in our properties, prospects and/or claims are challenged or impugned by third parties, or the properties, prospects and/or claims in which we have an interest are subject to prior transfers or claims, such title defects could cause us to loose our rights in such properties. If we lose our rights in and to any of our mineral properties, we could incur substantial and protracted losses.. In the event that our rights are challenged, we may not have the financial resources to protect and assert our legal claims in such properties.
Governmental Permits and Licenses: Our current and planned operations require permits and licenses from various governmental authorities. If we are unable to obtain and maintain such requisite permits, licenses and approvals, our business operations and ability to become profitable may be adversely affected. Such permits and licenses are subject to change in regulations and in various operating circumstances. We cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain or maintain in force all necessary permits and licenses that may be required to conduct exploration or commence construction or operation of mining facilities at properties to be explored or to maintain continued operations at economically justifiable costs. Further, certain of our mineral rights and interests are subject to government approvals. In all such cases such approvals are, as a practical matter, subject to the discretion of the South African government or governmental officials. No assurance can be given that we will be successful in maintaining or obtaining any or all of such approvals. Our inability to obtain and maintain the requisite permits, licenses and approvals could materially and adversely affect our operations and ability to become profitable. In the event of any adverse governmental action against our Company or the permits, licenses, and approvals that we currently hold, we may incur protracted and significant losses which could result in the total loss of the value of our Common Stock. For these and other reasons, a purchaser of our Common Stock must be prepared to accept the total loss of their investment.
Price of Gold: The revenues that we generate are determined by the quantity of gold we produce and the price of gold. Gold prices can fluctuate on a material and frequent basis due to numerous factors beyond our control. Our ability to generate profits from operations could be materially and adversely affected by such fluctuating prices. Accordingly, the profitability of the Company’s current and future gold mining operations is significantly affected by changes in the market price of gold. Between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008, the “fixed price” for gold on the London Exchange has fluctuated between $712.50 and $1,023.50 per ounce. Gold prices fluctuate on a daily basis and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:
• level of interest rates;
• rate of inflation;
• central bank sales; and
• world supply of gold.
Each of these factors can cause significant fluctuations in gold prices. Such external factors are, in turn, influenced by changes in international investment patterns and monetary systems and political developments. The price of gold has historically fluctuated widely and, depending on the price of gold, revenues from mining operations may not be sufficient to offset the costs of such operations. In that event and if gold prices were to decline to levels that do not allow us to recover our costs, we may incur significant and protracted losses and we may cease operations. In that event, a holder of our Common Stock would likely lose all or substantially all of their investment.
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Foreign Currency: We sell gold in South Africa in South African Rands. If applicable currency exchange rates fluctuate, our revenues and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected. We exclusively sell our gold to The Rand Refinery Ltd. which is a South African corporation and the world’s largest gold refinery. Such sales are paid for with South African Rands. We also incur a significant amount of its expenses which are payable in South African Rands. As a result of the required utilization of the South African Rand, our financial performance is affected by fluctuations in the value of the South African Rand to the U.S. Dollar. At the present time, we have no plan or policy to utilize forward contracts or currency options to minimize this exposure, and even if these measures are implemented there can be no assurance that such arrangements will be available, be cost effective or be able to fully offset such future currency risks.
Dependence upon Key Executives and Employees: Our success depends to a great extent upon the continued successful performance of key executives and employees in general and specifically Mr. Michael McChesney. Mr. McChesney is presently employed by us as our President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. McChesney also serves as one of our directors. If Mr. McChesney and certain other present key executives and employees are unable to perform their duties for any reason, our ability to operate in South Africa will be materially adversely effected. We do not have a key man life insurance policy on the life of Mr. McChesney or any other key executives and employees and we have no plans to acquire any key man life insurance in the future.
Enforcement of Civil Liabilities: Substantially all our assets are located outside of the United States, and certain of our directors and officers are resident outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible to enforce judgments granted by a court in the United States against our assets or our directors and officers residing outside of the United States.
Internal Controls: Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable financials reports and effectively prevent fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent fraud, our operating results could be harmed. We have in the past discovered, and may in the future discover, areas of our internal controls that need improvement. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, or lack of resources to properly implement internal controls, could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock.
Sarbanes Oxley: The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 was enacted in the United States in response to public concerns regarding corporate accountability in connection with recent accounting scandals. The stated goals of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act are to increase corporate responsibility, to provide for enhanced penalties for accounting and auditing improprieties at publicly traded companies, and to protect investors by improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate disclosures pursuant to the securities laws. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act generally applies to all companies that file or are required to file periodic reports with the SEC, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As a public company, we are required to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has resulted in a series of rules and regulations by the SEC that increase responsibilities and liabilities of directors and executive officers. The perceived increased personal risk associated with these recent changes may deter qualified individuals from accepting these roles. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified persons to serve on our board of directors or as executive officers. Sarbanes Oxley 404 compliance, is a costly and time-consuming process and there can be no assurance that we will continue to be compliant. We have limited internal and external resources to devote to maintaining SOX 404 compliance and there can be no assurance that we can maintain compliance. We continue to evaluate and monitor developments with respect to these rules, and we cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs.
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Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None
Item 2. Properties
Our properties are in the form of the right to extract the minerals from such properties (the “mineral rights” or “claims”). The South African Mineral Act 50 of 1991 defines “claims” as “mineral rights held in the name of the claim holder”. Under South African Law, a “Mining Title” refers to a claim license which is assigned a license number.
Our properties or mineral rights are all located in the Barberton Greenstone Belt area of the Mpumalanga Province in South Africa. Unless otherwise indicated in the more detailed description of our properties, we believe that all such properties have adequate access to support our current mining operations. The required source of power utilized or to be utilized with respect to each of our properties is presently available from the national South African power company. These properties are owned by our subsidiary corporations; they comprise an area of approximately 13km x 13km and are summarized as follows:
Company | | Mining Title Claims |
| | No. of Claims | Area (acres) |
Eastern Goldfields Limited | | 14,518 | 21,337 |
Eastern Goldfields Exploration (Pty) Ltd. | | 6,772 | 9,953 |
Centurion Mining Company (Pty) Ltd. | | 1,367 | 2,009 |
Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (Pty) Ltd. | | 1,040 | 1,529 |
Barbrook Mines Limited | | 4,335 | 6,372 |
Total | | 28,032 | 41,200 |
In addition, the above subsidiary companies have 854 acres of surface rights and 67 acres of dump permits on the above properties.
Because of these properties’ proximity to proven geological structures favorable for the concentration of mineralization, we believe that certain of these properties may contain feasible mineralization which will be determined via the earlier described exploration programs. The following are descriptions of these various properties:
South African Mining Legislation
On May 1, 2004, the South African “Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28” of 2002 (MPRDA) came into effect. In accordance with Schedule II, “Transitional Arrangements, Continuation of Old Order Mining Right”,
| (1) | Any old order mining right in force immediately before the MPRDA took effect continues in force for a period not exceeding five years from the date on which the MPRDA took effect, subject to the terms and conditions under which it was granted or issued. |
| (2) | A holder of an old order mining right must lodge the right for conversion within the 5 year period referred to in (1) at the office of the Regional Manager together with: |
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| (a) | The prescribed particulars of the holder; |
| (b) | A sketch plan or diagram depicting the mining area for which the conversion is required, which area may not be larger than the area for which he or she holds the old order mining right; |
| (c) | The name of the mineral or group of minerals for which he or she holds the old order mining right; |
| (d) | An affidavit verifying that the holder is conducting mining operations on the area of the land to which the conversion relates and setting out the periods for which such mining operations will be conducted; |
| (e) | A statement setting out the period for which the mining right is required substantiated by a mining work program which, in the case of Lily, will contain the results of and decisions pertaining to the Prefeasibility study; |
| (f) | a prescribed social and labor plan; |
| (g) | Information as to whether or not the old order mining right is encumbered by any mortgage bond or other right registered at the Deeds Office or Mining Titles Office; |
| (h) | A statement setting out the terms and conditions which apply to the old order mining right; |
| (i) | The original title deed in respect of the land to which the old order mining right relates. |
| (j) | The original old order right and the approved environmental management program and |
| (k) | An undertaking that, and the manner in which, the holder will give effect to 2(d) and 2(f). |
| (3) | The Minister must convert the old order mining right into a new order mining right if the holder of the old order mining right; |
| (a) | complies with the requirements of (2); |
| (b) | Has conducted mining operations in respect of the right in question; |
| (c) | indicates that he or she will continue to conduct such mining operations upon the conversion of such right; |
| (d) | Has an approved environmental management program; and |
| (e) | Has paid the prescribed conversion fee. |
| (4) | If the holder fails to lodge the old order mining right for conversion before the expiry of the period referred to in (1), the old order mining right ceases to exist. |
Surface Rights and Servitudes
Lily Mine - There are two servitudes the equivalent of easements that allow use of the land belonging to other parties in the area. These are the canal immediately east of the Lily Mine (Low’s Creek Irrigation Board) and the power line to the South of the Lily Mine (Eskom – the national power company). The Lily mine and infrastructure are situated on land owned by the State. We are required to negotiate with the landowner for the surface use of any of this land, even though it is within the boundaries of the Mining License. While such negotiations have been completed for the current surface land usage and we are confident that the understandings that we have reached, we are subject to the laws of the Republic of South Africa and the legal system governing these land rights.
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Water Rights
Lily Mine – We currently have permission to draw 600 cubic meters of water per day from the Shiyalongubu River to service the Makonjwaan processing plant. An additional extraction point out of the irrigation canal at the Lily mine was also approved and permission obtained to extract a total of 900 cubic meters of water per day to service the Lily mine.
Lily Mine Area
The Lily Mine and its surrounding properties are owned by our subsidiary corporation, Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (MIMCO), and are located in the eastern area of these properties. Located adjacent to a major geological structure known as the Lily fault, this mine has displayed significant gold mineralization over a strike length of 2,000m and a depth of at least to 600m from surface. The ore body is wide in places (plus 15m) and is known to have concentrations with visible gold.
The extensions along the initial mineralization within the existing mining right area have not been fully explored and there exists the possibility of satellite deposits in the immediate vicinity of the Lily Mine. The property’s ore is pyrrhotite hosted and is only partially refractory which allows for standard processing techniques and relatively high percentage metal recoveries (between 88% to 92%). The infrastructure in and about the mine is excellent as evidenced by a good road system, nearby electrical power grid and adequate water supplies. The local community has a direct interest in the mine through the completed Black Economic Empowerment (“BEE”) ownership and is supportive of further development.
A number of other ore bodies are also owned by our subsidiaries in the vicinity of the Lily Mine, which include the Makonjwaan Mine and the Imperial Mine, both of which have limited immediate potential in that the ore is very refractory. The acquisition of the nearby Barbrook Mine has altered the focus on exploration since Barbrook processing plant is capable of handling sulphidic/graphitic ores.
The Lily Mine and infrastructure are situated on land owned by the State. We are required to negotiate with the landowner for the surface use of any of this land, even though it is within the boundaries of the mining title.
Application for the use of the area being used for dumping, offices, etc. was submitted to the Department of Land Affairs (since this is State land) in January 2003. A separate request was submitted to Chief Dlamini Kuseni (representing the Lomshiyo Tribal Authority) for the use of the land for the explosive magazine as this was situated on land owned by the Lomshiyo Trust.
The existing Mining License at Lily (No. 15/2003) was granted on the May 26, 2003. It is valid for 7 years (i.e. until May 25, 2010) or if the mine ceases production and terminates operations prior to this date. This license was granted in accordance with Section 9 of the Minerals Act 50 of 1991.
In terms of the new legislation this license is termed an "old order right" as it was granted in terms of previous legislation. The MPRD Act requires that all “old order rights” be converted to "new order rights" within the 5 year period from May 2004. A prerequisite for such conversion is a 15% ownership by BEE participants by 2009 and 26% ownership by 2014.
The South African MPRD Act No. 28, 2002 Chapter 4 Section 9 provides that every party who has applied for a mining right must conduct an environmental impact assessment and submit an Environmental Management Program within 180 days of the date on which the party is notified by the Regional Manager to do so. This EMP must address the following items:
1. The establishment of baseline information concerning the affected environment to determine protection, remedial measures and environmental management objectives;
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2. An investigation, assessment and evaluation of the impact of its proposed prospecting or mining operations on:
a. the environment;
b. the socio-economic conditions of any person who might be directly affected by the prospecting or mining operation; and
c. any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No.25 of 1999), with the exception of the national estate contemplated in section 3(2)(i)(vi) and (vii) of that Act.
3. The development of an environmental awareness plan describing the manner in which the applicant intends to inform its employees of any environmental risks which may result from their work and the manner in which the risks must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the degradation of the environment; and
4. A description of the manner in which it intends to:
a. modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process which causes pollution or environmental degradation;
b. contain or remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants; and
c. comply with any prescribed waste standard or management standards or practices.
The original Environmental Management Program (“EMP”) for the Lily mine was applicable to the open pit mining operation and thus had to be amended to include future underground mining operations. This amendment included the submission of a social and a labor plan. Independent consultants, Earth Science Solutions (“ESS”) were engaged to amend the company's Environmental Management Programme Report (the “EMPR”) and have applied for the necessary conversion. This amended EMPR was submitted to the local mining authorities on August 28, 2006. The total cost of compiling and submission of this report was R268,000 (approximately $38,000 at the then exchange rate of 7 Rands to 1 US Dollar). The amended EMP was approved in June 2007 by the Department of Minerals and Energy. There are no endangered or rare species of fauna or flora observed or reported during the field assessment survey of the site affected by the Lily mine.
Sheba Hills Area
This area is owned by our subsidiary, Eastern Goldfields Exploration (“EGE”), and contains a large prospective block of ground located to the west of the Lily Mine. These Sheba Hills Area mineral claims are located in the north central Barberton Mountain Lands, Mpumalanga an approximate 45 minutes drive from the city of Nelspruit. These claims consist of 36 blocks containing 6,901 base and precious metal claims. These claims are referred to as the Sheba Hills Claims Group and encompass an area between the currently operational Sheba and Lily gold mines. These claims are contiguous to claims owned by our subsidiary, Centurion. The Sheba Hills area covers three major geological structures including the Lily Fault, the Bonanza Fault and the Sheba Fault.
This property has no known mineral deposits but covers three major geological structures including the Lily fault, the Bonanza fault and the Sheba fault. While this area has not been explored in the past 25 years, the combination of its known geological structures and modern exploration techniques makes this area worthy of exploration.
This area of approximately 4,000 hectares (approximately 10,000 acres) is uninhabited bush of rolling hills and valleys. Exploration of the area would therefore be uncomplicated and has virtually no effect on other interested or affected parties. We have planned an extensive exploration program over the next five years involving geochemical and geophysical exploration techniques to be followed up by on site sampling and drilling. The program will be based on the above mentioned three major geological structures with a view to identifying significant ore bodies.
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The nature of ownership of these claims as earlier described does not constitute ownership of the land but are just considered “mineral rights” or “mineral claims”. These “mineral rights” or “mineral claims” permit the extraction and processing of the ore bodies contained in the areas subject to the claims. The actual legal ownership of the land resides with the Republic of South Africa.
Historical mineral resources have been estimated for two dormant mines, the Makonjwaan-Imperial Mine and the Bonanza Mine, and a tailing dump within the Sheba Hills area. The Centurion Tailings Dump, which is comprised of waste rock material from mining at the Bonanza mine, was also evaluated. The Sheba Hills area also encompasses several gold deposits/dormant mines for which no mineral resources have been declared: the Golden Mamba, the Lochiel and the Royal Sheba East. Approximately 1,432 kilograms of gold or 46,000 ounces of gold was produced from these mines.
Centurion Area
These properties are owned by our subsidiary, Centurion Mining Company (Centurion) and are located immediately west of the Sheba Hills area. The Centurion properties are sandwiched between the Sheba Hills and the renowned Sheba Mine, which contains what we believe may be one of the highest grade orebodies in the world.
The Centurion properties include the dormant Bonanza mine, a medium grade mine with 100,000 ounces of historical production. This mine, which is adjacent to the neighboring Sheba mine (owned by the Metorex subsidiary, Barberton Mines Limited) will be tested for depth extensions of the orebody. While it is known that almost all gold deposits in the Barberton greenstone belt continue at depth, the possible extension of the Bonanza mine in depth has never been tested. Accordingly, the possibility exists to discover significant additions to the Bonanza orebody which, if viable, can be processed at the Centurion mine site where the basic infrastructure currently exists.
Since further orebodies may exist along the Sheba fault, a comprehensive exploration program is planned by the Company on this structure. In this same area, there are two other major gold producers; the Sheba Mine and the Fairview Mine.
With respect to a contemplated processing facility for the Centurion Area Claims, no planning or feasibility study has been initiated with regard to the development of a processing facility at this location. Accordingly, we have not identified any estimated costs or projections with this contemplated processing facility. We have,, however, planned exploration program for this area which is described in more detail elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
Worcester Mine Area
The Worcester Mine is presently a dormant mine owned by our subsidiary, Eastern Goldfields Limited (EGL) and is located in the center of a large block of properties on the Jamestown schist belt in the Barberton Goldfields. This is the western most property and is surrounded by numerous visible surface gold mineralization or small deposits in the area.
The Worcester Gold Mine claim is located 19 kilometers north of the town of Barberton, adjacent to the main paved road to the city of Nelspruit. It is also situated south of the Noord Kaap River. There are power lines to both the mine site and the plant. Perennial water is available from the Noord Kaap River. The rainfall in a normal year is about 800 to 900 millimeters. At the mine site, there are well maintained office buildings, a crusher set-up that requires maintenance, an Atlas Copco compressor and security personnel. The processing plant has a 6,000 ton per month capacity and is located approximately 400 meters north of the crushing area.
The area is comprised of three areas of exploration, namely the Worcester Mine Group, the Jamestown West Group and the Albion Group, covering an area of 8,400 hectares. The Worcester project contains 16 known deposits, none of which are currently in production. Of these deposits, only the Worcester mine has been evaluated for resource estimation purposes.
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The Worcester mine is a substantial orebody with approximately 200,000 ounces of historical production. This orebody is approximately 300 meters in length and has been mined to a depth of approximately 200 meters. Further drilling is planned to fully delineate and evaluate the orebody at depth.
Between 2005 and 2008, we completed a total of 20 diamond drill holes at the Worcester mine to probe the extension of the Worcester Reef below the mined-out workings to a depth of approximately 500 meters below surface. The results confirmed the down-dip extension of the mineralized zone and contributed to a better understanding of the structural geology of the Worcester mine’s orebody. Grades returned ranged from 0.52 grams of gold per ton to 6.65 grams of gold per ton. We also carried out a program involving detailed field mapping and compilation of all available mining and geological information pertaining to the Worcester mine. The drilling results to date confirm the continuity of the Worcester mineralized zone both on strike and in depth.
The application for the conversion of the “old mining rights” for this property to the “new mining rights” has been submitted and is presently being processed. With respect to the utilization of the existing facilities at this mine and a contemplated expansion of the production capabilities of this facility, until we have completed the mine plan and feasibility study, the Company cannot ascertain the costs of this undertaking.
Other Company Properties
Regional reconnaissance exploration is planned for the Company's other mineral rights, including the Golden Valley block of properties sandwiched between the Sheba Mine and the Consort Mine. This area, consisting of approximately 200 hectares (approximately 500 acres), has not been subjected to modern exploration techniques in the past 25 years. Our subsidiary, EGL, also owns a narrow block of properties to the southwest of the Sheba Mine, which is largely inaccessible by road and appears to have limited geological potential. This block of properties of approximately 1,800 hectares will initially be subjected to a reconnaissance exploration program prior to initiating follow up work if results of the preliminary exploration are encouraging. These properties are also the subject of a license application for conversion to “new mining rights”.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
Our recently acquired subsidiary, Barbrook Mines, was subject to several claims brought against it by creditors during 2006 and 2007 fiscal years. These claims, which had been accrued for at 2007 year end, were in the main settled and the matters finalized. In the matter with Sentinel Corporate Solutions (Pty) Limited, Sentinel has issued summons against Barbrook for R1,108,061 (approximately $110,000) in respect of amounts payable, which are accrued for, in respect of a labor contract. Barbrook has instituted an action against Sentinel for R7,456,465 (approximately US$745,000) in respect of damages incurred when the labor force set fire to the Barbrook administration building. Both matters with Sentinel are presently still being defended and are not yet finalized.
Other than the matter discussed above, we are not a party to any pending legal proceedings, and no such proceedings are known to be threatened or contemplated.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
None
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PART II
Item 5. Market for Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Market Information: Until July 7, 2008, our common stock was listed for trading with a trading symbol “EGDD” on the “Pink Sheets” ,” market, a quotation service that displays sale prices, and volume information for transactions with market makers in over-the-counter (“OTC”) equity securities. On July 7, 2008, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ('FINRA') cleared the request of World Trade Financial Corporation of San Diego, California ('WTFC'), a FINRA-registered broker-dealer, to list the Company's common stock on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (OTC BB) market. All such quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, markdown or commissions and may not necessarily represent actual transactions. Trading in our common stock is limited and sporadic and there can be no assurance that any liquid trading market will develop or, if it does develop, that it can be maintained.
Based on information obtained from the Pink Sheets (and the Bulletin Board for the period after July 7, 2008), the high and low bid quotations for the common stock for each of the quarters of our fiscal years ended December 31, 2006, December 31, 2007 and 2008 are set forth in the table below:
| | Price Range |
| | High($) | | Low($) |
| | | | |
Quarter ended 12/31/05 (1) | | N/A | N/A |
Quarter ended 3/31/06 | | $5.65 | | $3.25 |
Quarter ended 6/30/06 | | $6.50 | | $6.50 |
Quarter ended 9/30/06 | | $5.25 | | $5.25 |
Quarter ended 12/31/06 | | $6.40 | | $6.40 |
Quarter ended 3/31/07 | | $6.05 | | $6.05 |
Quarter ended 6/30/07 | | $5.90 | | $5.90 |
Quarter ended 9/30/07 | | $5.85 | | $5.85 |
Quarter ended 12/31/07 | $5.25 | | $5.25 |
Quarter ended 3/31/08 | | $5.00 | | $5.00 |
Quarter ended 6/30/08 | | $4.75 | | $4.75 |
Quarter ended 9/30/08 | | $4.00 | | $4.00 |
Quarter ended 12/31/08 | | $3.50 | | $3.50 |
(1) Quotation information is not applicable prior to December 30, 2004, in that the Company was only listed on the Pink Sheets for trading on December 30, 2004.
Currently, there are six broker-dealers making a market in our common stock. On March 11, 2009, the closing bid and ask prices of our common stock as published on the OTCBB were $2.45 and $3.50 per share, respectively.
Holders: As of April 3, 2009, there were approximately 64 holders of record of our Common Stock.
Dividends: We have not paid any cash dividend to date, and we have no intention of paying any cash dividends on its common stock in the foreseeable future. The declaration and payment of dividends is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and to certain limitations imposed under the Nevada Statutes. The timing, amount and form of dividends, if any, will depend on, among other things, our results of operation, financial condition, cash requirements and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.
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Recent Sales: We had the following stock issuances as described below. All such shares were sold by the officers and directors of the Company and no underwriters were utilized.
1. On September 30, 2005, 630,000 shares of restricted common stock at $4.365 per share were issued for cash for a total offering of $2,750,000 less issue costs of $631,710 totaling $2,118,190.
2. On October 1, 2005, the Company issued 2,736,247 shares of restricted common stock to the Class A Preference shareholders of the Company’s South African subsidiary corporation, Eastern Goldfields S.A. (Pty) Ltd. (“EGSA”) via a share exchange for 2,736,247 Class A Preference shares of EGSA.
3. On December 5, 2006, 400,000 shares of restricted common stock at $5.00 per share were issued for cash for a total offering of $2,000,000 less offering costs of $160,000 totaling $1,840,000.
4. On May 17, 2007, 521,739 shares of restricted common stock at $5.75 per share were issued for cash for a total offering of $3,000,000 less offering costs of $213,400 totaling $2,786,600.
5. On February 16, 2009, 554,228 shares of restricted common stock at $3.00 per share and 554,228 Common Stock Purchase Warrants in the form of a unit security at $3.00 per unit were issued for cash for a total offering of $1,662,684 less offering costs of $29,134 totaling $1,633,550. The issuing of the share certificates is in progress.
Exemption from Registration: With respect to the issuance of 630,000 common shares listed at 1 above of this Item 5, the issuance of 400,000 common shares listed at 3 above of this Item 5, the issuance of 521,739 common shares listed at 4 above of this Item 5 and the issuance of 554,228 common shares listed at 5 above of this Item 5, such issuances were made in reliance on the private placement exemptions provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 as amended, (the “Act”) and Nevada Revised Statutes Sections 78.211, 78.215, 78.3784, 78.3785 and 78.3791 (collectively the “Nevada Statutes”).
With respect to the issuance of the 2,736,247 common shares listed at 2 above of this Item 5, such issuance was also made in reliance upon the private placement exemptions provided by Section 4(2) of the Act and the Nevada Statutes.
Basis for Reliance Upon Exemption from Registration: We have relied upon the private placement exemption from registration provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act 1933 as amended (the “Act”). These shares were issued pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Act which exempts from registration transactions by an issuer not involving a public offering as each person had a pre-existing relationship with one or more officers, directors, and or key employees of the Company. This offering exemption is available to any issuer but prohibits general solicitation or advertising. In addition, each purchaser received information regarding the Company that was substantially equivalent to that found in a registration statement. Each prospective purchaser had full and unrestricted access to the Company, our books, and records, and the opportunity to ask questions of our management and receive answers to their questions. Further, each purchaser gave us assurances that it was experienced and sophisticated in making investments of this type and that they were able to make the investment decision and could afford the total loss of their investment.
In each instance, each of the share purchasers had access to sufficient information regarding the Company so as allow them to make an informed investment decision. More specifically, each purchaser signed a Share Purchase Agreement, with respect to their financial status and investment sophistication wherein they warranted and represented, among other things, the following:
1. that they had the ability to bear the economic risks of investing in the shares of the Company;
2. that they had sufficient knowledge in financial, business, or investment matters to evaluate the merits and risks of the investment;
37
3. that they had a certain net worth sufficient to meet the suitability standards of the Company; and
4. that the Company has made available to them, his counsel and his advisors, the opportunity to ask questions and that they have been given access to any information, documents, financial statements, books and records relative to the Company and an investment in the shares of the Company.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
Not required.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
In keeping with our objectives, described in an earlier section, namely pursuing a strategy of growth in our mineral reserves through optimization of current operations, exploration and prudent acquisitions, the following is a summary of the actions and strategies that we implemented in 2008:
• Development of the Lily Mine operation
• Acquisitions
• Exploration
Lily Mine
The following are forward-looking statements which are subject to risks and uncertainties, as stated on the second page of this Form 10-K.
Our primary focus, to the extent that we are able, is to develop the underground mine at Lily. Primary development of the initial underground section began in June 2007 and full conversion from open pit mining to underground mining commenced in January 2009. All of Lily Mine’s gold production since January 2009 is being derived from underground operations. To date, some 2,400 meters of underground development has been completed. This underground tonnage will be treated at the current Makonjwaan mill for the next two years. The acquisition of the nearby Barbrook Mine, discussed below, with a dormant processing plant has altered the original strategy of building a new plant at the Lily Mine site. The Barbrook processing plant, which is in the process of being refurbished, will be used to process the ore from Lily Mine’s underground mining operation.
If our estimates and operating conditions can be maintained and assuming no interruptions in our plans we anticipate that Lily underground operations may ramp up to full production of around 30,000 tons per month by mid 2010. If current operating levels can be maintained and if we are successful in meeting the challenges and uncertainties that we face, we expect to produce approximately 14,000 ounces of gold in 2009 for gross revenue of approximately $12,450,000 increasing to approximately 35,000 ounces of gold per year in years 2011 through 2023 for gross annual revenue of approximately $31,400,000 (using a projected gold price of $900/oz.). These are only estimates and are subject to change and fluctuating market conditions The results of the Bankable Feasibility Study (“BFS”) completed in March 2008, include an estimate that the Lily Mine has a life of at least 15 years based on existing mineral reserves.
The Lily Main Pit opencast operation:
• Commenced in June 2000 and was closed in October 2006. During this period, 1,012,000 tonnes were successfully extracted at an average grade of 2.89 grams of gold per ton.
• The closure of the Lily Main open pit was timed to coincide with extraction of oxidized ore from the Lily East pit. Mining continued until August 2007 before the pit was closed due to unstable high wall conditions. During this period a total of 96,347 tons were extracted having an average grade of 2.27 grams of gold per ton.
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• Open pit production commenced at Rosie’s Fortune in July 2007. This open pit was initially planned to be mined until May 2008 but was found to be sufficiently productive to be continued until December 2008. A total of 180,572 tonnes were extracted at an average grade of 2.22 grams of gold per ton.
The strategy behind extending open pit mining operations after closure of the Main pit in October 2006 was to maintain cash flow while establishing and preparing the underground workings for production. This was done with the expectation that the Lily East and Rosie’s Fortune open pit operations would be marginal but profitable.
The following table summarizes the tons milled, gold produced and operating profit (loss) for the life of the open pit operations to December 2008.
Period | Ore Milled | Au Produced | Average Grade Produced | Operating Profit/(loss) |
Year | mths | T | Kg | oz | g/t | oz/t | US$ |
2000/01 | 9 | 120,000 | 240 | 7,700 | 1.99 | 0.062 | 338,087 |
2001/02 | 12 | 154,000 | 309 | 9,900 | 2.00 | 0.063 | 647,117 |
2002/03 | 12 | 153,000 | 343 | 11,000 | 2.36 | 0.074 | 1,049,173 |
2003/04 | 12 | 131,000 | 241 | 7,700 | 1.84 | 0.057 | (541,559) |
2004 | 9 | 116,000 | 230 | 7,400 | 1.98 | 0.062 | (743,916) |
2005 | 12 | 168,000 | 398 | 12,800 | 2.37 | 0.074 | 420,522 |
2006 | 12 | 166,200 | 377 | 12,100 | 2.27 | 0.071 | 2,278,341 |
2007 | 12 | 160,000 | 322 | 10,400 | 2.32 | 0.072 | 1,660,754 |
2008 | 12 | 154,000 | 242 | 7,800 | 1.58 | 0.051 | 846,214 |
TOTAL | | 1,322,200 | 2,702 | 86,800 | 2.09 | 0.064 | 5,954,733 |
(1) Prior to March 31, 2004, 12 month accounting periods were from April 1 to March 31
(2) 2005 represents the first year of change to the accounting period or fiscal year based on a calendar year
The extensive exploration diamond drilling programs completed since 2005 up to the end of 2008 have successfully increased the mineral reserves of the Lily Mine to the extent that a full Bankable Feasibility Study has been completed giving the entire project a very positive NPV and IRR at a conservative medium term gold price of US$800/ounce. 82 diamond drill holes (with wedges), totaling in excess of 28,800 meters of drilling, have increased reserves from 210,000 ounces at the end of 2004 to an estimated 565,000 ounces by the end of 2008. The discovery cost is remarkably low at an estimated +/-US$2.00 per ounce during this exploration period.
The aim of this extensive drilling exercise was twofold:
• To extend Mineral Reserves along strike and in depth. The drilling has successfully identified the mineralized zone over 2,000 meters of horizontal strike to 600 meters of vertical depth below surface.
• To infill between existing drill intersections in certain areas, thereby upgrading the estimation confidence of the Mineral Reserves within the planned underground section of the extended Lily ore body.
The resultant revised Reserves allow for a Life of Mine of 15 years with a production capacity of 32,000 tons per month.
To the extent that we are able and provided that we can implement our current plans, we anticipate that exploration will continue on the mine property both from surface and later from underground as the mine develops in depth to continue increasing the reserve potential.
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There can be no assurance that we will be successful in implementing these plans or the plan of operations described in this Form 10-K. We face many risks and uncertainties and we have only a limited history of operations. See Item 1A. “Risk Factors”
Acquisitions
As previously stated elsewhere in this form 10-K and if we are csuccessful in achieving our objectives,, we intend to make strategic acquisitions in the next few years with the objective of increasing our production to 100,000 oz. annually. In this regard various opportunities are continually being investigated.
Barbrook Mine: As disclosed in our Form 8-K, on February 21, 2008 we entered into an agreement to purchase Barbrook Mine. This offer was accepted by the seller corporation, Maid 'O The Mist (Proprietary) Limited, a company incorporated in the Republic of South Africa and a subsidiary of Caledonia Mining Corporation Limited (“Caledonia”), a company incorporated in Canada. The acquisition was completed on May 30, 2008.
The acquisition of Barbrook has had the following twofold positive impact on EGI:
• The planned underground mining operations at Lily Mine, as reported in the BFS (March 2008), required the construction of a new processing plant on site. The existing processing plant at Barbrook, once refurbished, will substitute for a new plant. The purchase price of Barbrook was less than half the budgeted cost for the proposed new plant. The plant, complete with a large slimes dam, is located less than half the distance from Lily Mine (6 km) than its current operating Makonjwaan plant facility (17 km).
• Barbrook contains substantial mineralized assets and a well developed underground infrastructure including some 50 km of development and readily accessible areas for mining. Extensions to the processing plant will be required to treat the metallurgically complicated ore bodies once mining commences at Barbrook. This is currently being investigated. It is planned to geologically model and re-evaluate Barbrook by commencing exploration and primary development with the objective of bringing Barbrook Mine successfully into initial production in 2010.
Currently and based on the due diligence that we completed to date, we believe that the Barbrook Mines Limited holds title to a Mining Authorization covering an estimated 2,286 hectares which hosts a consolidation of numerous small mines and claims in the historically renowned Barberton gold mining district of South Africa. Mining at Barbrook commenced in the 1880’s. In 1996 exploration significantly improved the definition of estimated main ore zones. Treatment of refractory ores commenced in July 1996 and continued until July 1997. A total of 166,400 tons of sulphide ore was treated at an average rate of +/-14,000 tons per month. 311 kg of gold was produced at a recovered grade of 1.87g/t. Both the head grade and metallurgical recovery achieved over this period (~40%) were below target and the mine was put on care and maintenance pending a re-evaluation of the mining method and metallurgical process.
Historic Production – Barbrook Mine
Period | Tonnage Treated T | Gold Produced Kg | Gold Produced Oz | Recovered Grade g/t |
Oct ’89 – Jan ‘91 | 220,630 | 500 | 16,075 | 2.31 |
Nov ’93 – Jan ‘95 | 490,533 | 645 | 20,740 | 1.31 |
Feb ’95 – May ‘95 | 81,130 | 131 | 4,210 | 1.62 |
Jul ’96 – Jul ‘97 | 166,397 | 311 | 10,000 | 1.87 |
2006 | 74,904 | 224 | 7,200 | 4.64 |
Total Production | 1,033,594 | 1,711 | 58,225 | 1.66 |
Note: Information taken from Venmyn (Pty) Ltd Technical Statement January 2007
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Based on the information we have available and provided that current trends continue, we believe that the Barbrook Mine looks promising. Various metallurgical test work took place between 1997-2007 which showed that improvements to gold recoveries are achievable. A complete re-evaluation was done in 2002. At that date, this lead to an estimate of Proven and Probable Ore Reserves amounting to 176,000 tons at an insitu grade of an estimated 6.0 g/t gold. All quoted Resource and Reserve estimates will be re-evaluated by EGI’s competent staff in time as additional information becomes available
Barbrook has a well established surface infrastructure (plant, workshops, laboratory, tailings dam, etc) and extensive underground development (>50 km). Access to the mine is via two adits, respectively on 7 and 10 Levels, separated by 150 meters. No development exists and very little exploration has been completed below 10 Level, which is at surface river elevation. All ancillary utilities are operational.
If we are successful in obtaining sufficient financing on reasonable terms and assuming that our current assessments and estimates are not later reduced, we intend to further implement our plans for the operation of the Barbrook Mine. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in these efforts.
Prospects for the Future - Exploration Other Properties
Geological exploration has continued with positive results on the Worcester project area where continued diamond drilling has successfully identified the continuation of the mineralized zone well below the old workings. A further 4,180 meters of exploration diamond drilling was completed during 2008, bringing the total amount of core recovered since 2006 to 9,385 meters. The additional drilling was successful in confirming the down-dip extension of the Worcester mineralized zone below the old mine workings. It is envisaged that this project will proceed to pre-feasibility status during early 2009.
The Bonanza project area and other target locations are still under investigation and proposals for further exploration are being considered. The outcome of these exploration programs is expected to result in the further delineation of new ore bodies which can be developed for mining in the medium term future. To the extent that it is possible and if we are successful, our goal is to produce an additional 20,000 oz/annum from a second operation. While we currently believe that this goal is feasible, we cannot assure that we will achieve this goal or the related objectives.
We anticipate that the acquisition of Barbrook may also add to the exploration focus in 2009 but we have not made any specific determinations with respect to the extent of the amount of exploration that may be completed in 2009 or the precise time frame for this exploration.
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Requirement for Additional Capital
Based on our current estimates and subject to later evaluations that are to be completed by management, we anticipate that our capital requirements can be grouped into three areas:
• Development of the Lily underground mine and new processing plant
• Exploration of the company’s minerals rights including extensions to Lily and the Worcester project area
• Partial financing of acquisitions.
The development of the underground mine at Lily is of primary importance and the capital expenditure is currently estimated at $25 Million. Breakdown of this estimate is as follows:
| | US$ million |
Repayment of bridging loan (incl. interest) arranged to acquire | | |
100% of the shares in Barbrook Mines | | $10 |
Development of underground mine at the Lily Mine | | 12 |
Refurbish and expand Barbrook plant | | 3 |
| | $25 |
Our current estimates and projections suggest that this may be sufficient to allow us to develop the underground workings and the mine infrastructure at the Lily Mine site as well as the refurbishment of the Barbrook plant to be used for processing the Lily ore. We may change or revise our estimates as we obtain additional information and as studies of the mine are completed. In the event that the amount needed is increased, we may re-evaluate our plans and delay or re-schedule capital expenditures for this property and other properties consistent with circumstances and priorities at that time.
Currently, we anticipate that ongoing exploration will continue at the Worcester Mine and the other target locations within our mineral rights. In most cases we have had encouraging results so far. But we anticipate that we will likely need to make an estimated $4 Million in additional capital expenditures to achieve the exploration objectives that we have set for the next 12 months. That estimate may change or increase if further evaluations show that additional expenditures may be needed to fully complete these explorations.
If circumstances allow and if we are successful in obtaining additional necessary capital, we anticipate that we may develop Barbrook underground by expanding Barbrook plant for production of a planned 28,000 oz pa starting in 2010. Currently, and subject to further confirmation, we estimate that capital expenditures for Barbrook are as follows:
& nbsp;
| | US$ million |
| | |
Pre-production capital program to develop underground workings | | |
commencing 2009 | | $6 |
Barbrook plant expansion to accommodate Barbrook ore – 2009/10 | | 9 |
Construction of BIOX plant to treat refractory ore - 2010 | | 10 |
| | $25 |
The BIOX Process is a pretreatment process for refractory gold ores or concentrates, using naturally occurring bacteria to break down the sulphide matrix and liberate the gold for subsequent cyanidation. This is an alternative to the conventional processes of roasting and pressure oxidation and offers advantages that typically include reduced capital cost, simplicity of operation, robustness and environmental friendliness.
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If circumstances and opportunities allow, we may make at least one other acquisition in 2009 and will require funds in order to secure such acquisition or to provide initial support for the acquired operation. An amount of $10 Million has been estimated for this purpose and this estimate may be changed as we complete further reviews in light of new additional information.
Accordingly and to the extent that we are able, we seek to raise additional capital of $25 million for our Lily Mine underground development in the second quarter of 2009 and $4 million for our ongoing exploration program and objectives. Our current capital raising strategy also calls for us to seek an additional $25 million in new capital for developing underground mining operations at Barbrook Mine. While we have had discussions with several potential providers of capital, we are not in a position to estimate the form or terms of any such financing arrangement and we cannot give you any assurance that we will successfully complete any financing arrangements or, if we do, that the additional new capital obtained in any financing arrangement can be raised on terms that are reasonable in light of our current circumstances.
But, overall and if favorable conditions allow and if we can achieve our current objectives, our goal is to complete financing arrangements for the Lily Mine and our exploration program in the second quarter of 2009. For this we seek to raise $29 million. Accordingly, as an interim step and as part of our capital raising strategy, in 2008 we completed:
a. Convertible bond facility in March 2008 which raised US$4 million, and
b. Bridging loan facility in May 2008 of approximately US$10 million.
These interim financings were necessary to implement our plans prior to the main fund raising in the second quarter of 2009. Given the uncertainties of the marketplace and the challenges that we face, there can be no assurance that our efforts to raise additional new capital will be successful or if we are successful, that we can raise additional capital on terms that are reasonable in light of our current circumstances.
We are obligated to repay Investec the US $10 million bridging loan facility on or before May 29, 2009. In the event that we are not successful in repaying this loan or re-negotiating the terms of the loan, we may face the loss of our subsidiary and thus our principal business and assets. While we are hopeful that we will be successful in these efforts, we cannot assure you that we will achieve our objectives. In that event, any investor who acquires our Common Stock can stand to lose all or substantially all of their investment.
Results of Operations for the 12 Months ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
A summary of our operations, which arise only from work at its Lily Mine, for the 12 month period ended December 31, 2008 compared with the same period for 2007 are given below.
Comparative 12 Months - 2008 vs 2007 Operational Results
| 2008 | 2007 |
Ore Tons Milled | 154,000 | 160,003 |
Yield – gram per ton | 1.58 | 2.01 |
Gold Produced – oz | 7,800 | 10,287 |
Gold Price - $/oz | $885 | $703 |
| | |
Total Income* | $6,902 | $7,289 |
Cost of Production* | ($6,444) | ($5,955) |
Operating Income* | $458 | $1,334 |
Operating Expense, net* | ($2,879) | ($2,738) |
Net Loss* | ($2,421) | ($1,404) |
* Expressed in Thousands
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Comparative Results for the 12 Months ended December 2008 and 2007
A summary of our comparative operations, which arise only from open pit mining operations at the Lily Mine for the twelve months period ended December 31, 2008 (“Year 2008”) and December 31, 2007 (“Year 2007”) were as follows:
Revenues: For the 2008 year covering twelve months of commercial production from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008, we recorded revenues of approximately $6,902,000 from sales of gold versus revenues of approximately $7,289,000 for the twelve month period from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007, which amounted to an decrease of approximately 5%. The principal factors affecting this deacrease in revenue were as follows:
• Ore tons milled in Year 2008 was lower than that of Year 2007 at 154,000 tons and yield had dropped by approximately 21% resulting in lower gold production. Accordingly, 7,800 oz. of gold was sold in Year 2008 as compared with 10,287 oz. of gold sold in Year 2007, a drop of approximately 24%. This was primarily due to the last remnants of ore taken from the open pit. The open pit operation was permanently closed in December 2008.
• However, this reduction in production was compensated primarily by the increase in the price of gold. Whereas, our 2008 sales averaged $885 per ounce of gold, our 2007 sales have averaged $703 per ounce of gold; an increase in the price of gold of approximately 26%. This increase enhanced our margins and our results of operations. However, this increase in the price of gold may or may not be a trend and if it is a trend, we do not know if it will continue. We are not able to project gold prices and to the extent that gold prices fall in the future, our operations, revenues, profitability, and cash flow will be adversely and significantly impacted for such period of time as lower price levels in the marketplace are maintained.
Cost of Production: Although ore tons milled in Year 2008 was slightly lower than that Year 2007 at 154,000 tons, overall we experienced higher cost of production. During Year 2008, we produced 7,800 oz. of gold at a cost $6,444,000, whereas, during Year 2007, we produced 10,287 oz. of gold for $5,955,000. Accordingly, per ounce cost of production for Year 2008 was $826 whereas per ounce cost of production for Year 2007 was $579; an increase in the per ounce production of gold of 43%.
Principal factors affecting this increase in cost of production were:
• Increase in diesel price per liter of 11.5% during the First Quarter 2008 and in comparison to diesel price in First Quarter 2007 a 43.7% increase
• 7.5% increase in the plant hire costs effective January 1, 2008
• Significantly lower tons of ore mined from the open pit as it neared the end of its life
Fuel and oil price increases generally have a negative impact on our margins, cash flow, and profitability.
Operating Expenses for the Year 2008: Our operating expenses increased to $2,843,000 in Year 2008 from $2,707,000 in Year 2007; an increase of approximately 5%. Major factor affecting this was increase in our legal and professional costs.
Interest Expense: Our interest and other financing cost expenses increased substantially to $2,155,352 in Year 2008 from $43,000 in Year 2007. Major factor affecting this was the accrual of interest charges on the Company’s short-term loan commitments.
Changes in Exchange Rates: Changes in exchange rates had some impact on the comparability of our results for the Year 2008 versus Year 2007. The average rates of exchange for the years ended December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 were SAR 8.0997 to $1 and SAR 6.9552 to $1, respectively – approximately 16% weakening of the South African Rand against the US Dollar. Had the exchange rate remained the same during Year 2008 as that of Year 2007, the results of our operations arising from South African Rand transactions would have been approximately $385,000 higher.
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Changes in exchange rates had a significant impact on the comparability of our balance sheets as of December 31, 2008 versus December 31, 2007. The rates of exchange as at December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 were SAR 9.3377 to $1 and SAR 6.8616 to $1, respectively – approximately 36% weakening of the South African Rand against the US Dollar. Had the exchange rate remained the same in 2008 as that of 2007, our total South African Rand based net assets would have been approximately $4,920,000 higher. This variation in the main relates to:
• our property, plant and mine development costs which would have been approximately $10,188,000 higher; and
• our liabilities which would have been 6,958,000 higher.
Restructuring: On March 28, 2008 and through our subsidiary, EGSA, we entered into a Convertible Loan Agreement. The agreement involves EGSA receiving $3,981,932 (32,000,000 SA Rands) of proceeds. The loan principal can convert into 6.9% of the total issued and outstanding shares of ordinary capital after the conversion of the loan by EGSA. If EGSA has been unable to list its ordinary shares with the JSE within twelve months of the agreement date, then the lender can demand repayment of principal and accrued interest or conversion of the debt into the corresponding ordinary shares of EGSA. Accordingly, the loan balance outstanding at December 31, 2008 includes $395,866 of accrued interest.
On May 27, 2008, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary EGSA obtained R80 million ($8,567,145 as of December 31, 2008) six month bridging loan facility (“facility”) from Investec Bank Ltd. (“Investec”) for the acquisition of Barbrook Mines Ltd. On October 30, 2008, this facility was renegotiated and the Company received a commitment letter agreement from Investec. Under the terms of this agreement, Investec has agreed to extend the maturity date of the Company’s existing bridging loan (the “Existing Loan”) from the original maturity date of November 28, 2008 to May 29, 2009 (the “Loan Extension”).
As consideration for the Loan Extension, the Company agreed to the following:
• To grant Investec 820,000 Common Stock Purchase Warrants for the purchase of 820,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lower of $3.75 per share and the price at which the Company raises equity capital in its next offering;
• To increase the interest rate on the Existing Loan from Jibar plus 3% to Jibar plus 4%;
• To confirm that the Company has sufficient working capital for the period through the last date of the Loan Extension;
• To subordinate all shareholder loans to the Existing Loan;
• To prohibit the payment of any interest and principal on all shareholder loans;
• To prohibit further indebtedness without the prior written approval of Investec; and
• To provide Investec on or before the 5th calendar day of each month, monthly management accounts and an update on the Company’s financing strategy and provide Investec with an opportunity to review the strategy with Investec, upon Investec’s request.
The loan balance outstanding at December 31, 2008 includes $796,952 of accrued interest.
In the event that we breach our obligations to Investec Bank Ltd., we could lose our wholly owned subsidiary and all of our assets and business.
On October 28, 2008, the Company engaged IBK Capital Corporation of Toronto ("IBK") where IBK has agreed to undertake its best efforts to assist the Company in raising up to $10 million in the next three months. In the event that market conditions allow and if IBK is successful, IBK will be paid a commission on the funds raised and will receive common stock purchase warrants. In this event, the net proceeds will be used to fund expenditures on the development of the Lily project and for general and corporate working capital purposes. As of the end of March 2009, IBK was not successful and their appointment was terminated as of April 1, 2009.
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On October 13, 2008, The Company retained Collins Stewart LLC of New York (“Collins”) to act as its exclusive financial advisor with respect to a best efforts private placement transaction of up to $22,000,000 of Company securities. In the event that market conditions allow and if Collins is successful, Collins will be paid at closing for the sale of Securities a U.S. dollar cash fee equal to 6.5% of the proceeds raised and 3.0% of the common stock equivalents underlying the Securities issued in the form of common stock warrants with an exercise price equal to the purchase price of the Securities.
With funds raised and positive cash flow from its ongoing production activities, the Company believes that it will be able to repay the existing Investec bridging loan. While the Company has not received any commitment from the broker-dealer with respect to raising these additional funds and there can be no assurance that the efforts of Collins will be successful, the Company remains optimistic that if market conditions allow, it may be able to complete one or more of these planned financial transactions on reasonable terms.
On April 14, 2009, the Company received a proposal from AIMS Asset Management Sdn Bhd (“AIMS”) offering the Company the following facilities:
1. AIMS to purchase the Investec loan in full either by funding EGSA to settle the loan or by directly buying the loan from Investec
2. The period of the loan assigned to AIMS to be extended for 2 months to end July 2009
3. EGSA to be owned by a listed holding company on Australian Stock Exchange
4. Upon satisfaction of imminent listing but prior to listing, AIMS undertakes to convert this loan together with the existing convertible loan into a direct 40% stake in EGSA
This proposal was considered by the Board of Directors of EGI upon receipt and a resolution was passed approving it.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Our operations and our securities are subject to a number of substantial risks, including those described below. If any of these or other risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and operating results, as well as the trading price or value of its securities could be materially adversely affected. No attempt has been made to rank these risks in the order of their likelihood or potential harm. In addition to those general risks enumerated elsewhere in this Form 10-K, any purchaser of our common stock should also consider the following risk factors:
Risks Related to the Company’s Operations
We require additional funding which may not be available. If we are unable to obtain necessary financing on acceptable terms, we may have to curtail our current or planned operations: We require additional funding to implement our business plan. We terminated our open pit operations at our Lily Mine in December 2008 and commenced production at Lily underground effective January 2009. Additional capital will be required in order to ramp up full underground. We also will require still additional funding to explore our other properties. We may seek to obtain such funding for these activities through equity or debt financing, joint ventures or from other sources. There can be no assurances that we will be able to raise adequate funds on acceptable terms from these or other sources (in light of our current circumstances), which may hinder us from continuing or expanding our operations.
Operational hazards and responsibilities could adversely affect our operations: Our current operational activities are subject to a number of risks and hazards which include but not limited to the following:
• environmental hazards;
• industrial accidents;
• labor disputes;
• unusual or unexpected geological or operating conditions;
• changes in regulatory environment;
• natural phenomena such as severe weather conditions, floods, earthquakes; and
• other hazards
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These occurrences could result in significant damage to, or destruction of, mineral properties or production equipment, personal injury or death, environmental damage, delays in mining, monetary losses and possible legal liability. The occurrence of these operational hazards could adversely affect our mining operations by limiting production or the closure of the mines themselves.
We are not insured against any losses or liabilities that could arise from our operations either because insurance is unavailable or because the premium cost is excessive. The payment of such liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and, depending on the extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of our assets and operations: Exploration for gold involves hazards, which could result in us incurring substantial losses and liabilities to third parties for pollution, accidents and other hazards. We have public liability insurance of $1,500,000, but if we incur uninsured losses or liabilities, the funds available for the implementation of its business plan will be reduced and our assets may be jeopardized. The payment of such liabilities may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and, depending on the extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of our assets and operations.
The Bank Feasibility Study (“BFS”) contain estimates and assumptions regarding the feasibility of our mining operations which may later prove to be inaccurate as additional information becomes available: While we believe that the BFS was conducted in a responsible fashion and the estimates, assumptions, and methodology of the BFS follows standards that are consistent with industry practice, the amount of Reserves, Proven Reserves, and other projections may be later significantly reduced as we obtain additional information. The extent of any reduction in these estimates and their magnitude can not be known at this time. We are aware that estimates in the mining industry can be subject to dramatic changes. For these reasons, we can not assure you that we will not later discover that our estimates need to be significantly reduced as we complete further work on our mining properties.
Our ability to discover a viable and economic mineral reserve on our properties is subject to numerous factors, most of which are beyond our control and are not predictable. If we are unable to discover such reserves, it most likely will not be able to establish a profitable commercial mining operation on these properties: Exploration for gold is speculative in nature, involves significant financial risks and is frequently unsuccessful. Few properties that are explored are ultimately developed into commercially producing mines. Our long-term profitability will be, in part, directly related to the cost and success of exploration programs. Our gold exploration programs entail risks relating to the following:
• location of economic ore bodies;
• development of appropriate metallurgical process;
• receipt of necessary government approvals; and
• construction of mining and processing facilities at sites chosen for mining.
The commercial viability of a mineral deposit is dependent on a number of factors including, but not limited to, the following:
• price of gold;
• exchange rates;
• particular attributes of the deposit (i.e. size, grade and proximity to infrastructure);
• financing costs;
• taxation;
• royalties;
• land tenure;
• land use;
• water use;
• availability and cost of power source;
• importing and exporting gold; and
• environmental protection.
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The effect of these factors and their magnitude cannot be accurately predicted and any one of which could adversely affect our ability to operate. Further, we have little or no control over these variables.
Our ability to become and remain profitable, should we become profitable, will be dependent on our ability to locate, explore, develop and mine additional properties. There is intense competition for the acquisition of gold properties. If we are unable to accomplish this, we most likely will not be able to be profitable on a long-term basis: Gold properties eventually become depleted or uneconomical to continue mining. As a result, our long-term success is dependent in large part on its ability to acquire, discover, develop and mine new properties. The acquisition of gold properties and their exploration and development are subject to intense competition. There are many larger companies with greater financial resources, larger staff, more experience and more equipment for exploration and development that may be in a better position than us to compete for such mineral properties. If we are unable to locate, develop and economically mine new properties, we most likely will not be able to be profitable on a long-term basis. Further, given the competition that we face from these larger companies, we cannot assure you that we can achieve or sustain profitability or if we do, that we can sustain it.
Our property interests are located in South Africa. The risk of doing business in a foreign country could adversely affect its results of operations and financial condition: We face risks normally associated with any conduct of business in foreign countries, including various levels of political and economic risk. The occurrence of one or more of these events could have a material adverse impact on our current and future operations which, in turn, could have a material adverse impact on its future cash flows, earnings, results of operations and financial condition. These risks include the following:
• prevalence of various diseases at the mining sites;
• security concerns;
• adverse weather such as rainy season;
• labor disputes;
• uncertain or unpredictable political and economic environments;
• war and civil disturbances;
• changes in laws or policies;
• mining policies;
• monetary policies;
• unlinking of rates of exchange to world market prices;
• environmental regulations;
• labor relations;
• return of capital;
• taxation;
• delays in obtaining or the inability to obtain necessary governmental permits;
• governmental seizure of land or mining claims;
• limitations on ownership;
• institution of laws requiring repatriation of earnings;
• increased financial costs;
• import and export regulations; and
• establishment of foreign exchange regulations.
Any such changes may affect our current mining operations and ability to undertake exploration activities in respect of present and future properties in the manner currently contemplated, as well as our ability to explore and eventually develop and operate those properties in which we have an interest or in respect of which we have obtained exploration rights to date. Certain changes could result in the confiscation of property by nationalization or expropriation without fair compensation. We do not carry any insurance for any of these risks and we have no plans to acquire any such insurance in the future.
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There are uncertainties as to title matters in the mining industry. Any defects in such title may cause us to forfeit its rights in mineral properties and could jeopardize its business operations: If the title to or our rights of ownership in our properties, prospects and/or claims are challenged or impugned by third parties, or the properties, prospects and/or claims in which we have an interest are subject to prior transfers or claims, such title defects could cause us to loose our rights in such properties. If we lose our rights in and to any of our mineral properties, our business operations could be jeopardized. We may not have the financial resources to protect and assert our legal claims in such properties.
In the event that we breach our obligations to Investec, we may lose our wholly-owned subsidiary EGSA and thereby lose all of our assets: While we believe that the financing arrangement with Investec was prudent and appropriate, we have incurred a risk that we are unable to repay Investec the U.S. $10 million bridging loan on or before May 29, 2009 or in the event that we breach our obligations to Investec, Investec has the right to our wholly owned subsidiary, EGSA, and in that event we could lose all of our assets and business. As a result and in that event, any person who acquires our Common Stock would lose all or substantially all of their investment.
Our current and planned operations require permits and licenses from various governmental authorities. If we are unable to obtain and maintain such requisite permits, licenses and approvals, our business operations and ability to become profitable may be adversely affected: Such permits and licenses are subject to change in regulations and in various operating circumstances. We cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain or maintain in force all necessary permits and licenses that may be required to conduct exploration or commence construction or operation of mining facilities at properties to be explored or to maintain continued operations at economically justifiable costs. Further, certain of our mineral rights and interests are subject to government approvals. In all such cases such approvals are, as a practical matter, subject to the discretion of the South African government or governmental officials. No assurance can be given that we will be successful in obtaining any or all of such approvals. Our inability to obtain and maintain the requisite permits, licenses and approvals could materially and adversely affect our operations and ability to become profitable.
Gold prices can fluctuate on a material and frequent basis due to numerous factors beyond the Company’s control. Our ability to generate profits from operations could be materially and adversely affected by such fluctuating prices: The profitability of our current and future gold mining operations is significantly affected by changes in the market price of gold. Between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2008, the “fixed price” for gold on the London Exchange has fluctuated between $608.40 and $1,011.25 per ounce. Gold prices fluctuate on a daily basis and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:
• level of interest rates,
• rate of inflation,
• central bank sales; and
• world supply of gold
Each of these factors can cause significant fluctuations in gold prices. Such external factors are in turn influenced by changes in international investment patterns and monetary systems and political developments. The price of gold has historically fluctuated widely and, depending on the price of gold, revenues from mining operations may not be sufficient to offset the costs of such operations. We have no means of controlling or influencing any of these factors and there is no likelihood that we will achieve any such control or influence in the future.
Gold is sold in South Africa in South African Rands. If applicable currency exchange rates fluctuate our revenues and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected: All of the gold that we produce is required to be sold to The Rand Refinery Ltd. which is a South African corporation and the world’s largest gold refinery. Such sales are paid for with South African Rands. We also incur a significant amount of our expenses which are payable in South African Rands. As a result of the required utilization of the South African Rand, our financial performance is affected by fluctuations in the value of the South African Rand to the U.S. Dollar. At the present time, we have no plan or policy to utilize forward contracts or currency options to minimize this exposure, and even if these measures are implemented there can be no assurance that such arrangements will be available, be cost effective or be able to fully offset such future currency risks.
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Dependence upon Key Executives and Employees: Our success depends to a great extent upon the continued successful performance of key executives and employees in general and specifically Mr. Michael McChesney. Mr. McChesney is presently employed by us as our President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. McChesney also serves as one of our directors. If Mr. McChesney and certain other present key executives and employees are unable to perform their duties for any reason, our ability to operate in South Africa will be materially adversely effected. We do not have a key man life insurance policy on the life of Mr. McChesney or any other key executives and employees and we have no present plans to acquire any such policies.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
See pages beginning with page F-1.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures: We conducted an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. The term “disclosure controls and procedures”, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in the reports it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures also include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded as of December 31, 2008, that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to a reasonable assurance level of achieving such objectives. However, it should be noted that the design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions, regardless of how remote.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting: Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The internal controls for the Company are provided by executive management’s review and approval of all transactions. Our internal control over financial reporting also includes those policies and procedures that:
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets;
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(2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with the authorization of our management; and
(3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of our internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operational effectiveness of these controls.
Based on this assessment, management has concluded that as of December 31, 2008, our internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting: There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2008, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B. Other Information
None
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PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The directors and executive officers currently serving EGI are as follows:
Name | Age | Positions Held and Tenure |
Michael McChesney | 58 | Director, President and Chief Executive Officer since October 2005 |
Tamer Muftizade | 56 | Director and Chief Financial Officer since October 2005 |
Dr. William Morton Stear | 62 | Director and Chief Technical Officer since October 2005 |
Maurice Emery | 55 | Director since January 2006 |
George Kanaan | 62 | Director since February 2007 |
Christopher Robbins | 38 | Director since July 2008 |
Robert McDermott | 64 | Director from October 2005 to February 2007 |
Derrick Short | 42 | Secretary since October 2005 |
The Directors named above will serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders, or until their successors have been elected. Officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors unless such officers have specific employment agreements which provide for a definitive employment term. The Company presently has employment agreements with its President, its Chief Financial Officer, its Chief Technical Officer and its Secretary each of which had a period of three years commencing January 1, 2006. These employment agreements have been extended for a period of one year commencing January 1, 2008.
Each of the foregoing persons may be deemed a “promoter” of the Company, as that term is defined in the rules and regulations promulgated under the Securities Act 1933. Additionally, one of the minority shareholders of the Company, Zenith Premier Limited, is also deemed to be a “promoter” of the Company.
Biographical Information
Michael McChesney, age 59, has been the Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the Company from October 2005 to the present. Mr. McChesney was educated in Johannesburg, South Africa where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1973 and a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1975. Mr. McChesney is a registered Professional Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa and is a member of the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. He has over 30 years of experience in engineering, mine management and corporate management of various South African mining companies. Mr. McChesney has held various senior positions in mining companies in South Africa including the position as Chief Executive Officer of several mining companies. His responsibilities have included mineral exploration, feasibility studies, engineering design, project management, operations and general management. Recently Mr. McChesney has been involved in establishing and developing a number of gold mining companies in Southern Africa. With respect to the previous five years, Mr. McChesney has held the following positions:
2006 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: January 1, 2006
Job Title: Chief Executive Officer and Director
1995 - Present: Cheston Minerals (Pty) Ltd
Date of Employment: March 1, 1995
Job Title: Managing Director
52
Tamer Muftizade, age 56, has been the Chief Financial Officer and a Director of the Company from September 2005 to the present. Mr. Muftizade was educated in London, England and received a Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy with Honors from the City of London Polytechnic, School of Business Studies in 1974. Mr. Muftizade is a Chartered Accountant and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales with 30 years of experience in international accounting and auditing in both public practice and private industry. Mr. Muftizade has held a variety of senior positions for clients and employers in both Europe and the Middle East. He has served as an Audit Manager, an Audit Leader, as Chief Internal Auditor and Chief Financial Officer for various public clients and private employers. Mr. Muftizade has worked for various oil and gas companies and precious metal resource companies. Most recently, Mr. Muftizade served as a management and financial consultant to a U.S. corporation, Cresset Precious Metals, Inc., which conducted gold mining operations in Egypt. Mr. Muftizade presently serves as a director of Zenith Premier Ltd. which also is a shareholder of the Company. With respect to the previous five years, Mr. Muftizade has held the following positions:
2006 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: January 1, 2006
Job Title: Chief Financial Officer and Director
2000 - Present: Zenith Premier Limited
Date of Employment: April 26, 2000
Job Title: Management Consultant
Job Title: Chief Financial Officer and Director from May 2005
2004 - 2005: Crystalix Group International, Inc.
Date of Employment: July, 2004
Job Title: Chief Financial Officer of European subsidiary
and a Director of the US corporation. This
corporation is a reporting company listed on the
NASD OTC Bulletin Board and is involved in
sub-surface laser engraving inside crystal glass
for the retail, corporate and photographic markets
Dr. William Stear, age 62, has been the Chief Technical Officer and a Director of the Company from October 2005 to the present. Dr. Stear is a graduate of various universities in South Africa, namely the University of Stellenbosch, the University of the Witwatersrand and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. His post-graduate qualifications include a Doctorate (PhD) in Sedimentary Geology in 1980, a Master of Science degree, cum laude, in Economic Geology in 1976, a Master of Science degree in Mining Engineering in 1986 and a Master of Philosophy degree, cum laude, in Ancient Cultures in 2006. Dr. Stear is a registered Natural Scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions, a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, a Fellow of the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and a Fellow of the Geological Society of South Africa. He is an internationally acknowledged “Competent Person” which is the professional designation as an “Expert” in his particular professional discipline. Dr. Stear has more than 35 years of experience in mineral exploration, mining geology and mineral economics, most of which has been in a management and advisory capacity. Dr. Stear's professional career has included the analysis and planning of gold mining projects. He has held various senior positions in major mining companies in South Africa, including Exploration Manager and Consulting Mining Geologist. He also has served on the board of directors of various resource companies. He has founded and for almost two decades, managed a mineral industry consultancy company which specializes in independent technical and economic evaluations of mining companies and mineral projects. As an independent consultant he has further developed related expertise in merchant banking and resource investment. With respect to the previous five years, Dr. Stear has held the following positions:
2006 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: January 1, 2006
Job Title: Chief Technical Officer and Director
53
2005 – 2006: Willo & Associates cc
Date of Employment: March 1, 2005
Job Title: Member (Mining Consultant)
1997 - 2005: Venmyn Rand (Pty) Limited
Date of Employment: September 1, 1988
Job Title: Executive Director of Mining
1996 - 1997: Rand Merchant Bank Resources (a division of Rand Merchant Bank Ltd.)
Date of Employment: April 1, 1996
Job Title: Deputy Chairman of RMB Resources
1988 - 1996: Rand Merchant Bank Resources (a division of Rand Merchant Bank Ltd.)
Date of Employment: April 1, 1996
Job Title: Deputy Chairman of RMB Resources
Maurice Emery, age 55, has been a director of the Company from January 2006 to present. Mr. Emery is a Swiss Certified Public Accountant. During his earlier working career in Switzerland, Mr. Emery worked for Union Suisse Assurances, a Swiss insurance company. He also worked as an accountant for the Basle Cantonal Hospital and for a private real estate management company. Since 1986 to present Mr. Emery has served as the Managing Director of Kestrel S.A., a Swiss company which provides international trust, company and investment advisory services to a wide variety of international clients that also include various mining companies. These mining company clients have permitted Mr. Emery to develop specialized experience and expertise in the mining industry. Mr. Emery has at various times served on the Board of Directors of several public mining companies which are listed on the Johannesburg and London Stock Exchanges. With respect to the previous five years, Mr. Emery has held the following positions:
2006 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: January 1, 2006
Job Title: Director
1986 - Present: Kestrel S.A.
Date of Employment: April 28, 1988
Job Title: Director
George Kanaan, age 62, has been a director of the Company from February 2007 to present. Mr. Kanaan holds a MSc (Civil Engineering) degree from the Carnegie-Mellon University, Pennsylvania and a MBA degree from the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut. He was Candidate for the degree of Doctor in Business Administration at the Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration and was a Registered Professional Engineer in the states of New York and Connecticut. Mr. Kanaan started his career with Citibank and was appointed as General Manager heading the London branch of Citibank NA/Saudi American Bank from inception. Mr. Kanaan also headed, as its CEO, the Private Asset Management Company of one of the most prominent members of the Saudi royal family. With respect to the previous five years, Mr. Kanaan has held the following positions:
2007 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: February 17, 2007
Job Title: Director
1997 - Present: Resource Consolidated Limited
Date of Employment: May 1, 1997
Job Title: President. This corporation is a management consulting company
54
Christopher Robbins, age 38, has been a director of the Company from July 2008 to present. Mr. Robbins holds a BSc (Marketing) degree and a MBA degree (Banking and finance) from Dowling College, Oakdale. Mr. Robbins has worked as a Market Maker on the Nasdaq OTC marketplace, making equity markets in over 300 issues from large cap to micro-cap. From Nasdaq, Mr Robbins moved to the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Utilizing his experience in finance and as an equity trader Mr. Robbins has focused on private equity investments, in public and private corporations. With respect to the previous five years, Mr. Robbins has held the following positions:
2008 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: July 2008
Job Title: Director
1999 - Present: Ryan Capital Management
Date of Employment: September 1999
Job Title: Executive Vice President
Robert McDermott, age 64, served as a director of the Company from October 2005 to February 2007 when he resigned for personal reasons.
Derrick Short, age 42, has been the Secretary of the Company from October 2005 to the present. Mr. Short was educated in Pretoria, South Africa where he graduated with a Bachelor of Accounting Science degree from the University of South Africa in 1992. Mr. Short was initially trained as an auditor after completing his compulsory work experience with a major accounting firm before moving into the mining industry. He has over 15 years experience in the mining industry and has held various positions including financial, administrative, budgetary control and general management positions. Most recently Mr. Short has served as the Finance Director for the Company’s South African subsidiaries. With respect to the previous five years, Mr. Short has held the following positions:
2007 - Present: Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
Date of Employment: January 1, 2007
Job Title: Corporate Secretary
1999 – 2005: Cheston Minerals (Pty) Ltd
Date of Employment: February 15, 1999
Job Title: Financial Manager
Compliance with Section 16(a) of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934: To our knowledge, during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, based solely on a review of such materials as are required by the Securities and Exchange Commission, no officer, director or beneficial holder of more than ten percent of our issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock failed to timely file with the Securities and Exchange Commission any form or report required to be so filed pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Meetings And Committees Of The Board: Our Board of Directors is responsible for the management and direction of our company and for establishing broad corporate policies. A primary responsibility of the Board is to provide effective governance over our affairs for the benefit of our stockholders. In all actions taken by the Board, the Directors are expected to exercise their business judgment in what they reasonably believe to be the best interests of our company. In discharging that obligation, Directors may rely on the honesty and integrity of our senior executives and our outside advisors and auditors.
No director of the Company is also currently a director of any company registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or any company registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
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The Board of Directors and the Audit Committee of the Board meet periodically throughout the year to receive and discuss operating and financial reports presented by our executive officers as reports by experts and other advisors. The Board held four meetings during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008. All directors attended 90% or more of the aggregate meetings.
In fiscal 2008, the Audit Committee, consisting of all of the two members of the Board of Directors, met on one occasions without management present.
Our Board of Directors has no standing nominating committee because this function is handled by the Board of Directors. Nominees to the Board of Directors are selected by the Board of Directors based on current business and industry knowledge as well as general business knowledge.
Audit Committee and Audit Committee Expert: The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors consists of Maurice Emery, Committee Chairman, and George Kanaan. The Board of Directors has determined that all two members are independent directors as (i) defined in Rule 10A-3(b)(1)(ii) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and (ii) under Section 121B(2)(a) of the AMEX Company Guide (although our securities are not listed on the American Stock Exchange or any other national exchange). The Audit Committee met on one occasion in fiscal 2008. Both committee members were present at the meeting.
Mr. Emery serves as the financial expert as defined in Securities and Exchange Commission rules on the committee. We believe Messrs. Shaw, and Kanaan to be independent of management and free of any relationship that would interfere with their exercise of independent judgment as members of this committee. The principal functions of the Audit Committee are to (i) assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibility relating to the annual independent audit of our consolidated financial statements, the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm and the evaluation of the independent registered public accounting firm’s qualifications, independence and performance (ii) prepare the reports or statements as may be required by the securities laws, (iii) assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibility relating to the integrity of our financial statements and financial reporting process and our system of internal accounting and financial controls, (iv) discuss the financial statements and reports with management, including any significant adjustments, management judgments and estimates, new accounting policies and disagreements with management, and (vi) review disclosures by independent accountants concerning relationships with us and the performance of our independent accountants.
Remuneration Committee: Our Remuneration Committee consists of Messrs. McChesney, Stear and Muftizade. The principal functions of the Remuneration Committee are to advise and make recommendations to our Board of Directors regarding matters relating to the compensation of directors, officers and senior management. The Compensation Committee met on one occasion in fiscal 2008. All committee members were present at the meeting.
Communication with the Board of Directors: Interested parties wishing to contact our Board of Directors may do so by writing to the following address: Board of Directors, 1660 Hotel Circle North, Suite 207, San Diego, CA 92108-2808, Attn: Derrick Short, Secretary. All letters received will be categorized and processed by Mr. Short and then forwarded to our Board of Directors.
Code of Ethics: We adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to our officers, directors and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. The Code of Ethics is referred to in the Corporate Governance section on our Website at www.easterngoldfields.com. If we make any substantive amendments to this code of ethics or grant any waiver, including any implicit waiver, from a provision of the code to our chief executive officer, principal financial officer or principal accounting officer, we will disclose the nature of such amendment or waiver on that Website or in a report on Form 8-K.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The following table sets forth information on the remuneration of our chief executive officer and our four most highly compensated executive officers who served as executive officers at the end of December 31, 2008 and earned in excess of $100,000 per annum during any part of our last three fiscal years:
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(1) The above listed officers joined the Company in October 2005. None of these officers received any compensation directly from the Company for fiscal 2005. No compensation was paid to the previous officers of the Company for the 2003 and 2004 fiscal years.
(2) All of the above listed officers entered into three-year employment contracts with the Company effective as of January 1, 2006. All of these employment contracts were extended for one-year effective January 1, 2009.
The Company’s current officers and directors joined the Company in October 2005 but the Company did not pay and these officers did not accrue any cash compensation for their services during the year ending December 31, 2005. In place of any cash compensation, the Company granted stock options to its officers as follows: (1) options to purchase 150,000 shares of the Company’s common stock to Michael McChesney, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer; (2) options to purchase 100,000 shares to Tamer Muftizade, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer; (3) options to purchase 100,000 shares to Dr. William Stear, the Company’s Chief Technical Officer; and (4) options to purchase 80,000 shares to Derrick Short, the Company’s Secretary. At the time of the grant of these stock options, the Company’s Board of Directors sought to provide a sufficient incentive arrangement for each member of the Company’s management while also conserving the Company’s available cash resources.
Further and during the year ending December 31, 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors approved annual compensation to the Company’s officers as follows: (A) $213,000 as cash compensation and $10,000 as directors’ fees to Michael McChesney, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer; (B) $171,000 as cash compensation, $10,000 as directors’ fees and 50,000 stock awards to Tamer Muftizade, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer; (C) $180,000 as cash compensation, $10,000 as directors’ fees and 170,000 stock awards to Dr. William Stear, the Company’s Chief Technical Officer; and (D) $156,000 as cash compensation and 15,000 stock awards to Derrick Short, the Company’s Secretary. All of the compensation paid to the Company’s officers during 2008 was paid pursuant to the terms of the three year employment agreements that the Company entered into with each of them.
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Compensation of Non-Executive Directors: Non-executive directors do not receive compensation but are reimbursed for their expenses for each meeting of the board that they attend.
Stock Option Plan: In October 2005, the Company’s Board adopted the 2005 Stock Grant and Option Plan (the “Plan”) in order to provide incentives to Directors, employees and others rendering services to the Company. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, no stock options were exercised under this Plan. This Plan authorizes the granting of up to 850,000 stock options to Officers, Directors, employees and consultants. As of December 31, 2008, 850,000 options have been granted to twelve individuals at an exercise price of $1.50 per share, with options vesting incrementally through October 28, 2008. The first exercisable date for these options, and, amounting to 33 1/3% of the amount of grant was October 28, 2006. On October 9, 2008, the Board of Directors approved the extension of the Company's 2005 Stock Option Plan so that, as extended, the 2005 Stock Option Plan shall not expire until October 28, 2010.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The following table sets forth information relating to the beneficial ownership of the Company common stock by those persons beneficially holding more than 5% of the Company’s common stock, by the Company’s directors and executive officers, and by all of the Company’s directors and executive officers as a group as of December 31, 2008:
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(1) “Beneficial Owner” means having or sharing, directly or indirectly (i) voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting, or (ii) investment power, which includes the power to dispose or to direct the disposition, of shares of the common stock of an issuer. The definition of beneficial ownership includes shares, underlying options or warrants to purchase common stock, or other securities convertible into common stock, that currently are exercisable or convertible or that will become exercisable or convertible within 60 days. Unless otherwise indicated, the beneficial owner has sole voting and investment power.
(2) Percentages are based on 9,404,986 common shares issued and outstanding as of April 3, 2009.
(3) Mr. McChesney is a trustee of the Chesnut Trust and sole shareholder of Cheston Minerals (Pty) Limited which collectively own 2,332,592 Class A Preference Shares of EGI’s South African subsidiary corporation, EGSA. Subject to a yet to be executed offer and acceptance documents, these entities may collectively be entitled to the economic benefits associated with a maximum total of 2,332,592 EGI common shares.
(4) Dr. Stear is the trustee of the Willo Stear Family Trust which owns 103,763 Class A Preference Shares of EGI’s South African subsidiary corporation, EGSA. Subject to a yet to be executed offer and acceptance documents, this trust may be entitled to the economic benefits associated with a maximum total of 103,763 EGI common shares.
(5) Mr. Emery is the principal shareholder of Kestrel S.A. which holds a total of 15,000 shares.
(6) Mr. Short is the trustee of the Zonika Short Trust which owns 132,212 Class A Preference Shares of EGI’s South African subsidiary corporation EGSA. Subject to a yet to be executed offer and acceptance documents, this trust may be entitled to the economic benefits associated with a maximum total of 132,212 EGI common shares.
(7) This amount represents 360,600 shares held directly by Mr. Ryan. This amount further includes a total of 315,000 shares held by Ryan Capital Management of which Mr. Ryan is the President and principal shareholder. This amount still further includes a total of 246,400 shares held by a brokerage firm for the benefit of Mr. Ryan.
(8) This amount represents 235,000 shares held by Zenith Premier Limited of which Mr. Nadir is the President and principal shareholder. This amount further includes a total of 426,720 shares held by various brokerage firms for the benefit of Mr. Nadir. The Company’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Tamer Muftizade, also serves as a director of Zenith Premier Limited. Mr. Muftizade is also a minority shareholder of the same entity.
(9) Mr. Emery is one of the trustees of the Stirling Trust which is the principal owner of Stirling Nominees Limited.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Services and Support Agreement with Cheston Minerals (Pty) Limited: On January 1, 2006, the Company entered into a Services and Support Agreement (the “Services Agreement”) with Cheston Minerals (Pty) Limited, a South African corporation (“CPL”). The President of the Company is the sole shareholder and President of CPL. CPL had prior to January 1, 2006, a similar agreement with the Company’s subsidiary, Eastern Goldfields Limited (“EGL”). As earlier described above, the Company elected to continue with this agreement for the remaining three months of fiscal 2005.
Beginning January 1, 2006, the Company entered into this new Services Agreement for a one year period wherein for the monthly payment of $10,000 ($15,000 from July 1, 2006 and $16,000 from July 1, 2007), CPL agreed to provide the Company the following premises, furniture, furnishings, equipment and related services, including but not limited to:
1. The 3,000 sq. ft. premises located at 8 Streak Street, Nelspruit, South Africa, for use as the Company’s administrative and corporate headquarters (the “Premises”).
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2. All of the telephones, fax machines, computers, software, furniture, office equipment and furnishings presently located at the Premises sufficient for the Company to support its business activities.
3. CPL is also required to pay for all property taxes, property, content and liability insurances for the Premises.
With respect to a conflict of interest regarding this new services agreement, the Board of Directors independent of Mr. McChesney had determined that this new services agreement was necessary, beneficial and reasonable under the circumstances. More specifically, the Company decided that in the interest of maintaining administrative continuity during the ownership transition that a commitment to a one year agreement would be advantageous. Still further, even though absent from this agreement, the Company would be required to obtain administrative offices and the associated business equipment, furniture and furnishings from third party vendors. Still further, the Company determined that the costs of these services and associated equipment rendered per the agreement represent fair market value.
Conflicts of Interest with Other Mining Companies: During 2008, Mr. McChesney resigned from his directorship in Pan African Mining (Pvt) Limited (“Panaf”), a gold producing company incorporated in Zimbabwe. Panaf is only legally able to sell its gold production to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. EGI, on the other hand, is not permitted to sell gold to Zimbabwe and is limited to the sale of its production exclusively to the Reserve Bank of South Africa. Accordingly, we believe that no conflict of interest exists.
Agreement for Consulting Services and Public Relations with Zenith Premier Limited: On January 1, 2006, the Company entered into an Agreement for Consulting Services and Public Relations (the “Consulting Agreement”) with Zenith Premier Limited, an Irish corporation (“ZPL”). ZPL and its President, Birol Nadir, are minority shareholders of the Company. One of ZPL’s directors, Tamer Muftizade, is the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and a Director. Mr. Muftizade is also a minority shareholder of ZPL.
Beginning January 1, 2006, and for a period of one year, ZPL agreed to provide the Company with corporate advice and various public relations services. As consideration for these services, the Company has agreed to pay ZPL a monthly fee of $15,000 ($16,500 from July 1, 2006). This Agreement was terminated on August 31, 2008.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
All audit and professional services provided by Mendoza Berger & Company (“MBC”), Certified Public Accountants, will be approved in advance by the Audit Committee to assure such services do not impair the auditor's independence from us. The total aggregate fees billed by MBC were $125,000 and $75,000 for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The following table shows the detailed fees billed to us by MBC for professional services rendered during these fiscal years.
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Audit Fees: Represents fees for professional services provided for the audit of our annual financial statements, services that are performed to comply with generally accepted auditing standards, and review of our financial statements included in our quarterly reports and services in connection with statutory and regulatory filings.
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Audit-Related Fees: Represents the fees for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements. The Board of Directors considers MBC to be well qualified to serve as our independent public accountants.
The Audit Committee will approve all auditing services and the terms thereof (which may include providing comfort letters in connection with securities underwriting) and non-audit services (other than non-audit services published under Section 10A(g) of the Exchange Act or the applicable rules of the SEC or the Pubic Company Accounting Oversight Board) to be provided to us by the independent auditor; provided, however, the pre-approval requirement is waived with respect to the provisions of non-audit services for us if the “de minimus” provisions of Section 10A(i)(1)(B) of the Exchange Act are satisfied. This authority to pre-approve non-audit services may be delegated to one or more members of the Audit Committee, who shall present all decisions to pre-approve an activity to the full Audit Committee at its first meeting following such decision. The Audit Committee may review and approve the scope and staffing of the independent auditors’ annual audit plan.
Tax Fees: This represents professional services rendered for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
All Other Fees: MBC was paid no other fees for professional services during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007.
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PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
(a) Financial Statements and Schedules See index to financial statements on page F-1 of this Annual Report.
All other schedules called for under regulation S-X are not submitted because they are not applicable or not required, or because the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.
(b) Exhibits
23.1 | | Consent of Mendoza Berger & Company LLP, independent registered public accountants |
| | |
31.1 | | Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 from the Company's Chief Executive Officer |
| | |
31.2 | | Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 from the Company's Chief Financial Officer |
| | |
32.1 | | Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 from the Company's Chief Executive Officer |
| | |
32.2 | | Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 from the Company's Chief Financial Officer |
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SIGNATURES
In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
EASTERN GOLDFIELDS, INC.
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Registrant)
By: /s/ Michael McChesney, Chief Executive Officer
By____________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
Date: April 15, 2009
In accordance with the Exchange Act, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
By: /s/ Michael McChesney, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
By: /s/ Tamer Muftizade, Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and Director
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
By: /s/ William Morton Stear, Chief Technical Officer and Director
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
By: /s/ Derrick Short, Corporate Secretary
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
By: /s/ Maurice Emery, Director
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
By: /s/ George Elias Kanaan, Director
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
By: /s/ Christopher Robbins, Director
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature and Title)
Date: April 15, 2009