Aquarius Platinum saw its pgm production increase by 12 per cent during the first quarter of its latest financial year, it has been confirmed.

The world's fourth-largest platinum producer posted attributable output of 123,392 oz, compared with a total of 110,474 oz during the previous three-month period.

Record output at the Mimosa mine in Zimbabwe and the ramp-up of production at the Everest facility in South Africa were the main reasons for the improved figure.

Chief Executive Stuart Murray was pleased with the "strong" performance and revealed that the company remains on track to meet its full-year production guidance.

"Our operations performed strongly during the quarter, for the most part," he said.

"Everest is ramping up nicely, Rand costs were largely contained, Mimosa achieved record production and the tailings operations both enjoyed much improved recoveries."

However, the firm experienced tragedy at the start of the quarter when five miners died at Marikana following a rockfall, causing the temporary suspension of operations.

Aquarius also decided to place the Blue Ridge mine on care and maintenance in June after two fatalities and is now working on a redevelopment plan for the facility.

Sources:



Aquarius Platinum Q1 production rises, FY on track (26/10/10)



Quick Facts: Aquarius Platinum Q1 Profit Soars (26/10/10)



Aquarius's new year off to strong start (26/10/10)

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