In a significant move for the Canadian mining sector, Callinex Mines Inc. (TSXV: CNX, OTCQX: CLLXF) has submitted an application for an Advanced Exploration Permit (AEP) to the Province of Manitoba for its Rainbow deposit at the Pine Bay Camp, located 16km from Flin Flon, MB. This development marks a crucial milestone in the company’s journey towards long-term project development and potential full-scale production.
The AEP submission, announced on March 20, 2025, is set to facilitate a 10,000 tonne bulk sample from the Rainbow deposit. This sample will be used for comprehensive metallurgical test work, laying the groundwork for future underground exploration activities.
Max Porterfield, President and CEO of Callinex, expressed enthusiasm about this step forward. “The ability to conduct metallurgical test work on a 10,000 tonne bulk sample from the Rainbow deposit represents not only a crucial advancement in our exploration efforts but also paves the way for production,” he stated.
The Rainbow deposit, part of Callinex’s Pine Bay Project, has shown promising results. According to the maiden mineral resource estimate announced in July 2023, the deposit boasts an Indicated Mineral Resource of 3.44 Mt at 3.59% copper equivalent (CuEq), containing 272.4 Mlb CuEq. Additionally, it has an Inferred Mineral Resource of 1.28 Mt at 2.95% CuEq, containing 83.4 Mlb CuEq.
Callinex has been working closely with AECOM, a consulting firm experienced in permitting mines in Manitoba, and Tala Consulting, a mining specialty engineering firm. The company has completed engineering work to build a ramp to the deposit for the bulk sample extraction and future underground exploration. Environmental baseline studies, including assessments of wildlife, vegetation, water and sediment quality, and species at risk, have also been conducted.
The company’s proactive approach extends beyond the Rainbow deposit. Porterfield mentioned their focus on expanding high-grade copper resources by “aggressively testing high priority target areas,” including recently acquired historic near-surface copper and gold deposits at the Pine Bay Camp.
Callinex Mines Inc. has positioned itself as a significant player in the Canadian mining industry. With a portfolio that includes the Pine Bay Project, the Nash Creek Project in New Brunswick, and the Point Leamington Deposit in Newfoundland, the company is advancing its base and precious metals rich deposits in established Canadian mining jurisdictions.
As the mining sector continues to evolve, Callinex’s progress with the Rainbow deposit represents a noteworthy development in the pursuit of high-grade copper resources. The company now awaits feedback from Manitoba’s regulatory authorities on their AEP application, a response that could significantly impact the future of copper mining in the Flin Flon Mining District.
