A mine in the region is celebrating a major milestone.
IAMGOLD's reporting its Côté Gold Mine near Gogama achieved its first gold pour on Easter Sunday, with IAMGOLD now shifting to ramp up production by the third quarter, hoping to reach a 90% throughput rate by the end of this year.
It's currently forecasting gold production ranging from 220,000 to 290,000 ounces, so long as it meets remaining milestones.
Employment's expected to grow to more than 500 people on site, in addition to support staff and contractors.
The mine's currently expected to have a life of 18 years, with projections annual production could reach about 370,000 ounces over that time, which would make it one of the largest operating gold mines in Canada.