Total gold production for the quarter was 2% lower at 57 775oz, reflecting a 5% decline in underground production at Blyvoor, where a number of high-grade panels in the 38/29 section at No 5 Shaft were knocked out by a large seismic event on 29 May 2009. Total gold production for the year from continuing operations was 20% lower at 247 690oz, the major contributing factor being the suspension of underground mining at ERPM in the second quarter, and the downward volume adjustment at Crown, as part of the decommissioning of the Crown Tailings Deposition Facility. Attributable Mineral Resources increased by 3% from 54.7Moz in financial year 2008 to 56.4Moz in financial year 2009. Attributable Ore Reserves decreased by 24% from 7.9Moz in FY08 to 6.0Moz in FY09. Total revenue for the quarter was 22% lower at R420.7 million, due mainly to a 16% drop in the average Rand gold price received to R244 927/kg. After accounting for total cash operating costs - 9% higher at R423.2 million. Cash operating profit was 99% lower at R1.3 million. Total revenue for the year was 4% higher at R1 910.7 million, reflecting a 30% increase in the average Rand gold price received for the year to R250 589/kg. Operating profit, however, was 26% lower at R282.7 million after accounting for total cash operating costs, which were 11% higher at R1.63 billion. The directors have declared a final dividend of 5c per ordinary share for the year ended 30 June 2009, which amounts to a total final dividend payout of R18.9 million.
