Galaxy Resources announced that the Company has commenced pre-strip mining at its Mt Cattlin Spodumene Project ahead of schedule.

Galaxy Resources Managing Director, Mr Iggy Tan, said a four month pre-strip mining period was on track and would guarantee supply of run of mine ore for the commissioning of the Mt Cattlin processing plant during the third quarter of 2010.

"Both the Company and the mining contractor, Orionstone Pty Ltd (Orionstone) have worked diligently to successfully implement all elements of a 'Business Readiness Plan ' and allow mining to commence in a timely manner," he said.

"We have been particularly pleased with the ability of Orionstone to quickly mobilise key mining equipment which is a major reason for the pre-strip commencing ahead of schedule."

Orionstone's mining fleet at the Mt Cattlin Project comprises a Hitachi 1800 excavator, four Caterpillar 777D dump trucks, a Caterpillar D10 dozer and other ancillary equipment as well as plant operators and maintenance staff.

"The Mt Cattlin workforce will deliver significant economic benefits to the south east coastal region," Mr Tan said.

"By April, the workforce is expected to grow to approximately 150 which will include a major proportion from Ravensthorpe and surrounding areas."