The first bundles of copper produced at the Browns Oxide project, near Batchelor, have been unloaded at East Arm Port in Darwin.

Around 30 bundles of almost pure copper sheets, worth $14 thousand each, were trucked into Darwin today.

Compass Resources general manager of operations, Bob Young says the copper will be shipped overseas.

"Copper is used in electronics, for electrical equipment, for plumbing, in motor cars, TV sets, refrigerators, those type of domestic appliances."

He says the company hopes to remain operating in Batchelor for up to 15 years.

"Our current mine life is three years, but we have plans to extend it to 10 years. We do have plans to develop a larger mine with a 15 year mine life."