** Shares of Aquirian AQN.AX rise as much as 4.4% to A$0.47, their highest level since October 13; stock last up 2.2%

** Mining services provider signs memorandum of understanding with Topgroup (Corp) Pty to establish a joint venture, Drillforce WA

** JV to create an integrated drill and blast services business

** To raise A$2.3 million ($1.50 million) through placement at an issue price of A$0.45, same as the stock's last close

** Post placement, Topgroup will own about 4.9% of co

** Stock is up 155.6% YTD, including the session's moves

($1 = 1.5375 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Anjali Singh in Bengaluru)

((anjali.singh2@thomsonreuters.com;))