Barton Gold (ASX:BGD) has expanded its phase two drilling program at the Tunkillia Gold Project in South Australia.
The company has added 10,500m to the ongoing phase two reverse circulation (RC) drilling program, bringing the total area covered to approximately 40,000m.
The decision comes after interim analysis identified the potential to extend total mineralisation at the project, increase JORC mineral resources, and increase the grade profile and classification of ‘Starter’ pit mineralisation.
Managing Director Alexander Scanlon says the company is “excited” to expand drilling to potentially increase both the quantum and grade of resources within Tunkillia’s optimised open pit outlines.
“This could materially enhance Tunkillia’s already robust economics by adding new gold and silver ounces within the existing pit mines, further reducing early cash costs per ounce, and boosting its significant early cash flow profile,” Scanlon says.
According to the May 2025 Optimised Scoping Study, the project had an annual production of approximately 120,000 ounces gold and 250,000 ounces silver.
The study also reported an unlevered pre-tax net present value of approximately $1.4 billion and an unlevered pre-tax internal rate of return of 73.2%.
Barton says all other work programs remain on track for target completion of a Prefeasibility Study before the end of calendar year 2026.
Barton Gold Holdings is a gold developer focused on expanding resources and advancing development studies across its South Australian portfolio, which includes the fully permitted Central Gawler Mill at its Challenger Gold Project.
Write to Paula Fabe at Mining.com.au
Images: Barton Gold
