Manuka Resources (ASX:MKR) has increased the ore reserve at its Wonawinta Silver Mine in New South Wales by 28% as it continues preparations to restart production.
An updated mining study increased the probable ore reserve to 7.9 million tonnes (Mt) @ 50.4 grams per tonne silver (Ag) for 12.8 million ounces (Moz), up 28% in ore tonnes and 15% in contained silver compared with the estimate released in May 2025.
The reserve comprises shallow mineralisation less than 60m deep and is based on measured and indicated mineral resources.
Wonawinta’s mineral resource estimate remains unchanged at 38.3Mt @ 41.3g/t Ag for 51Moz. Manuka says this provides scope for further reserve conversion and optimisation.
“The revised ore reserve provides additional confidence in the production restart while highlighting the quality of the existing mineral resource and the potential for further optimisation as mining recommences,” Executive Chairman Dennis Karp says.
Manuka says recommissioning of the processing plant is continuing, including staffing, operational readiness, contract finalisation, and installation of upgraded crushing and de-slime circuits. The company says the mine last operated in 2024.
Fabrication of the upgraded crushing and de-slime circuits has been completed by Bond Equipment in South Africa, with the equipment now being shipped to site for installation.
The ore reserve includes the Belah, Bimble, Boundary, Manuka, and Pothole open pits within the existing mining lease. Manuka plans to recommence through two existing pits before development of three new northern pits.
Manuka says the processing plant refurbishment is in its final stages, with silver production targeted to begin during the September 2026 quarter.
Write to France Pinzon at Mining.com.au
Images: Manuka Resources
