Western Gold Resources (ASX:WGR) has begun an expanded Scoping Study for its Gold Duke Project in Western Australia while consultations with Traditional Owners continue.
The company says it is targeting results in the September quarter.
The study will update the September 2025 Scoping Study with the December 2025 mineral resource estimate, revised geological models, current mining, and processing costs, and updated gold price assumptions.
It will also assess potential life-of-mine extensions around the Emu, Eagle, Gold King South, Golden Monarch, Joyners Find, and Comedy King areas, along with other opportunities identified from historical exploration and the company’s geological database.
Western Gold says the work will examine options to extend the projected mine life, increase mineable tonnes and contained ounces, improve production scheduling flexibility, and optimise future mining sequences.
Managing Director Cullum Winn says the heritage consultation period has provided an opportunity to further optimise Gold Duke before mining begins.
“The study will drive development planning for the expanded Stage 1 operation and future life-of-mine extensions, positioning the project to deliver enhanced long-term value,” Winn says.
Western Gold says it continues to consult Tarlka Matuwa Piarku Aboriginal Corporation, the registered native title body corporate for the Wiluna native title determination.
All cultural heritage surveys required under the project’s cultural heritage management plan have been completed, with the current consultation focused on finalising heritage management measures.
The company says key preparations for mining are substantially complete. An extended binding toll milling agreement and a letter of award appointing SSH Mining Australia for pre-mining works and mine operations remain in place.
Approvals from the Government of Western Australia’s Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation, and Safety, including the mining proposal and mine plan, also remain current.
The wholly owned Gold Duke Project lies 35km southwest of Wiluna and spans about 25km of the Joyners Find Greenstone Belt. Existing mining approvals cover the Eagle, Emu, Golden Monarch, and Gold King deposits.
Write to France Pinzon at Mining.com.au
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