Western Gold Resources Commits to 35,300m Drilling Ahead of Q4 Production
Western Gold Resources has appointed VM Drilling to execute a major 35,300-metre grade control and infill drilling campaign at its Gold Duke Project, aiming to fast-track production readiness and enhance resource confidence.
- VM Drilling selected after competitive tender for Gold Duke drilling
- 35,300 metres of grade control and infill drilling planned over 8 weeks
- Drilling to eliminate future grade control needs during production
- Use of advanced, fuel-efficient Epiroc Smartroc D65 rigs
- Local workforce engagement supports regional employment
Strategic Contractor Appointment
Western Gold Resources (ASX – WGR) has confirmed VM Drilling Pty Ltd as the preferred contractor for a substantial drilling program at its Gold Duke Project in Western Australia. The decision followed a rigorous tender process involving several experienced drilling firms based in the Goldfields region, underscoring WGR’s commitment to leveraging local expertise and operational efficiency.
Program Scope and Objectives
The upcoming campaign will cover 35,300 metres of grade control and infill drilling, targeting key deposits within Stage 1 of the project, including Emu, Eagle, Golden Monarch, and Gold King. Scheduled to commence mid-August and conclude within eight weeks, the program aims to bolster geological confidence and upgrade the classification of existing resources under the JORC code.
Importantly, this upfront drilling strategy is designed to remove the need for grade control drilling during the production phase, thereby streamlining mine scheduling and reducing operational activity on site. By fully drilling all pits in advance, WGR expects to gain greater flexibility in managing extraction sequences and improve overall project efficiency.
Technology and Environmental Considerations
VM Drilling will deploy Epiroc Smartroc D65 rigs, known for their high penetration rates and onboard rod carousels that facilitate continuous drilling. These rigs also offer approximately 30% lower fuel consumption compared to previous models, aligning with Western Gold Resources’ environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives by reducing the carbon footprint of drilling operations.
Local Impact and Operational Readiness
A significant portion of the drilling workforce will be sourced locally from the Goldfields region, supporting regional employment and community engagement. Preparatory activities, including survey mark-ups, are well advanced, ensuring the site is ready for a seamless start to drilling. This aligns with WGR’s broader rapid path-to-production timetable, with mining operations targeted to commence in late Q4 2025.
Looking Ahead
Western Gold Resources is poised to release an updated scoping study in the coming weeks, which is expected to reveal improved project economics. This drilling program represents a critical step in de-risking the project and building operational momentum as the company moves closer to development readiness.
Bottom Line?
As drilling kicks off, all eyes will be on how this program reshapes Gold Duke’s production timeline and economics.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the updated scoping study impact the project's valuation and financing options?
- What contingencies are in place if drilling results differ from current resource models?
- How might fuel savings from new rigs translate into operational cost reductions?
