Rox Resources Taps Byrnecut to Kickstart Youanmi Underground Mining
Rox Resources has appointed Byrnecut Australia as the underground mining contractor for its Youanmi Gold Project, marking a key step toward production. The two-part contract will see initial exploration decline development followed by full-scale mining upon a positive investment decision.
- Byrnecut awarded two-part underground mining contract at Youanmi
- Part A focuses on United North exploration decline development, valued at AUD 10.8 million
- Part B to commence post-Final Investment Decision, covering Pollard and Youanmi declines
- Definitive Feasibility Study due November 2025
- Project advancing with approvals, dewatering, and preparatory works
Strategic Contractor Appointment
Rox Resources Limited has taken a significant stride forward in developing its 100%-owned Youanmi Gold Project in Western Australia by appointing Byrnecut Australia as the underground mining contractor. This move follows a competitive tender process and signals Rox’s commitment to advancing its pathway to production.
The contract is structured in two parts, Part A involves the development of the United North exploration decline, a critical infrastructure piece that will enable in-fill drilling and resource extension. This phase, valued at approximately AUD 10.8 million, is fully funded from Rox’s existing cash reserves and is expected to complete the first drill platform by July 2026.
Pathway to Production and Project Progress
Part B of the contract is contingent on a positive Final Investment Decision (FID), anticipated in the first quarter of 2026. It will focus on developing the Pollard and Youanmi declines and supporting ongoing production activities over a four-year term. This phased approach allows Rox to de-risk early stages of the project while preparing for full-scale underground mining operations.
Rox is progressing well on multiple fronts, dewatering of the United North pit is underway, major clearing permits have been secured, and preparatory works such as site setup and camp expansion contracts are in place. The Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), due in November 2025, will incorporate updated mine designs and resource estimates, providing a clearer picture of the project’s economic potential.
Industry Expertise and Project Potential
Byrnecut’s reputation as a tier-one global mining contractor adds credibility and operational expertise to the Youanmi project. Rox’s Managing Director Phill Wilding highlighted the appointment as a milestone, emphasizing the quality of the Youanmi asset and the strategic importance of the United North decline in establishing underground access for drilling and production.
The Youanmi Gold Project boasts a global mineral resource of 12.1 million tonnes at 5.6 grams per tonne gold, equating to 2.2 million ounces. Rox’s focus on high-grade, high-margin underground mining positions it well to become a significant gold producer in Western Australia, a region known for its rich mineral endowment.
Looking Ahead
With approvals advancing and key technical studies underway; including processing plant design, metallurgical testing, and tailings dam engineering; Rox is methodically building the foundation for a successful mine start-up. The upcoming DFS will be a pivotal document, shaping investor confidence and guiding financing discussions.
While the project’s timeline remains subject to regulatory approvals and market conditions, Rox’s clear execution plan and strong cash position provide a solid platform for the next phase of development.
Bottom Line?
Rox’s appointment of Byrnecut and steady progress set the stage for Youanmi’s transition from exploration to production, but the Final Investment Decision remains the critical next hurdle.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Rox secure project financing in time to meet the planned FID in early 2026?
- How will updated resource estimates in the DFS impact the mine plan and production targets?
- What are the key risks around permitting and operational ramp-up for the underground declines?
