Larvotto Resources has officially begun upgrading its Hillgrove processing plant in New South Wales, aiming for mid-2026 completion and a significant increase in antimony and gold production.
- Construction commenced at Hillgrove with MIQM appointed as EPCM contractor
- Early works focus on secondary crushing and tailings filtration areas
- Deconstruction of redundant equipment underway ahead of civil works
- Plant upgrade includes new crushing, regrind circuits, flotation cells, and filtered tailings facility
- Expected annual production – 40,500 ounces of gold and 4,878 tonnes of antimony
Hillgrove Upgrade Underway
Larvotto Resources Limited has taken a major step forward in its development strategy by commencing the upgrade of its Hillgrove Antimony-Gold Project processing plant in New South Wales. The company has engaged MACA-Interquip-Mintrex (MIQM) as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) contractor to lead the upgrade through to mid-2026. With equipment and construction teams now mobilised on site, early works are progressing steadily.
The initial focus has been on bulk earthworks in priority zones such as the Secondary Crushing and Tailings Filter Areas. This targeted approach aims to mitigate risks by advancing the most complex and time-sensitive activities early in the schedule. Concurrently, the deconstruction of redundant plant equipment is underway, clearing the way for detailed civil works set to begin in October 2025.
Strategic Enhancements and Environmental Focus
The upgrade program is comprehensive, incorporating installation of new crushing and regrind circuits, flotation cells, and upgraded concentrate handling facilities. Notably, the project will implement a state-of-the-art filtered tailings facility designed to support environmental rehabilitation alongside ongoing production. This reflects Larvotto’s commitment to sustainable mining practices, balancing operational efficiency with ecological responsibility.
Managing Director Ron Heeks emphasised the importance of partnering with MIQM to ensure the project is delivered safely, on time, and to a high standard. He also highlighted the cultural foundation being built on site, centred on safety, respect, and collaboration, which is critical for achieving world-class outcomes.
Production Outlook and Market Position
Once operational, Hillgrove is expected to produce approximately 40,500 ounces of gold and 4,878 tonnes of antimony annually. This positions the project as a globally significant supplier of antimony, a critical mineral increasingly sought after for its role in technology and industrial applications, as well as a notable gold producer. With both commodities trading at record prices, Hillgrove’s restart could have meaningful market implications.
The construction workforce is anticipated to ramp up progressively, peaking at around 60 personnel in the first quarter of 2026. Completion of the plant upgrade is targeted for the end of the second quarter of 2026, followed by commissioning and a production restart.
Looking Ahead
Larvotto’s broader portfolio includes other promising projects such as the Mt Isa copper-gold-cobalt project in Queensland and the Eyre multi-metals and lithium project in Western Australia, underscoring the company’s strategic focus on critical and precious minerals. The Hillgrove upgrade marks a pivotal milestone in Larvotto’s growth trajectory, with the potential to enhance its standing in the global minerals market.
Bottom Line?
As construction advances, all eyes will be on Larvotto’s ability to deliver the Hillgrove upgrade on schedule and capitalize on soaring antimony and gold demand.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Larvotto meet its mid-2026 timeline amid complex construction phases?
- How will the new filtered tailings facility impact environmental compliance and community relations?
- What are the financial implications of the upgrade on Larvotto’s capital structure and future cash flow?