28 Holes at Wuudagu CNN Yield Up to 46.8% Alumina, Align with 2016 Resource

Consistent Assay Results Reinforce Wuudagu CNN Resource

VBX Limited (ASX, VBX) has provided a significant update on its Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia, releasing assay results from 28 infill drilling holes at the Wuudagu CNN deposit. These results reaffirm the quality and continuity of the deposit, closely matching the 2016 inferred mineral resource estimate of 5.5 million tonnes grading 40.1% alumina (Al2O3) and 12.0% silica (SiO2).

The drilling program, conducted on a tighter 150m by 150m grid compared to the original 300m spacing, yielded intercepts such as 6 meters at 46.8% Al2O3 and 11.6% SiO2 from surface, underscoring the high-grade nature of the bauxite. These grades are reported on an in-situ basis, with further product quality improvements expected through standard beneficiation processes.

Strategic Move Towards Definitive Feasibility Study Inclusion

VBX’s Managing Director, Ryan de Franck, highlighted that increasing the confidence in the Wuudagu CNN resource is a key focus ahead of finalising an updated mine plan. The current Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) only evaluated the Wuudagu C deposit, excluding CNN. With these consistent assay results, VBX aims to incorporate Wuudagu CNN into the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), potentially expanding the project’s resource inventory and enhancing its development profile.

The Wuudagu project benefits from a flat orebody with a low strip ratio, located just 30 kilometers from the coast on Wunambal Gaambera country near Kalumburu. The project’s 59 million tonne probable ore reserve and initial 10-year mine life position VBX well to meet growing demand for high-quality, low-silica Australian bauxite.

Robust Exploration and Quality Assurance Practices

The drilling was executed using industry-standard aircore techniques by Wallis Drilling, with samples collected over 1-meter intervals and assayed at SGS Perth. Quality control measures, including standards and laboratory repeats, confirm the reliability and precision of the assay data. The deposit’s sub-horizontal mineralisation and vertical drill holes ensure that reported intercepts closely approximate true thicknesses, providing confidence in the resource model.

VBX’s approach reflects a commitment to responsible exploration, with strong engagement with Traditional Owners and local communities. The company’s focus on sustainable development aligns with the broader global push for aluminium supply chains that support decarbonisation and technological innovation.

Market Context and Future Outlook

Aluminium demand is forecast to increase by nearly 30 million tonnes by 2030, driven by sectors such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and energy transmission. With China’s bauxite imports growing at a compound annual rate of 25% over two decades, new sources in politically stable jurisdictions like Australia are increasingly critical.

VBX’s Wuudagu project, with its high-grade, low-silica bauxite, is well positioned to capitalize on these trends. The upcoming DFS, incorporating the Wuudagu CNN deposit, will be a pivotal milestone in advancing the project towards production.