65 Drill Holes Reveal Up to 50.9% Al2O3 at Wuudagu D
VBX Limited has reported promising assay results from 65 drill holes at the Wuudagu D plateau, revealing a thicker and higher-grade bauxite profile than previously recorded. This discovery lies outside the current resource estimate, signaling potential for significant resource expansion.
- 65 drill holes completed at Wuudagu D plateau
- Higher Al2O3 and lower SiO2 grades than existing Wuudagu deposits
- Wuudagu D lies outside current 95.9Mt mineral resource estimate
- Drilling confirms bauxite presence from surface, aiding cost efficiency
- Remaining assay results from Wuudagu E and F plateaus pending
Exploration Breakthrough at Wuudagu D
VBX Limited (ASX – VBX) has delivered a significant update on its exploration activities at the Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia. The company announced assay results from 65 aircore drill holes at the previously untested Wuudagu D plateau, revealing a consistently thicker and higher-grade bauxite profile than seen in earlier drilling at other Wuudagu deposits.
The results highlight aluminium oxide (Al2O3) grades ranging from approximately 44.5% to over 50%, coupled with notably lower silica (SiO2) levels compared to the existing Wuudagu resource, which currently stands at 95.9 million tonnes at 39.4% Al2O3 and 13.4% SiO2. Importantly, the mineralisation at Wuudagu D is present from surface, a factor that could translate into operational efficiencies and reduced mining costs.
Expanding Resource Potential Beyond Existing Estimates
Wuudagu D is situated outside the boundaries of the current Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate, suggesting that these new findings could materially increase the overall resource base. VBX has completed over 6,000 metres of exploration and infill drilling during the second half of 2025, aiming to enhance both the size and confidence of the Wuudagu resource.
Managing Director Ryan de Franck expressed optimism about the results, stating that the drilling at Wuudagu D has uncovered the thickest and highest-grade bauxite profile the company has encountered to date. He also emphasized the strategic advantage of the bauxite being near surface, which is favourable for future mining operations.
Technical Rigor and Community Commitment
The drilling program was conducted using industry-standard aircore techniques, with samples collected at one-metre intervals and assayed by SGS Perth laboratories. Quality assurance protocols, including standards and duplicates, confirm the reliability of the assay data. The project is located on Wunambal Gaambera country near Kalumburu and is subject to a 2% gross revenue royalty.
VBX underscores its commitment to responsible exploration, environmental stewardship, and strong relationships with Traditional Owners and local communities. This approach aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing sustainability and social license to operate.
Looking Ahead
While the current results are promising, VBX is awaiting assay outcomes from the Wuudagu E and F plateaus, expected in the coming weeks. These additional data points will be critical in refining the overall resource estimate and informing development strategies for the project.
Given the global demand for aluminium and the strategic importance of low-silica bauxite, VBX’s findings at Wuudagu D could position the company well to meet growing market needs, particularly in regions focused on decarbonization and sustainable supply chains.
Bottom Line?
VBX’s Wuudagu D results mark a pivotal step toward expanding its bauxite resource, with upcoming assays set to further shape the project’s future.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the remaining assay results from Wuudagu E and F impact the overall resource estimate?
- What are the timelines and capital requirements for advancing Wuudagu D toward production?
- How will VBX manage environmental and community engagement as exploration progresses?
