Saturn Metals Sets Q4 2026 Target for Apollo Hill DFS with Ausenco
Saturn Metals has appointed global engineering firm Ausenco to complete the Definitive Feasibility Study for its Apollo Hill Gold Project, aiming to advance the development of a major new gold operation in Western Australia.
- Ausenco awarded contract for Apollo Hill Definitive Feasibility Study
- DFS to incorporate updated Mineral Resource Estimate due Q2 2026
- Study completion targeted for Q4 2026
- Ausenco brings global heap leach expertise and local construction knowledge
- Apollo Hill project positioned as a large-scale, long-life gold operation
Ausenco Appointment Marks Key Milestone
Saturn Metals Limited has taken a significant step forward in the development of its flagship Apollo Hill Gold Project by appointing Ausenco, a globally recognised engineering and consulting firm, to complete the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS). This move signals Saturn’s commitment to advancing Apollo Hill towards production, leveraging Ausenco’s extensive experience in heap leach projects and local Australian construction expertise.
Building on a Strong Foundation
The DFS will be informed by an updated Mineral Resource Estimate scheduled for release in the second quarter of 2026. This updated resource will refine the project's scale and economics, providing a more detailed foundation for the engineering, mining, and metallurgical designs. Saturn’s recent Pre-Feasibility Study, published in December 2025, already painted a positive outlook for Apollo Hill, highlighting its potential as a large-scale, long-life gold operation.
Ausenco’s Expertise and Local Knowledge
Ausenco’s global footprint and deep expertise in heap leach technology are particularly valuable for Apollo Hill, where heap leaching is a key processing method. The company’s strong operational roots in Western Australia also mean it understands the local regulatory environment and construction landscape, which can help mitigate risks and streamline project delivery. Ausenco’s APAC/Africa President, Reuben Joseph, emphasised their commitment to creating a reliable and low-risk gold operation.
Looking Ahead to DFS Completion
The DFS is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026, setting the stage for Saturn Metals to make critical development decisions. This study will provide investors and stakeholders with a clearer picture of the project's viability, capital requirements, and potential returns. The collaboration with Ausenco is a vote of confidence in Apollo Hill’s prospects and a strategic move to de-risk the project as it moves closer to production.
Strategic Implications for Saturn Metals
By securing a partner with Ausenco’s pedigree, Saturn Metals is positioning Apollo Hill as a competitive player in the Western Australian gold sector. The project’s long-life potential and scale could attract further investment and support, especially as global demand for gold remains robust. However, the final outcomes will hinge on the updated resource estimate and the DFS results, which will clarify the project's economic and operational parameters.
Bottom Line?
Ausenco’s appointment accelerates Apollo Hill’s path to production, but key resource updates will shape the project’s future.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the updated Mineral Resource Estimate impact the DFS outcomes?
- What are the projected capital and operating costs emerging from the DFS?
- When might Saturn Metals move towards financing and construction decisions post-DFS?