Cavalier Resources and the Wangkatja Tjungula Aboriginal Corporation have completed all heritage surveys for Crawford Stage 1, enabling site preparation to begin ahead of pre-production activities targeted for Q3 2026.
- Heritage surveys completed across Crawford Stage 1 operational area
- Site preparation works to commence including heritage preservation
- Pre-production and heap leach pad development targeted for Q3 2026
- Partnership with WTAC described as historic and constructive
- Progress follows Native Title Agreement signed in December 2025
Heritage Surveys Complete, Site Prep Underway
Cavalier Resources (ASX:CVR) and the Wangkatja Tjungula Aboriginal Corporation (WTAC) have wrapped up all heritage surveys across the Crawford Gold Project's Stage 1 operational area, including the crucial access road corridor. This milestone clears the way for site preparation works, which will focus on heritage preservation activities alongside broader site establishment tasks.
These preparatory efforts mark a tangible progression toward the development of the heap leach pad and other pre-production infrastructure, currently slated for Q3 2026, pending final regulatory approvals. The completion of these surveys is a key step after the Native Title and Mining Agreement was signed in December 2025, cementing a collaborative framework between Cavalier and WTAC.
Strengthening Indigenous Partnership and Cultural Preservation
Executive Technical Director and CEO Daniel Tuffin highlighted the growing partnership, noting that the relationship with WTAC continues to deepen through on-country engagement and joint planning. Both parties have been actively involved in cultural heritage preservation and environmental management as the project advances.
The WTAC board recently described the joint outcomes as “historic,” reflecting a constructive and respectful partnership that supports both cultural and operational objectives. This collaboration is integral to managing the project's footprint responsibly as it moves closer to production at the Stage 1 open pit.
Next Steps Toward Production
Following site preparation, Cavalier intends to proceed with pre-production activities including heap leach pad development and additional site establishment works. These activities remain subject to final approvals but are targeted for commencement in Q3 2026.
The progress aligns with Cavalier's broader development strategy for the Leonora Gold Project portfolio, which includes other assets prospective for lithium, gold, and nickel. The company’s recent efforts to secure funding and improve project economics provide a backdrop of momentum as Crawford advances toward operational status.
Bottom Line?
Cavalier’s heritage survey completion and site prep kickoff at Crawford reinforce its steady march toward production, but key approvals will dictate the pace from here.
Questions in the middle?
- Will final regulatory approvals for pre-production activities proceed on schedule?
- How will the evolving partnership with WTAC influence future project phases?
- What impact will site preparation have on the timing and cost of heap leach pad development?