Avira Resources Names Andrew van Bentum as CEO to Accelerate Gold Project Growth
Avira Resources has appointed Andrew van Bentum as CEO, bringing over 25 years of expertise to lead its gold and base metals exploration strategy across Western Australia and Sweden.
- Andrew van Bentum appointed CEO effective 1 July 2026
- Over 25 years’ experience in Australian resources sector
- Focus on advancing Mt Cattlin gold-copper project
- Monthly remuneration set at $20,000 with 14-day notice
- Projects span Western Australia and Sweden
Experienced Leader Takes Helm at Avira Resources
Avira Resources Limited (ASX:AVW) has appointed Mr Andrew van Bentum as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 July 2026. Van Bentum, who has been serving as Consulting Chief Operating Officer since October 2025, brings a wealth of experience from over 25 years in mineral exploration and project development, particularly in gold, nickel, lithium, and base metals.
His previous senior leadership roles at ASX-listed companies such as IGO Limited, Western Areas, and Western Mining Corporation underscore a deep familiarity with the Australian resources landscape. Alongside his executive credentials, van Bentum operates GeoSuite Consulting, offering strategic geological and exploration services, further highlighting his blend of technical and managerial expertise.
Strategic Focus on Gold Development and Project Pipeline Expansion
Van Bentum’s appointment aligns with Avira’s ambitions to accelerate growth, particularly in gold development. The company’s flagship Mt Cattlin Gold Project, situated within the Ravensthorpe Greenstone Belt of Western Australia’s Yilgarn Craton, is a high-priority asset featuring multiple advanced prospects like Ellendale and Plantagenet. These targets exhibit strong geophysical and geochemical signatures, positioning them as immediate drill-ready opportunities.
Recent activities at Mt Cattlin include extensive reverse circulation drilling programs, with over 1,300 metres completed in June 2026 alone, targeting high-grade gold extensions below historical mining zones. These efforts aim to culminate in a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate by year-end, a milestone that van Bentum’s leadership is expected to support vigorously.
Diverse Portfolio Across Australia and Sweden
Beyond Mt Cattlin, Avira’s portfolio includes the Tangadee Project in Western Australia’s Ashburton region, targeting sediment-hosted copper-zinc and magmatic copper-nickel sulphide deposits, and the Puolalaki Project in Sweden’s Gällivare mining district, notable for nickel-copper-cobalt and high-grade gold mineralisation. Van Bentum’s extensive knowledge of Western Australian exploration approvals and stakeholder engagement is particularly pertinent for advancing these projects.
The CEO’s remuneration package includes a monthly fee of $20,000 and a 14-day notice period, reflecting a streamlined engagement as Avira positions itself for growth. Shareholders and market watchers will be keen to see how van Bentum’s technical and strategic acumen translates into tangible progress across Avira’s exploration assets.
Bottom Line?
Van Bentum’s appointment signals a sharpened focus on advancing Avira’s gold projects, setting the stage for critical drilling results and resource milestones in the coming months.
Questions in the middle?
- How will van Bentum’s leadership influence the pace and scale of exploration at Mt Cattlin?
- What strategic initiatives might Avira pursue to leverage its Swedish assets under the new CEO?
- Will the upcoming maiden resource estimate materially shift investor sentiment or capital access?
