Rox Resources Advances Youanmi Construction and Mining Ahead of Mid-2027 Gold Production
Rox Resources reports steady progress at Youanmi Gold Mine with processing plant construction and mining development proceeding on schedule, supporting a mid-2027 gold production target.
- Youanmi processing plant construction significantly advanced
- Mining development exceeds Definitive Feasibility Study rates
- Accommodation camp expansion completed with 351 rooms
- Tailings dam construction underway with earthworks progressing
- Project funding secured with key contracts nearing finalisation
Processing Plant Construction Reaches Key Milestones
Rox Resources Limited (ASX:RXL) has reported substantial progress on the construction of its 1.0Mtpa Youanmi Processing Plant in Western Australia. Bulk earthworks are complete, and concrete foundations for critical infrastructure such as the screen plant, crusher, ball mill, and ISAMill have been poured. Structural works are underway, including the construction of tank ring beams and carbon-in-leach (CIL) pads. Long lead equipment items, including crushers and Albion tanks, are en route to the site, aligning with the company’s timeline for commissioning.
Mining Operations Outpace Feasibility Study Projections
Mining development is advancing ahead of the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) plan, with 577 metres of mining completed in August alone. This includes 431 metres of development across three mining areas and 146 metres of stripping in the historic Youanmi Decline. Access to initial production levels in Youanmi Main has commenced, while escapeway networks in United North are nearing completion to service the first four production levels. Production stoping is set to begin in October following the receipt of final assay results and updated geological models. The growing high-grade ore stockpile underpins confidence in ramping up production.
Tailings Dam and Accommodation Camp Ready to Support Operations
The tailings storage facility has progressed with clearing and cut-off drain construction largely complete, and preparations underway for the dam’s outer wall. Meanwhile, the Youanmi accommodation camp expansion is complete, now offering 351 rooms and new amenities including a dry mess facility and wastewater treatment plant. Further upgrades, such as refurbishment of the existing dry mess to a wet mess and sports court infrastructure, are planned to enhance workforce living conditions.
Funding and Approvals Secure Pathway to Production
Rox Resources remains on track for first gold production in mid-2027, supported by a robust funding package comprising a $200 million placement, $18 million share purchase plan, and $350 million in debt financing secured earlier this year. All major regulatory approvals, including the Mining Development and Closure Plan (MDCP) and Works Approval, have been granted. The company is finalising a major oxygen supply contract to support processing operations and is progressing development across all declines while building the ore stockpile.
Next Steps Focus on Operational Readiness and Exploration
Looking ahead, Rox plans to satisfy all conditions precedent to draw down its debt facility, continue mine development, and expand exploration around the mine. Infill drilling from underground is underway to refine the geological model and support grade control. The combination of construction momentum, mining advancement beyond DFS expectations, and secured funding positions Youanmi to transition smoothly into production as scheduled.
Bottom Line?
With construction and mining progressing ahead of plan and funding secured, Rox Resources is poised to deliver first gold from Youanmi by mid-2027, though upcoming contract finalisations and operational commissioning remain critical milestones.
Questions in the middle?
- How will final assay results influence the timing and scale of production stoping at Youanmi?
- What impact will the completion of the oxygen supply contract have on processing plant commissioning?
- Can ongoing exploration near Youanmi extend mine life beyond current DFS projections?