Western Gold Resources Limited Commences Grade Control and Infill Drilling at Gold Duke Project

Strategic Insights -

Western Gold Resources Limited, an Australian gold producer, has initiated a significant step towards making a final investment decision for its Gold Duke Project by commencing grade control and infill drilling operations. The program marks a crucial transition from exploration to production, with the objective of first mining in late Q4 2025. The drilling campaign will cover 35,300 meters of reverse circulation drilling across four stages: Emu, Eagle, Golden Monarch, and Gold King. The work is expected to be completed within eight weeks, with assay samples submitted every 7-8 days.

Key Takeaways:

  • The grade control and infill drilling program is a critical step in transitioning from exploration to production, which WGR is undertaking upfront and in full.
  • The drilling campaign will cover a total of 35,300 meters of reverse circulation drilling, targeting a maximum depth of 30 meters.
  • The program will be executed by VM Drilling Pty Ltd using Epiroc Smartroc D65 drill rigs, which have high penetration rates, automated rod carousels, and approximately 30% lower fuel consumption.
  • Drilling will occur across four stages: Emu, Eagle, Golden Monarch, and Gold King.
  • The program will provide full visibility of mineralized zones, enabling dynamic mine planning, increased operational flexibilities, and maximizing ore production efficiency.
  • The strong and sustained gold price above A$5,000/oz since April has the potential to further enhance the economics of the Gold Duke Project.
  • The company is advancing its review of the Updated Scoping Study, which remains on track for release within the next four weeks.
  • WGR has submitted a Miscellaneous Licence application to provide flexibility in potential haulage routes to the Wiluna Processing Plant.
  • Managing Director Cullum Winn commented on the importance of the drilling program in de-risksing operations, strengthening mine scheduling flexibility, and positioning the company for a successful transition to first mining in late Q4 2025.

Statistics:

  • Total drilling program: 35,300 meters
  • Maximum depth of individual holes: 30 meters
  • Drilling duration: expected to be completed within eight weeks
  • Assay samples submission frequency: every 7-8 days
  • Strong gold price: above A$5,000/oz since April

Sources:

  • WGR (Western Gold Resources Limited) as seen in the news release dated August 24, 2025