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Barton Gold Initiates Pre-Feasibility Study for Tunkillia Gold Project

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#Commencement of Pre-Feasibility Study

Barton Gold Holdings Limited has officially initiated a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for its Tunkillia Gold Project located in South Australia. The study, managed by GR Engineering Services Limited, aims for completion in the first quarter of calendar year 2027.

#Project Overview

The Tunkillia Gold Project has undergone significant assessment, with a previous Optimised Scoping Study (OSS) highlighting robust economic potential. The OSS outlined annual production expectations of roughly 120,000 ounces of gold and 260,000 ounces of silver, projecting high operational profits that could exceed $1.75 billion in the first 27 months of production.

#Ongoing Drilling Campaigns

Current drilling operations have already improved resource estimates and identified additional higher-grade mineralisation. This includes extensive reverse circulation and diamond drilling, aimed at upgrading the project's resource classification and quantities. The ongoing programs will support the PFS and are scheduled for completion by September 2026.

#Future Steps Following the PFS

Upon the successful completion of the PFS, Barton Gold plans to advance to a Mining Lease application and initiate project financing discussions. These steps are crucial for transitioning to the next phases of development for the Tunkillia Gold Project.

#Key Takeaways

  • Barton Gold has commenced a Pre-Feasibility Study for the Tunkillia Gold Project.
  • The study is expected to conclude by Q1 2027 and will focus on substantial resource upgrades.
  • Current drilling suggests high potential profitability, with projected operating profits of $1.75 billion in the initial 27 months.
  • The project aims to enhance resource classification and operational efficiency through extended drilling programs.
  • Following the PFS, Barton intends to pursue a Mining Lease application and finance development efforts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Tunkillia Gold Project is currently undergoing a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) led by GR Engineering. This study aims to explore prospective resource upside and is anticipated to conclude in Q1 CY2027.
The OSS highlighted impressive metrics, including projected annual production of approximately 120,000 oz of gold and 260,000 oz of silver, with an internal rate of return (IRR) of around 73.2% and a rapid payback period of approximately 0.8 years.
The ongoing upgrade drilling is critical as it aims to enhance the resource estimates and mineralisation profiles. Positive results could significantly bolster the project's overall value and resource classification.
At prevailing gold and silver prices, the Tunkillia project is projected to generate approximately $1.75 billion in operating profits within the initial 27 months, highlighting its potentially lucrative nature.
The S1 and S2 pits are crucial to the Tunkillia project's development, as they are modelled to produce substantial gold and silver, which contributes significantly to the project's anticipated cash flows and overall economics.
Post-PFS completion, the focus will shift towards advancing a Mining Lease application, securing project financing, and obtaining requisite development approvals, which are essential for progressing to the next phase of the project.
GR Engineering has been appointed to lead the PFS, utilising their extensive expertise in mineral processing to ensure that the study meets high industry standards and effectively evaluates the project's development potential.
Success in resource upgrades could enhance the project's vitality, potentially leading to increased estimated output and improved economic viability, which may attract further investment.