Capricorn Metals has begun development activities at the Karlawinda Expansion Project (KEP) in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
First gold production from the KEP is expected by the first quarter (Q1) of fiscal year 2027 (FY27).
The KEP will enhance processing capacity at Karlawinda gold mine to 6.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), with an expected annual gold output of approximately 150,000oz.
In October 2024, Capricorn’s board approved the expansion of the Karlawinda gold project.
The company received regulatory approval for the development of the KEP last month. The project is advancing on multiple fronts, with rapid progress on the ground, stated the company.
Capricorn executive chairman Mark Clark said: "We are really excited to hit the ground with early development works on the Karlawinda Expansion Project. We have worked hard to be prepared for an expedited start to construction works.
“We look forward to delivering a project that will lift gold production at the low cost, high margin Karlawinda operation by 25% to around 150,000oz per annum and should deliver significant value for Capricorn shareholders once it is operational in Q1 FY27.”
Construction activities at the KEP include the completion and operation of a 164-room accommodation village expansion.
The plant site has been cleared, with bulk earthworks currently in progress. The KEP stores building is complete and is being used for construction purposes.
The concrete contractor for the plant site has mobilised, and a concrete batch plant has been commissioned for ancillary facilities and building slabs, in preparation for the plant area.
Excavation work for the boxcut into the Bibra pit has begun, aligning with the expanded mine plan. Mining activities have also started in the Berwick pit and clearing and grubbing of tailings storage facility two are ongoing.
The process plant design is approximately 75% complete, with early orders placed for all mechanical equipment packages.
The ball mill has been purchased and is expected to arrive in Q4 FY26, with commissioning planned for the following quarter.
