Capricorn Metals commences Karlawinda expansion in Western Australia

Capricorn Metals has officially started development activities at the Karlawinda Expansion Project (KEP) in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The company’s aim is to enhance processing capacity at the Karlawinda gold mine to 6.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), with an expected annual gold output of around 150,000oz.

The first gold production from the KEP is anticipated to commence by the first quarter (Q1) of fiscal year 2027 (FY27). This significant milestone marks a crucial step forward in Capricorn Metals’ expansion plans for the Karlawinda project.

In October 2024, Capricorn’s board approved the expansion of the Karlawinda gold project, paving the way for the development of the KEP. Last month, the company received regulatory approval for the project, enabling them to progress rapidly on multiple fronts.

Capricorn’s executive chairman, Mark Clark, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “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.”

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 utilized for construction purposes.

Excavation work for the boxcut into the Bibra pit has already commenced, aligning with the expanded mine plan. Mining activities have also started in the Berwick pit, and the 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.

“Capricorn Metals commences Karlawinda expansion in Western Australia” was originally featured on Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.

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