Perth-based gold explorer OzAurum Resources (ASX:OZM) has taken a leap toward production, announcing it has secured Stage 1 environmental approval for its Mulgabbie North Gold Project.
Granted by the Western Australian Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration, the approval covers open-pit mining and heap leach operations under the Small Mining Operation Policy.
The regulatory green light is a critical prerequisite for the final permits and licences required before construction can commence.
OzAurum recently completed a four-hole diamond drilling program at the Paleochannel and Ben prospects, providing essential geotechnical data and bulk samples for column testwork.
On the infrastructure front, the refurbishment of the company’s heap leach plant is well underway in partnership with Polaris Engineering, with dry commissioning expected to begin within approximately six weeks.
The company remains in a robust position following a $4.1 million strategic placement to cornerstone shareholder Forrestania Resources.
CEO and Managing Director Andrew Pumphrey noted that the project is ideally timed to capitalise on record Australian gold prices, which currently hover around $7,300/oz.
Pumphrey emphasised that clearing this regulatory hurdle allows the company to maintain its disciplined, capital-efficient pathway toward becoming a gold producer.
At the time of reporting, OzAurum Resources' share price was $0.10.