Barton Gold Targets Phase 1 Commissioning by 2026: Key Updates on Challenger Project

Introduction

Barton Gold Holdings Limited (ASX: BGD) is gearing up for the Phase 1 commissioning of its fully permitted Central Gawler Mill (CGM) by the end of 2026. This ambitious project is set within the promising Challenger Gold Project, strategically located adjacent to the brownfield Challenger Mines.

Key Highlights

• Permitted Facilities: The Central Gawler Mill is ready for operations, positioned close to the existing Challenger mines.
• Enhanced Mineral Resource Estimate: The Challenger now boasts a JORC (2012) Mineral Resource Estimate of 313,000 ounces (oz) of gold (Au), which includes high-grade resources.
• Existing Gold Sources: The updated estimate comprises:
  • 194,000 oz Au located in open pit and underground operations:
    • Main Open Pit: 70,000 oz Au at a grade of 3.36 g/t Au.
    • West Open Pit: 11,600 oz Au at 10.7 g/t Au.
    • Challenger Underground: 89,400 oz Au at 2.84 g/t Au.
    • Challenger Deeps: 23,000 oz Au at 3.50 g/t Au.
• Tailings Storage: The historical tailings storage facility contains higher-grade tailings ranging from 0.6 to 1.0 g/t Au, amounting to 56,000 oz Au at a grade of 0.54 g/t Au.

Project Phases: From Reprocessing to Fresh Ore

Barton Gold is strategically planning a two-phase transition to operational activities:

• Phase 1: Commencing with the reprocessing of historical tailings materials, expected to generate a reliable initial cash flow.
• Phase 2: Following the initial phase, fresh gold ore with an estimated grade of approximately 3 g/t will be introduced to further boost production.

Strategic Goals and Partnerships

Barton Gold aims to finalize its Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) by March 2026, targeting the commissioning of the CGM for Phase 1 operations by the end of 2026. Key partnerships have been formed with various consulting firms to ensure optimal project execution:

• Altris Pty Ltd: Leading the DFS.
• SRK Consulting Australia: Focused on mining studies for the tailings.
• Tetra Tech Coffey Pty Ltd: Responsible for tailings storage design.
• GPA Engineering Pty Ltd: Supporting engineering and process plant design.

Immediate Future Steps

Technical site visits are set to commence shortly to ensure that all operational components are aligned for a smooth transition into production.

Management Insights

Managing Director Alexander Scanlon emphasizes the unique opportunity presented by the high gold prices and the existing resources adjacent to the Central Gawler Mill. He noted, “The transition to operations offers a low-cost and low-risk approach aimed at re-rating Barton’s equity to a ‘producer’ profile.”

Conclusion

Barton Gold’s initiative on the Challenger project positions it for significant advancements in the gold sector with a strategic timeline set for the next 18 months. This development not only promises a potential cash flow through reprocessing but also establishes a foundation for future growth in the region, including expansion plans at Tunkillia.

For additional updates and detailed information, stakeholders are encouraged to visit Barton Gold’s official website or the ASX platform.

About Barton Gold

Barton Gold is a notable player in the Australian gold mining sector, focusing on establishing future production of 150,000 oz per annum and holding substantial JORC Mineral Resources across its projects in the prestigious Gawler Craton of South Australia.

Learn More

For further updates, follow our progress on Barton Gold’s Investor Relations Page or check our announcements on the ASX.

This article provides a comprehensive update on Barton Gold’s Chandler Project, targeting the proper SEO elements to ensure maximum visibility and engagement.