By JC Villarba

Maritana Minerals (ASX:MRT) reports progress across demolition, earthworks, and accommodation at the Black Swan Processing Hub in Western Australia, as the company targets first gold production in H2 2027.

Early works are advancing as the project transitions from development and approvals into physical execution.

GR Engineering Services has mobilised to site, with activities underway across demolition, earthworks, detailed engineering, and procurement. Preparation of existing processing infrastructure for refurbishment is also progressing.

The clearing permit required for the carbon-in-leach (CIL) earthworks is progressing through the final approval process. The mine development closure plan and works approval milestones announced in August remain in place.

Demolition of redundant infrastructure has commenced with the safe removal and disposal of old conveyors, transfer towers, ore bins, and other unrequired structures. Sections of the plant identified as structurally sound and reusable will be refurbished and used as part of the new infrastructure build.

The bulk earthworks package has been awarded, incorporating work areas for the Run of Mine pad, CIL circuit, and supporting site infrastructure. Delivery of select fill material for CIL tank foundations has commenced.

Managing Director and CEO Grant Haywood says progress at the hub has continued steadily, as the project moves from approvals into execution.

“GR Engineering Services has mobilised to site, demolition and earthworks are underway, the mill condition assessments are largely complete, and long-lead procurement is advancing alongside detailed engineering, which keeps us positioned for first gold production in H2 CY2027,” Haywood says.

Procurement of long‑lead equipment continues in parallel with detailed engineering and early works. Key packages include the pre‑leach thickener and replacement SAG and ball mill motors.

The company has engaged Flow Water Services to complete the borefield refurbishment and upgrade program on Maritana leases, reinstating the existing borefield for construction water supply.

The first‑stage construction camp has been operational since 3 August, with the second‑stage expansion of a further 57 rooms now complete.

The contract for the permanent 60‑room camp has been awarded, with procurement of modules progressing and long‑lead items such as the kitchen ordered for delivery in November. The permanent camp is expected to be operational from January 2027.

Detailed design of the permanent site entrance, gatehouse, traffic management, and controlled‑access arrangements continues as site activity increases.

Maritana Minerals is an emerging Western Australian gold producer advancing a hub‑and‑spoke strategy centred on its 100%‑owned Black Swan Processing Hub and cornerstone Boorara and Burbanks gold projects near Kalgoorlie‑Boulder.

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