Avenira Secures Approval for 1.3Mt Wonarah DSO Mine, Eyes Q4 Shipment
Avenira Limited has secured Northern Territory Government approval for its Wonarah Direct Shipping Ore Mine Management Plan, paving the way for first ore shipment by Q4 2025. The project includes infrastructure development and exploration drilling to support future beneficiation.
- Mine Management Plan approved for 1.3 million tonnes of Direct Shipping Ore
- Infrastructure and open pit designs included in approval
- Exploration drilling program of up to 242 holes planned
- First ore shipment targeted for Q4 2025
- Project expected to create up to 100 direct jobs initially
Government Approval Unlocks Mining Operations
Avenira Limited (ASX – AEV) has reached a significant milestone with the Northern Territory Government’s formal approval of the Mine Management Plan (MMP) for its 100% owned Wonarah Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) Phosphate Project. This regulatory green light covers open pit designs for extracting 1.3 million tonnes of phosphate ore from the Arruwurra deposit, alongside the necessary supporting infrastructure.
Strategic Infrastructure and Exploration Plans
The approved plan not only facilitates immediate mining operations but also includes a comprehensive exploration drilling program of up to 242 holes. This program aims to gather samples to support a feasibility study for a future beneficiation plant, which would process lower grade materials stockpiled from the initial mining phase. The integration of infrastructure such as roads, haul routes, and accommodation facilities is well underway, with several tenders awarded to advance these critical components.
Progress Toward Production and Regional Impact
Avenira is targeting its first shipment of DSO ore by the fourth quarter of 2025. The company has made strides in securing contracts for key infrastructure projects, including a pipeline crossover bridge and refurbishment of accommodation camps, as well as appointing recruitment and HR service providers to build its workforce. The project is poised to generate significant economic benefits locally, with plans to employ up to 100 people directly during the initial DSO operations, a figure expected to grow as the project expands.
Looking Ahead – Beneficiation and Downstream Opportunities
While the immediate focus is on commencing DSO mining, Avenira’s broader vision includes developing a downstream beneficiation plant and potentially a yellow phosphorus processing facility in the Northern Territory. These future phases could transform Wonarah into a more integrated phosphate production hub, enhancing value beyond raw ore export. The company continues to engage with government bodies, the Arruwurra People, and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable and shared benefits from the project.
Bottom Line?
With regulatory hurdles cleared, Avenira is set to move from planning to production, but the success of future beneficiation remains a key watchpoint.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the timeline and capital requirements be for the beneficiation plant feasibility study?
- How will Avenira manage environmental and community engagement as operations scale?
- What are the risks around logistics and infrastructure completion ahead of Q4 shipment?
