Delays and Logistics Challenge VBX’s Wuudagu Drilling Pace Amid Key Project Advances
VBX Limited strengthens its leadership and advances drilling programs at the Wuudagu bauxite project, setting the stage for a pivotal Definitive Feasibility Study and environmental approvals.
- Appointment of Lloyd Dolman as General Manager – Development
- Revised transhipment agreement with Transhipment Services Australia
- Mobilisation of second drilling rig to accelerate exploration and infill drilling
- Completion of over 95 holes and more than 1,900 meters drilled across multiple project areas
- Planned bulk sampling, metallurgical testing, and process optimisation for 2025
Leadership Bolsters Project Development
VBX Limited has taken a significant step forward in advancing its flagship Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia with the appointment of Lloyd Dolman as General Manager – Development. Dolman brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at Alliance Mining Commodities, Roy Hill Iron Ore, and Rio Tinto Iron Ore, particularly in project development, operations, and port infrastructure. His expertise aligns closely with the critical aspects of Wuudagu’s development, including beneficiation and transhipment logistics.
Strategic Partnership Enhances Transhipment Expertise
In parallel with leadership enhancements, VBX has formalised a revised agreement with Transhipment Services Australia (TSA), now a subsidiary of PT Asian Bulk Logistics. TSA’s longstanding involvement with the Wuudagu project and their marine logistics expertise will support the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), ensuring that transhipment solutions are optimised. This collaboration underscores VBX’s commitment to securing efficient and cost-effective export pathways for its bauxite.
Drilling Programs Gain Momentum
Drilling activities have intensified with the mobilisation of a second rig, accelerating both exploration and infill drilling efforts. To date, over 95 holes have been drilled, covering more than 1,900 meters across key resource areas including East Kalumburu A and Wuudagu B. Initial assay results from the 32 holes at East Kalumburu A are anticipated in September, which will feed into an updated resource estimate. The infill drilling at Wuudagu B aims to increase confidence in the existing 96 million tonne Indicated and Inferred Resource, a critical input for mine planning.
Hydrogeological Insights and Environmental Progress
Hydrogeological drilling has also been progressing, with seven holes completed and encouraging early results indicating strong water yields in target areas. These findings will support both the DFS and the Environmental Review Document (ERD) lodgement, a key regulatory milestone. While some delays have occurred due to ground conditions and logistics, the overall momentum remains positive.
Looking Ahead, Testing and Optimisation
Beyond drilling, VBX plans to undertake additional bulk sampling, metallurgical test work, and process optimisation throughout 2025. These activities are designed to refine the project’s technical and economic parameters ahead of finalising the DFS and securing project financing. With a 59 million tonne Probable Ore Reserve and a ten-year initial mine life, Wuudagu is positioned to meet growing global demand for high-quality, low-silica Australian bauxite.
Bottom Line?
As VBX advances its DFS and regulatory approvals, the next assay results and financing milestones will be pivotal for the Wuudagu project’s trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the revised transhipment agreement impact project costs and timelines?
- What do the initial assay results from East Kalumburu A reveal about resource quality and scale?
- When can investors expect completion of the DFS and clarity on project financing?
