Why Did Caravel Choose Primero for Its Copper Project EPCM Role?
Caravel Minerals has appointed Primero Group as the EPCM contractor for its Caravel Copper Project, with the Definitive Feasibility Study now fully funded and on track for completion in early 2026.
- Primero Group appointed EPCM for Caravel Copper Project
- Definitive Feasibility Study fully funded after $15m Regal Royalty drawdown
- DFS completion expected Q1 2026, full release mid-2026
- Greg MacDonald named Project Study Manager with 30+ years experience
- Study covers engineering, cost, constructability, and infrastructure planning
Primero Secures EPCM Contract for Caravel
Caravel Minerals Limited has taken a significant step forward in advancing its flagship Caravel Copper Project by appointing Primero Group Limited as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) contractor. Primero, a subsidiary of NRW Holdings Limited, brings a strong track record in mineral processing engineering and construction, notably demonstrated through its ongoing work on Northern Star Resources’ KCGM Goldfields Growth Project.
Funding and Feasibility Study Progress
The appointment follows a competitive tender process overseen by newly appointed Study Manager Greg MacDonald, a seasoned resource sector professional with over three decades of experience. The Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for the Caravel Copper Project is now fully funded, thanks to a $15 million drawdown from the Regal Royalty Fund completed in late July 2025. This funding milestone enables the DFS to proceed on schedule, with key study components expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026 and the full DFS report anticipated around mid-2026.
Scope and Strategic Importance
The DFS will encompass comprehensive engineering design, cost estimation, constructability assessments, and execution planning for the entire project scope. This includes the mine, processing plant, tailings management facility, water supply, and non-process infrastructure. The study’s completion is a critical step toward a Final Investment Decision, positioning Caravel to move into Front End Engineering Design and eventual construction.
Leveraging Local Expertise and Regional Advantages
Primero’s selection reflects its technical superiority and regional expertise, with the company’s Perth base offering logistical advantages and access to a skilled workforce. Caravel’s Managing Director Don Hyma highlighted the strategic benefit of Primero’s involvement, noting the project’s proximity to Perth and the potential to leverage NRW Holdings’ broader mining and construction capabilities.
Looking Ahead
With Greg MacDonald at the helm of the study and Primero’s proven delivery capabilities, Caravel is well positioned to advance its copper project through critical development phases. The Caravel Copper Project, one of Australia’s largest undeveloped copper deposits, promises significant economic contributions to Western Australia, with a planned 25-plus year mine life producing copper, gold, silver, and molybdenum.
Bottom Line?
Caravel’s strategic EPCM appointment and secured DFS funding set the stage for a pivotal investment decision in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Primero’s involvement influence the project’s construction timeline and costs?
- What are the key risks that could impact the DFS outcomes or funding continuity?
- How might regional infrastructure and workforce availability affect project execution?
