Auric Mining Secures Full Nickel Rights and Key Assets at Munda Gold Mine
Auric Mining has completed a strategic acquisition of nickel rights, water assets, and a mining camp from WIN Metals, enhancing operational control at its Munda Gold Mine.
- Acquisition includes all nickel rights and entitlements at Munda M15/87
- Purchase of fully equipped mining camp boosts operational efficiency
- Exclusive access to stored water in the 132N pit secured
- Total consideration of $1.4 million payable in two tranches
- Lithium rights remain with WIN Metals
Strategic Acquisition Completed
Auric Mining Limited (ASX – AWJ) has finalized the purchase of a significant package of assets from WIN Metals Ltd (ASX – WIN), marking a pivotal step in consolidating its operations at the Munda Gold Mine. The acquisition, valued at $1.4 million excluding GST, includes all nickel rights and associated mineral entitlements at the Munda tenement M15/87, a fully equipped mining camp, and critical water access rights.
This deal not only secures Auric’s control over nickel resources but also enhances operational efficiencies through ownership of the mining camp located just six kilometres north of the mine. The camp provides essential accommodation and logistical support for the mining workforce, streamlining onsite operations.
Operational and Strategic Implications
With the acquisition, Auric now holds exclusive rights to the stored water in the 132N pit, a vital resource for ongoing mining activities. The company has also applied for two Miscellaneous Licences to formalize access and usage of these newly acquired assets, signaling a commitment to regulatory compliance and operational stability.
Managing Director Mark English highlighted the significance of the transaction, stating that it simplifies open pit mining at Munda and represents a major step forward for the company. Auric’s mining progress over the past four months has been steady, and this acquisition is expected to further support efficient resource extraction and cost management.
Remaining Considerations and Future Outlook
While Auric now owns all mineral rights at Munda except for lithium, which remains with WIN Metals, the company’s focus appears firmly on maximising nickel and gold production. The final payment tranche of $500,000 is due by 30 November 2025, completing the financial terms of the deal.
Investors will be watching closely as Auric integrates these assets and advances its mining operations. The acquisition could potentially improve Auric’s production profile and operational margins, but the retention of lithium rights by WIN Metals leaves open questions about future resource development at Munda.
Bottom Line?
Auric’s expanded asset control at Munda sets the stage for enhanced mining efficiency, but lithium rights remain a strategic wildcard.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Auric’s operational costs and production volumes change following this acquisition?
- What are the implications of WIN Metals retaining lithium rights for Auric’s long-term resource strategy?
- When will the Miscellaneous Licences be granted, and how might delays impact operations?