Yari Minerals Launches Drilling to Upgrade 190Mt Coal Resource in Bowen Basin

Strategic Drilling Campaign Underway

Yari Minerals Limited (ASX, YAR) has taken a decisive step forward in its coal exploration strategy by securing all necessary regulatory and landholder approvals to commence its inaugural drilling campaign at the Rolleston South Coal Project in Queensland’s Bowen Basin. This move marks a pivotal moment for the company as it seeks to advance the project’s development and unlock shareholder value.

The drilling program, managed by the experienced consultancy Xenith Consulting, will consist of six reverse circulation and diamond drill holes spanning a total of 2,000 meters. Preparations are already underway with the construction of drilling pads, ensuring a smooth and timely start to the campaign.

Resource Upgrade and Coal Quality Focus

The primary objective of this drilling initiative is to upgrade the existing 190 million tonnes (Mt) JORC Inferred Resource to Indicated status. Achieving this would enhance the confidence level in the resource estimate, a critical factor for advancing feasibility studies and attracting investment. Additionally, the program aims to confirm the presence of high-quality semi-soft metallurgical coal through targeted test work on diamond-drilled core samples, potentially broadening the market appeal of the coal beyond thermal applications.

Geotechnical assessments will also be conducted to support future project planning and development. These studies are essential for understanding the physical characteristics of the coal seams and surrounding geology, which influence mining methods and costs.

Location and Infrastructure Advantages

Strategically, the Rolleston South Coal Project is situated approximately 15 kilometers from Glencore’s established Rolleston Mine, benefiting from proximity to existing mining operations and infrastructure. The project area enjoys excellent access to sealed roads and a rail network connecting to Gladstone Port, one of Australia’s key coal export terminals. This infrastructure advantage is a significant factor in reducing future development costs and enhancing the project’s commercial viability.

Outlook and Market Implications

Yari’s Managing Director, Anthony Italiano, emphasized the importance of this drilling campaign as a cornerstone in the company’s strategic shift towards coal. The Board’s confidence in the potential to upgrade the resource and confirm coal quality reflects optimism about the project’s future and its capacity to generate substantial shareholder value. However, as with all exploration activities, the outcomes remain subject to the results of the drilling and subsequent analysis.

Investors and market watchers will be keenly observing the progress and results of this campaign, which could significantly influence Yari’s valuation and positioning within the competitive Bowen Basin coal sector.