Astral Resources Targets 2027 Gold Output with Key Appointments and $110M Debt Advisory
Astral Resources has strengthened its leadership and advisory teams to drive the Mandilla Gold Project towards production, targeting first gold output by the end of 2027. The company has also engaged GR Engineering Services for critical feasibility work and appointed Taylor Collison to assist with debt financing.
- Appointment of Jed Whitford as Chief Operating Officer and Mathew Wilson as General Manager for Mandilla
- GR Engineering Services awarded contract for Definitive Feasibility Study infrastructure work
- Taylor Collison appointed as debt advisor to support project financing
- Definitive Feasibility Study expected by mid-2026
- Final Investment Decision targeted for September 2026 quarter
Strategic Leadership Appointments
Astral Resources has taken decisive steps to advance its flagship Mandilla Gold Project, located about 70 kilometres south of Kalgoorlie in Western Australia. The company announced the appointment of two seasoned mining executives, Jed Whitford as Chief Operating Officer and Mathew Wilson as General Manager for Mandilla. Both bring extensive operational and strategic experience across global mining operations, with Whitford’s background spanning over 25 years in gold and nickel mining, and Wilson’s expertise including the successful startup of the Côté Gold Mine in Canada.
Engineering and Feasibility Progress
In parallel with bolstering its leadership, Astral has awarded the Early Contractor Involvement contract for all process and non-process infrastructure at Mandilla to GR Engineering Services (GRES), a respected Australian engineering firm with a strong track record in gold mining projects. This move follows a competitive tender process and positions GRES to provide vital engineering inputs underpinning the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), which is on track for completion by mid-2026.
Financing and Project Development Outlook
Recognising the importance of securing project financing, Astral has appointed Taylor Collison as its debt advisor. Taylor Collison’s corporate finance team brings significant experience in arranging debt facilities for mining projects, supported by strong relationships with major Australian and international banks. The company aims to progress debt financing negotiations alongside the DFS, targeting a Final Investment Decision in the September 2026 quarter. This timeline aligns with Astral’s ambition to commence gold production at Mandilla by the end of 2027.
Implications for Astral Resources
These developments mark a critical phase for Astral Resources as it transitions from exploration and project development towards operational gold production. The combination of experienced leadership, reputable engineering partners, and strategic financial advisory support enhances the company’s capacity to manage the complexities of project delivery. Investors will be watching closely as the DFS unfolds and financing arrangements take shape, both pivotal to realising the project’s potential.
Bottom Line?
Astral’s recent appointments and partnerships set the stage for a pivotal year ahead as Mandilla moves closer to production.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the Definitive Feasibility Study confirm the project’s economic viability and cost estimates?
- How will debt financing terms shape the project’s capital structure and risk profile?
- What operational challenges might arise during the transition to production at Mandilla?
