VBX Advances Wuudagu B with Strong Infill Drilling Results
VBX Limited reports consistent assay results from 129 infill drill holes at the Wuudagu B bauxite deposit, reinforcing its 2016 resource estimate and paving the way for inclusion in the upcoming definitive feasibility study. The deposit’s proximity to Guy Point offers potential cost savings in haul road construction.
- 129 infill drill holes confirm 16.1Mt resource at 39.3% Al2O3
- Results consistent with 2016 inferred mineral resource estimate
- Wuudagu B located 10km closer to Guy Point barge facility than Wuudagu C
- Potential for reduced haul road length and lower capital and operating costs
- Remaining 128 drill hole assay results expected soon to finalize resource update
Consistent Drilling Results Reinforce Wuudagu B Resource
VBX Limited has released initial assay results from 129 infill drill holes at its Wuudagu B bauxite deposit in northern Western Australia. These results align closely with the 2016 inferred mineral resource estimate of 16.1 million tonnes grading 39.3% alumina (Al2O3) and 13.2% silica (SiO2), confirming the deposit’s quality and continuity.
The drilling program, conducted using aircore methods, was designed to increase confidence in the resource estimate ahead of the definitive feasibility study (DFS) scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026. VBX aims to incorporate Wuudagu B into the mine plan, a strategic move that could enhance project economics.
Strategic Location Offers Operational Advantages
Wuudagu B’s location approximately 10 kilometres closer to the proposed barge loading facility at Guy Point compared to the previously planned Wuudagu C deposit presents a significant logistical advantage. This proximity could reduce the initial haul road length by about 30%, translating into lower capital expenditure and operating costs for road construction and maintenance.
Such cost efficiencies are particularly relevant in the context of the bauxite market, where supply chain optimization can materially impact project viability and competitiveness. VBX’s Managing Director, Ryan de Franck, highlighted the attractiveness of this shorter haul road in terms of both capital and operating cost savings.
Robust Sampling and Quality Assurance
The infill drilling was conducted on a nominal 150 by 150-metre grid, with samples collected over 1-metre intervals and analyzed by Nagrom in Perth using industry-standard fused bead XRF and thermo-gravimetric methods. Quality control measures, including standards, duplicates, and blanks, were rigorously applied, ensuring reliable assay data.
Sample security was maintained throughout, with samples sealed on site and securely transported to the laboratory. The drilling and sampling protocols comply with the JORC Code 2012 standards, reinforcing the credibility of the reported results.
Next Steps and Market Implications
VBX expects to receive assay results from an additional 128 infill drill holes in the coming weeks, which will enable a revised resource estimate for Wuudagu B. This updated estimate will inform the final mine plan in the DFS, potentially accelerating project development timelines.
Given the global demand growth for aluminium and the strategic importance of low-silica Australian bauxite, VBX’s progress at Wuudagu B positions the company well to capitalize on market opportunities while maintaining a responsible approach to environmental and community engagement.
Bottom Line?
As VBX awaits remaining assay results, the potential inclusion of Wuudagu B in the DFS could reshape project economics and market expectations.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the remaining assay results confirm an increase in resource confidence and size?
- How will the inclusion of Wuudagu B affect the overall mine plan and production schedule?
- What are the anticipated capital and operating cost savings from the shorter haul road to Guy Point?
