Full Breakdown
Forrestania Resources Accelerates WA Gold Production Restart
By Drooid · · How we work
Production Restart Milestones
Forrestania Resources has achieved several key milestones at its Edna May operation in Western Australia, positioning the company to resume gold output in mid-December 2026. The first ore from the Johnson Range mine has been delivered to the Edna May run-of-mine pad, and a new mill liner is slated to arrive in late November. The initial cell of the tailings storage facility is also nearing completion, satisfying the state’s stringent tailings-management approvals.
Project Timeline
- Ore delivery: Johnson Range ore reaches Edna May pad (completed).
- Mill liner shipment: En route, expected late November arrival.
- Tailings cell: First cell construction approaching finish.
- Production restart: Targeted for mid-December 2026.
- Lake Johnston hub: Commissioning and first production anticipated in early 2027.
Expansion at Lake Johnston
In parallel with the Edna May restart, Forrestania is advancing a second processing hub at Lake Johnston. The project includes hot commissioning of the gold elution circuit, delivery of a motor-control centre assembly, and installation of a locally sourced conveyor. Concrete works and screen-tower refurbishment are progressing, supporting the hub’s planned early-2027 commissioning.
Industry Context
The restart occurs against a backdrop of stable gold prices, with spot rates consolidating around A$6,000 per ounce. The Minerals Council of Australia projects national gold output to rise from 293 tonnes in FY 2026 to 369 tonnes in FY 2027, a 26 percent increase, underscoring a favorable investment environment for mine refurbishments and new production.
Outlook
Forrestania’s accelerated schedule reduces project-execution risk and aligns with broader growth trends in the Australian gold sector. Successful commissioning of both the Edna May plant and the Lake Johnston hub could enhance the company’s production profile and contribute to the anticipated national output expansion.