West Australian gold producer Pantoro Ltd (ASX:PNR, OTC:PNTOF) has embarked on an ambitious 35,000-metre surface drilling campaign at its wholly-owned Norseman Gold Project. This initiative marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance its operational footprint in the region.
Broader growth strategy
The current drilling campaign employs a combination of reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling techniques, forming part of a comprehensive 85,000-metre growth program that was initially unveiled to the market on June 19. Pantoro’s strategic focus is on expanding its operations at Norseman, particularly in the Butterfly area within the Southern Mainfield, which has been prioritized for surface drilling.
In tandem with these surface efforts, preparations for re-entering the Bullen decline are progressing smoothly. Ground support work is slated to commence in the December quarter, with plans to initiate drilling from underground platforms by the June 2025 quarter. Additionally, drill platforms at the Scotia mine are poised for action, following the commencement of underground development in May, with contractors expected to mobilize by the end of September.
Expansion of operations
The Norseman mine plays a pivotal role in Pantoro’s strategy to broaden its operational capabilities. The current drilling activities are aimed at uncovering potential underground targets, aligning with the company’s broader ambitions to develop at least two additional high-grade underground mines within the next two years.
Pantoro is targeting a production increase from approximately 100,000 ounces per annum to 200,000 ounces, with a strategic shift from lower-grade open-pit material to higher-grade underground sources. The Norseman processing plant, currently operating at an annualized rate of 1.2 million tonnes, is well-equipped to manage the anticipated increase in feed grades without necessitating significant upgrades.
