Manuka Resources is gearing up to reboot its silver and gold production in New South Wales as the new managers’ tech change enhances the Company’s readiness for operations. The goal is to bring back the Wonawinta production facility in the Cobar Basin within Q2 2026 and, at the same time, develop nearby resources.
The Manuka mining update indeed presupposes a well-thought-out upgrade of the plant and coordination of multiple mining projects under the guidance of a new, experienced executive.
Manuka’s Wonawinta facility prepares for Q2 2026 restart amid rising silver prices. [Source: Small Caps]
Can New Leadership Accelerate Production Timelines?
To manage the upgrade and the expansion planning, Manuka has secured Rod Griffith’s services as Executive General Manager of Operations, and he will take charge of the restart phase.
He would supervise the operations at Wonawinta and Mt Boppy Gold Project during the plant upgrade and the production ramp-up. Operations at Wonawinta would likely begin in Q2 2026, which would be in sync with the more extensive restart targets for the Cobar Basin.
The Griffiths have around 30 years of experience in areas like mine development, management, and engineering in Australia and Indonesia. He has been part of the opening and operating stages of the open-cut mines directly. He was previously with Manuka in a consulting role, so now he also knows the Company’s assets and facilitates the operational layout.
What Assets Support Manuka’s Production Strategy?
The central role of the Wonawinta facility in the Manuka production strategy, Q2 2026, will be silver output that would lead to early-stage revenue recovery. As for the Mt Boppy site, it offers the same category of gold exposure within the same regional footprint, allowing for shared infrastructure and coordinated workforce planning.
Moreover, both projects are sited within the well-defined mining corridor of the Cobar Basin, which brings about logistics advantages. Before joining Manuka, Griffith was KBL Mining’s chief operating officer and spent over 20 years holding various senior roles at Straits Resources.
His experience is reflected in his role as general manager of projects and operational leadership across intricate mine builds. He most recently held the position of general manager of operations at Alkane Resources’ Tomingley Gold Mine.
Mt Boppy supports Manuka’s gold exposure alongside silver recovery plans. [Source: Mining.com.au]
How Strong Is the Operational Experience Base?
Griffith earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and Surveying from the University of Newcastle. He has also earned a postgraduate diploma in Mining Engineering from the University of Ballarat.
This academic background facilitates the provision of both technical monitoring and long-term mine planning during the expansion phase. His recruitment is in line with Manuka’s plan to first secure the functioning of the mine, then move on to the next step of wider growth.
Management continuity lowers the risk of poor execution in restarts, especially when the production operations need recalibration after the shutdown. Industry observers consider experienced management as a key factor when coordinating the production schedules of several mines.
Production Targets Reflect Long-Term Planning
Manuka has planned a 10-year mine operation that will produce 13.2 million ounces of silver. Operating cost on an average basis will be $35 per ounce of silver throughout the entire lifespan of the mine.
The firm has kept the prices of gold and silver unhedged to gain the fullest possible revenue intake in line with the current pricing conditions. The unhedged position empowers Manuka to take all the profit available during the good times of commodity cycles.
Nevertheless, this decision generates a revenue risk that is related to the market fluctuations in the case of price declines. The management seems to be sure that the combination of growing demand and limited supply will keep the price at least at the current level for the short term.
Long-term mine planning targets 13.2 million ounces of silver output. [Source: Mining Technology]
Do Market Prices Support Restart Economics?
As per Trading Economics, the price of silver is pegged at US$81.25 per ounce on January 7, 2026. This points to a whopping 170.05% annual increase, hence the revenue expectations for the forthcoming production are getting stronger.
The gold price is pegged at US$4,495 or $6,672 per ounce, and it has gotten the annual increase of 69.65%. The prices stated above are way higher than the operating cost assumptions set by Manuka.
The Company may invest the gains faster in exploration and production upgrading activities. That being said, the financial benefits of increased sales from the planned output are very strong due to the market conditions.
What Is the Manuka Production Outlook Q2 2026?
The Manuka production outlook Q2 2026 remains focused on stable silver output from Wonawinta with gold contributions from Mt Boppy. Plant upgrades and workforce mobilisation remain key milestones before sustained production begins.
Management continues to prioritise operational reliability over rapid volume expansion. Investor attention now shifts toward commissioning progress and early production data.
A successful ramp-up could reposition Manuka as a near-term beneficiary of elevated precious metals markets. The Manuka mining operations update suggests momentum is building toward that outcome.
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FAQs
1: When will Manuka begin silver production?
Manuka expects Wonawinta to be producing in Q2 2026 following plant upgrades and restart activities.
2: Who is leading Manuka’s operations restart?
Rod Griffith was appointed Executive General Manager of Operations to oversee Wonawinta and Mt Boppy.
3: What is Manuka’s long-term silver production target?
The Company plans to produce 13.2 million ounces of silver over a 10-year mine plan.
4: Is Manuka hedged against metal price changes?
No, Manuka remains unhedged on both gold and silver to capture full market pricing upside.
