Published On: November 3rd, 2022
VRX Silica (ASX: VRX) announces the September 2022 Quarterly Financial Report highlighting the advancements of the Company’s world-class Western Australia-based silica sand projects.
Here is a look at the progress VRX has made during the September quarter.
Advancements in Silica Sand Projects
The projects of VRX Silica (ASX: VRX) ensure a disciplined, staged development program with the initial focus on the Arrowsmith North silica sand project, followed by Arrowsmith Central, Muchea, and Boyatup.
Arrowsmith North Silica Sand Project
The initial low-impact, long-term production at Arrowsmith, will commence in 2023 (subject to EPA approval). Arrowsmith North has a resource potential of 223 Mt Probable Ore Reserve at 99.7% SiO2.
VRX received the results of additional bulk test work programs undertaken during the March and June 2022 quarters in August 2022. The final product of large samples, sufficient for glass-making furnace testing and foundry resin coating testing obtained from this test work, is sent to potential buyers in models.
The Company has commenced the specification and production of tender documentation of the processing equipment, ensuring a timely construction program.
The critical plant equipment – feed trommel and banana vibrating screen needed for construction are purchased locally with the support of ProjX, a specialist engineering consultancy.
VRX Silica is currently waiting for EPA approval (expected by December 2022), following which the construction phase will commence in January 2023.
Arrowsmith Central Silica Sand Project
The second project of VRX Silica, Arrowsmith Central, has proceeded to the next stage of EPA approval. The Environmental Scoping Document (ESD) detailing the environmental studies was presented to the EPA Administration by VRX earlier this year. The Company awaits the EPA’s response.
In terms of water supply, VRX announced the completion of test holes for two water holes on September 6, 2022. The borehole drilling and construction are complete, while the process of downhole logging and test pumping is in progress.
The bores will be the source of water supply for the proposed processing plant at Arrowsmith Central. The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) has accepted VRX’s application to allocate 900,000 kilolitres of water supply.
Muchea Silica Sand Project
The drill work program completed 54 holes at Muchea for a two-tonne sample needed for the pilot plant metallurgical test work program.
The environmental survey for flora and vegetation is underway. The final report will have the survey results and historical information relating to the root structure, density and distribution of the critical species, as well as the finalisation of documents for the EPA assessment.
Boyatup Silica Sand Project
VRX Silica conducted the core drill program at Boyatup in March 2022 to estimate the mineral ore reserve. The Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) results were announced in August 2022.
The Company has planned a comprehensive metallurgical test work program to identify the potential products that originate from the original sand resource at Boyatup.
Other Operational Highlights
- Geothermal Energy Resources: VRX awaits notification on its application regarding Geothermal Exploration Permits.
- Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG): The Company completed its FY22 Sustainability Report, published and included in the 2022 Annual Report, released on September 30, 2022.
- Metallurgical Testwork R&D: VRX registered for an R&D Tax Incentive Application with AusIndustry last year. The Company made further claims for the year 2022.
- WA Investment Attraction Fund: VRX made a preliminary application under Stage 1 of the scheme (Expressions of Interest) in May 2022 and was shortlisted and invited to progress to stage 2 for a detailed application. The Company presented the precise application on October 12, 2022.
- Muchea Heritage Site Identification Survey: VRX completed its comprehensive heritage site identification survey to identify and understand Whadjuk Aboriginal heritage values in late October. An Ethnographic survey will follow in early November, and everyone expects the results in the December quarter.
Also Read: Exclusive Interview With Bruce Maluish – Managing Director of VRX Silica
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