First gold pour is expected next week and regular milling campaigns are scheduled through to January 2021.

“We are extremely pleased with progress at Boorara and now commencing the first milling campaign at Lakewood producing first gold next week and revenue shortly thereafter,” said Horizon MD Jon Price.

“Along with capitalizing on the strong current gold price, the Stage 1 development of Boorara will provide mine to mill reconciliation outcomes to de-risk the larger scale development plan.”

The Stage 1 openpit operation, which is based on the development of the Regal and Crown Jewel deposits is expected to produce 159 000 t of ore, producing 9 500 oz of gold over a six-month mine life, and at a capital cost of A$0.44-million.