Riversgold Limited (ASX: RGL) has cleared a critical technical hurdle in the development of its Kalgoorlie Gold Project, specifically for the Northern Zone open pit operations. The company recently received positive reports regarding soil characterization, geotechnical stability, and hydrogeological conditions, providing the necessary data to proceed with core regulatory applications.

Consultants have validated the site’s stability, confirming that proposed waste dump designs and pit slopes meet high safety standards, with factors of safety exceeding 1.33. Hydrological investigations revealed a water table depth of approximately 37 metres with low permeability across the site. Consequently, experts concluded that groundwater inflows are unlikely to create significant operational or geotechnical risks for the project. Furthermore, soil and waste characterization tests indicate that the rock material has substantial acid-neutralizing capacity, resulting in a minimal risk of acid mine drainage.

The receipt of these studies marks a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to secure the operational permits required to commence mining. The technical findings form the foundation for the upcoming regulatory submissions that remain the primary focus for the team.

"To have these final reports back on soils, geotechnical and water studies for our Kalgoorlie Gold Project, showing no material issues is a great result. We continue to tick the boxes necessary for the submission of the NVCP and MDCP, which will then provide the operating permit for the start of mining operations."

"We continue to get much closer to breaking ground at Northern Zone, and I look forward to updating shareholders on progress as we move forward."

— Edward Mead, Technical Director

With these technical assessments now finalized, Riversgold is shifting its attention to the formal submission process. The company confirmed that the Mine Development and Closure Proposal is currently 60% complete and remains on schedule for submission to the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration. Simultaneously, preparations for the Native Vegetation Clearing Permit application are in their final stages. The company expects to submit this specific application within the coming weeks, incorporating final inputs before filing.

These developments align with the broader project objective of moving from the current permitting phase toward physical site works. By establishing these geotechnical and environmental parameters, the company has cleared essential regulatory requirements, positioning itself to advance toward the next stage of project development in Western Australia as the documentation for the operating permit progresses toward completion.

Read the full announcement: Kalgoorlie Gold Project Update on Mining Permit Applications