en.Wedoany.com Reported - Mining company 29Metals has announced that its Golden Grove project in Western Australia will prioritize long-term production stability over short-term speed, adjusting the mine plan to ensure copper production progresses as expected in 2026. The strategic core is the Xantho Extended high-grade underground zone, where ground support upgrades have been completed, allowing for a safe resumption of operations. The company is implementing additional engineering works to reduce the risk of production disruptions caused by ground movement activity, with completion expected in the fourth quarter of this year.

This adjustment means delaying access to Golden Grove's richest zinc and precious metal ore sections, but the development of alternative ore sources is being accelerated. First-quarter copper production reached 6,400 tonnes, in line with the full-year guidance range of 20,000 to 24,000 tonnes, although targets for zinc, gold, and silver have been lowered.

29Metals CEO James Palmer stated: "The team continues to advance a resilient optimization plan at Golden Grove, underpinned by investment in the high-grade ore sources at Xantho Extended and Gossan Valley. With the Xantho Extended ground support upgrade completed on schedule, the decision to add extra engineering works provides greater certainty for late 2026 and over the life of mine."

Golden Grove generated US$10 million in positive free cash flow for the quarter. The Gossan Valley project, also located in Western Australia, remains on track to produce first ore by the end of 2026. Drilling results continue to demonstrate the potential to extend the mine life across multiple deposits.

In addition, 29Metals is advancing the restart of the Capricorn Copper mine in northwest Queensland, where water levels on site have been significantly reduced. Palmer noted: "Capricorn Copper has made excellent progress with dewatering, and water levels are no longer a barrier to restarting production." The company indicated that the first quarter's focus was not on short-term output, but on laying the foundation for long-term growth.

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