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Highlights
Auric Mining acquires nickel and water rights from WIN Metals
Agreement enhances operational efficiency at the Munda Gold Mine
WIN Metals retains lithium rights and reallocates focus to key projects
Gold sector participant Auric Mining Ltd (ASX:AWJ), listed on the ASX 200, has strengthened its position at the Munda Gold Mine in Western Australia through the acquisition of nickel mineral rights and other key assets from WIN Metals Ltd (ASX:WIN). This transaction includes access to water infrastructure and accommodation facilities, supporting Auric’s operational capabilities across its active mining footprint.
The acquisition marks a notable step for Auric, which now gains full control over most mineral rights at the site, excluding lithium. This positions the company to streamline its open-pit mining activities at Munda, where it has been working toward production milestones.
Acquired Rights to Strengthen Operational Infrastructure
As part of the acquisition, Auric gains exclusive rights to all nickel and associated minerals, seven years of water access from the 132N open pit with no usage costs, and a fully equipped mining camp located near its main operational area. The package enhances resource ownership and facilitates uninterrupted access to essential mining inputs in a region where water availability is limited.
These additions support Auric’s focus on gold extraction at Munda, a site already carrying a significant gold resource. According to the company, this agreement supports future expansion and underpins its production strategy by eliminating dependencies on external parties for key operational assets.
Strategic Value for Both Companies in Asset Realignment
The agreement also benefits WIN Metals, which retains the lithium mineral rights at Munda and redirects funding toward its development priorities. The transaction enables WIN to pursue progress at its Butchers Creek Gold Project, while continuing development of its broader Mt Edwards Nickel Project.
WIN’s decision to divest the Munda nickel deposit aligns with its strategic focus on core assets. With tenure in the Southern Goldfields and Kimberley regions, WIN continues to manage one of the larger mineral footprints in Western Australia.
Leadership Commentary and Regional Development Impact
Auric Mining’s Managing Director, Mark English, emphasised the significance of the deal for the company’s autonomy and operational confidence. The secured water access, he noted, adds critical value in a resource-constrained landscape, while the inclusion of a mining camp enhances logistical efficiency.
For WIN Metals, Chief Executive Steve Norregaard highlighted the transaction’s ability to unlock capital while retaining key resource interests in its larger development portfolio. The move reflects both companies’ commitment to optimising project focus and resource allocation in a competitive mining environment.
Market Positioning and Sector Outlook
Auric Mining continues to refine its long-term production goals, targeting significant gold output across Western Australia. As one of its flagship assets, Munda is now poised for more integrated development. With growing resource security and infrastructural assets in place, the company is advancing toward project execution with greater clarity.
