Highlights
- $13 million capital raised through two-tranche placement
- Strategic board restructuring introduces new leadership
- Funds to accelerate exploration in Drummond Basin
GBM Resources (ASX:GBZ) has successfully secured A$13 million through a two-tranche placement initiative, setting the stage for its next phase of gold exploration and corporate evolution. This major funding event reflects GBM’s drive to expand its presence within the highly prospective Drummond Basin, home to an existing 1.84 million-ounce gold resource base.
Capital Raise to Fuel Exploration and Strengthen Balance Sheet
Under the placement, GBM will issue approximately 2.17 billion fully paid ordinary shares at A$0.006 each. A key portion of the proceeds—around A$6.2 million—will be used to repay existing convertible notes, effectively strengthening the company’s balance sheet and removing debt obligations.
The remaining funds will power an accelerated exploration program across two core sites—Yandan and Twin Hills. Specifically, A$1.7 million is earmarked for exploration activities, A$3 million for drilling at Twin Hills, A$0.5 million for relogging and surveys, and A$1.6 million to cover general working capital.
Leadership Overhaul with New Strategic Appointments
GBM’s board is undergoing a strategic transformation. Mining industry veteran Ian Middlemas is stepping in as Non-Executive Chairman and is also contributing A$1.2 million to the placement, marking his entry as a major shareholder. Supporting the refreshed vision are the appointments of Robert Behets and Peter Fox as Non-Executive Directors.
Sunny Loh will shift roles to serve as a Non-Executive Director, while Peter Rohner will continue as CEO until July 2025 before transitioning to a consulting role. These changes are aimed at aligning leadership with the company’s evolving exploration goals and corporate strategy.
WWL Bolsters Strategic Investment
In another significant development, Wise Walkers Ltd (WWL) has committed an additional A$2 million under the placement, while converting a previously committed A$2 million into equity. This move positions WWL with a 19.99% shareholding in GBM. As part of the arrangement, WWL will also have the right to nominate a board representative following the completion of the placement.
Strategic Outlook for Growth in Drummond Basin
Executive Director Andrew Krelle emphasized that the refreshed financial structure and board composition place GBM in a strong position to unlock further value. The company is now focused on ramping up its exploration across the Drummond Basin, particularly targeting epithermal gold mineralisation.
While GBM is not currently part of the ASX300, the recent developments may elevate its visibility among ASX-listed exploration companies. With funding secured and leadership recalibrated, GBM is gearing up to enhance its gold resource base and advance long-term shareholder value through systematic exploration.