Highlights
- $3 million secured via premium share placement
- Key land acquisitions and exploration acceleration underway
- Leadership boosted by high-calibre exploration expertise
Aureka Limited (ASX:AKA) has bolstered its exploration and development strategy by successfully raising $3 million through a share placement. This capital raise, completed at $0.13 per share, aligns with recent market levels and reflects a 5% premium over the company’s 15-day volume-weighted average price (VWAP). The funds were secured from wholesale investors, including institutional and strategic high-net-worth entities, through the placement of approximately 23.08 million ordinary shares. The transaction is expected to conclude around 13 June 2025 and will be accompanied by a cleansing prospectus.
Strategic Use of Funds
The raised capital will serve multiple growth-oriented objectives. A significant portion is allocated to land acquisitions surrounding the Irvine Project within the mineral-rich Stawell Corridor. This region has become a focal point in Aureka's broader exploration plans. Additionally, funds will be channelled into fast-tracking drilling campaigns at both the Irvine and St Arnaud projects. With two diamond drill rigs currently operational, the company is well-positioned to intensify its exploration efforts. A portion of the funds is also earmarked for general working capital to support ongoing corporate activities.
Advancing Resource Potential
Aureka has recently reported a 19% uplift in global JORC Resources, following the successful release of a Maiden JORC Resource at the St Arnaud Project. These positive developments underline the exploration potential within the company’s Victorian gold assets. A notable operational milestone includes a new discovery on the western flank of the Irvine Project, further enhancing the geological attractiveness of the site.
Strengthened Leadership and Endorsement of Strategy
The appointment of Jozef Story, a veteran in exploration with experience at major global gold producers, adds strategic depth to Aureka’s exploration leadership. This move, along with the successful placement, signals growing investor confidence in the company’s vision. The current capital raise demonstrates strong external support, especially within the small-cap sector, often seen as challenging for equity funding.
The raised funds and strategic land access initiatives form part of Aureka’s broader commitment to unlock long-term value from its Victorian gold exploration portfolio. The company’s focus on accelerated drilling and permanent land access highlights a proactive approach toward de-risking and resource expansion across its projects.
As exploration activities ramp up, Aureka continues to build momentum in one of Australia's most prospective gold corridors, positioning itself for future milestones and potential resource upgrades.