Mt Rawdon (100% Ownership)
Mt Rawdon – Thinking differently
The Mt Rawdon Operation is located 75km south-west of Bundaberg, Queensland and is surrounded by the traditional lands of the Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng, and Taribelang Bunda People. Our local communities are Mt Perry, Gin Gin, Biggenden and Gayndah. Evolution has owned and operated Mt Rawdon since November 2011.
Mt Rawdon produced 53,685 ounces of gold at an AISC of $2,409 per ounce in FY23 which was below guidance of 75,000 ounces (+/-5%) at an AISC 1,950 per ounce (+/- 5%). The production result was lower than plan due to extensive rain events and water-related geotechnical pit access restrictions, resulting in the processing of lowgrade stockpiles. Significant water management activities were undertaken during FY23 to enable full mining activities whenever possible, including commissioning over 30 evaporators and two temporary reverse osmosis plants, as well as liaising with state regulators on controlled water releases. Operating mine cash flow was $28.1 million, sustaining capital was $5.1 million and major capital was $13.4 million.
In FY24, gold production is planned to be approximately 70,000 ounces (+/- 5%) and AISC is guided at $1,850 per ounce (+/- 5%).
Mt Rawdon is currently undertaking a Feasibility Study to convert the Mt Rawdon operation into a low-cost, large-scale pumped hydro power station at the end of the mine’s life.
The Mt Rawdon Pumped Hydro (MRPH) Project is being jointly developed by Evolution and ICA Partners to provide up to 20GWh of renewable energy storage and is located at an advantageous point in the electricity network between Brisbane and the energy intensive industrial hub of Gladstone.
The Feasibility Study is progressing well and remains on track for completion in the June quarter FY24, supporting continuing discussions with potential interested offtake partners and infrastructure investors. The MRPH project is well advanced and expected to be operational by 2030. It will support the Queensland Government’s target of achieving 50% renewable energy by 2030 as well as the Federal Government’s 43% 2030 emissions reduction target.
The project also delivers on Evolution’s social responsibility commitment of leaving a positive legacy for the communities in which we operate beyond the life of the mine.
For more information visit the Mt Rawdon Pumped Hydro website.