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Gekko to lead construction at G6M Dolphin mine

Aerial view of the Group 6 Metals Dolphin Tungsten mine

Group 6 Metals (G6M) has executed a contract with Gekko Systems for the design, procurement, construction and commissioning of the processing plant and related facilities for G6M’s Dolphin tungsten mine, located on King Island off Tasmania. 

The contract has a value of approximately $49 million with facilities to commence in the first quarter of 2023. 

G6M is expected to commence earthworks in early 2022, in preparation for civil works shortly after.  

Gekko and G6M have been engaging over the last three years and have together formulated the flowsheet which was developed after extensive test work at the ALS laboratory in Burnie, Tasmania. 

“We have worked very closely and successfully with Gekko over a number of years, which has culminated in us being able to execute this substantial contract so soon after completion of the project’s financing,” Group 6 Metals executive chairman Johann Jacobs said. 

“We look forward to continuing our working relationship with Gekko to ensure a quality facility that is completed on time and within budget.” 

The Dolphin mine redevelopment will initially focus on producing a high grade of tungsten concentrate, with plans well advanced to value-add the product for supply into the upstream tungsten industry. 

“Tungsten is a strategic and rare metal – it is a hardened material with much of its production used to produce products such as tungsten carbide which is applied to extend the life of products such as wear parts and cutting tools,” Gekko Systems chair Elizabeth Lewis-Gray said. 

“This is a critical resource development and an important project for regional Tasmania and Victoria.  

“The team at Gekko are proud to have the opportunity to collaborate on and deliver a quality, locally designed and built process plant solution for Group 6 Metals.” 

The first shipment of tungsten concentrate from the Dolphin mine to customers is expected in early 2023. 

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