What's Happening?
Yari Minerals, an ASX-listed company, has declared a maiden Joint Ore Reserve Committee-compliant indicated coal resource of 33.74 million tonnes at its Rolleston South coal project located in Queensland's
Bowen Basin. This announcement follows a drilling program conducted between November and December 2025, which included four holes totaling 1,287.9 meters. The new data from this drilling has enhanced the confidence in seam continuity and geological interpretation, leading to a 17% increase in Yari's total coal resource, now estimated at approximately 223 million tonnes, with 193.8 million tonnes categorized as inferred. The drilling revealed thick, continuous coal seams, including shallow coal at a depth of 48.9 meters. Despite some ground condition challenges that restricted access to certain drill pads, further drilling and coal quality results are anticipated in the coming months.
Why It's Important?
The declaration of a significant coal resource at Rolleston South is a crucial development for Yari Minerals, as it underscores the project's potential for near-surface mining opportunities. The project's strategic location in the Bowen Basin, with established rail and port infrastructure, enhances its development prospects. This resource expansion could attract investment and facilitate the project's progression towards production, potentially contributing to the local economy and employment. Additionally, the increase in coal resources aligns with global energy demands, particularly in regions reliant on coal for power generation. However, it also raises environmental considerations, as coal mining and usage are significant contributors to carbon emissions, posing challenges in the context of global climate change efforts.
What's Next?
Yari Minerals plans to continue its drilling program, with additional holes scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026. The company is also awaiting further coal quality test results, which will provide more detailed insights into the resource's viability and market potential. These developments will likely influence Yari's strategic decisions regarding the project's advancement and potential partnerships or investments. Stakeholders, including local communities, environmental groups, and industry players, will be closely monitoring these outcomes, as they could impact regional economic activities and environmental policies.
