By Julius Ewudo, Cyber Era NG ASEAN Region Representative
Great Divide Mining Ltd achieved a major milestone on Wednesday July 16, 2025 with the successful pouring of first gold at the recommissioned Challenger Mine in Adelong, NSW.
Attended by Directors from both GDM and Adelong Gold Ltd together with local Snowy Valleys Councillor James Hayes, the historic event was televised on the Nine Network’s WIN Evening News with media from the Tumut & Adelong Times also in attendance.
This gold pour also confirmed the mine’s environmentally responsible processing pathway, with gold recovered using gravity separation and recycled water – avoiding the use of cyanide and minimising environmental impact.
The following morning, Directors from both companies had already convened first round meetings to discuss and plan the mine’s future, including its expansion, the potential to commence both open cut and underground mining operations in the next 6-12 months and of expanded processing capacity with a view to extending the mine life up to a potential 40-years. The forward-focused discussions signalled a shared commitment by both companies’ Boards to long-term investment and regional benefit.
“There are a lot of very skilled people in the district, so it’s good to be able to draw on them,” said Cr. James Hayes.
“We look forward to a long and bright future for the Challenger Mine and the Adelong township,” said CEO of Great Divide Mining Justin Haines.
