WA approves VRX’s Arrowsmith North silica sand mining proposal, paving way for environmental clearance, long-term production, jobs, and economic benefits.
Western Australia’s Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration has granted approval for the mining proposal related to the Arrowsmith North silica sand project. This marks a key milestone for VRX Silica, giving the company the green light to commence mining activities, subject to standard operational and closure conditions, as well as compliance with environmental requirements.
This development follows an important step taken in late June, when the state’s Minister for the Environment confirmed that the Environmental Protection Authority of Western Australia (EPA) had adequately assessed the Arrowsmith North project. The Minister further determined that no additional assessment would be necessary, effectively clearing the way for the project to move toward full environmental approval.
The Arrowsmith North site, located approximately 270 kilometres north of Perth, hosts a deposit of high-quality silica sand considered globally significant. This resource underpins what is expected to be a long-life mining operation capable of sustaining production for many years. The extracted silica sand will serve high-demand markets in Asia, particularly in the foundry, container glass, and flat-glass manufacturing sectors.
VRX Silica’s Managing Director, Bruce Maluish, expressed enthusiasm over the department’s decision, stating, “In what is another significant milestone for VRX and the development of the project, we are delighted to receive approval from the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration of our mining proposal for the Arrowsmith North silica sand project. We now await formal notification from the Minister for the Environment regarding environmental approval for Arrowsmith North.”
The project is poised to contribute significantly to the economy of Western Australia’s Mid West region. In addition to creating a new, long-term industry for the area, Arrowsmith North is expected to generate both direct and indirect employment opportunities over its operational lifespan. The project will also deliver royalty revenues to the state, reinforcing its economic impact.
VRX Silica has garnered widespread backing from multiple stakeholders. These include local Indigenous communities, regional shires, the Mid West Development Commission, the Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and both state and federal government bodies. This broad coalition of support reflects the project’s perceived potential to stimulate economic growth while adhering to responsible mining practices.
With the mining proposal now approved and environmental clearance anticipated, VRX is positioned to advance the Arrowsmith North project from the planning stage to active development. If executed as intended, the project could not only meet growing demand for high-quality silica sand in international markets but also establish Western Australia as a long-term, reliable supplier to the global glass manufacturing industry.
