As of July 27, the Perth-based miner said overall project engineering is now 94% complete, while construction is now at the 61% mark. EPC construction of the process plant and associated infrastructures is 39% done.

Two projects at the complex outside of Laverton, the Yamarna gas pipeline and the Gruyere power station, have been wrapped up ahead of schedule. Commissioning is expected during the September quarter.

Gold Road officials also confirmed that all of the project's long-lead items - including the SAG and ball mills - have been delivered to the site from Perth. They are now awaiting installation by its EPC contractor Amec Foster Wheeler Civmec Joint Venture (ACJV).

"Activities by the ACJV on the Yeo borefield continue, with a significant portion of the pipes welded and pressure testing in progress," the company said. "The installation of the overhead powerlines is well advanced, with the majority of poles installed and conductor installation approximately 50% complete."

While a small section of the north Yeo Borefield was impacted by flooding, resulting in no activities having commenced there at this time, Gold Road said it does not anticipate the obstacle will impact plant completion and start-up.

Flow rate testing returned figures slightly above the estimates of the project's feasibility study, it said. Commissioning planning is well advanced, and early commissioning activities will begin during the final quarter of the year.

MACA completed the main bulk earthworks in June. A second package of work is now in process, and it is now busy on a second package of work.

The retained mining services contractor, Downer EDI, is progressing well with mining and workshop facilities construction. That should be completed during the September quarter.

Downer's workforce is targeting mobilisation in the December quarter for the beginning of pre‐strip activities on the Gruyere open-pit by early 2019.