Carnavale Resources Ltd (ASX:CAV) and joint venture partner Western Resources Ltd have signed a Native Title Mining and Heritage Agreement with Wangkatja Tjungula Aboriginal Corporation (WTAC), acting on behalf of the Nyalpa Pirniku native title holders, for development of the Kookynie Gold Project in Western Australia’s Eastern Goldfields.
The project is around 60 kilometres south of Leonora and is currently the subject of a bankable feasibility study (BFS). Carnavale holds an 80% interest in the Kookynie Gold Project, with Western Resources holding 20%.
Carnavale said the agreement provides a framework for collaboration with WTAC across the exploration, development and operational phases, including cultural heritage management and compensation arrangements.
The company said the agreement is the final step required ahead of the granting of mining lease application M40/362, which covers Carnavale’s project site.
“We are very pleased to announce the signing of the agreement with WTAC who represent the Nyalpa Pirniku native title holders over our Kookynie Gold Project,” CAV CEO Humphrey Hale said.
“I would like to thank all members of WTAC and the Nyalpa Pirniku People who have negotiated in good faith to see this important agreement come to fruition. I look forward to building on our good relationship as we develop the Kookynie Gold Project on Nyalpa Pirniku country. Carnavale takes the responsibilities for cultural heritage and environment seriously and is proud to be partnering with the Nyalpa Pirniku People as we progress this exciting project.”
Respect and protect
As part of the arrangements, the agreement includes an Aboriginal Heritage Protocol intended to guide works in a way that respects and protects Nyalpa Pirniku cultural heritage, including processes for identification, protection and management of cultural values throughout development and operations.
“On behalf of the board and members of the Wangkatja Tjungula Aboriginal Corporation (WTAC), I acknowledge and welcome the completion of this agreement as the outcome of respectful, good-faith discussions between our organisations,” WTAC chairman David Canning said.
“This agreement reflects a shared commitment to walking together in a way that recognises our rights and interests, supports long-term opportunities for our people, and provides a clear framework for ongoing collaboration. We look forward to building a constructive and enduring relationship based on trust, transparency and mutual benefit as the agreement is implemented.”
The agreement also covers compensation to WTAC and the Nyalpa Pirniku people, and sets out pathways for employment and contracting opportunities linked to the Kookynie Gold Project.
Milestone payments are included, tied to items such as mining licence approval and environmental approval, alongside a royalty-based payment mechanism once gold production is achieved.
The year in review and what’s ahead
Proactive caught up with Humphrey Hale this week to look back at a year full of milestones and what’s to come in 2026.
