ASX-listed Magnetic Resources has announced a significant milestone for its Lady Julie gold project in Western Australia, securing a native title agreement with the Wangkatja Tjungula Aboriginal Corporation (WTAC), the registered body representing the Nyalpa Pirniku People.

The agreement clears the way for the grant of mining leases over the project area by removing any objections to current applications, representing a crucial step towards the project becoming development-ready.

“This step will help clear any regulatory obstacles to securing mining leases for Lady Julie and progressing towards being shovel ready,” said Magnetic MD George Sakalidis. “I want to thank members of WTAC for assistance in driving this agreement forward – it is a great outcome and a credit to those involved.”

The agreement was negotiated with WTAC and authorised at a meeting of the Nyalpa Pirniku common law holders. It provides consent for Magnetic to carry out activities on the Lady Julie tenements and includes an upfront commencement payment and yearly production-based royalty payments.

WTAC chairperson David Canning described the deal as a “landmark agreement” that enables the first gold mine to be constructed on Nyalpa Pirniku land since the WTAC native title determination.

“This landmark agreement marks a historic milestone for the Nyalpa Pirniku People, paving the way for the construction of the first gold mine since WTAC’s native title determination,” said Canning.

“It affirms a shared commitment to preserving cultural heritage, protecting environmental values, and supporting the aspirations of the Nyalpa Pirniku community. Built on the foundations of mutual respect, transparency, and shared prosperity, this partnership will deliver tangible benefits, driving community development, creating employment and training pathways, and fostering long-term economic empowerment.

“Importantly, it ensures that the land and culture of the Nyalpa Pirniku People are safeguarded for future generations.”

Canning also acknowledged Sakalidis’ personal role in concluding the agreement. “The WTAC board extends its sincere thanks to Magnetic’s managing director, George Sakalidis, whose direct engagement was instrumental in accelerating a complex process and exemplified how genuine relationships can lead to meaningful outcomes.”