VANCOUVER - West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. has announced substantial progress in its fourth-quarter operations at the Madsen Mine, located in Ontario's prolific Red Lake Gold District. The company reported a 24% increase in ore production during October compared to the previous month, marking significant advancement toward full-scale operations.
Steady Progress Toward 2026 Production Goals
According to the mid-Q4 update released November 18, 2025, the Madsen Mine has made consistent strides in its ramp-up activities. The operation has benefited from several key developments, including the near-completion of rolling stock deliveries and the recent arrival of a maintenance shop that will enhance the site's equipment maintenance capabilities.
Shane Williams, President and CEO of West Red Lake Gold, expressed optimism about the mine's trajectory. "We have worked diligently through the stages and challenges of mine ramp up, always focused on getting the Madsen Mine into full scale operations early in 2026, and we are now in sight of that goal," Williams stated.
Operational Improvements Driving Production Gains
The significant production increase in October can be largely attributed to strategic operational changes. In mid-September, the mine implemented an underground waste rock storage program, which eliminated the need to transport waste rock to the surface. This innovation freed up substantial trucking capacity that could then be dedicated to moving ore.
Hayley Halsall-Whitney, Vice President of Operations, emphasized the importance of strong leadership in navigating the complex mining environment. "As the Madsen Mine moved successfully through bulk sample and into ramp up, we were able to attract individuals with deep and pertinent experience into key roles," Halsall-Whitney noted.
Equipment and Infrastructure Advancements
The company has made substantial investments in its operational infrastructure during the first half of Q4. Three 4-yard scoops have been delivered to the site, with the final 42-tonne haul truck expected to arrive in the coming weeks. These additions to the mobile fleet are critical for maintaining production momentum.
The newly delivered maintenance shop components will significantly improve the mine's ability to maintain its equipment fleet once installed. High equipment availability remains a priority for achieving efficient mining operations and sustaining the current production growth.
With daily tonnage now tracking toward commercial production levels expected early in the first quarter of 2026, West Red Lake Gold appears well-positioned to capitalize on the rich mineral resources of the Red Lake Gold District. The company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under symbol WRLG and on the OTCQB under WRLGF.