VRX SILICA LIMITED
ABN 59 142 014 873
ANNUAL REPORT
30 JUNE 2023
CORPORATE DIRECTORY
DIRECTORS
Paul Boyatzis (Non-executive Chairman)
Bruce Maluish (Managing Director)
Peter Pawlowitsch (Non-executive Director)
David Welch (Non-executive Director)
SECRETARY
Ian Hobson
REGISTERED AND PRINCIPAL OFFICE
Ground Floor, 52 Kings Park Road
West Perth WA 6005
Telephone: (08) 9226 3780
Website: www.vrxsilica.com.au
SHARE REGISTRY
Computershare Investor Services Pty Ltd
Level 17, 221 St George's Terrace
Perth WA 6000
Telephone: (08) 9323 2000
Facsimile: (08) 9323 2033
AUDITORS
RSM Australia Partners
Level 32, Exchange Tower
2 The Esplanade
Perth WA 6000
AUSTRALIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE
VRX Silica Limited shares (VRX) are listed on the Australian Securities
Exchange.
VRX Silica Limited
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO SHAREHOLDERS
Dear Shareholders
VRX Silica Limited, your company, has continued to make solid progress in the advancement of its silica
sand projects in Western Australia.
VRX holds the most advanced silica sand projects of any ASX-listed company. The total Mineral Resource
within all of the company’s silica sand projects was upgraded during the year to 1,381 million tonnes,
underpinning a long-term opportunity for silica sand export and downstream value-adding (including glass
manufacturing) in Western Australia.
Arrowsmith North remains on track to become VRX’s first silica sand mine in production.
A significant milestone was reached during the year with the Environmental Protection Authority of Western
Australia approving release of the Arrowsmith North Environmental Review Document for a 4 week public
review period. The public review and response process is the final step before the EPA prepares an
assessment report and recommendations for the proposal for the State Minister for the Environment. VRX
is currently working through this process with the EPA. Environmental approval for Arrowsmith North is
crucial and a precursor to the company’s ability to secure other necessary approvals for mining.
Other developments at Arrowsmith North during the year include completion of metallurgical testwork,
process circuit design and engineering to fabrication stage with a construction program and an orderly
procurement process. Specifications and long lead items for processing equipment have been identified
and tender documentation prepared.
Solutions for key processing and export infrastructure are well-advanced, with a competitive power solution
identified and approval by Main Roads WA of the Brand Highway road intersection design and construction.
Additionally, the company is in advanced discussions with Mid West Ports Authority for a long term export
solution at Geraldton Port with a dedicated storage and ship-loading facility.
At the Arrowsmith Central and Muchea silica sand projects, the company has undertaken further
metallurgical testwork and process circuit design to identify additional silica sand products that may be
produced from these sites. The company has also progressed additional survey work ahead of
environmental approval applications for those projects.
Other initiatives during the year include the company’s successful application for a grant from the WA State
Government Investment Attraction Fund for $2 million in matched funding to produce high purity quartz (or
HPQ) flour.
The formation of a strategic research partnership with the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy
Engineering of the University of New South Wales to investigate the market potential for a local, low carbon,
solar panel glass recycling program in Australia.
Demand for silica sand from VRX’s projects, and Muchea in particular, is sizeable as global supply side
constraints continue to worsen. Both the Arrowsmith North and Muchea silica sand projects were included
in Austrade’s 2022 Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus, demonstrating the Australian Government’s
recognition of silicon and silica sand as critical minerals.
Finally, with the completion of VRX’s recent capital raising initiative, the company is well-funded to progress
through the present approvals phase into development at Arrowsmith North.
On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank all personnel and contractors for their valuable contribution
during the year and shareholders for their continued support, despite a protracted approvals process and
broader challenging macroeconomic environment.
Bruce Maluish
Managing Director
For and on behalf of the Board
VRX Silica Limited
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The most advanced, pure-play
silica sand company on ASX
Five high-value, long-life, high-grade Western Australian silica sand projects
• Five multi-decade-scale contiguous sand deposits – Arrowsmith (North, Brand and
Central), Muchea and Boyatup
• A combined 1.38-billion-tonnes of mineral resources of 99.6% to 99.9% SiO2 grade silica sand
on granted mining leases over four projects, all with secure tenure
• Arrowsmith North high-purity product of 99.7% SiO2 with <500ppm Fe2O3 and on track to
become VRX’s first silica sand mine in production
• Muchea boasts ultra-high- purity product of 99.9% SiO2 with <100ppm Fe2O3 after
processing, with likely higher quality after further, targeted processing
Made-for-purpose, low capex processing plant capable of independent operation
•
Largely identical 2mtpa processing plants on all projects utilising a unique flotation process, rather
than spirals and screening
• Flotation will reduce capex and operating costs, and produce a more consistent, high-grade
and marketable product
• Process circuit design and detailed engineering complete, extensive and ongoing
metallurgical testing regime to refine plant operating parameters and optimal products
• Flotation reagents are organic and rapidly oxidise once used, presenting no environmental issues
Extensive environmental studies and approvals at an advanced stage
• Extensive environmental studies conducted over a number of seasons
• Environmental review document for Arrowsmith North provides a comprehensive summary of
the environmental setting, physical and operational elements of the mine and infrastructure,
environmental impact and mitigation and proposed rehabilitation and closure plan
• Arrowsmith North in last stages of environmental and mining approvals processes
• Muchea and Arrowsmith Central to follow and largely mirror Arrowsmith North approvals processes
Rehabilitation at the heart of mining – Vegetation Direct Transfer
• VDT provides rapid and comprehensive regeneration of mined areas based on
continuous rehabilitation as mining progresses
• VDT removes a 3m x 3m, 400mm deep sod, preserving topsoil and containing the vast
majority of native flora and invertebrate fauna
Substantial offtake interest
• Bulk pilot plant scale testing programs test the process circuit and supply large samples to an
extensive list of potential buyers
• Offtake term sheets agreed for supply of Arrowsmith North foundry sand products to prominent
South Korean foundry sand suppliers and users, subject to project approvals and pricing
• Poised to be an Australian first, and only, supplier of foundry sand to South Korea
• Substantial interest from significant players across the Asia Pacific for silica sand products from all
projects
COMPANY REVIEW
Review of Operations
The following is a summary of the activities conducted by VRX Silica Limited (VRX or Company) during the
year ended 30 June 2023 at its silica sand projects at Arrowsmith North, Arrowsmith Brand and Arrowsmith
Central (located 270 km north of Perth), Muchea (located 50 km north of Perth) and Boyatup (located 100
km east of Esperance), all situated in Western Australia.
VRX Silica Sand Resources
VRX is a Western Australian based pure-play silica sand exploration and development company with five
high-value, advanced, very long-term silica sand projects in Western Australia, a Tier 1 mining region.
The Company has multi-decade scale contiguous sand deposits on granted Mining Leases with secure
tenure and a combined 1.4Bn tonne Mineral Resource of 95.9% to 99.6% SiO2 high grade silica sand.
The Company and its management team is WA based as are its five large scale, high-grade and low impurity
silica sand projects. Each project can be run independently and will supply high-grade silica sand to many
diverse markets.
VRX Silica Limited
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Figure 1: Project Locations
COMPANY REVIEW
Applications of Silica Sand
Silica sand is the most-used commodity on the planet after air and water. It is the main ingredient in all types
of glassmaking, including specialty solar panel and high-tech glass. The glass manufacturing industry
demand is increasing at a rate of 5-6% per year, or about 8-10 million tonnes pa. Around 47% of the world’s
glass is manufactured in Asia.
Silica sand is also an essential component of the foundry and casting industries. The largest foundry industry
is in Korea where it dominates the industry particularly for large marine components.
Lower quality silica sand is also the main ingredient in concrete.
Silica sand is a finite resource that is rapidly being exhausted and the Asia-Pacific region is currently
experiencing increasing demand at a time of a global supply shortfall.
Project development pipeline to ensure a disciplined, staged development of world-class assets
The Arrowsmith North silica sand project (Arrowsmith North) will lead a staggered and disciplined
development program, followed by the Muchea silica sand project (Muchea), the Arrowsmith Central
(Arrowsmith Central) and Arrowsmith Brand (Arrowsmith Brand) silica sand project and the Boyatup silica
sand project (Boyatup).
VRX has the most-developed ASX listed company silica sand projects in Australia with planning, Aboriginal
heritage, environmental approvals, metallurgical testwork studies and plant engineering well advanced,
having commenced in 2017.
Mining Leases are granted over four of its five projects as well as various Miscellaneous Licences for access,
with permitting and infrastructure preparations well-advanced.
The scale of the projects provides for a long-term opportunity for silica sand export and potential for glass
manufacturing and downstream industries in Western Australia.
Critical Minerals Publication
In December 2022 VRX announced its Arrowsmith North and Muchea silica sand projects have been included
in the Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus for 2022 published by Austrade and launched by the Hon. Don
Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism.
The prospectus includes technical, commercial, and geological data to facilitate investment into projects for
Australia’s identified critical minerals. To-date, the prospectus has received significant recognition among
interested foreign investors and buyers, Australian corporates, and the Australian government for its
significant role in marketing opportunities in the Australian and export markets.
The recognition by the Australian Government that silicon and silica sand are a critical mineral and that VRX
has significant potential to address anticipated production shortfalls, build supply chain security, and help
deliver progress on a net-zero future is an important step forward.
The publication has been widely distributed by Austrade during Government trade delegation promotional
trips to trading partner countries.
This has driven a significant increase in enquiries from countries visited for the purchase of silica sand
products from Australian producers. VRX has been contacted by potential trading partners from India for
glassmaking and foundry sand, and Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and China for glassmaking sand. These
enquiries have confirmed the fundamental issues concerning the dwindling supply of silica sand globally,
particularly high-grade sand, and the looming shortfall that has been predicted for some time.
VRX continues to engage with potential buyers that have received samples of products from Arrowsmith
North and Muchea.
Arrowsmith North
The mining and processing operation is relatively simple and low impact with long-term production expected
to commence initially at Arrowsmith North on the 221Mt Proved and Probable Ore Reserve (9.2Mt Proved
and 212Mt Probable) in 2024, subject to final environmental approvals.
A revised capital estimate is currently underway on a tailored 2Mtpa processing plant with a unique patented
custom process circuit.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
The results of additional bulk testwork programs undertaken during the March and June 2022 quarters were
received in August 2022. These programs produced sufficient final product for the large samples (50-60kg)
required for glassmaking furnace testing and foundry resin coating testing. The samples have been forwarded
to an extensive list of potential buyers.
The Company has identified long-lead items and has commenced the specification and production of tender
documentation of processing equipment for the plant in preparation for the procurement process in order to
enable a timely construction program following a decision to mine at Arrowsmith North.
Delays in the approvals process that have afflicted the resources industry in general in Western Australia
have necessitated the tender process for major equipment to be deferred until a more precise
commencement date can be established. However, previous tenders have identified Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEM) that will be requested to supply updated tenders.
Engineering
In May 2023 VRX announced it has completed all material engineering work for construction of a 2 million
tonne per year silica sand processing plant at Arrowsmith North.
The detailed design phase of the project is largely complete. Remaining minor areas/items will be easily and
efficiently detail designed during the execution phase of the project, without affecting the execution schedule.
This phase of engineering has been based on a comprehensive metallurgical testwork program and peer
reviewed process circuit design and testing.
The design incorporates some innovative processing techniques which allows flexibility for the Company to
produce multiple products subject to market requirements for foundry and glassmaking silica sand.
This stage of the project follows an extensive testing program that VRX has conducted over the last few years
with its metallurgical consultants. The Company has developed a number of unique processes to produce
the most valuable, high yield and high-quality silica sand products possible.
This design work by the engineering team at ProjX will allow a very long production future at Arrowsmith
North with low emissions and carbon footprint.
Detailed Design
The following areas/items are detail designed, peer reviewed and ready to progress to execution:
• Site and plant layout drawings.
• The attritioning/flotation building (structural, mechanical, and concrete packages).
• The product area (structural, mechanical, and concrete packages).
• Rejects cyclone stacker.
• Civil works for the plant & product area.
• Civil works for the southern access road.
• Civil works for the Brand Highway interface. (Note that this has been fully approved by Main Roads
WA).
• Concrete has been detail designed.
• Electrical reticulation design and single line diagrams.
• Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs).
• Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (PIDs).
• Circuit mass balance.
• Water management.
• Mechanical Equipment List (MEL).
• Fabrication drawings verified.
•
3D design model.
The functional control philosophy document is currently being developed.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
The following areas/items are concept designed only and will be detail designed or completed during the
execution phase of the project:
• The mine plant area, including the feed hopper, transfer conveyors, trommel and other associated
equipment such as water tank & pump skids, pipe systems etc. This area is all concept designed
but is essentially comprised of vendor equipment linked together. The trommel is sourced and
refurbished, and the other vendor equipment has been tendered and the preferred vendor selected.
Finalisation of this area and design of ancillary items will be completed during the execution phase.
• Non-Process Infrastructure (NPI) will be designed/selected during the execution phase but have
been included in site layout drawings. This includes items such as the following:
o Admin, crib, toilet buildings etc and associated water and wastewater system.
o Fire and raw water services.
o Workshop, stores, laydown, etc.
o Vehicle wash bays.
Equipment
The following major equipment has been tendered, selected as preferred and therefore used in the detailed
design:
• Cyclone cluster.
• Attritioners.
• Hydrofloat separators.
• Classifiers.
• Conditioning tank.
• Thickener.
• Transformers.
• Ring main unit.
• MCC/switchrooms.
• Product dewatering screens.
• Feed hopper and conveyors (preferred vendor yet to be selected).
• Slurry pumps (preferred vendor yet to be selected).
• Water pumps.
• Air compressors.
The following minor equipment is yet to be officially tendered:
• Bore pumpset.
• Transportable buildings.
• Samplers.
• Pipe supply.
• Fabricated steelwork, chutes, etc.
Project Execution Schedule
The most recent execution schedule uses the following key milestones prior to the decision to commence
construction:
• Finalise finance and establish construction commencement date.
• Site access date to construct the northern access road.
• Approval to place orders for major long lead equipment.
• Site access date for plant construction.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
Project Cost Estimate
The baseline project cost estimate, determined at a preliminary level in 2019, was $28.3M (including ~$6M
contingency). The cost estimate will be updated during 2023 as key equipment is re-tendered. There has
been a significant increase in costs for steel and concrete since 2019. The cost estimate will be reviewed
and updated prior to the decision to commence construction.
Major Equipment Procurement
VRX has prepared a summary of the major long lead time equipment that will be procured and has recently
refreshed the quotations for most of these items. Some equipment has not been tendered for some time
and will require re-tendering closer to the execution phase. Timing for procurement is subject to the
approvals process, primarily with the Environmental Protection Authority of Western Australia (EPA).
When evaluating tenders VRX uses a Tender Evaluation (TEV) process to summarise the tender
submissions and to essentially land on the preferred tender.
Short Term Ongoing Works
VRX intends to carry on with the following development tasks.
• Rearrange the execution cost estimate to show costs by area rather than by task, for inclusion in
the data room for due diligence by financiers. This is a short-term priority.
• Evaluate recent re-tendering of key major equipment and follow up on other equipment that has not
been re-tendered recently.
• Continuously update a summary of lead times for major equipment suppliers to carry out the
detailed design of their equipment, in order to reduce their equipment lead times.
• Continue to refine the execution cost estimate in light of recent retendered equipment and other
information.
• Refine the execution schedule estimate in light of recent retendered equipment and other
information.
• Produce a manning histogram for the execution phase and investigate accommodation planning as
necessary.
• Review the Operating & Control Philosophy.
•
Liaise with the power provider to assist with the development of the preferred power option
Key Plant Equipment
VRX has previously announced the start of project capital expenditure for its Arrowsmith North processing
plant, with the purchase of two major items of sand processing capital equipment.
VRX has purchased locally a 3m diameter x 8m long RCR-designed feed trommel (see Figure 2) and a 3.6
x 8.5m Schenck “banana” vibrating screen (see Figure 3). This equipment has been refurbished by Bunbury
based workshops.
The banana screen has undergone strip, non-destructive testing and refurbishment by the OEM (Original
Equipment Manufacturer) and is complete.
VRX will continue to pursue other lead time and cost-saving opportunities to capitalise on its first-mover
advantage in Western Australia’s emerging silica sand sector, at a time when there is fast-rising global
demand for high-quality, responsibly sourced silica sand.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
Figure 2: FeedTrommel
Figure 3: Schenk vibrating banana screen
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
Process Water
A process water bore was successfully drilled to access water from the Yarragadee North deep aquifer with
aquifer testing to supply data for an abstraction licence application for 0.9Gl of water for the Arrowsmith North
processing plant requirements. Monitoring boreholes for the borefield have been completed. The plant has
been designed to operate predominately with recycled water.
VRX has also successfully completed a production bore and monitoring bores for abstraction at Arrowsmith
Central, 20kms to the south of Arrowsmith North. Results from the pump testing at Arrowsmith Central will
contribute to the assessment modelling for both Arrowsmith North and Central water abstraction.
Figure 4: Bore testing equipment
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
Power Supply
In March 2023 VRX announced it has executed a letter of intent (LOI) with ResourcesWA to investigate a
proposed power supply solution for the Company’s Arrowsmith North Silica Sand Project utilising gas directly
from a local wellhead.
The purpose of the LOI is to investigate the potential to establish a powerhouse, with containerised gas
reciprocating engines, at a nearby gas wellhead site with direct offtake from the existing gas plant and
reticulation to the Arrowsmith North site via a dedicated transmission line.
ResourcesWA has a fully resourced and operational project development, delivery and asset management
team. The proposal is inclusive of all design, construction and operational requirements to provide a 100%
turnkey Build, Own and Operate solution.
VRX has been considering for some time how to best take advantage of the abundant supply of LNG from
nearby gas fields to meet power requirements at Arrowsmith North.
Desktop modelling indicates that a gas-driven powerhouse and transmission solution is not only cost effective
but will reduce the project’s carbon footprint and expected greenhouse gas emissions.
This power solution has the potential to provide the most economic low emission power supply to Arrowsmith
North.
Logistics
The Company is continuing discussions with the Mid West Ports Authority (MWPA) for export of silica sand
product from Geraldton Port to enable a storage area and shiploading within their Port Maximisation Plan.
Proposed sites for future storage and berth access for shiploading have been identified.
The Company has access to the adjacent Brand Highway from the Arrowsmith North processing plant site
and an approved road intersection construction plan from Main Roads WA to enable road transport of silica
sand product in the short-term.
The Company is preparing tender documents for the short-term haulage operations.
Major Advance In Arrowsmith North Environmental Approvals Process
VRX has conducted extensive environmental studies on its silica sand projects over a number of seasons in
anticipation of requirements of the State and Federal environmental regulation authorities to undertake
approvals assessments. These surveys commenced shortly after the tenements were acquired and the
number and extent of these surveys have expanded following further consultation with these authorities. The
Company has initially concentrated on gaining approval for development of the Arrowsmith North project.
VRX has received confirmation from the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and the
Environment (now Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water) (DCCEEW) for
accredited approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
Accreditation of the EPA’s assessment processes means that the Commonwealth can rely on environmental
assessments undertaken by the EPA for the purpose of its approval decisions under the EPBC Act on
proposals that are likely to have a significant impact on a matter of national environmental significance. If the
EPA assesses a proposal at the level of Public Environmental Review (PER), as is the case for Arrowsmith
North, separate assessment by the Commonwealth is not required.
The Arrowsmith North proposal was referred to the Western Australian Department of Water and
Environmental Regulation (DWER) and the EPA for assessment under Part IV, Section 38 of the
Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) (EP Act) in March 2021. The referral was reviewed and in May
2021 the EPA determined that the Proposal would be assessed at a PER level, with a requirement for a four-
week public review period.
The Environmental Scoping Document (ESD) was lodged with the EPA in September 2021 and approved in
April 2022.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
During May 2022 the Company lodged the initial Environmental Review Document (ERD) for Arrowsmith
North with the EPA. The ERD is required under the EPA’s public environmental review process and was
released for public review following assessment and acceptance by the EPA and other relevant authorities.
The ERD was prepared according to the EPA’s Administrative Procedures Manual and other guidance
documents. The ERD is a comprehensive summary of the project environmental setting, the physical
elements of the mine and infrastructure, operational elements, the extent of effects on the environment and
the proposed rehabilitation and closure plan. The Company received a request from the EPA for further
information in early July 2022 and the response was submitted later that month.
As per the Procedures Manual, the ERD was distributed for review by relevant government agencies,
subsequently a request for additional information was received in November 2022. The Company lodged a
revised ERD (Revision D) and response table to address the requested information in December 2022.
Subsequently, the Company received a further response in April 2023 requesting confirmation that the
Company has complied with requirements for flora collecting and Herbarium vouchers, Index of Biodiversity
Surveys for Assessments (IBSA) submissions and consistency in flora naming, inclusion of amended
appendices in the final ERD and conformity in variously dated surveys with respect to amended affected
areas.
The EPA considers the ERD to be the proponent’s view of the proposal for public comment and public release
of the ERD does not mean the EPA has endorsed the proposed approaches to impact assessment and
management. If additional information is required from the proponent during the Response to Submissions
phase of the assessment, this information may subsequently require publishing on the EPA website for further
public review and comment.
In June 2023 the ERD for Arrowsmith North had been accepted by DWER for publication and a four-week
PER period. The final ERD comprises a 341 page summary and 32 appendices detailing a comprehensive
environmental impact description of the proposal.
The ERD seeks approval for a development area that has the potential to underpin a project lasting up to 30
years, underscoring the enormous economic contribution that could flow to the Irwin Shire in particular and
Western Australia more broadly.
The PER process commenced on 19 June 2023 for a four-week period and included a requirement for VRX
to respond to all comments received. This PER and response process are the final steps before the EPA
prepares an assessment report including recommendations to the Western Australian Environment Minister
on whether the proposal should be approved.
Environmental approval for Arrowsmith North is crucial and linked to VRX’s ability to secure other approvals
necessary for mining. The PER milestone therefore is a significant step in Arrowsmith North’s approvals
process.
DWER has compiled public submissions, and these were provided to the Company in mid-September 2023
to review and respond. The Company is in the process of preparing its response to the public submissions
for consideration by the EPA.
Importantly this stage of the environmental approvals process for Arrowsmith North will establish the
credentials for the use of VDT in Kwongan Heath, which is the vegetation encountered at Arrowsmith North
and also for the grasses and sedges within Banksia Woodland at our other projects. It is estimated to result
in the best restoration of the mine area vegetation and habitat within the mine area.
The ERD and further information on the proposal is available on the EPA website at:
https://www.epa.wa.gov.au/proposals/arrowsmith-north-silica-sand-project
A copy of the ERD is also available on the VRX website at:
https://vrxsilica.com.au/arrowsmith-north-erd-documents/
The VDT methodology can be viewed at:
https://vrxsilica.com.au/miningandrehabilitationmethodology/
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
Figure 5: VDT Modified Loader Bucket
Arrowsmith North update to the Mineral Resource Estimate and Ore Reserve Statement
In November 20221 VRX announced an update to the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) and Ore Reserve
Statement (ORS) for Arrowsmith North.
The MRE update was based on an additional 130 close spaced grade control holes. These holes were drilled
as a pre-production activity to increase the resource confidence in the initial years of mining, and to produce
a bulk sample for pilot scale metallurgical testwork and the generation of bulk samples for potential offtake
partners.
A pilot plant testwork of a 3.3 tonne bulk metallurgical composite was completed. In combination with market
analysis a suite of four saleable products have been determined that will be produced from Arrowsmith North.
Process and Engineering design of the proposed Process Plant has been guided by the chemical and
physical specifications of these products. The declaration of these four products was used to define the
saleable Ore Reserve declared in this release.
This updated Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve is a culmination of significant metallurgical testwork and
evaluation of the Resource to determine the premium products VRX can produce.
These products include sought after foundry sand as well as glassmaking sand suitable for flat glass,
including automobile glass and also container glass.
Large samples (50-60kg) have been despatched to several foundry and glassmaking companies in Korea,
Japan and Taiwan for evaluation and subsequent discussions for offtake.
The creation of this JORC compliant Proved Ore Reserve has led to a high confidence mining and processing
schedule of the final products that will be available for sale for the initial 6 years of mining. This will allow for
a proactive marketing effort to return the best economic outcomes from the project. Future grade control
programs and ore reserve updates will not be required for 5 years from the commencement of mining.
Detailed information on the methodology underpinning the final Mineral Resource Estimate and Ore Reserve
Statement is contained in the Company’s ASX Announcement dated 11 November 2022.
VRX engaged CSA Global to update the Arrowsmith North MRE with the expectation that the new estimate
would not be materially different from the published estimate2, as the CSA update was confined to the new
data generated by the grade control drilling, see Figure 6, which shows the area (shown in green) that was
included in the updated MRE.
1 ASX announcement of 11 November 2022, “Arrowsmith North Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Update”.
2 ASX announcement of 9 July 2019, “Arrowsmith North Mineral Resource Estimate Upgrade”.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
The updated MRE resulted in a category upgrade to the material in the area grade controlled to a Measured
Resource. The JORC 2012 Table 1 is included in Appendix 2 in the Company’s ASX Announcement dated
11 November 2022.
Figure 6: CSA MRE Update – Green area updated
Ore Reserve Estimate Update
Cube Consulting was engaged by VRX to complete mining engineering work towards a life of mine production
schedule to provide an updated Ore Reserve estimate for Arrowsmith North.
The scope of work included importing and reconciling the supplied mineral resource block model, defining
mining boundaries for successive schedule timing, preparing the mining area into appropriate blocks which
would form the basis of the mining schedule, preparing a mining schedule for the total mine life, reporting of
the mining schedule physicals including material mined and the associated products, for inclusion in the
financial model, culminating in the reporting of an updated Ore Reserves estimate for the project.
The production schedule was completed in quarterly increments for the first 7 years, followed by annual
increments for the following 38 years after which the schedule was aggregated and reported in 5-year
increments to the end of the mine’s 111 year life.
VRX Silica Limited
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COMPANY REVIEW
Total material movements planned are shown for the first seven years in quarterly increments in Figure 7 and
annually for years 8 to 45 in Figure 8.
Year 1 to 7 Quarterly Material Mined by Product
700,000
600,000
500,000
400,000
300,000
200,000
100,000
0
2,500,000
2,000,000
1,500,000
1,000,000
500,000
0
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AFS20
AFS35
AFS55
Local Product
Overburden Waste
Figure 7: First 7 Years Production Profile
Year 8 to 45 Annual Material Mined by Product
Year
8
Year
10
Year
12
Year
14
Year
16
Year
18
Year
20
Year
22
Year
24
Year
26
Year
28
Year
30
Year
32
Year
34
Year
36
Year
38
Year
40
Year
42
Year
44
AFS20
AFS35
AFS55
Local Product
Overburden Waste
Figure 8: Years 8 to 45 Production Profile
VRX Silica Limited
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Figure 9: Mine Schedule Blocks, Development area and Mining Lease Area
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The work completed supports the reporting of an updated Ore Reserve estimate for this project in accordance
with the guidelines in the JORC Code. Proved and Probable Ore Reserves have been derived from the
Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources respectively contained within the mining lease area M70/1389.
The Arrowsmith North updated Ore Reserve estimate is shown in Table 1.
Arrowsmith North - Ore Reserves
Updated Estimate
Classification
Total
AFS20
AFS35
AFS55
Local
Proved
Probable
Total
Mt
9.2
211.8
221.0
Prior Estimate
223
Change
-2.0
-0.9%
Mt
0.8
24.2
25.0
Mt
Mt
Mt
3.9
102.5
106.4
Mt
2.7
51.1
53.8
Mt
1.8
34.1
35.9
Table 1: Arrowsmith North Open Pit Ore Reserve Estimate – November 2022
The rounding in the above table is an attempt to represent levels of precision implied in the estimation process which
may result in apparent errors of summation in totals shown in rows or columns.
The Prior Estimate relies on VRX’s bankable feasibility study for Arrowsmith North announced to ASX in
August 20193. All material assumptions contained in that study continue to apply and have not materially
changed from the date of release of that study. While VRX considers all of the material assumptions to be
based on reasonable grounds, there is no certainty they will be correct or that the range of outcomes indicated
within the study will be achieved.
The schedule targets total product tonnes of 2.2 Mt per annum over the full mine life with the exception of the
first 2 years which are scheduled at half of the full production target as part of a conservative ramp up plan.
The total material mined averages just over the target of product tonnes, which is due to the very low volumes
of overburden waste to be moved to expose the target product material.
Ore Reserve Estimate
At the conclusion of this study, it was demonstrated that the project is economically viable considering all
relevant factors, test work and design criteria, culminating in a financial analysis with favourable economic
metrics.
The work completed supports the reporting of an updated Ore Reserve estimate for this project in accordance
with the guidelines in the JORC Code. Proved and Probable Ore Reserves have been derived from the
Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources respectively, contained within the mining lease area M70/1389.
The Arrowsmith North updated Ore Reserve estimate is shown in Table 2.
Product
Ore Reserve
Total
AFS20
AFS35
AFS55
Local
Classification
Proved
Probable
Total
Mt
9.2
211.8
221.0
Mt
0.8
24.2
25.0
Mt
3.9
102.5
106.4
Mt
2.7
51.1
53.8
Mt
1.8
34.1
35.9
Table 2. Arrowsmith North Open Pit Ore Reserve Estimate – October 2022
The rounding in the above table is an attempt to represent levels of precision implied in the estimation process which
can result in apparent errors of summation in some columns.
3 ASX announcement of 28 August 2019, “Arrowsmith North BFS and Maiden Ore Reserve”.
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Figure 10. shows the Arrowsmith North Ore Reserve area.
Figure 10: Arrowsmith North Ore Reserve Area
Future Work
VRX has now completed all mining and processing pre-production works as well as the production of bulk
material of the various final products and detailed engineering design of the planned processing plant is close
to completion. VRX is in the final stages of gaining regulatory approval to commence construction once all
approvals are in place.
Arrowsmith Central
Arrowsmith Central is another of the Company’s silica sand projects under development.
Approvals
Arrowsmith Central has moved to the next stage of the environmental approval process with the EPA.
In June 2022 the Company lodged an ESD which details the environmental studies that are required to inform
the assessment of the project. Lodgment of the ESD is a fundamental step in the EPA administration
procedures to inform the Environmental Impact Assessment of Arrowsmith Central. The Company is
confident the ESD addresses the EPA’s Environmental Principles, Factors and Objectives.
The ESD is under assessment and the Company is seeking feedback from the EPA.
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The Company is not in a position at this stage to set a definitive timeline for the approval process.
Process Water
In September 2022 VRX announced the completion of the test holes for 2 production water bores which will
be the source of water supply for the proposed processing plant at Arrowsmith Central. The borehole drilling,
construction, test pumping and downhole logging has been completed to compile the required data for the
H3 assessment for the abstraction licence.
Arrowsmith Brand
In May 20234, VRX announced an extension of its known JORC 2012 compliant Resources at the Arrowsmith
area with a new Resource Estimate at its new Arrowsmith Brand project. The new Resource is contiguous
and south of Arrowsmith North and bounded to the south by the Brand Highway road reserve.
The combined Resources at Arrowsmith now provide a future pipeline of additional production utilising some
of the infrastructure to be developed at Arrowsmith North.
Whilst development of Arrowsmith Brand is not a current priority, extended timelines are now commonplace
for mining approvals and this project has the potential to expand production to meet ever increasing demand
for silica sand products.
The silica sand at Arrowsmith Brand is similar to Arrowsmith North, with testwork to-date from samples within
this Resource has indicated similar products can be produced. Following the production of the preliminary
estimate at Arrowsmith Brand, VRX lodged an application for a Mining Lease and this was granted in July
2023.5
The Arrowsmith Brand Mining Lease (M70/1418) has an area of 1,994 Ha and sits predominately within
Exploration Licence E70/5027, partially within E70/5109 and is contiguous with the granted Arrowsmith North
Mining Lease (M70/1389) (see Figure 11).
4 ASX announcement of 9 May 2023, “Arrowsmith Brand Mineral Resource Estimate”.
5 ASX announcement of 19 July 2023, “Grant of Arrowsmith Brand Mining Lease”.
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Figure 11: Arrowsmith Brand Silica Sand Project Location
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Detailed Arrowsmith Brand Resource Information
The Arrowsmith Brand Resource was an opportunity to generate an additional silica sand project focused on
an area of the Arrowsmith North mineral resource area that is not in the near-term development pipeline. By
splitting Arrowsmith North at the southern boundary of the granted mining lease M70/1389, see Figure 11,
Arrowsmith Brand was established.
Arrowsmith Brand contains a subset of the previously reported Arrowsmith North MRE6, see Table 3. This
shows the prior Arrowsmith North MRE split between the new Arrowsmith Brand and Arrowsmith North.
Arrowsmith North - Mineral Resource
Classification Mt
Measured
Indicated
Inferred
Total
Al₂O₃
%
11 November 2022 Estimate
Fe₂O₃
%
0.7
SiO₂
%
95.9 1.9
10
237 97.7 1.00 0.40
521 98.2 0.80 0.30
768 98.0 0.90 0.30
LOI
%
0.7
TiO₂
%
0.3
0.20 0.50
0.20 0.40
0.20 0.40
Arrowsmith North Mineral Resource
in Arrowsmith Brand Project
Classification Mt
SiO₂
%
Al₂O₃
%
Fe₂O₃
%
Inferred
Total
255 98.0 0.91 0.31
255 98.0 0.91 0.31
LOI
%
TiO₂
%
0.17 0.44
0.17 0.44
Arrowsmith North Mineral Resource
Ex Arrowsmith Brand Project
Classification Mt
Measured
Indicated
Inferred
Total
Al₂O₃
%
SiO₂
%
10
95.9 1.9
237 97.7 1.0
266 98.4 0.7
513 98.0 0.9
Fe₂O₃
%
0.7
0.4
0.3
0.3
TiO₂
%
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.2
LOI
%
0.7
0.5
0.4
0.4
Table 3: Prior Arrowsmith North MRE apportioned to Brand Mineral Resource
In December 2022, VRX completed a vacuum drilling program at Arrowsmith North extending into Arrowsmith
Brand, see Figure 12. A total of 68 holes for 786m were drilled on M70/1389 to gain material for future
metallurgical testwork within the proposed Arrowsmith North mining area. These holes infill the existing 50m
spaced grade control drilling which was used to estimate the measured resource and proven reserve. These
samples will not materially change these estimates and have not been assayed.
An additional 49 holes for 656m were drilled on existing tracks to the south in what is now known as the
Arrowsmith Brand Project. These holes infill and extend the prior reported MRE for Arrowsmith North. Drilling
intersected high quality silica sand which has been assayed and modelled and has resulted in a MRE for
Arrowsmith Brand.
6 ASX announcement 11 November 2022, “Arrowsmith North Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Update”.
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Figure 12: December 2022 Drill hole locations.
The Arrowsmith Brand MRE is reported in accordance with the JORC Code 2012 Edition. Drilling was
completed generally on an 800m x 800m drill hole grid and defines a band of homogeneous yellow sand
overlying white sand. Drilling encountered zones of clay rich fine sand which was excluded from the MRE.
The potential silica sand products from Arrowsmith Brand are expected to be suitable for industries such as
flat, automobile and container glass manufacturing and foundry casting.
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The Arrowsmith Brand MRE is shown in Table 4.
Arrowsmith Brand Mineral Resource Estimate – as at 09/05/2023
Classification
Zone
Mt
SiO₂ %
Al₂O₃ %
Inferred
White
Yellow
Total
144 98.4
379 96.9
523 97.3
0.8
1.6
1.4
Increase over Prior Estimate
268 Million Tonnes
Fe₂O₃
%
0.2
0.5
0.4
TiO₂ % LOI %
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.4
0.7
0.6
*Note: Interpreted mineralisation is above a basal layer of clay and/or limestone. Depletion zones include the upper 0.3 m excluded for
rehabilitation purposes. Only areas with a minimum sand depth of 1m were included. Differences may occur due to rounding. Prior
estimate is summarised in Table 3.
Table 4: Arrowsmith Brand Mineral Resource
Future Work
VRX expects to advance the project using the well-known process that has been followed at its other silica
sand projects currently being developed. These activities include environmental surveys, further
metallurgical testwork, marketing studies and mine planning studies, which will inform scoping and pre-
feasibility studies.
Tenement
Holder
Application date
Grant Date
Area (Ha)
M 70/1418
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
01/08/2022
18/07/2023
1,994
Table 5: Arrowsmith Brand tenement details
Muchea
Development of Muchea will follow Arrowsmith North.
The Company has had many offtake enquiries for Muchea silica sand from Asian markets and believes that
the consistent production of such high-grade silica sand with a low iron content will be in high demand as raw
material for the manufacture of predominately premium ultra-clear glass production, particularly for the
burgeoning solar panel manufacturing industry. VRX continues to receive these enquiries on a regular basis.
Environmental Studies
Detailed springtime flora and vegetation studies were undertaken during the springtime months on a selected
priority area of 450Ha.
This survey will comply with the requirements of the Environment Protection Authority Environmental Factor
Guideline: Flora and Vegetation, and Technical Guidance – Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental
Impact Assessment (2016a and 2016b).
The final flora and vegetation report will include previous survey results and the current survey results from
quadrats, targeted searches as well as historical information that relates to the root structure, density and
distribution of the key species.
The Priority Area has been selected as an area that has only two vegetation types and is restricted to Low
Banksia Woodland on loose sand, which is the Company’s production target.
Work to date indicates that the selected area has no Priority Species of flora and no thickets of paperbark
which are restricted to low lying areas and generally have more fauna species.
The final report was received in early 2023 and will form the basis of the EPA Proposal Referral for Muchea.
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COMPANY REVIEW
Figure 13: Typical vegetation in the Muchea Priority Area
Muchea Aboriginal Heritage
VRX had previously undertaken an Aboriginal Ethnographic and Archaeological heritage survey in 2017 to
clear the initial drilling program area, with representatives of the Whadjuk People accompanying the drill
crew.
VRX has undertaken a comprehensive Aboriginal Ethnographic and Archaeological heritage survey over the
Priority Area to identify and understand Aboriginal heritage values within the area to support future dialogue
with the Whadjuk people about the proposed mining project.
During October 2022 an Aboriginal Heritage Work Area Clearance Survey was conducted on the Priority
Area at the Muchea Silica Sand Project with representatives from the Whadjuk People and VRX managed
by Joe Dortch (PhD, Archaeology) with an Ethnographic Survey Muchea clearance survey area conducted
early November 2022 with representatives from the Whadjuk People and VRX and managed by Dirima
Cuthbert (MEnv Des, BSc Hons, Anthropology) and anthropology assistant Jordanna Rebecka (BA
Anthropology, BA Archaeology).
The final report was received in early 2023. No archaeological heritage sites were identified on the
archaeological survey. VRX has committed to continued monitoring by Whadjuk representatives when
significant ground disturbing works are undertaken to identify any material which may come to light as a result
of the proposal.
No ethnographic heritage sites were identified on the ethnographic survey.
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It was intended for the Proposal to be managed through a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) under
the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act (WA) 2021 (to be implemented on 1 July 2023). Preliminary drafting of
the CHMP was commenced to comply with published guidelines however, subsequent to the end of the
financial year, the State Government announced that the legislation is to be repealed and revert to the former
Aboriginal Heritage Act (WA) 1972, with certain amendments to that Act proposed. The Company is awaiting
details of the changes to the legislation in order to finalise its CHMP.
Figure 14: Muchea clearance survey area
Exploration
Samples from a drill program conducted earlier in the period under review are currently undergoing further
metallurgical testwork which will generate additional samples for buyer testing following overwhelming
interest from potential offtake partners.
Muchea has 3 PoWs which cover the exploration priority area that are in various stages of approvals from
the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) and the Department of Energy,
Environment and Climate Action . A POW has been approved for further deeper exploration on existing tracks
on E70/4886 to be undertaken later in 2023. This will be followed by an updated MRE.
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Boyatup
An examination of the Particle Size Distribution (PSD) data indicates that the Boyatup project contains a
generally finer sand than that encountered at the Company’s other projects.
The potential products that can be produced have been identified and a marketing study underway. What is
apparent is that the potential products are different to the products from the Company’s other projects and
will be aimed at yet another potential market and not conflict with already identified markets.
This has been confirmed by a first pass metallurgical testwork program undertaken on drill samples from the
March 2022 program.
A marketing study will be completed to determine the available market for the potential silica sand products
that can be produced from Boyatup to maximise the economic value of the project.
A desktop flora and vegetation study indicates that the Boyatup silica sand project will be amenable to the
Company’s proposed VDT rehabilitation methodology.
Figure 15: Boyatup typical vegetation
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Geothermal Exploration Permit Applications
In January 2022 DMIRS released 21 areas in Western Australia for applications for Geothermal Exploration
Permits with a closing date for applications of 21 April 2022.
VRX made a number of applications for permits proximal to the Company’s current Arrowsmith North and
Arrowsmith Central silica sand holdings.
The applications were made as part of VRX’s overall green energy intentions as demonstrated by the
hydrogen gas MOU signed with XODUS Energy Pty Ltd.
Metallurgical Testwork R&D
During April 2022, VRX lodged a registration for an R&D Tax Incentive Application with AusIndustry for the
year ending June 2021. A refund of $197,674 was received in July 2022.
The Company lodged a claim for the financial year ending June 2022 and received a refund of $681,079 in
August 2023.
A further claim will be lodged for the year ending June 2023.
Strategic Research Initiative With UNSW
In June 2023 VRX announced a new partnership agreement with
the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering
(SPREE) of the University of New South Wales (UNSW), on a
strategic research project investigating the market potential for a
local, low carbon, solar panel glass recycling program in Australia. .
The pilot phase of this work received funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA),
carried out through the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP) at UNSW. ACAP is now able
to take this work to its next phase with the support of a highly credentialed industry partner specialising in the
sustainability of the material critical to solar panel production – silica sand, which is becoming increasingly
scarce.
To advance the sector’s sustainability, the project will perform a techno-economic analysis of a proposed
closed-loop photovoltaic (PV) glass industry in Australia, built on recycling the glass component of solar
panels once they reach their end-of-life. A necessary condition for this industry will be the recreation of a
local, low-iron, flat glass manufacturing industry, where solar panel cover glass could be returned as cullet
(crushed glass).
Specifically, the agreement aims to support modelling of possible low-iron glass recycling and manufacturing
pathways in Australia, with activities potentially located near Muchea.
VRX is pleased to collaborate with the University of New South Wales and the Australian Renewable Energy
Agency in this initiative to investigate the potential recycling of components of solar panels.
This part of the life cycle of a solar panel is insufficiently studied but is increasingly required to complete the
cycle for the use of solar panels.
How Solar Panel Glass Recycling Could Work in Australia
The silica sand at Muchea, in particular, has very low iron content, making it highly suitable for use in
manufacturing solar panel glass. Existing rail access increases the feasibility of the low-carbon transport of
sand to ports for export, or to a nearby future glass factory. It is also suitable for the transport of cullet from
all over Australia to a potential new glass factory.
Basic methods have already been established for separating PV cover glass from other module materials,
with some already in use in Australia, or with orders having been placed for equipment to do so.
VRX will share data with ACAP researchers on its Muchea deposit, including all related to progress made
towards the development of the deposit, the requirements for sand, cullet and other input materials for low-
iron glass manufacture in Western Australia, and information about global sand availability and value, as well
as broader industry insights on the glass manufacturing sector.
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UNSW will provide information on PV glass recovery activities in Australia and elsewhere, including projected
glass demand for the global PV industry and the results of techno-economic modelling.
The project term is two years commencing 1 July 2023. There is no cash funding obligation on VRX.
Extension of Xodus MOU
In June 2023 VRX Silica agreed to a six month extension of its non-binding memorandum of understanding
(MOU) with Xodus Group Pty Ltd (Xodus) to 31 December 2023. First announced in March 2022, the MOU
seeks to explore the future supply of renewable hydrogen to the Company’s silica sand projects as well as
to potential, nearby glass-manufacturing facilities to enable the production of net-zero glass.
Xodus, a global energy consultancy, specialises in the integration of environmental science, engineering and
management to provide holistic support and services in energy transition. An Xodus-led consortium is
developing Project MercurHy for the industrial-scale production of hydrogen gas using renewable energy in
the Mid West region of Western Australia.
The MOU with Xodus establishes a platform for strategic confidential communication and future co-operation
between the parties. It contemplates the sharing of information with a view to a future offtake of between
9,000 tonnes to 11,000 tonnes of hydrogen per annum, which is adequate to supply a substantial glass-
making facility.
Corporate
During the period:
• On 2 December 2022, 2,000,000 fully paid ordinary shares were issued upon the exercise of
4,000,000 options.
• On 19 December 2022, 10,000,000 options, exercisable at 20c and with an expiry date of 31
December 2025, were issued to personnel under the Company’s employee equity incentive
scheme. The options are not quoted on ASX and no funds were raised from their issue.
• On 30 May 2023, 7,200,000 options exercisable at 15c and with an expiry date of 31 December
2026 were issued to personnel under the Company’s employee equity incentive scheme. The
options are not quoted on ASX and no funds were raised from their issue.
Events Subsequent to the Period
Capital Raising
In August 2023, the Company announced a $3 million capital raising, comprising a share placement of $1.5
million (“Placement”) and a share purchase plan of up to $1.5 million (“SPP”). The Placement to new and
existing sophisticated investors comprises the issue of 12,500,000 new fully paid ordinary shares in the
Company (“new shares”) at a price of 12 cents per share, to raise $1,500,000 (before costs). The Company
is also undertaking a SPP offer to eligible shareholders to apply for up to $30,000 each of new shares at a
price of 12 cents per share. Participants in the Placement and the SSP are entitled to subscribe for one free-
attaching option for every two new shares issued, each at an exercise price of 18 cents and expiring on 31
August 2025.
In September 2023, the Company issued 12,500,000 ordinary fully paid shares under the Placement.
Arrowsmith Brand Mining Lease
On 19 July 2023 VRX announced the grant of a Mining Lease (M70/1418) at Arrowsmith Brand. Details of
the project and the tenement are set out above.
Geothermal Exploration Permit Grant
On 28 July 2023 VRX announced it had been granted Geothermal Exploration Permit (GEP) GEP 44
consisting of 8 blocks at Dandaragan, 145km north of Perth, Western Australia. Geothermal technology has
the potential to produce long term dispatchable renewable energy for the Mid-West region, including the
Arrowsmith Silica Sand Projects.
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The Dandaragan GEP area includes the Walyering gas field currently under development by EP447 Joint
Venture between Strike Energy 55% and Talon Energy 45%. The grant presents an opportunity to work with
these companies to use extensive historical and current data to explore for potential geothermal power
options.
The grant follows the acreage release nomination VRX lodged in December 2021 and subsequent GEP
application in April 2022 with DMIRS. The Company is actively engaging with potential partners with relevant
industry experience and capability for the development of this project.
GEP 44 has been denoted as the Dandaragan Geothermal Project. Figure 16 shows the location and Table
10 provides details of the GEP.
Figure 16: Dandaragan Geothermal Exploration Permit Location
GEP
Holders
Grant Date
Term
5l Blocks
GEP 44
VRX Silica Ltd
27 July 2023
Six (6) years
8
Table 10: VRX Silica Geothermal Exploration Permit
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COMPANY REVIEW
$2 million WA Investment Attraction Fund Grant
On 18 July 2023 VRX announced it had received confirmation from the Western Australian State Government
that the Company’s grant application for $2 million in matched funding under the Investment Attraction Fund
(IAF) has been approved with a Financial Assistance Agreement (FAA) for the grant executed that day.
The IAF is part of the State Government’s Diversify WA initiative, a collaboration between government,
industry and the community supporting the WA Government’s focus on creating secure, quality jobs, growing
and diversifying the economy and attracting new investment.
The grant under the IAF is being awarded on a matched funding, dollar for dollar basis, whereby the IAF will
provide a financial contribution to VRX up to $2m.
The project proposed by VRX will investigate the potential to develop a high purity quartz (or HPQ) flour
manufacturing process and pilot plant in Western Australia, which if successful will lead to the development
of a larger commercial plant for large scale processing.
VRX intends to develop a High Purity Quartz flour manufacturing process to meet a standard of 99.999%
SiO2 (5N) purity. This involves the establishment of a new lower purity quartz resource to be beneficiated in
quality, allowing a new manufacturing process tailored to beneficiating the purity of Western Australia quartz
and finally the establishment of the high purity quartz flour manufacturing plant and the associated supply
chains.
The key objective of this project is to commercialise the manufacturing process of High Purity Quartz flour
within Western Australia. This will involve sourcing and beneficiating the purity of lower quality quartz through
primarily mechanical and possibly chemical processes. The establishment of a process and purity standard
has the potential to lead to a manufacturing facility, commercial partners and a supply chain for the critical
minerals.
The three main objectives for the project are:
• To determine the key elements that would lead to the successful commercialisation of a
manufacturing process to beneficiate the quality of the lower purity quartz (99.9% SiO2) to a higher
silica grade.
• To complete a pre-feasibility study that would determine the grade of quartz and processing
method that could feasibly be manufactured from its existing feedstocks with a target of reaching
99.999% SiO2 purity quartz flour.
• To establish a full-scale manufacturing plant to process the resource into high purity quartz flour
utilising the work from the previous objectives, testwork and marketing carried out as a backbone to
support the future work to be carried out.
The HPQ market is one of growing demand but with a relatively small supplier base.
Initially, VRX will investigate the potential for the coarse material that will be produced from Muchea. Recent
pilot plant work completed on a 2.2 tonne bulk sample of Muchea sand indicated that a portion of project ore
may meet the specification required.
Whilst the goal is to achieve the high-quality required, by raising its high-grade silica sand resource from
Muchea to at least “4 nines” (ie. 99.99% SiO2 purity) it would still allow a wide range of high demand large-
value products to be made. This includes use as a feed material for several industries and downstream
products including paint fillers, fibreglass, water purity media, and silica flour for the production of LCDs and
silica gels.
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Australia Korea Business Council
The Company’s Marketing Manager Yoonil Kim attended the 44th AKBC/KABC Joint Meeting conference in
Seoul, Korea during September 2023.
This was an opportunity to present the VRX projects to a number of significant Korean companies that were
present at the conference and meet with a number of potential offtake partners and also senior officials from
the WA trade office.
The next joint meeting will be held in Perth WA in 2024.
Figure 16: VRX Marketing Manager, Yoonil Kim (right), with WA Premier Roger Cook
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Annual Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve Statement (as at 30 June 2023)
In accordance with ASX Listing Rule 5.21, VRX reviews and reports its Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve
Estimates at least annually. The date of reporting is 30 June each year, to coincide with the Company’s end
of financial year balance date. If there are any material changes to its Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves
over the course of the year, the Company promptly reports these changes.
Mineral Resources
The Mineral Resources for VRX are shown in Table 6 below:
Table 6: JORC Compliant Mineral Resources
Table 7: Mineral Resource Statement Comparison (as at 30 June 2023)
VRX Silica Limited
32
Project Classification Mt SiO₂ % Al₂O₃ % Fe₂O₃ % TiO₂ % LOI % Muchea Indicated 29 99.6 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.2 Inferred 179 99.6 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.2 Total 208 99.6 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.2 Arrowsmith North Measured 10 95.9 1.9 0.7 0.3 0.7 Indicated 237 97.7 1.0 0.4 0.2 0.5 Inferred 266 98.4 0.7 0.3 0.2 0.4 Total 513 98.0 0.9 0.3 0.2 0.4 Arrowsmith Brand Inferred 523 97.3 1.4 0.4 0.2 0.6 Total 523 97.3 1.4 0.4 0.2 0.6 Arrowsmith Central Indicated 28.2 96.6 1.7 0.4 0.2 0.7 Inferred 48.3 96.9 1.5 0.4 0.2 0.7 Total 76.5 96.8 1.5 0.4 0.2 0.7 Boyatup Inferred 60 97.8 0.8 0.2 0.1 0.9 Total 60 97.8 0.8 0.2 0.1 0.9 Total Mineral Resource 1,381 Million Tonnes Project 2022 2023 Change Mt SiO₂ % Mt SiO₂ % Mt SiO₂ % Muchea 208 99.6 208 99.6 Arrowsmith North 771 98.0 513 98.0 -258 98.0 Arrowsmith Brand 523 97.3 523 97.3 Arrowsmith Central 76.5 96.8 76.5 96.8 Boyatup 60 97.8 60 97.8 Total Mineral Resource 1,116 98.2 1,381 97.9 265 96.6
COMPANY REVIEW
Ore Reserves
The Ore Reserves for VRX are shown in Table 8 below:
Table 8: Ore Reserve Statement (as at 30 June 2023)
The movement in Mineral Reserve estimates over the past year are tabulated below:
Table 9: Ore Reserve Statement Comparison (as at 30 June 2023)
Material assumptions for Reserve and Resource reporting
The information in this document that relates to the estimation and reporting of the Mineral Resource and Ore
Reserves for the Arrowsmith North, Arrowsmith Central and Muchea Silica Sand Projects, and Boyatup
Drilling is extracted from releases to ASX on 28 August 2019 and 11 November 2022 (Arrowsmith North), 17
September 2019 (Arrowsmith Central), 9 May 2023 (Arrowsmith Brand), 18 October 2019 (Muchea) and 18
August 2022 (Boyatup). The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that
materially affects the information included in this document and all material assumptions and technical
parameters underpinning the estimates continue to apply and have not materially changed.
The Company’s governance and internal controls in place with respect to estimates of mineral resources and
ore reserves involve the use of external consultants where required, in conjunction with input by management
and review by the Board.
VRX Silica Limited
33
Project Classification Product Mt SiO2 % Al2O3 % Fe2O3 % TiO2 % LOI % Muchea Probable F80 10.2 99.9 0.02 0.008 0.03 0.1 F80C 4.25 F150 4.25 99.8 0.07 0.015 0.035 0.1 Muchea Ore Reserve 18.7 Million Tonnes Arrowsmith North Proved AFS20 0.8 99.5 0.25 0.07 0.05 0.1 AFS35 3.9 99.5 0.5 0.06 0.05 0.1 AFS55 2.7 99.2 0.5 0.1 0.05 0.1 Local 1.8 Proved Ore Reserve 9.2 Million Tonnes Probable AFS20 24.2 99.5 0.25 0.07 0.05 0.1 AFS35 102.5 99.5 0.5 0.06 0.05 0.1 AFS55 51.1 99.2 0.5 0.1 0.05 0.1 Local 34.1 Probable Ore Reserve 212 Million Tonnes Arrowsmith North Ore Reserve 221 Million Tonnes Arrowsmith Central Probable CF400 4.2 99.6 0.25 0.04 0.03 0.1 C20 8.4 C40 4.2 High TiO2 2.2 <1% 2% Arrowsmith Central Ore Reserve 18.9 Million Tonnes Total Ore Reserve 259 Million Tonnes Project 2022 2023 Change Mt Mt Mt Muchea 18.7 18.7 Arrowsmith North 223.2 221.0 -2 Arrowsmith Central 18.9 18.9 Total Ore Reserve 261 259 -2
COMPANY REVIEW
Competent Persons’ Statements
The information in this document that relates to Arrowsmith North, Arrowsmith Brand, Arrowsmith Central,
Muchea and Boyatup Exploration Results, and Muchea Aircore Drilling Area, Arrowsmith Brand and Boyatup
Mineral Resource Estimates are based on data collected and compiled under the supervision of Mr David
Reid BSc (Geology), who is a full-time employee of VRX. Mr Reid is a registered member of the Australian
Institute of Geoscientists.
The information in this report that relates to Arrowsmith North Mineral Resources is based on, and fairly
reflects, information compiled by Mr David Williams, a Competent Person, who is an employee of CSA Global
and a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists.
The information in this document that relates to Arrowsmith Central and Muchea Auger area Mineral
Resources is based on information compiled by Mr Grant Louw who was a full-time employee of CSA Global,
under the direction and supervision of Dr Andrew Scogings, who is an Associate of CSA Global. Dr Scogings
is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and a Member of the Australian Institute
of Geoscientists. He is a Registered Professional Geologist in Industrial Minerals.
The information in this report that relates to Industrial Minerals considerations for Arrowsmith North,
Arrowsmith Central and Muchea, with respect to Clause 49 of the JORC Code is based on, and fairly reflects,
information compiled by Dr Andrew Scogings.
The information in this document that relates to Arrowsmith Central and Muchea Probable Ore Reserves is
based on data collected and compiled under the supervision of Mr David Reid BSc (Geology).
The information in this report that relates to Arrowsmith North metallurgical test work is based on information
compiled by Mr Steven Hoban who is the Principal Metallurgist and a Director of BHM Process Consultants.
Mr. Hoban is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
The information in this announcement that relates to Arrowsmith North Ore Reserves is based on information
compiled by Mr Quinton de Klerk, who is employed by Cube Consulting. Mr de Klerk is a fellow of the
Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
Each of the named persons has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit
under consideration and to the activity which they are undertaking to qualify as Competent Person as defined
in the 2012 edition of the Australasian Code for the Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources, and
Ore Reserves (JORC Code). Each of the named persons consents to the disclosure of information in this
report in the form and context in which it appears.
VRX Silica Limited
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
VRX Silica FY23 Sustainability Report
Acknowledgement of Country
VRX acknowledges indigenous communities throughout Australia as the Traditional Owners of ground upon
which our projects lie. The Company recognises the unique cultural heritage of First Nations people and their
continued connection to lands, waters and communities. VRX pays its respects to all First Nations people,
and to Elders past, present and emerging.
About VRX
VRX Silica Limited1 (ASX: VRX) is a developer and imminent producer of high-quality silica sand with a focus
on exporting the commodity to meet rising demand in the Asia Pacific region. The Company is headquartered
in Perth, Western Australia with development at five silica sand projects across the state. VRX’s total silica
sand Joint Ore Reserve Committee (“JORC”) compliant mineral resource stands at 1.4 billion tonnes and
range in grade from 96% to 99% silicon dioxide (SiO2), with low iron impurities. VRX’s projects also have total
probable ore reserves of 261 Mt, ranging in grade from 99.6% to 99.9% SiO2. 2
1 In this report, the terms “VRX” and “the Company” refer to VRX Silica Limited.
2 Refer to VRX 2023 Annual Report for references to ASX releases and commentary on material assumptions
underpinning these results.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Corporate Strategy
VRX’s strategy is to become a global producer, exporter, and supplier of choice for high-quality silica sand.
To achieve this, the Company has secured five large-scale, high-grade, and low-impurity silica sand projects
in Western Australia, three of which have long-term mining leases granted and two of which are in an
advanced stage of development. All five projects offer the potential for substantial mineral reserves, benefit
from existing and adjacent road and rail lines to major export ports and have access to established or
available infrastructure (logistics, power, water).
Given the substantial volume of high-quality silica sand and the close proximity to energy infrastructure at
VRX’s project locations, VRX is exploring the potential for development of glass-manufacturing facilities. The
Company believes it is the right time and place for Western Australia to maximise its economic advantages
for high-grade silica sand supply and ultra-clear glass production.
Arrowsmith North silica sand project, Western Australia
VRX was granted 100%-owned Arrowsmith North Mining Lease in November 2020. The site is located in the
Geraldton Sandplain bioregion approximately 270 km north of Perth. It holds an estimated 771 Mt total of
Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources at 98.0% SiO2 readily amenable to upgrading by conventional
washing and screening to be suitable for industries such as glass making and foundry sand. Arrowsmith
North is considered a world class deposit and estimated to hold 25 years’ worth of production with potential
for a 100+ year mine life.
Arrowsmith Central silica sand project, Western Australia
VRX was granted a 100%-owned Arrowsmith Central Mining Lease in November 2020. As with the
Arrowsmith North project the site is located in the Geraldton Sandplain bioregion approximately 270 km north
of Perth. It holds an estimated 76.5 Mt total of Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources at 96.8% SiO₂ readily
amenable to upgrading by conventional washing and screening to be suitable for industries such as glass
making and foundry sand. Arrowsmith Central is considered a world class deposit and estimated to hold 75
years’ worth of production.
Arrowsmith Brand silica sand project, Western Australia
VRX was granted the 100%-owned Arrowsmith Brand Mining Lease in July 2023 following an extension of
its known JORC 2012 compliant Resources at the Arrowsmith area with a new Resource Estimate at its new
Arrowsmith Brand Silica Sand Project, located 260km north of Perth. The new Resource is contiguous and
south of Arrowsmith North and bounded to the south by the Brand Highway road reserve.
The combined Resources at Arrowsmith now provide a future pipeline of additional production utilising some
of the infrastructure to be developed at Arrowsmith North.
Muchea silica sand project, Western Australia
VRX’s 100%-owned Muchea Mining Lease is located 50 km north of Perth and is estimated to hold a 208 Mt
total of Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources at 99.6% SiO2. Muchea’s sand grain size and quality is
suitable for the ultra-clear glass market much in demand for use in solar panels.
Boyatup silica sand project, Western Australia
VRX acquired its 100%-owned Boyatup exploration licence in early 2019. Located 100 km east of Esperance,
this 124 km2 exploration site has the potential to produce silica sand for export that is subtly different from its
three other projects. The project holds an estimated 60 Mt of Inferred Mineral Resource at 97.8% SiO2.
Latest Developments at VRX
Significant progress has been made during the past year. The key achievements related to environmental
approvals and sustainability include:
• Granted a Geothermal Exploration Permit at Dandaragan (in July 2023)
• Environmental Review Document (“ERD”) for Arrowsmith North accepted by Department of Water
and Environmental Regulations (“DWER”) for publication and public review
• Entered a partnership agreement with University of New South Wales (“UNSW”) to investigate
opportunities for recycling end-of-life solar panel glass
• Conducted an Aboriginal Ethnographic and Archaeological Heritage Survey and Aboriginal Heritage
Work Survey over a priority area to identify and understand Aboriginal heritage values for the Muchea
silica sand project
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Future Focus
VRX is planning a staggered and disciplined development timetable across its multiple projects beginning
with Arrowsmith North, followed by Muchea, Arrowsmith Central and Boyatup. Permitting is well advanced
with environmental approvals, native title agreements, offtake agreements, process circuit design,
engineering and other development activities underway.
Stakeholders and Materiality
VRX strives for open and transparent dialogue with its stakeholders with whom the Company seeks to engage
early and in a timely manner. The Company recognises such an approach is central to building its reputation
and the way in which the Company is perceived by its investors, indigenous communities and others. During
the materiality process, a map of VRX stakeholders was produced and is displayed below.
Stakeholder
Key Interests and Concerns Engagement methods
Investors and shareholders Financial performance,
management of financial and
non-financial risks, and
sustainability reporting
ASX releases, Half Year and Full
Year results presentations and
webcasts, Annual General Meeting,
Annual Report including the
Sustainability Report, regular
meetings and social media
channels
Government and regulators Environmental and safety
Reports and meetings
compliance
Supplier and contractors
Supply chain management,
financial reliability and
sustainable sourcing
Supplier screening, tender contract
documents, meetings and
contractor engagement
First Nation people and
local communities
Local economic development,
heritage conservation, land
management and
rehabilitation
Employees
NGOs
Customers
Working conditions, benefits,
professional development
opportunities and
occupational health and
safety
Potential environmental and
social impacts associated
with operations
Project specific community
engagement plans, local media,
social media channels, employment
opportunities, community
investment projects, sponsorships
and donations
Team meetings and training
sessions
Invitations for participation in
meetings and community events
Reliability, quality, cost and
delivery
Meetings and social media
channels
Material topics are those that reflect VRX’s economic, environmental or social impacts and can substantially
influence stakeholder decisions. In this report, VRX addresses the material matters that enable ongoing
assessment of its sustainability performance. These topics include both environmental, social and
governance (“ESG”) risks and opportunities that have potentially significant negative or positive impacts on
VRX’s business and stakeholders. In alignment with the Global Reporting Initiatives, VRX senior
management conducted a materiality assessment workshop to identify and prioritise the ESG topics. A list of
material ESG topics was developed alongside a materiality matrix to show the most important issues that
VRX will prioritise in its sustainability journey. Focus areas include sustainable products, rehabilitation, health,
safety and wellbeing, endangered species, emissions, greenhouse gases and business ethics. This process
and the listing of material issues has informed its strategic thinking on ESG priorities and dictated the structure
and content of this report. As VRX’s Arrowsmith North silica sand project have made major advances in
environmental approvals process, the materiality of ESG topics will likely change next year as the project
matures.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
ESG Pillar
Environment
Social
Governance
ESG Topic
Indigenous engagement & training
• Rehabilitation
• Emissions and GHGs
• Water management
• Endangered species, flora and fauna
• Waste
• Feral animal control
• Health and safety, wellbeing
• Economic performance
•
• Local employment
• Employment practices
• Local businesses
• Contractor engagement
• Diversity
• Supporting community organisations
• Employee development & training
• Customer risk & production quality
• Business ethics
• Sustainable products
• Supply chain management
•
•
Infrastructure
Innovation and technical improvements
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Sustainability at VRX
VRX is committed to creating a sustainable, low-impact environmental legacy and positive benefits for its
communities.
High-quality silica sand – an essential material for a low carbon future
Limiting global warming will require major efforts in global transition to a low carbon economy. As the
transition accelerates, it is vital to maintain essential raw materials supply for renewable energy infrastructure
development. Solar energy technology is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources. Among all
low-carbon technology options, increased development of solar photovoltaic (“PV”) could reduce carbon
emissions by 21% by 20503. According to International Energy Agency (“IEA”), solar technologies need to
contribute over 30% of global energy to reach net-zero4.
High-purity silica sand plays an indispensable role in solar energy development. It offers optimal thermal
expansion properties, excellent photoconductivity, durability and low toxicity. The unique qualities of premium
silica sand make it suitable for ultra-clear solar panels manufacturing. Further utilisation on this world-class
resource will help mitigate climate change, as well as job creation and economy growth.
.
3 Future of Solar Photovoltaic - International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
https://irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2019/Nov/IRENA_Future_of_Solar_PV_2019.pdf
4 Net Zero by 2050 A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector – IEA
https://iea.blob.core.windows.net/assets/beceb956-0dcf-4d73-89fe-1310e3046d68/NetZeroby2050-
ARoadmapfortheGlobalEnergySector_CORR.pdf
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
VRX’s contribution to low carbon economy
VRX has an emerging position in high quality silica sand which
is vital for supporting decarbonisation. Although VRX will sell
silica sand for a variety of different uses, a key priority will be
contributing to a net-zero future through supply of the ultra-
clear glass market for use in solar panels. VRX’s Muchea silica
sand project is well-positioned to take advantage of the
premium silica sand resources.
In December 2022, VRX’s Arrowsmith North and Muchea silica
sand projects were included in the Australian Critical Minerals
Prospectus 20225.
Glass manufacturing requires substantial energy inputs which
contributes to rising global emissions. VRX is exploring the
potential of utilising renewable energy in glass-manufacturing.
In July 2023, VRX has been granted a Geothermal Exploration
Permit at Dandaragan, Western Australia. Geothermal energy
is a reliable, long-term renewable energy source with the ability
to power VRX’s projects and provide base-load renewable
generation to backstop variable renewable sources such as wind and solar.
“We are pleased that the
Australian Government has
recognised that silicon and
silica sand are a critical
mineral and that VRX has
significant potential to address
anticipated production
shortfalls and build supply
chain security as we progress
to a low carbon future.”
Bruce Maluish, Managing Director
VRX has entered a partnership agreement with the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy
Engineering of the UNSW, on a strategic research project investigating the market potential for a local, low
carbon, solar panel glass recycling program in Australia. The project will perform a techno-economic analysis
of a proposed closed-loop photovoltaic glass industry, built on recycling the glass component of solar panels
once they reach their end-of-life cycles. This study would help recover valuable resources and minimise the
environmental impact of disposal of solar panel, aligning with the principles of circular economy.
VRX also has a non-binding memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) with Xodus Group Pty Ltd to explore
the future supply of renewable hydrogen to the Company’s silica sand projects and potential, nearby glass
manufacturing facilities.
By committing to operating its business in a low carbon manner and in accordance with high ESG standards,
VRX aims to reduce risk, build resilience into its operations and drive long-term, sustainable value for its
stakeholders.
5 Full document is available at: https://www.globalaustralia.gov.au/industries/net-zero/critical-minerals/prospectus-2022
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Responsible Sand Exploration, Mining and Production
There is a growing trend of investment capital moving towards businesses that are socially and
environmentally conscious. This trend has changed the context in which we operate, placing a higher
importance on climate-related risks, biodiversity protection, and social impacts.6
Demand for critical minerals is set to
rise two to fourfold by 2030. VRX’s
projects were included in the Australian
Critical Minerals Prospectus 2022. 6
6 International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook 2022. Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus 2022.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Environmental Pillar
While VRX is in the early stages of developing its world-class silica sand projects, VRX is well positioned to
capture opportunities to integrate sustainability into its operations during the energy transition.
Environmental protection through low impact mining
VRX’s project sites have been selected for minimal impact on the native vegetation, landforms and fauna.
Sand mining will leave an undulating landform with vegetation and habitat lower than originally encountered
but largely intact. Processing will only involve the use of recycled water and few non-toxic chemicals. The
resource is relatively consistent in its attributes which could potentially be mined for up to 100 years. By
adopting low impact and sustainable mining solutions, we can effectively reduce the Company’s
environmental impact during operations. An illustrative process flow diagram is shown below.
Low impact mining to minimise environmental impact
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is an integral component in the lifecycle of a mine. VRX is committed to restoring the pre-
mining conditions as closely as possible to support the future sustainability of its sites.
VRX has developed a Rehabilitation Strategy for the Arrowsmith North silica sand project. In this strategy
document, key rehabilitation objectives, activities and methodologies are outlined throughout the following
stages:
Planning
Mine
preparation
Mining and
processing
Rehabilitation
preparation
Revegetation
Monitoring
and corrective
actions
This rehabilitation strategy will form a key component for planning mine closure in accordance with the Mine
Closure Plan Guidance by the Department of Mines Industry Regulation and Safety.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
VRX has developed a progressive method Vegetation Direct Transfer (“VDT”) to rehabilitate disturbed flora
and ensure a minimal impact on the native vegetation at its mine sites. It involves using a modified front-end
loader to carefully lift and remove a 400-mm deep, 3 x 3m square sod from areas that are set to be mined
for silica sand and relocate to an area just mined. With the root structures in the loose sand relatively shallow
at 200-300 mm in depth, the VDT method enables the topsoil containing the vast majority of native flora and
invertebrate fauna preserved and near-surface humus and its microbial contents to remain intact. The
technique lends itself to rapid and extensive regeneration of affected areas based on continuous rehabilitation
as silica sand mining progresses. In addition, VRX’s low-impact approach to silica sand mining means that
only few non-toxic chemicals will be used in its production process and minimal dust will be produced during
mining activities.
Advantages of VDT
Rootstock is mostly preserved allowing re-
sprouting species survival
Most plant species have roots in the upper soil
layer of 0 to 30cm
Seed bank retained
Soil microbiology preserved
Soil compaction reduced
Soil structure maintained
Surface stability achieved
VRX will undertake mining in block sections (typically 150 x 150 m) with an estimated five blocks mined per
year. VRX will be deploying innovative measures to ensure that any vegetation removed during its mining
activities can be used for continuous rehabilitation. A video of the VDT method is available at:
vrxsilica.com.au/miningandrehabilitationmethodology.
Priority, threatened and endangered species (flora and fauna)
Conserving ecological diversity and protecting native fauna are important during VRX’s operations. VRX has
undertaken a wide-ranging review of available technical reports, relevant databases and spatial data to
identify the potential flora and vegetation that may be present at each of the projects.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Key ecological studies completed / in progress
Arrowsmith North
Arrowsmith Central
Environmental Review Document:
• Flora and vegetation assessment
• Dieback assessment
• Fauna assessment
• Short range endemic invertebrate
surveys
• Offset strategy
• Greenhouse gas emissions assessment
• Air emissions desktop assessment
• Water assessment
• Respirable silica analysis
• Radiation activity analysis
Environmental Scoping Document:
• Flora and fauna studies
• Dieback assessment
• Short range endemic invertebrate surveys
• Carbon life cycle analysis for estimated
greenhouse gas emissions
• Respirable silica analysis
• Radiation activity analysis
Arrowsmith Brand
• Carbon life cycle analysis for estimated
• Flora and fauna desktop studies
greenhouse gas emissions
Muchea
Boyatup
• Springtime flora and vegetation study
• Respirable silica analysis
• Flora and fauna desktop studies
VRX will manage the application of the mitigation hierarchy in the proposal design, construction, operations
and closure. Specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound actions will be undertaken to
minimise and mitigate environmental impacts. Where significant residual impacts remain, propose an
appropriate offsets package that is consistent with the WA Environmental Offsets Policy and Guidelines and
the EPBC Act Environmental Offsets Policy.
The Company will undertake detailed surveys of proposed project areas to identify potential presence of
endangered or threatened species. This will enable the assessment of the potential direct and indirect
impacts on such species during construction and operational phrases. To reduce feral animal populations,
VRX will explore development of a ranger program across its project sites. VRX will endeavour to protect
terrestrial fauna so that biological diversity and ecological integrity are maintained.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Environmental permitting
VRX has conducted extensive environmental studies and assessments over its silica sand projects in
accordance with the requirements of the State and Federal environmental regulations. Regarding the
proposed Arrowsmith North silica sand project, VRX lodged the first draft of Environmental Review Document
(“ERD”) to the Environmental Protection Authority (“EPA”) in May 2022. After receiving requests for further
information, VRX provided a final ERD to DWER in May 2023 which was subsequently accepted by DWER
in June 2023. The final ERD was published by the EPA for a four-week Public Environmental Review period
in June 2023. VRX assessed key environmental factors relevant to the proposed Arrowsmith North silica
sand project, including flora and vegetation, terrestrial fauna, inland waters, social surroundings, greenhouse
gas emissions and air quality. Potential impacts, mitigation, residual impacts, outcomes and offsets for each
of the relevant key environmental factors were presented in the ERD. It also includes a comprehensive
summary of project environmental setting, physical elements of the mine and infrastructure, operational
elements, extent of environmental impacts, environmental management plan and the proposed rehabilitation
and closure plan. Full ERD for the Arrowsmith North silica sand project is available at the EPA website and
VRX website7.
Arrowsmith Central is the second of the Company’s silica sand projects under development. This year, the
Arrowsmith Central silica sand project has moved to the next stage of the environmental approval process
with the EPA. In June 2022, the Company lodged an Environmental Scoping Document8 (“ESD”) which
details the environmental studies required to inform the assessment of the project. The ESD is currently
under assessment and pending feedback from the EPA.
7 Full ERD and relevant studies are available at: https://vrxsilica.com.au/arrowsmith-north-erd-documents/
8 Documentation provided to the WA EPA on our Arrowsmith Central silica sand project is available at:
https://www.epa.wa.gov.au/proposals/arrowsmith-central-silica-sand-project
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Development of Muchea will follow development at Arrowsmith North. Springtime flora and vegetation studies
report was finalised in early 2023 which will form the basis of the EPA Proposal Referral for the Muchea silica
sand project.
Greenhouse gas emissions
VRX is focused on reducing its carbon footprint by reducing GHG emissions
at its future mine sites. FY23, VRX prepared a Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Assessment9 for the Arrowsmith North silica sand project. The assessment
showed that during Arrowsmith’s 30-year lifespan – assuming it will produce
1 million tonnes of silica per annum (“Mtpa”) for the first three years rising to
2 Mtpa thereafter – the project will generate a total 583,330 tonnes of carbon
dioxide equivalent (“tCO2-e”) of Scope 1 GHG emissions, equating to an
average of 19,444 tonnes annually. Estimated Scope 3 GHG emissions total
1,723,929 tCO2-e, predominately from shipping its product to Asia, equates
to an average of 46,900 tonnes annually. No Scope 2 GHG emissions are
anticipated from the consumption of grid-sourced electricity.
The primary sources of Scope 1 GHG emissions for the project will be the
consumption of electricity and diesel to operate the plant and machinery.
Electricity will be initially generated on site through the construction of a gas-fired power station, working with
local liquefied natural gas suppliers. To reduce emissions further, VRX is investigating the potential for
deploying a hybrid on-site gas-fired, solar and wind power plant and short-term battery storage. To utilise
geothermal energy in VRX’s operations, VRX has applied for Geothermal Exploration Permits at Arrowsmith
North and Arrowsmith Central. These actions demonstrate the Company’s commitment to harness green
energy and reduce carbon emissions in VRX’s projects.
Social pillar
VRX’s social priority is to develop strong relationships with its stakeholders. To support local communities,
VRX offers local employment and contracting opportunities where possible.
Health and safety, wellbeing
Investing in health and safety management is at the forefront of VRX’s business values and strategies. VRX’s
Health, Safety & Wellbeing Policy outlines how its safety commitments are demonstrated. The Company will
ensure adequate training for all personnel to operate in a safe and efficient manner.
This year, VRX has completed a Hazard and Operability Study to identify operational issues that may be a
risk to personnel or equipment at the Arrowsmith North processing plant. Identification of potential hazards
related to design, constructability, installation, maintenance, etc. are also conducted. The results of the study
and hazard identification will be incorporated into a Health and Safety Management Plan.
The Company has had no reportable incidents or accidents to date including in the last year.
Employees
Number / Rate10
Number of fatalities from work related injury
Total Lost time injuries frequency rate
Total recordable injuries
Total recordable injuries frequency rate
0
0
0
0
9 Full assessment document is available at: https://www.epa.wa.gov.au/proposals/arrowsmith-central-silica-sand-
project
10 Rate calculation is per 1,000,000 hours of work.
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Indigenous relations
VRX acknowledges the bonds that the indigenous communities have with the lands and waters. The
Company is committed to engaging with these communities and their representatives to ensure they are kept
fully informed about VRX’s latest development and have the opportunity to be involved in planning. VRX’s
Indigenous Community Policy formalises its commitment to uphold and respect human rights of indigenous
communities. As part of VRX’s commitment to local and indigenous employment, VRX anticipates offering
employment and contract opportunities to local indigenous communities in the vicinity of its projects and to
support the ranger programs associated with its project areas.
Aboriginal heritage
VRX is committed to understanding the indigenous heritage values and significance of the land on which it
operates. To date, VRX has undertaken several comprehensive archaeological and ethnographic heritage
surveys at its operations in accordance with requirements set out in Western Australia’s Environmental
Protection Act 1986 and Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972. This helps the Company ensure that its operations
have as minimal impact and disruption as possible.
Aboriginal heritage and ethnographic surveys11 have been completed at Arrowsmith North and Arrowsmith
Central Silica Sand Projects with representatives of the Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation (“YSRC”)
and a national heritage management firm. The survey findings confirmed that all proposed long-term mining
and associated infrastructure areas are clear for the upcoming mining works. These areas include 30 years
of mining at the 360ha Arrowsmith North mine disturbance envelope and 20 years of mining at the 485ha
Arrowsmith Central mine disturbance envelope.
11 Documents available at: https://vrxsilica.com.au/arrowsmith-north-erd-documents/
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VRX had previously undertaken an Aboriginal Ethnographic and Archaeological Heritage survey in 2019 for
the Muchea silica sand project. This year, VRX conducted an Aboriginal Ethnographic and Archaeological
Heritage Survey and Aboriginal Heritage Work Survey over a priority area to identify and understand any
areas of cultural heritage value. The survey results have shown that no archaeological heritage sites were
identified.
Muchea clearance survey area
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Economic performance
At all times the Company will endeavour to maintain a product yield, quality and quantity and operating cost
that will maximise the economic potential of the sales of product from the projects.
FY23 contribution:
Goods and service supplier purchases
Wages
Taxes
Royalties
State and Shire Rent
Corporate governance
$AUD 6,032,075
$AUD 978,000
$AUD 54,958
Nil
$AUD 271,527
VRX’s Corporate Code of Conduct provides a framework for decisions and actions in relation to ethical
conduct in employment. It underpins the Company’s commitment to integrity and fair dealing in its business
affairs and for a duty of care to all employees, clients and stakeholders. The Code sets out the principles
covering appropriate conduct in a variety of contexts and outlines the minimum standard of behaviour
expected from employees.
The Corporate Governance Statement sets out the Company’s main corporate governance policies and
practices. All VRX policies and practices are reported against the 4th Edition of the ASX Corporate
Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations.
Summary of policies and responsibilities:
Pillar
Policies
Board/Committee
Environmental Environmental Policy
Social
Governance
Diversity Policy
Indigenous Community Policy
Health and Wellbeing Policy
Corporate Code of Conduct
Shareholder Communication
Strategy
Trading Policy
Disclosure Policy
Whistleblower Policy
Anti-bribery and Anti-corruption
Policy
Board
Board
Board
Board
Board
Board
Board
Board
Board
Board
Executive/Manager
responsible
Managing Director
Managing Director
Managing Director
Company Secretary
Chairman
Managing Director
Company Secretary
Managing Director
Company Secretary
Chairman
There has been no breach of regulations or compliance by VRX during FY23.
VRX Silica Limited
49
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Risk management
Risk is managed at VRX by the full Board of Directors as, due to the size and limited resources, the Company
does not have a separately constituted Audit and Risk Committee. VRX’s policies and practices are reported
against the 4th Edition of the ASX Corporate Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles and
Recommendations. More information can be found in Corporate Governance Plan found on the VRX website.
The Board oversees the Company’s risk management systems, practices and procedures to ensure effective
risk identification and management and compliance with internal guidelines and external requirements. Other
statutory and fiduciary responsibilities include:
• Compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and company policy.
• The effectiveness and adequacy of internal control processes.
•
Identification and management of business, economic, environmental and social sustainability risks
• Review of the Company’s risk management framework at least annually to satisfy itself that it
continues to be sound and to determine whether there have been any changes in the material
business risks the Company faces and to ensure that they remain within the risk appetite set by the
Board.
• Review reports by management on the efficiency and effectiveness of the Company’s risk
management framework and associated internal compliance and control procedures.
The Company’s process of risk management and internal compliance and control includes:
•
Identify and measure risks that might
impact upon the achievement of the
Company’s goals and objectives.
• Monitor the environment for emerging
factors and trends that affect these
risks.
Monitor the performance of, and improve
the effectiveness of, risk management
systems and internal compliance and
controls, including regular assessment
of the effectiveness of risk management
and internal compliance and control.
•
•
•
•
risk
• Formulate
management
strategies to manage identified risks
• Design and implement appropriate
risk management policies and
internal controls.
Anti-bribery and corruption
Corrupt conduct involves the dishonest or partial use of power or position which results in one person/group
being taken advantage of over another. Corruption can take many forms including, but not limited to official
misconduct, bribery and blackmail, unauthorised use of confidential information, fraud and theft. Guided by
VRX’s Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy, we do not tolerate any form of corrupt conduct. Disciplinary
actions up to and including dismissal will be taken in the event of any employee participating in corrupt
conduct. The Company will uphold the highest standard of business ethics and ensure adequate training for
all staff and contractors.
VRX Silica Limited
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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Whistleblower policy
VRX’s Whistleblower Policy applies to all entities within the Company. It allows all employees, directors,
contractors, suppliers, associates, consultants the ability to raise concerns regarding any misconduct or
unlawful, unethical or irresponsible behaviour without being subject to victimisation, harassment or
discriminatory treatment. This policy is reviewed every two years to ensure it remains consistent with all
relevant legislative requirements, as well as the changing nature of the organisation.
Customer risk & production quality
The Company is cognisant that the quality of the products will
determine the selling price and future contracts. The Company’s
approach is to provide a better quality product than the
specification requires for sales without compromising yield and
operating costs. This will avoid quality disputes, compromised
contracts and general branding in the industry.
The Company will also undertake adequate metallurgical test
work to ensure that the process circuit design will provide the
quality of product that the customer requires.
VRX supply chain
VRX engages a variety or suppliers and contractors (as both
businesses and individuals) to provide various services at its operations, exploration projects and offices. A
breakdown of this is outlined below.
Exploration
Development
Corporate & Admin
• Drilling contractors
• Environmental
consultants
• Metallurgical
• Process design
• Design engineering
• Auditors
• Legal
• IT and
Communications
• Logisitics
VRX Silica Limited
51
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Reporting Frameworks
The VRX Sustainability Report annually captures and reports publicly on the Company’s economic,
environmental and social impacts, and hence its contributions, both positive and negative, towards the goal
of sustainable development. It covers all projects owned and operated by VRX and all monetary values in
this Report are in Australian dollars ($AUD).
VRX has also adopted a ‘think global, act local’ approach to selecting frameworks against which to inform its
sustainability planning and performance measurement. VRX commits to regularly updating stakeholders on
its ESG performance to ensure the Company remains a responsible investment opportunity.
Whilst VRX are in project development phase, VRX have chosen to benchmark its performance against the
recommendations of the following two organisations.
United Nations: Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs”)
The SDGs promote action in areas that are critical to ending poverty, protecting the environment and
improving the prosperity of all people through economic, social and technological progress. The goals are
relevant for all countries and sectors of society, including business, and will enable VRX to tailor its approach
to best serve the Company’s stakeholders.
Below are the actions that VRX’s Board and Leadership Team are taking to make a positive contribution to
the 17 SDGs and the way in which we plan to measure the meaningful progress being made towards them.
VRX is aligning its activities with seven SDGs
World Economic Forum (“WEF”): Stakeholder Capitalism Framework
In partnership with global accounting firms, the WEF has identified a set of global, cross-industry baseline
disclosures and metrics for companies to use to analyse their ESG performance and regularly communicate
this to their stakeholders.
Disclosures are drawn from existing voluntary standards including the Global Reporting Initiative, the
Sustainability Accounting Standards Board and the Financial Stability Board’s Task Force on Climate-Related
Financial Disclosures. They are grouped under four pillars that are considered the most critical for business,
society and the planet. The WEF framework is a logical and appropriate starting point for VRX as we begin
its ESG journey.
The adoption of the WEF framework has already highlighted a number of ESG opportunities across the
Company’s operations, including the integration of solar panels and battery storage capacity into power
generation and our purpose-built VDT method to rapidly and continuously regenerate vegetation that is
disturbed during our operations (see below). These two initiatives reflect VRX’s commitment to reducing its
environmental footprint and building sustainable outcomes for its stakeholders.
VRX’s performance against the framework in FY23 can be found in the Appendix at the end of this report.
VRX Silica Limited
52
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Appendix: World Economic Forum – Stakeholder Capitalism Index
WEF key data/question
Current status
Status
The company’s stated purpose, as the expression of
the means by which a business proposes solutions
to economic, environmental and social issues.
Corporate purpose should create value for all
stakeholders, including shareholders.
Composition of the highest governance body and its
committees by: competencies relating to economic,
environmental and social topics; executive or non-
executive; independence; tenure on the governance
body; number of each individual’s other significant
positions and commitments, and the nature of the
commitments; gender; membership of under-
represented social groups; stakeholder
representation.
A list of the topics that are material to key
stakeholders and the company, how the topics were
identified and how the stakeholders were engaged.
Total percentage of governance body members,
employees and business partners who have
received training on the organization’s anti-
corruption policies and procedures, broken down by
region. a) Total number and nature of incidents of
corruption confirmed during the current year, but
related to previous years; and b) Total number and
nature of incidents of corruption.
Discussion of initiatives and stakeholder
engagement to improve the broader operating
environment and culture, in order to combat
corruption.
A description of internal and external mechanisms
for seeking advice about ethical and lawful
behaviour and organizational integrity.
A description of internal and external mechanisms
for reporting concerns about unethical or unlawful
behaviour and lack of organizational integrity.
VRX’s ESG commitment is to create a
sustainable, low-impact environmental
legacy and positive benefits for its
communities.
Partial. See diversity section of the VRX
Corporate Governance Statement. The
Company has established a Diversity
Policy but because of its size and limited
resources, positions are selected on the
best available candidate.
Outstanding disclosures: competencies
relating to economic, environmental and
social topics; membership of under-
represented social groups; stakeholder
representation.
Disclosed
FY24
Disclosed in the Sustainability at VRX
section of this Sustainability Report.
Disclosed
Employees are required to sign the Code
of Conduct. VRX has not had any
incidents of corruption in the past year or
in any previous years.
Disclosed
Employees are required to sign the Code
of Conduct. Operating in Australian
jurisdiction there is a low risk of
corruption.
VRX’s Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption
policy has guidance on behaviour in
Section 10 of the Corporate Governance
Plan. VRX’s whistleblower policy allows
all employees, directors, contractors,
suppliers, associates, consultants the
ability to raise concerns regarding any
misconduct or unlawful, unethical or
irresponsible behaviour without being
subject to victimisation, harassment or
discriminatory treatment. As a reasonably
small business, all VRX managers and
board members are available to
employees and contractors to discuss
any ethical concerns.
VRX’s Whistleblower Policy allows all
employees, directors, contractors,
suppliers, associates, consultants the
ability to raise concerns regarding any
misconduct or unlawful, unethical or
irresponsible behaviour without being
subject to victimisation, harassment or
discriminatory treatment. As a reasonably
small business, all VRX managers and
board members are available to
employees and contractors to discuss
any ethical concerns.
Disclosed
Disclosed
Disclosed
VRX Silica Limited
53
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
A description of principal material risks and
opportunities facing the company specifically (as
opposed to generic sector risks)
A description of the company appetite in respect of
these risks, how these risks and opportunities have
moved over time and the response to those
changes.
For all relevant greenhouse gases (e.g. carbon
dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, F-gases etc.), report
in tCO2e GHG Protocol Scope 1 and Scope 2
emissions.
Fully implement the recommendations of the TCFD.
If necessary, disclose a timeline of at most three
years for full implementation.
Report the number and area (in hectares) of sites
owned, leased or managed in or adjacent to
protected areas and/or key biodiversity areas
(“KBA”).
Megalitres of water withdrawn, megalitres of water
consumed and the percentage of each in regions
with high or extremely high baseline water stress,
according to WRI Aqueduct water risk atlas tool.
Percentage of employees per employee category, by
age group, gender and other indicators of diversity
(e.g. ethnicity).
Ratio of the basic salary and remuneration for each
employee category by significant locations of
operation for priority areas of equality: women to
men, minor to major ethnic groups, and other
relevant equality areas.
Ratios of standard entry level wage by gender
compared to local minimum wage.
Ratio of the annual total compensation of the CEO to
the median of the annual total compensation of all its
employees, except the CEO.
An explanation of the operations and suppliers
considered to have significant risk for incidents of
child labour, forced or compulsory labour.
The number and rate of fatalities as a result of work-
related injury; high-consequence work-related
injuries (excluding fatalities); recordable work-related
injuries; main types of work-related injury; and the
number of hours worked.
An explanation of how the organisation facilitates
workers’ access to non-occupational medical and
healthcare services, and the scope of access
provided for employees and workers.
Average hours of training per person that the
organisation’s employees have undertaken during
the reporting period, by gender and employee
category (total number of hours of training provided
to employees divided by the number of employees).
Material risks and opportunities are
outlined in the FY23 VRX Annual Report.
Disclosed
Risks are outlined in the FY23 VRX
Annual Report.
Disclosed
Emissions are immaterial to VRX until
development and construction begins.
VRX has forecasted its emissions in the
Greenhouse Gas Emissions section of
this Sustainability Report.
Emissions are immaterial to VRX until
development and construction begins.
Outstanding disclosures: Implementation
or roadmap towards the
recommendations of the TCFD.
Muchea project is in an Environmentally
Sensitive Area, the Mining Lease at
Muchea M70/1390, 1,008Ha. No other
projects are considered at a KBA.
Water usage is immaterial to VRX until
development and construction begins.
Given the minimal nature of current
employment at VRX, diversity is
immaterial to VRX until development and
construction begins.
Given the minimal nature of current
employment at VRX, salary and
remuneration will not become material
until the hiring phase of development and
construction.
Given the minimal nature of current
employment at VRX, salary and
remuneration will not become material
until the hiring phase of development and
construction.
Given the minimal nature of current
employment at VRX, salary and
remuneration will not become material
until the hiring phase of development and
construction.
As VRX is domiciled in and only operates
in Australia, there is a very low risk of
incidents of child labour, forced or
compulsory labour.
Forecast
disclosed
FY26
Disclosed
When
construction
begins
When
construction
begins
When
construction
begins
When
construction
begins
When
construction
begins
Disclosed
There were zero fatalities, injuries,
incidents or accidents in FY23.
Disclosed
VRX does not currently facilitate workers’
access to non-occupational medical and
healthcare services.
Disclosed
Given the minimal nature of current
employment at VRX, training hours will
not become material until the hiring
phase of development and construction.
Disclosed
VRX Silica Limited
54
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Average training and development expenditure per
full time employee (total cost of training provided to
employees divided by the number of employees).
Total number and rate of new employee hires during
the reporting period, by age group, gender, other
indicators of diversity and region.
Total number and rate of employee turnover during
the reporting period, by age group, gender, other
indicators of diversity and region.
Direct economic value generated and distributed
(“EVG&D”), on an accruals basis, covering the basic
components for the organization’s global operations
Financial assistance received from the government:
total monetary value of financial assistance received
by the organisation from any government during the
reporting period.
Total capital expenditures (“CapEx”) minus
depreciation, supported by narrative to describe the
company’s investment strategy.
Share buybacks plus dividend payments, supported
by narrative to describe the company’s strategy for
returns of capital to shareholders.
Total costs related to research and development.
The total global tax borne by the company.
Given the minimal nature of current
employment at VRX, training and
development expenditure will not become
material until the hiring phase of
development and construction.
There was one new employee hired in
FY23.
There was zero employee turnover in
FY23.
Disclosed in Economic Performance
section of this Sustainability Report.
Disclosed
Disclosed
Disclosed
Disclosed
No financial assistance was received
from the government.
Disclosed
$AUD460,000 on Banana Screen and
Trommel refurbishment. $AUD 1,380,000
on Processing Plant detailed engineering
designs in FY23.
Given there was no revenue generate or
dividends paid and there are not likely to
until production begins, a supporting
strategy will not become material until
then.
$AUD280,000 on metallurgical test work
in FY23.
Total tax paid was $AUD54,958 (Payroll
and FBT).
Disclosed
Disclosed
Disclosed
Disclosed
VRX Silica Limited
55
DIRECTORS REPORT
Your directors present their report on the Company and its controlled entities for the year ended 30 June
2023.
DIRECTORS
The names of the directors of the Company in office during the financial year and up to the date of this report
are as follows:
Paul Boyatzis
Bruce Maluish
Peter Pawlowitsch
David Welch
Directors were in office from the beginning of the financial year until the date of this report unless otherwise
stated.
The particulars of the qualifications, experience and special responsibilities of each director are as follows:
Paul Boyatzis, B Bus, AICD, MSDIA, ASA, CPA – Non-Executive Chairman
Mr Boyatzis has over 30 years’ experience in the investment, corporate and capital markets and an extensive
working knowledge of public companies. He has advised numerous emerging companies on a broad range
of corporate and strategic issues and assisted in raising significant investment capital both locally and
overseas.
Mr Boyatzis is a current member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the Securities and
Derivative Industry Association of Australia and a member of CPA Australia.
Director since 24 September 2010.
During the past three years Mr Boyatzis has held the following other listed company directorships:
• Nexus Minerals Ltd – 6 October 2006 to present
• Aruma Resources Ltd – 5 January 2010 to 9 November 2022
Bruce Maluish, BSc (Surv), Dip Met Min – Managing Director
Mr Maluish has more than 30 years’ experience in the mining industry with numerous roles as Managing
Director and General Manager with companies such as the Monarch Group of Companies, Matilda Minerals,
Abelle, Hill 50 and Forsyth Mining, while mining a variety of commodities from gold, nickel and mineral sands
from both open pits and underground.
His management and administrative experience include the set up and marketing of IPOs, from
commencement of exploration to full production, to the identification, development and expansion of projects
including mergers and acquisitions.
His international experience includes identification of projects and negotiations with clients in Asian markets.
His qualifications include credentials in Surveying, Mining, Project Planning and Finance
Director since 24 September 2010.
During the past three years Mr Maluish has held the following other listed company directorships:
• Nexus Minerals Ltd – 1 July 2015 to present
VRX Silica Limited
56
DIRECTORS REPORT
Peter Pawlowitsch, B.Com, MBA, CPA, FGIA – Non-Executive Director
Mr Pawlowitsch holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Western Australia, is a member of the
Certified Practising Accountants of Australia, a fellow of the Governance Institute and holds a Master of
Business Administration from Curtin University.
These qualifications have underpinned more than 15 years’ experience in the accounting profession and
more recently in business management and the evaluation of businesses and mining projects.
Director since 12 February 2010.
During the past three years Mr Pawlowitsch has held the following other listed company directorships:
• Dubber Corporation Limited – 26 September 2011 to present
• Knosys Limited – 16 March 2015 to 8 December 2021
• Novatti Group Limited – 19 June 2015 to present
• Family Zone Cyber Safety Limited – 24 September 2019 to present
David Welch, B.Com – Non-Executive Director
Mr Welch is an experienced and well credentialed senior executive with a successful track record in the
planning, development and operation of logistics and infrastructure supply chains for commodities markets,
including mining, agriculture and industrial products sectors.
From 2007 to 2017, Mr Welch held senior executive positions within Aurizon Holdings Limited, Australia’s
largest rail freight operator. These positions included VP Iron Ore, VP Market Development and EVP Strategy
and Business Development where he had direct responsibility for strategy, business transformation and
performance, commercial negotiations, stakeholder engagement, major projects, joint venture management,
M&A and business development. He was previously the Managing Director of The Millennium Group from
1998 to 2006 and was a Marketing Manager at CSBP Limited (part of the Wesfarmers conglomerate)
responsible for the management of mining reagent logistics from 1989 to 1994.
Mr Welch holds a Bachelor of Commerce (1st Class Hons) from the University of Western Australia.
Director since 1 September 2021.
During the past three years Mr Welch has held the following other listed company directorship:
• Brockman Mining Limited – 15 October 2019 to present
Interests in the shares and options of the Company and related bodies corporate
As at the date of this report, the interests of the directors (direct and indirect) in the shares and options of
VRX Silica Limited were:
Paul Boyatzis
- 5,180,000 ordinary fully paid shares
- 3,900,000 options expiring 31 August 2024, exercisable at 30 cents each
Bruce Maluish
- 13,810,535 ordinary fully paid shares
- 5,400,000 options expiring 31 August 2024, exercisable at 30 cents each
Peter Pawlowitsch
- 23,841,769 ordinary fully paid shares
- 3,000,000 options expiring 31 August 2024, exercisable at 30 cents each
David Welch
- No interests in shares
- 3,000,000 options expiring 31 August 2024, exercisable at 30 cents each
VRX Silica Limited
57
DIRECTORS REPORT
COMPANY SECRETARY
Ian Hobson
Mr Hobson holds a Bachelor of Business degree and is a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Company
Secretary with 35 years’ experience in the profession. Mr Hobson provides company secretary services and
corporate, management and accounting advice to a number of listed public companies.
CORPORATE INFORMATION
Corporate Structure
VRX Silica Limited is a limited liability company that is incorporated and domiciled in Australia. VRX Silica
Limited has prepared a consolidated financial report incorporating the entities that it controlled during the
financial year as follows:
VRX Silica Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
VRX Boyatup Pty Ltd
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
- parent entity
- 100% owned controlled entity
- 100% owned controlled entity
- 100% owned controlled entity
- 100% owned controlled entity
Nature of Operations and Principal Activities
The principal continuing activities during the year of entities within the consolidated entity was mineral
exploration.
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW
Review of Operations
A review of operations for the financial year and the results of those operations is contained within the
company review.
Operating Results
Consolidated loss after income tax for the financial year was $5,060,435 (2022: $5,033,274).
Financial Position
At 30 June 2023, the Group had net assets of $17,536,722 (2022: $21,389,584) with cash reserves of
$1,581,811 (2022: $9,305,877).
Financing and Investing Activities
The Company did not issue any securities for cash proceeds during the year:
Dividends
No dividends were paid during the year and no recommendation is made as to dividends.
VRX Silica Limited
58
DIRECTORS REPORT
SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN THE STATE OF AFFAIRS
Significant changes in the state of affairs of the Company during the financial year are detailed in the company
review.
In the opinion of the directors, there were no other significant changes in the state of affairs of the Company
that occurred during the financial year under review not otherwise disclosed in this report or in the financial
report.
EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO BALANCE DATE
Consultants Options
On 31 August 2023, the Company issued 1,250,000 options exercisable at 18 cents each on or before 31
August 2025, to consultants for no consideration.
Capital Raising
On 28 August 2023, the Company announced a $3 million capital raising, comprising a share placement of
$1.5 million (“Placement”) and a share purchase plan of up to $1.5 million (“SPP”). The Placement to new
and existing sophisticated investors comprises the issue of 12,500,000 new fully paid ordinary shares in the
Company (“new shares”) at a price of 12 cents per share, to raise $1,500,000 (before costs). The Company
is also undertaking a SPP offer to eligible shareholders to apply for up to $30,000 each of new shares at a
price of 12 cents per share. Participants in the Placement and the SSP are entitled to subscribe for one free-
attaching option for every two new shares issued, each at an exercise price of 18 cents and expiring on 31
August 2025.
On 1 September 2023, the Company issued 12,500,000 fully paid ordinary shares under the Placement. As
at the date of this report, the SPP offer has not closed and the free-attaching options have not been issued.
Other than the above, no matters or circumstances have arisen, since the end of the financial year, which
significantly affected, or may significantly affect, the operations of the Company, the results of those
operations, or the state of affairs of the Company in subsequent financial years, other than outlined in the
company review which is contained in this Annual Report.
LIKELY DEVELOPMENTS AND EXPECTED RESULTS
The Company will continue to pursue its principal activity of exploration and evaluation, particularly in respect
to the projects as more particularly outlined in the company review. The Company will also continue to pursue
other potential investment opportunities to enhance shareholder value.
MEETINGS OF DIRECTORS
The numbers of meetings of directors (including meetings of committees of directors) held during the year
and the number of meetings attended by each director were as follows:
Board of Directors Meetings
Number
Eligible to Attend
4
4
4
4
Number
Attended
4
4
4
4
P Boyatzis
B Maluish
P Pawlowitsch
D Welch
VRX Silica Limited
59
DIRECTORS REPORT
REMUNERATION REPORT (AUDITED)
This report details the nature and amount of remuneration for each director and executive of VRX Silica
Limited. The information provided in the remuneration report includes remuneration disclosures that are
audited as required by section 308(3C) of the Corporations Act 2001.
For the purposes of this report Key Management Personnel of the Group are defined as those persons having
authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the major activities of the group, directly or
indirectly, including any director (whether executive or otherwise) of the parent company.
For the purposes of this report the term “executive” includes those key management personnel who are not
directors of the parent company.
Remuneration Committee
The full Board carries out the role and responsibilities of the Remuneration Committee and is responsible for
determining and reviewing the compensation arrangements for the Directors themselves, the Managing
Director and any Executives.
Executive remuneration is reviewed annually having regard to individual and business performance, relevant
comparative remuneration and internal and independent external advice.
Use of Remuneration Consultants
During the financial year ended 30 June 2023 and 30 June 2022, the consolidated entity did not engage any
remuneration consultants.
The remuneration report is set out under the following main headings:
● Remuneration policy
● Remuneration structure
● Employment contracts of directors and senior executives
● Details of remuneration for year
● Compensation options to key management personnel
● Shares issued to key management personnel on exercise of compensation options
● Additional disclosures relating to key management personnel
A. Remuneration policy
The board policy is to remunerate directors at market rates for time, commitment and responsibilities. The
board determines payments to the directors and reviews their remuneration annually, based on market
practice, duties and accountability. Independent external advice is sought when required. The maximum
aggregate amount of directors’ fees that can be paid is subject to approval by shareholders in general
meeting, from time to time. Fees for non-executive directors are not linked to the performance of the
consolidated entity. However, to align directors’ interests with shareholders’ interests, the directors are
encouraged to hold shares in the Company.
The Company’s aim is to remunerate at a level that will attract and retain high-calibre directors and
employees. Company officers and directors are remunerated to a level consistent with the size of the
Company.
The executive directors and full-time executives receive a superannuation guarantee contribution required
by the government, which was 10.5% for the financial year ended 30 June 2023 and increased to 11%
effective 1 July 2023, and do not receive any other retirement benefits. Some individuals, however, may
choose to sacrifice part of their salary to increase payments towards superannuation.
All remuneration paid to directors and executives is valued at the cost to the Company and expensed.
VRX Silica Limited
60
DIRECTORS REPORT
The Board believes that it has implemented suitable practices and procedures that are appropriate for an
organisation of this size and maturity.
The Company did not pay any performance-based component of remuneration during the year.
B. Remuneration structure
In accordance with best practice corporate governance, the structure of non-executive director and executive
compensation is separate and distinct.
Non-executive Director Compensation
Objective
The Board seeks to set aggregate compensation at a level that provides the Company with the ability to
attract and retain directors of the highest calibre, whilst incurring a cost that is acceptable to shareholders.
Structure
The Constitution and the ASX Listing Rules specify that the aggregate compensation of non-executive
directors shall be determined from time to time by a general meeting. An amount not exceeding the amount
determined is then divided between the directors as agreed. The latest determination approved by
shareholders was an aggregate compensation of $250,000 per year.
The amount of aggregate compensation sought to be approved by shareholders and the manner in which it
is apportioned amongst directors is reviewed annually. The Board considers advice from external consultants
as well as the fees paid to non-executive directors of comparable companies when undertaking the annual
review process. Non-Executive Directors’ remuneration may include an incentive portion consisting of
options, as considered appropriate by the Board, which may be subject to Shareholder approval in
accordance with ASX listing rules.
Separate from their duties as Directors, the Non-Executive Directors undertake work for the Company directly
related to the evaluation and implementation of various business opportunities, including mineral
exploration/evaluation and new business ventures, for which they receive a daily rate. These payments are
made pursuant to individual agreement with the non-executive Directors and are not taken into account when
determining their aggregate remuneration levels.
Executive Compensation
Objective
The entity aims to reward executives with a level and mix of compensation commensurate with their position
and responsibilities within the entity so as to:
• reward executives for Company and individual performance against targets set by appropriate
benchmarks;
• align the interests of executives with those of shareholders;
• link rewards with the strategic goals and performance of the Company; and
• ensure total compensation is competitive by market standards.
Structure
In determining the level and make-up of executive remuneration, the Board negotiates a remuneration to
reflect the market salary for a position and individual of comparable responsibility and experience. Due to
the limited size of the Company and of its operations and financial affairs, the use of a separate remuneration
committee is not considered appropriate. Remuneration is regularly compared with the external market by
participation in industry salary surveys and during recruitment activities generally. If required, the Board may
engage an external consultant to provide independent advice in the form of a written report detailing market
levels of remuneration for comparable executive roles.
VRX Silica Limited
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DIRECTORS REPORT
Remuneration consists of a fixed remuneration and a long term incentive portion as considered appropriate.
Compensation may consist of the following key elements:
• Fixed Compensation;
• Variable Compensation;
• Short Term Incentive (STI); and
• Long Term Incentive (LTI).
Fixed Remuneration
The level of fixed remuneration is set so as to provide a base level of remuneration which is both appropriate
to the position and is competitive in the market. Fixed remuneration is reviewed annually by the Board having
regard to the Company and individual performance, relevant comparable remuneration in the mining
exploration sector and external advice.
The fixed remuneration is a base salary or monthly consulting fee.
Variable Pay — Long Term Incentives
The objective of long term incentives is to reward directors/executives in a manner which aligns this element
of remuneration with the creation of shareholder wealth. The incentive portion is payable based upon
attainment of objectives related to the director’s/executive’s job responsibilities. The objectives vary, but all
are targeted to relate directly to the Company’s business and financial performance and thus to shareholder
value.
Long term incentives (LTI’s) granted to directors/ executives are delivered in the form of options.
LTI grants to Executives are delivered in the form of employee share options. These options are issued at
an exercise price determined by the Board at the time of issue. The employee share options generally vest
over a selected period.
The objective of the granting of options is to reward Executives in a manner which aligns the element of
remuneration with the creation of shareholder wealth. As such LTI’s are made to Executives who are able
to influence the generation of shareholder wealth and thus have an impact on the Company’s performance.
The level of LTI granted is, in turn, dependent on the Company’s recent share price performance, the seniority
of the Executive, and the responsibilities the Executive assumes in the Company.
Typically, the grant of LTIs occurs at the commencement of employment or in the event that the individual
receives a promotion and, as such, is not subsequently affected by the individual’s performance over time.
C. Employment contracts of directors and senior executives
Remuneration and other terms of employment for some key management personnel are formalised in service
agreements. Details of these agreements are as follows:
Bruce Maluish
Agreement type:
Agreement commenced: 22 February 2011
Term of Agreement:
Remuneration:
Managing Director
Employment agreement
Termination notice:
Two years or such later date as agreed with the Board.
Base annual salary for the financial year of $367,500 (inclusive of statutory
superannuation), reviewed annually.
Three months termination notice by either party.
VRX Silica Limited
62
DIRECTORS REPORT
D. Details of remuneration for year
Directors
The following persons were directors of VRX Silica Limited during the current and previous financial years:
Paul Boyatzis
Bruce Maluish
Peter Pawlowitsch
David Welch
Chairman (non-executive)
Director (executive)
Director (non-executive)
Director (non-executive) appointed 1 September 2021
There were no other persons that fulfilled the role of a key management person, other than those disclosed
as Executive Directors.
Remuneration
Details of the remuneration of each Director and named executive officer of the Company, including their
personally-related entities, during the year was as follows:
Director
Year
Salary and Fees Superannuation
Short Term
Benefits
Post
Employment
P Boyatzis
B Maluish
P Pawlowitsch
D Welch
Total
2023
2022
2023
2022
2023
2022
2023
2022
2023
2022
$
76,800
72,000
340,000
322,500
51,584
49,091
57,000
45,000
525,384
488,591
$
-
-
27,500
27,500
5,416
4,909
-
-
32,916
32,409
Share Based
Payments
Options
$
47,778
172,442
66,154
238,766
36,753
132,647
36,753
132,647
187,438
676,502
Total
$
124,578
244,442
433,654
588,766
93,753
186,647
93,753
177,647
745,738
1,197,502
The proportion of remuneration linked to performance and the fixed proportion are as follows:
Director
P Boyatzis
B Maluish
P Pawlowitsch
D Welch
Year
2023
2022
2023
2022
2023
2022
2023
2022
Fixed
Remuneration
62%
29%
At risk - STI
-
-
At risk - LTI
38%
71%
85%
59%
61%
29%
61%
25%
-
-
-
-
-
-
15%
41%
39%
71%
39%
75%
There were no performance related payments made during the year. Performance hurdles are not attached
to remuneration options, however the Board determines appropriate vesting periods to provide rewards over
a period of time to key management personnel.
VRX Silica Limited
63
DIRECTORS REPORT
E. Compensation options to key management personnel
No options were granted as equity compensation benefits to Directors and Executives during the year.
F. Shares issued to key management personnel on exercise of compensation options
No shares were issued to Directors and Executives on exercise of compensation options during the year.
G. Additional disclosures relating to key management personnel
Shareholding
The number of shares in the Company held during the financial year by each director and other members of
key management personnel of the consolidated entity, including their personally related parties, is set out
below:
Director
Balance
01/07/22
Received as
Remuneration
Shares Issued
on Exercise of
Options
Acquired/
(disposed)
Net
Change
Other
P Boyatzis
5,180,000
B Maluish
13,810,535
P Pawlowitsch
23,841,769
D Welch
Total
-
42,832,304
Option Holding
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Balance
30/06/23
5,180,000
13,810,535
23,841,769
-
42,832,304
The number of options over ordinary shares in the Company held during the financial year by each director
and other members of key management personnel of the consolidated entity, including their personally
related parties, is set out below:
Balance
01/07/22
Received as
Remuneration
Options
Exercised
Options
Expired
Net Change
Other
Balance
30/06/22
Director
P Boyatzis
B Maluish
3,900,000
5,400,000
P Pawlowitsch
3,000,000
D Welch
3,000,000
Total
15,300,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,900,000
5,400,000
3,000,000
3,000,000
15,300,000
VRX Silica Limited
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DIRECTORS REPORT
H. Other transactions with key management personnel
Transactions between related parties are on normal commercial terms and conditions no more favourable
than those available to other parties unless otherwise stated.
During the year, the Company subleased office space for $15,699 (2022: $40,569) to Aruma Resources
Limited, a company Mr Paul Boyatzis was a director of during the relevant period.
At 30 June 2023, the Group had an outstanding receivable of nil (2022: $11,305) from Aruma Resources
Limited, a company Mr Paul Boyatzis was a director of until 9 November 2022.
I. Voting and comments made at the Company's last Annual General Meeting ('AGM')
At the 2022 AGM, 83.2% of the votes received supported the adoption of the remuneration report for the year
ended 30 June 2022. The Company did not receive any specific feedback at the AGM regarding its
remuneration practices.
J. Additional information
The earnings of the consolidated entity for the five years to 30 June 2023 are summarised below:
2023
$
2022
$
2021
$
2020
$
2019
$
Revenue
EBITDA
EBIT
Loss after income tax
113,479
(4,929,047)
(5,038,001)
(5,060,435)
56,901
(4,938,719)
(5,023,246)
(5,033,274)
1,356,599
(1,017,793)
(1,081,357)
(1,089,611)
73,665
(2,309,541)
(2,360,768)
(2,366,217)
96,228
(6,015,965)
(6,017,950)
(6,017,950)
The factors that are considered to affect total shareholders return ('TSR') are summarised below:
Share price at financial
year end ($)
Total dividends declared
(cents per share)
Basic loss per share
(cents per share)
2023
0.13
-
2022
0.13
-
2021
0.22
-
2020
0.09
-
2019
0.09
-
(0.90)
(0.91)
(0.23)
(0.55)
(1.69)
[THIS CONCLUDES THE REMUNERATION REPORT, WHICH HAS BEEN AUDITED]
VRX Silica Limited
65
DIRECTORS REPORT
INSURANCE OF OFFICERS
The Company has in place an insurance policy insuring Directors and Officers of the Company against any
liability arising from a claim brought by a third party against the Company or its Directors and officers, and
against liabilities for costs and expenses incurred by them in defending any legal proceedings arising out of
their conduct while acting in their capacity as a Director or officer of the Company, other than conduct involving
a wilful breach of duty in relation to the Company.
In accordance with a confidentiality clause under the insurance policy, the amount of the premium paid to the
insurers has not been disclosed. This is permitted under Section 300(9) of the Corporations Act 2001.
INDEMNITY AND INSURANCE OF AUDITOR
The Company has not, during or since the end of the financial year, indemnified or agreed to indemnify the
auditor of the Company or any related entity against a liability incurred by the auditor.
During the financial year, the Company has not paid a premium in respect of a contract to insure the auditor
of the Company or any related entity.
SHARE OPTIONS
At the date of this report there were the following unissued ordinary shares for which options were
outstanding:
• 2,500,000 options expiring 23 October 2023, exercisable at 15 cents each
• 28,800,000 options expiring 31 August 2024, exercisable at 30 cents each
• 10,000,000 options expiring 31 December 2025, exercisable at 20 cents each
• 7,200,000 options expiring 31 December 2026, exercisable at 15 cents each
• 1,250,000 options expiring 31 August 2025, exercisable at 18 cents each
During the year options were issued as follows:
• 10,000,000 options exercisable at 20 cents each on or before 31 December 2025
• 7,200,000 options exercisable at 15 cents each on or before 31 December 2026
During the year the following options were exercised:
• 4,000,000 options expiring 30 November 2022, exercised at 9 cents each using the cashless exercise
facility
No other options expired during the year.
Subsequent to year end and up to the date of this report:
• 1,250,000 options exercisable at 18 cents each on or before 31 August 2025 were issued to
consultants for no consideration
• No other options have been exercised and no options have expired.
No person entitled to exercise these options had or has any right, by virtue of the option, to participate in any
share issue of any other body corporate.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company was not a party to any legal proceedings during the year.
PROCEEDINGS ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY
No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on behalf of the Company or intervene in any
proceedings to which the Company is a party for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Company
for all or any part of those proceedings. The Company was not a party to any such proceedings during the
year.
VRX Silica Limited
66
DIRECTORS REPORT
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS
The Company is not currently subject to any specific environmental regulation. There have not been any
known significant breaches of any environmental regulations during the year under review and up until the
date of this report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Under ASX Listing Rule 4.10.3 the Company’s Corporate Governance Statement can be located at the URL
on the Company’s website being: https://vrxsilica.com.au/investor-centre/corporate-governance/
MATERIAL BUSINESS RISKS
The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to risks of both a general nature and ones that are specific to
their business activities including, but not limited to the following.
Specific Risks
(a)
Title risk
The ability of the Company to carry out successful exploration and mining activities on its tenements
will depend on it obtaining and maintaining the appropriate approvals and permits to operate,
including exploration licences, programs of work, environmental approvals, mining leases, mining
permits and other approvals and permits necessary to carry out these activities.
The grant, maintenance and renewal of such licences, permits and approvals is regulated by the
applicable State legislation, such as the Mining Act 1978 (WA) as amended. No guarantee can be
given that any such licence, permit or approval will be granted and/or maintained or, if granted, any
attaching conditions are acceptable to the Company or their grant is not overturned or restricted.
There is also no guarantee that a renewal will be automatically granted other than in accordance
with the applicable mining legislation or granted without new conditions, including relinquishment
of ground.
Each tenement carries with it annual expenditure and reporting commitments as well as other
conditions requiring compliance. There is a risk that the Company could lose title to one or more
of its tenements if tenement conditions or annual expenditure commitments are not met.
(b)
Granting of licences, permits etc
The Company requires numerous governmental, environmental, mining permits, water rights and
approvals authorising operations for mining and processing facilities. A decision by a governmental
agency or other third party to deny or delay issuing a new or renewed permit or approval, or to
revoke or substantially modify an existing permit or approval, could have a material adverse effect
on the ability to continue operations. Furthermore, state and local governments could impose a
moratorium on mining operations in certain areas. Expansion of operations is also predicated on
securing the necessary environmental or other permits, water rights or approvals, which may not
be received in a timely manner or at all.
(c)
Exploration and Development Risks
Mineral exploration, development and mining are high-risk enterprises, only occasionally providing
high rewards. In addition to the normal competition for prospective ground, and the high average
costs of discovery of an economic deposit, factors such as demand for commodities, stock market
fluctuations affecting access to new capital, sovereign risk, environmental issues, labour disruption,
project financing difficulties, foreign currency fluctuations and technical problems all affect the ability
of a company to profit from any discovery.
VRX Silica Limited
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DIRECTORS REPORT
There is no assurance that exploration of the mineral interests currently held by the Company, or
any other projects that may be acquired in the future will result in the discovery of an economically
viable mineral deposit. Even if an apparently viable mineral deposit has been identified, there is no
guarantee that it can be profitably exploited.
(d)
Resource and Reserve Estimates
Resource estimates are expressions of judgement based on knowledge, experience and industry
practice. Estimates that are valid when made may change significantly when new information
becomes available through drilling, sampling, economic conditions and similar examinations.
In addition, resource estimates are necessarily imprecise and depend to some extent on
interpretations, which may prove to be inaccurate. Should the Company encounter mineralisation
or formations different from those predicted, resource estimates may have to be adjusted and
mining plans may have to be altered in a way which could adversely affect the Company’s
operations.
Reserve and resource estimates are expressions of judgment based on drilling results and other
exploration observations, along with a competent person’s experience working with relevant mining
properties, and other factors. Estimates based on available data and interpretations and thus
estimations may prove to be inaccurate or may change substantially when new information
becomes available. The actual quality and characteristics of mineral deposits cannot be known until
mining takes place and will almost always differ from the assumptions used to develop resources.
Reserves are value based financial and operational forecasts and, consequently, the actual
reserves, resources and economic conditions may differ from those estimated either positively or
negatively.
(e)
Capital costs estimates
The Company has undertaken feasibility studies on, among other things, the capital costs to
develop its silica sand projects through to production. These studies are undertaken at a point in
time.
If the Company proceeds with a decision to mine at one or more of its projects, during the
construction phase prices of goods and services in connection with that mine’s development may
increase substantially, resulting in an increase in the cost to develop the mine. As a consequence
the Company may need to raise additional capital to complete the construction and there is no
guarantee that the Company will be able to achieve this.
(f)
Operational Risks
The operations of the Company may be affected by various factors including failure to locate or
identify mineral deposits, failure to achieve predicted grades in exploration or mining, operational
and technical difficulties encountered in mining, difficulties in commissioning and operating plant
and equipment, mechanical failure or plant breakdown, unanticipated metallurgical problems which
may affect extraction costs, adverse weather conditions, industrial and environmental accidents,
industrial disputes and unexpected shortages or increases in the costs of consumables, spare
parts, plant and equipment, fire, explosions and other incidents beyond the control of the Company.
These risks and hazards could also result in damage to, or destruction of, production facilities,
personal injury, environmental damage, business interruption, monetary losses and possible legal
liability. While the Company currently intends to maintain insurance within ranges of coverage
consistent with industry practice, no assurance can be given that the Company will be able to obtain
such insurance coverage at reasonable rates (or at all), or that any coverage it obtains will be
adequate and available to cover any such claims.
VRX Silica Limited
68
DIRECTORS REPORT
(g)
Environmental Risks
The operations and proposed activities of the Company are subject to regulations concerning the
environment. The government and other authorities that administer and enforce environmental
laws determine these requirements. As with all exploration projects and mining operations, the
Company’s activities are expected to have an impact on the environment, particularly if mine
development proceeds, and the Company will require approval from the relevant authorities before
it can undertake such activities. The Company intends to conduct its activities in an environmentally
responsible manner and in accordance with best industry practice and applicable laws.
The cost and complexity of complying with the applicable environmental laws and regulations may
prevent the Company from being able to develop potentially economically viable mineral deposits.
Environmental matters applicable to the Company’s silica sand projects are within the remit of
Commonwealth and State authorities, including under legislation in the form of the Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act) and the Environmental
Protection Act 1986 (WA). The Company will need to seek pre-approval on environmental matters
for any mining operations and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) will, among other
things, assess the impact of proposed activities on flora and fauna and matters of national
environmental significance under the EPBC Act as part of an accredited assessment.
The assessment process requires interaction between Commonwealth and State authorities and
there is no fixed time for the process to complete. Significant delays in the process can potentially
have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and operations and
affect the Company’s ability to pursue the projects. In addition, there is no guarantee that the
assessments undertaken by these authorities will be favourable or the approvals sought will be
granted. Failure to obtain such approvals will prevent the Company from undertaking its desired
activities and this will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition
and operations.
The Environmental Review Document (ERD) for Arrowsmith North has been accepted by the
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) for publication and a four-week Public
Environmental Review (PER) completed in mid-July 2023. The Company has received formal
notification from DWER of comments on the PER and the Company is required to respond to all
such comments. This PER and response process are the final steps before the EPA prepares an
assessment report including recommendations to the Western Australian Environment Minister on
whether the proposal should be approved. There is no guarantee that such approval will be
forthcoming.
Environmental approval will be required for the Company’s other silica sand projects, including
Muchea. There is no guarantee that such approval will be forthcoming.
Future State and Federal legislation and regulations governing mineral exploration and production
may impose significant environmental obligations on the Company. The Company is unable to
predict the effect of additional environmental laws and regulations, which may be adopted in the
future, including whether any such laws or regulations would materially increase the Company’s
cost of doing business or affect its operations in any area. There can be no assurances that new
environmental laws, regulations or stricter enforcement policies, once implemented, will not oblige
the Company to incur significant expenses and undertake significant investments in such respect
which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and
results of operations.
Any failure by the Company to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations may
cause governmental authorities to take actions that could adversely impact operations and financial
condition, including issuance of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties denial, modification, or
revocation of permits or other authorisations, imposition of injunctive obligations or other limitations
on operations, including cessation of operations; and requirements to perform site investigatory,
remedial, or other corrective actions.
VRX Silica Limited
69
DIRECTORS REPORT
(h)
Metallurgy
Mineral recoveries are dependent upon the metallurgical process, and by its nature contain
elements of significant risk such as:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
identifying a metallurgical process through test work to produce a saleable product;
developing an economic process route to produce a product; and
changes in mineralogy in the deposit can result in inconsistent recovery, affecting the
economic viability of a project.
(i)
Changes to glassmaking and foundry industries in Asia
Prices for silica sand will be subject to glass and foundry demand in Asia, among other industries.
A reduction in glass production or foundry activity would generally depress the demand,
development, production, and mining activity for silica sand the Company may produce. Such a
decline could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and
financial conditions generally.
(j)
Changes to demand for silica sand generally
Demand for silica sand products can be affected generally by advances in industry and the
development and use of new technology or new processes that reduce or eliminate the need for
silica sand products, including as a material for glass-making, metal casting, metallurgical
processes, chemical production, paint and coatings, ceramics, filtration and water production and
proppant.
Such events could cause a decline in demand for the products produced and could have a material
adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial conditions generally.
(k)
Fluctuations in market pricing
Supply agreements involving the sale of silica sand products may be fixed or have market-based
pricing mechanisms, or a combination of both. Accordingly, in periods with decreasing prices,
results of operations may be lower if prices under these agreements are not fixed. In periods with
increasing prices, some agreements may permit an increase in prices; however, some customers
may elect to cease purchasing products if they do not agree with price increases or are able to find
alternative, cheaper sources of supply. Furthermore, certain volume-based supply agreements
may influence the ability to fully capture current market pricings.
Depending on the pricing provisions, there may be significant variability in results of operations and
cash flows from period to period.
(l)
A significant reduction in purchases by major buyers
Major customers may not continue to purchase the same levels of products in the future due to a
variety of reasons. The Company is likely to sell products to customers on a purchase order basis
and pursuant to supply agreements that will contain customary termination provisions for
bankruptcy related events and uncured breaches of the applicable agreement. If any of these major
customers substantially reduces or altogether ceases purchasing products and the Company is not
able to generate replacement sales into the market, the business, financial condition, and results
of operations could be adversely affected for a short-term period until such time as the Company
can generate replacement sales in the market.
VRX Silica Limited
70
DIRECTORS REPORT
(m)
Credit risk of major international export customers
The Company is subject to the risk of loss resulting from non-payment or non-performance by
customers, many of whose operations are concentrated solely in the Asian market which is subject
to volatility and therefore credit risk. Credit procedures and policies may not be adequate to fully
reduce customer credit risk. If the Company fails to adequately assess the creditworthiness of
customers or unanticipated deterioration in their creditworthiness, any resulting increase in non-
payment or non-performance by them and the inability to re-market or otherwise use the production
could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of
operations.
(n)
Increasing logistics costs for rail, port and shipping
Transportation and handling costs are a significant component of the total delivered cost of
products. In many instances, transportation costs can represent 50% to 60% of the delivered cost
of silica sand. The high relative cost of transportation could favour suppliers located in close
proximity to the customer. The Company will contract with rail, wharf and ship services to move
products from the production facilities to customers. Labour disputes, derailments, adverse
weather conditions or other environmental events and other changes to rail freight systems could
interrupt or limit available transportation services or result in a significant increase in transportation
service rates. Increased costs resulting from these types of events that the Company is not able to
pass on to customers could impair the ability to deliver the products economically to customers or
to expand the markets.
(o)
Maintaining effective quality control at the mining and processing operation
The performance and quality of the products are critical to the success of the business. These
factors depend significantly on the effectiveness of the quality control systems, the quality-training
program, and the ability to ensure that employees adhere to the quality control policies and
guidelines. Any significant failure or deterioration of the quality control systems could have a
material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, and
reputation.
(p)
Interruptions or failures in information technology systems
The Company’s operations may rely on sophisticated information technology systems and
infrastructure to support the business, including process control technology. Any of these systems
may be susceptible to outages due to fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, usage
errors by employees, computer viruses, cyber-attacks or other security breaches, or similar events.
The failure of any of the information technology systems may cause disruptions in operations, which
could adversely affect product supply, sales and profitability.
(q)
Extreme seasonal weather conditions
Unexpected weather conditions may result in damage to plant, equipment and transport
infrastructure or the Company having insufficient stockpiles to supply feedstock for rail and ship
operations, and result in being unable to satisfy customer requirements during these periods.
As a consequence of potential seasonal supply impacts, cash flows from operations can fluctuate
if plant operations must remain shut down due to extreme weather conditions.
(r)
Insurance Risks
The Company intends to adequately insure its operations in accordance with industry practice.
However, in certain circumstances, the Company’s insurance may not be of a nature or level to
provide adequate insurance cover. The occurrence of an event that is not covered or fully covered
by insurance could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition and results
of the Company.
Insurance of all risks associated with mineral exploration and production is not always available
and, where available, the costs can be prohibitive.
VRX Silica Limited
71
DIRECTORS REPORT
(s)
Key personnel
The ability of the Company to achieve its objectives depends on the retention of key employees
and contractors who provide technical expertise. If the Company cannot secure technical expertise
(for example to carry out drilling) or if the services of the present technical panel cease to become
available to the Company, this may affect the Company’s ability to achieve its objectives either fully
or within the timeframes and the budget the Company has decided upon.
Whilst the ability of the Company to achieve its objectives may be affected by the matters mentioned
above, the Company believes that appropriately skilled and experienced professionals would be
available to provide services to the Company at market levels of remuneration in the event key
external contractors cease to be available.
(t)
Shortage of labour or labour disputes
Efficient mining using modern techniques and equipment requires skilled operators, preferably with
several years of experience and proficiency in multiple mining tasks, including processing of mined
minerals. If a shortage of experienced labour is encountered or subject to labour disputes or if the
Company is unable to train the necessary number of skilled operators, there could be an adverse
impact on productivity and costs and the ability to maintain production. An inability to maintain good
relations with the workforce could cause a material adverse effect on the operations and financial
position.
(u)
No Profit To-Date
The Company has incurred losses since its inception and it is therefore not possible to evaluate its
prospects based on past performance. As the Company intends to continue investing in exploration
and development programs, the Company anticipates making further losses in the foreseeable
future.
While the Company has confidence in the future revenue-earning potential of the Company, there
can be no certainty that the Company will achieve or sustain profitability or achieve or sustain
positive cash flow from its operating activities.
(v)
Changes in laws and regulations related to mining and processing
Mining operations are subject to a variety of Federal, State and Local regulatory legislative
requirements affecting the mining and mineral processing industry, including among others, those
relating to employee health and safety, environmental permitting and licensing, air and water
emissions, greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, waste management, remediation of soil and
groundwater contamination, land use, reclamation and restoration of properties, hazardous
materials, and natural resources.
Some environmental laws impose substantial penalties for non-compliance, and liability for the
remediation of releases of hazardous substances. Liability under Federal and State laws may be
imposed as a result of conduct that was lawful at the time it occurred or for the conduct of, or
conditions caused by, prior operators or other third parties. Failure to properly handle, transport,
store or dispose of hazardous materials or otherwise conduct operations in compliance with
environmental laws could expose the Company to liability for governmental penalties, cleanup costs
and civil or criminal liability associated with releases of such materials into the environment,
damages to property or natural resources and other damages, as well as potentially impair the
ability to conduct operations.
In addition, future environmental laws and regulations could restrict the ability to expand the
facilities or extract mineral reserves or could require the Company to acquire costly equipment or
to incur other significant expenses in connection with business. Future events, including changes
in any environmental requirements (or their interpretation or enforcement) and the costs associated
with complying with such requirements, could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
VRX Silica Limited
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DIRECTORS REPORT
(w)
Foreign Exchange Risk
International prices of silica sand products are denominated in United States Dollars, whereas the
income and expenditure of the Company are and will be taken into account in Australian currency,
exposing the Company to the fluctuations and volatility of the rate of exchange between the United
States Dollar and the Australian Dollar as determined in international markets.
(x)
Native title and Aboriginal Heritage
The Native Title Act recognises and protects the rights and interests in Australia of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people in land and waters, according to their traditional laws and customs.
There is significant uncertainty associated with Native Title in Australia and this may impact on the
Company’s operations and future plans.
Native Title can be extinguished by valid grants of land (such as freehold title) or waters to people
other than the Native Title holders or by valid use of land or waters. It can also be extinguished if
the indigenous group has lost its connection with the relevant land or waters. Native Title is not
necessarily extinguished by the grant of mining leases, although a valid mining lease prevails over
Native Title to the extent of any inconsistency for the duration of the title.
Tenements granted before 1 January 1994 are valid or validated by the Native Title Act. For
tenements to be validly granted (or renewed) after 1 January 1994, the future act regime established
by the Native Title Act must be complied with. The existence of a Native Title claim is not an
indication that Native Title in fact exists on the land covered by the claim, as this is a matter
ultimately determined by the Federal Court.
The Company must also comply with Aboriginal Cultural Heritage legislation requirements, which
require certain due diligence investigations to be undertaken ahead of the commencement of
exploration and mining. Whilst no sites of Aboriginal heritage have been uncovered in surveys
conducted to-date on the Company’s projects, in the event the Company subsequently discovers
evidence of Aboriginal heritage on land accessed by the Company, the Company must comply with
regulations prohibiting the disturbance of physical evidence of prehistoric or historical significance
without statutory permission and legislation prohibiting or restricting access to Aboriginal cultural
heritage or native title land. Accordingly, delays or additional costs in the exploration or production
of the Company’s business may be experienced. Further, the disturbance of any such land or
objects may expose the Company to additional fines or other penalties.
(y)
Future Capital Needs and Additional Funding
There can be no guarantees that the Company’s cash reserves will be sufficient to successfully
achieve all the objectives of the Company’s overall business strategy.
Any additional equity financing may be dilutive to the Company’s existing shareholders and any
debt financing, if available, may involve restrictive covenants, which limit the Company’s operations
and business strategy, and may restrict the ability to finance future operations or capital needs or
to engage in, expand, or pursue the business activities. The ability to obtain financing or to access
the capital markets for future equity or debt offerings may be limited by the financial conditions at
the time of any such financing or offering, the covenants contained in credit facilities, term loans or
future debt agreements, adverse market conditions or other contingencies and uncertainties that
are beyond our control. Failure to obtain the funds necessary to maintain, develop, and increase
the asset base, could adversely impact the Company’s growth and profitability. Even if the
Company is able to obtain financing or access the capital markets, incurring debt will incur interest
expense and increase financial leverage, and the level of indebtedness could restrict the ability to
fund future development and acquisition activities.
VRX Silica Limited
73
DIRECTORS REPORT
General risks
(a)
Economic Risk
Changes in the general economic climate in which the Company will operate may adversely affect
the financial performance of the Company. Factors that may contribute to that general economic
climate include the level of direct and indirect competition against the Company, industrial disruption
and the rate of growth of gross domestic product in Australia and other jurisdictions in which the
Company may acquire mineral assets.
(b)
Changes in Government Policies and Legislation
Any material adverse changes in government policies or legislation of Australia or any other country
that the Company may acquire economic interests may affect the viability and profitability of the
Company.
(c)
Changing political environment
Changes in the political relationship between Australia and its trading parties can affect the demand
for the Company’s products. Examples of this might be trade embargos or increased tariffs on the
Company’s goods or economic sanctions against the countries that are buying the Company’s
products or war between countries to which the Company exports its products.
(d)
Risk of litigation, claims and disputes
The Company is exposed to the risk of actual or threatened litigation or legal disputes in the form
of claims by contract counterparties, personal injury and property damage claims, environmental
and indemnity claims, employee claims and other litigation and disputes. There is a risk that such
litigation, claims and disputes could materially and adversely affect the Company’s operating and
financial performance due to the cost of defending and/or settling such claims, and could affect the
Company’s reputation.
The Company is not aware of any legal proceedings pending or threatened against it or any of its
subsidiary companies.
(e)
Global credit and investment markets
Global credit, commodity and investment markets can experience a high degree of uncertainty and
volatility. The factors which lead to this situation are outside the control of the Company and may
result in volatility and uncertainty in world stock markets (including ASX). This may impact the price
at which the Company’s shares trade regardless of operating performance and affect the
Company’s ability to raise additional equity and/or debt to achieve its objectives, if required. The
market price of securities can fall as well as rise and may be subject to varied and unpredictable
influences on the market for equities in general, and resources securities in particular. Neither the
Company, nor the Directors warrant the future performance of the Company or any return on an
investment in the Company.
VRX Silica Limited
74
DIRECTORS REPORT
AUDITOR
RSM Australia Partners continues in office in accordance with Section 327 of the Corporations Act 2001.
NON-AUDIT SERVICES
Details of amounts paid or payable to the auditor for non-audit services provided during the year by the
auditor are outlined in Note 4 to the financial statements. The directors are satisfied that the provision of non-
audit services is compatible with the general standard of independence for auditors imposed by the
Corporations Act 2001.
The directors are of the opinion that the services do not compromise the auditor’s independence as all non-
audit services have been reviewed to ensure that they do not impact the impartiality and objectivity of the
auditor and none of the services undermine the general principles relating to auditor independence as set
out in Code of Conduct APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants issued by the Accounting
Professional & Ethical Standards Board.
OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY WHO ARE FORMER PARTNERS OF RSM AUSTRALIA PARTNERS
There are no officers of the Company who are former partners of RSM Australia Partners.
AUDITOR’S DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
The auditor’s independence declaration as required under section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001, has been
received and is included within the financial report.
This report is made in accordance with a resolution of directors, pursuant to section 298(2)(a) of the
Corporations Act 2001.
Bruce Maluish
Director
Perth, 28 September 2023
VRX Silica Limited
75
STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
Continuing operations
Revenue
Exploration and evaluation expenditure
Depreciation
Directors fees and benefits expense
Finance costs
Loss on revaluation of equity instruments
Share based payments
Other expenses
Loss before income tax expense
Income tax expense
Net loss for the year
Other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax
Consolidated
Note
2023
$
2022
$
2(a)
11
23
2(b)
3
113,479
56,901
(900,428)
(108,954)
(558,300)
(22,434)
(353,125)
(1,207,573)
(2,023,100)
(760,580)
(84,527)
(521,000)
(10,028)
(312,500)
(1,930,849)
(1,470,691)
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
-
-
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
-
-
-
-
Total comprehensive loss attributable to the members of
VRX Silica Limited
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
Earnings per share attributable to the members of
VRX Silica Limited
Cents
Cents
Basic/diluted loss per share
5
(0.90)
(0.91)
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
VRX Silica Limited
76
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 30 JUNE 2023
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Total Current Assets
Non-Current Assets
Trade and other receivables
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Deferred exploration expenditure
Total Non-Current Assets
Total Assets
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Trade and other payables
Provisions
Lease liabilities
Total Current Liabilities
Non-Current Liabilities
Lease liabilities
Total Non-Current Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Net Assets
EQUITY
Issued capital
Reserves
Accumulated losses
Total Equity
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
Consolidated
Note
2023
$
2022
$
6
7
1,581,811
162,590
9,305,877
236,910
1,744,401
9,542,787
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
14
93,156
443,750
2,271,229
405,486
13,599,089
26,171
781,250
431,669
179,558
11,951,536
16,812,710
13,370,184
18,557,111
22,912,971
381,685
220,548
80,934
1,146,269
188,928
71,676
683,167
1,406,873
337,222
337,222
116,514
116,514
1,020,389
1,523,387
17,536,722
21,389,584
16
17
15
49,906,519
7,729,981
(40,099,778)
49,906,519
6,522,408
(35,039,343)
17,536,722
21,389,584
VRX Silica Limited
77
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
Consolidated
2023
Issued
Capital
$
Reserves
Accumulated
Losses
$
$
Total
$
Balance at 1 July 2022
49,906,519
6,522,408
(35,039,343)
21,389,584
Loss for the year
Total comprehensive loss for the year
Cost of share-based payments
-
-
-
-
-
(5,060,435)
(5,060,435)
(5,060,435)
(5,060,435)
1,207,573
-
1,207,573
Balance at 30 June 2023
49,906,519
7,729,981
(40,099,778)
17,536,722
2022
Balance at 1 July 2021
45,468,491
4,591,559
(30,006,069)
20,053,981
Loss for the year
Total comprehensive loss for the year
-
-
-
-
(5,033,274)
(5,033,274)
(5,033,274)
(5,033,274)
Securities issued during the year
Cost of share-based payments
4,438,028
-
-
1,930,849
-
-
4,438,028
1,930,849
Balance at 30 June 2022
49,906,519
6,522,408
(35,039,343)
21,389,584
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
VRX Silica Limited
78
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
Cash flows from operating activities
Payments to suppliers and employees
Interest received
Other income
Interest and other finance costs paid
Note
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
(3,035,307)
103,867
23,980
(22,434)
(1,985,874)
14,962
37,693
(10,028)
Net cash outflows used in operating activities
6(i)
(2,929,894)
(1,943,247)
Cash flows from investing activities
Payments for investments
Payments for plant and equipment
Expenditure on mining interests
Government grants received on mining interests
Payments of security deposits
Proceeds from release of security deposits
Net cash outflows used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of shares
Repayment of lease liabilities
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing activities
Net decrease in cash held
Cash at beginning of the financial year
(15,625)
(1,904,538)
(2,931,731)
197,674
(89,004)
22,046
-
(391,224)
(3,172,696)
-
-
-
(4,721,178)
(3,563,920)
-
(72,994)
4,438,028
(67,051)
(72,994)
4,370,977
(7,724,066)
(1,136,190)
9,305,877
10,442,067
Cash at end of financial year
6
1,581,811
9,305,877
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
VRX Silica Limited
79
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
These consolidated financial statements and notes represent those of VRX Silica Limited and
controlled entities. (“Group” or “Consolidated Entity”).
VRX Silica Limited is a company limited by shares incorporated in Australia whose shares are publicly
traded on the Australian Securities Exchange. The nature of the operations and principal activities of
the Group are described in the Directors’ Report.
The separate financial statements of the parent entity, VRX Silica Limited, have not been presented
within this financial report as permitted by the Corporations Act 2001.
The financial report was authorised for issue on 28 September 2023 by the directors of the Company.
(a) Basis of Preparation
The financial report is a general purpose financial report which has been prepared in accordance with
Interpretations, other authoritative
Australian Accounting Standards, Australian Accounting
pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board (‘AASB’) and the Corporations Act
2001. The group is a for-profit entity for financial reporting purposes under Australian Accounting
Standards.
Except for cash flow information, the financial report has been prepared on an accruals basis and is
based on historical costs modified by the revaluation of selected non-current assets, financial assets
and financial liabilities for which the fair value basis of accounting has been applied.
(b) New or Amended Accounting Standards and Interpretations Adopted
The consolidated entity has adopted all of the new and revised Accounting Standards and
Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board that are mandatory for the current
reporting period.
(c) New Accounting Standards and Interpretations not yet mandatory or early adopted
Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations that have recently been issued or amended but
are not yet mandatory, have not been early adopted by the consolidated entity for the annual reporting
period ended 30 June 2023. The consolidated entity has not yet assessed the impact of these new or
amended Accounting Standards and Interpretations.
(d) Statement of Compliance
The financial report complies with Australian Accounting Standards, which include Australian
equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS). Compliance with AIFRS ensures
that the financial report, comprising the financial statements and notes thereto, complies with
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
VRX Silica Limited
80
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(e) Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of VRX Silica Limited
(“Company” or “Parent Entity”) and its subsidiaries as at 30 June each year (“Consolidated Entity” or
“Group”). Control is achieved where the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating
policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.
The financial statements of the subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as the parent
company, using consistent accounting policies.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, all intercompany balances and transactions, income
and expenses and profit and losses resulting from intra-group transactions have been eliminated in full.
Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group and cease
to be consolidated from the date on which control is transferred out of the Group. Control exists where
the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain
benefits from its activities. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently
exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing when the Group controls another entity.
Unrealised gains or transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of
the Group’s interests in the associates. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction
provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of associates have
been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.
Non-controlling interests represent the portion of profit or loss and net assets in subsidiaries not held
by the Group and are presented separately in the statement of comprehensive income and within equity
in the consolidated statement of financial position. Losses are attributed to the non-controlling interests
even if that results in a deficit balance.
The Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests that do not result in a loss of control as
transactions with equity owners of the Group. A change in ownership interest results in an adjustment
between the carrying amounts of the controlling and non-controlling interests to reflect their relative
interests in the subsidiary. Any difference between the amount of the adjustment to non-controlling
interests and any consideration paid or received is recognised within equity attributable to owners of
the Company.
When the group ceases to have control, joint control or significant influence, any retained interest in
the entity is remeasured to its fair value with the change in carrying amount recognised in profit or loss.
The fair value is the initial carrying amount for the purposes of subsequently accounting for the retained
interest as an associate, joint controlled entity or financial asset. In addition, any amounts previously
recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of that entity are accounted for as if the Group
had directly disposed of the related assets or liabilities. This may mean that amounts previously
recognised in other comprehensive income are reclassified to profit or loss.
(f)
Segment Reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the
chief operating decision maker. The chief operating decision maker, who is responsible for allocating
resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Board of
Directors of the Company.
VRX Silica Limited
81
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(g) Revenue Recognition
The consolidated entity recognises revenue as follows:
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue is recognised at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the consolidated entity is
expected to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. For each contract
with a customer, the consolidated entity: identifies the contract with a customer; identifies the
performance obligations in the contract; determines the transaction price which takes into account
estimates of variable consideration and the time value of money; allocates the transaction price to the
separate performance obligations on the basis of the relative stand-alone selling price of each distinct
good or service to be delivered; and recognises revenue when or as each performance obligation is
satisfied in a manner that depicts the transfer to the customer of the goods or services promised.
Variable consideration within the transaction price, if any, reflects concessions provided to the
customer such as discounts, rebates and refunds, any potential bonuses receivable from the customer
and any other contingent events. Such estimates are determined using either the 'expected value' or
'most likely amount' method. The measurement of variable consideration is subject to a constraining
principle whereby revenue will only be recognised to the extent that it is highly probable that a
significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur. The measurement
constraint continues until the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently
resolved.
Amounts received that are subject to the constraining principle are initially recognised as deferred
revenue in the form of a separate refund liability.
Sale of goods
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised at the point in time when the customer obtains control
of the goods, which is generally at the time of delivery.
Rendering of services
Revenue from a contract to provide services is recognised over time as the services are rendered
based on either a fixed price or an hourly rate.
Interest
Interest revenue is recognised as interest accrues using the effective interest method.
Other revenue
Other revenue is recognised when it is received or when the right to receive payment is established.
(h) Government Grants
Government grants relating to costs are deferred and recognised in profit or loss over the period
necessary to match them with the costs that they are intended to compensate.
(i)
Rounding of Amounts
The Company is of a kind referred to in Corporations Instrument 2016/191, issued by the Australian
Securities and Investments Commission, relating to ‘rounding-off’. Amounts in this report have been
rounded off in accordance with that Corporations Instrument to the nearest dollar.
VRX Silica Limited
82
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
(j)
Income Tax
Current tax assets and liabilities for the current and prior periods are measured at the amount expected
to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute
the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.
Deferred income tax is provided on all temporary differences at the reporting date between the tax
bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes.
Deferred income tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences except:
▪ when the deferred income tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or of an asset or
liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and that, at the time of the transaction,
affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss; or
▪ when the taxable temporary difference is associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates
or interests in joint ventures, and the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be
controlled and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
Deferred income tax assets are recognised for all deductible temporary differences, carry-forward of
unused tax assets and unused tax losses, to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be
available against which the deductible temporary differences and the carry-forward of unused tax
credits and unused tax losses can be utilised, except:
▪ when the deferred income tax asset relating to the deductible temporary difference arises from the
initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at
the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss; or
▪ when the deductible temporary difference is associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates
or interests in joint ventures, in which case a deferred tax asset is only recognised to the extent
that it is probable that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future and taxable
profit will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised.
The carrying amount of deferred income tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to
the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part
of the deferred income tax asset to be utilised.
Unrecognised deferred income tax assets are reassessed at each reporting date and are recognised
to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit will allow the deferred tax asset to
be recovered.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to
the year when the asset is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have
been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Income taxes relating to items recognised directly in equity are recognised in equity and not in profit or
loss.
Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset only if a legally enforceable right exists to set
off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to
the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.
The amount of benefits brought to account or which may be realised in the future is based on the
assumption that no adverse change will occur in income legislation and the anticipation that the Group
will derive sufficient future assessable income to enable the benefit to be realised and comply with the
conditions of deductibility imposed by the law.
VRX Silica Limited
83
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(j)
Income Tax (continued)
VRX Silica Limited (the 'head entity') and its wholly-owned Australian subsidiaries have formed an
income tax consolidated group under the tax consolidation regime. The head entity and each subsidiary
in the tax consolidated group continue to account for their own current and deferred tax amounts. The
tax consolidated group has applied the 'separate taxpayer within group' approach in determining the
appropriate amount of taxes to allocate to members of the tax consolidated group.
In addition to its own current and deferred tax amounts, the head entity also recognises the current tax
liabilities (or assets) and the deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses and unused tax credits
assumed from each subsidiary in the tax consolidated group.
Assets or liabilities arising under tax funding agreements with the tax consolidated entities are
recognised as amounts receivable from or payable to other entities in the tax consolidated group. The
tax funding arrangement ensures that the intercompany charge equals the current tax liability or benefit
of each tax consolidated group member, resulting in neither a contribution by the head entity to the
subsidiaries nor a distribution by the subsidiaries to the head entity.
(k) Other Taxes
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST except:
▪ when the GST incurred on a purchase of goods and services is not recoverable from the taxation
authority, in which case the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as
part of the expense item as applicable; and
receivables and payables, which are stated with the amount of GST included.
▪
The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of
receivables or payables in the statement of financial position.
Cash flows are included in the cash flow statement on a gross basis and the GST component of cash
flows arising from investing and financing activities, which is recoverable from, or payable to, the
taxation authority are classified as operating cash flows.
Commitments and contingencies are disclosed net of the amount of GST recoverable from, or payable
to, the taxation authority.
(l)
Current and Non-Current Classification
Assets and liabilities are presented in the statement of financial position based on current and non-
current classification.
An asset is classified as current when: it is either expected to be realised or intended to be sold or
consumed in the consolidated entity's normal operating cycle; it is held primarily for the purpose of
trading; it is expected to be realised within 12 months after the reporting period; or the asset is cash or
cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least 12
months after the reporting period. All other assets are classified as non-current.
A liability is classified as current when: it is either expected to be settled in the consolidated entity's
normal operating cycle; it is held primarily for the purpose of trading; it is due to be settled within 12
months after the reporting period; or there is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability
for at least 12 months after the reporting period. All other liabilities are classified as non-current.
VRX Silica Limited
84
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(m) Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash comprises cash at bank and in hand. Cash equivalents are short term, highly liquid investments
that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of
changes in value.
For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and cash
equivalents as described above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts.
(n)
Trade and Other Receivables
Trade receivables are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost
using the effective interest method, less any allowance for expected credit losses. Trade receivables
are generally due for settlement within 30 days.
The consolidated entity has applied the simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses, which
uses a lifetime expected loss allowance. To measure the expected credit losses, trade receivables
have been grouped based on days overdue.
Other receivables are recognised at amortised cost, less any allowance for expected credit losses.
(o)
Investments and Other Financial Assets
Investments and other financial assets are initially measured at fair value. Transaction costs are
included as part of the initial measurement, except for financial assets at fair value through profit or
loss. Such assets are subsequently measured at either amortised cost or fair value depending on their
classification. Classification is determined based on both the business model within which such assets
are held and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset unless, an accounting
mismatch is being avoided.
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows have expired or have been
transferred and the consolidated entity has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of
ownership. When there is no reasonable expectation of recovering part or all of a financial asset, its
carrying value is written off.
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets not measured at amortised cost or at fair value through other comprehensive income
are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss. Typically, such financial assets will
be either: (i) held for trading, where they are acquired for the purpose of selling in the short-term with
an intention of making a profit, or a derivative; or (ii) designated as such upon initial recognition where
permitted. Fair value movements are recognised in profit or loss.
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income include equity investments which
the consolidated entity intends to hold for the foreseeable future and has irrevocably elected to classify
them as such upon initial recognition.
Impairment of financial assets
The consolidated entity recognises a loss allowance for expected credit losses on financial assets
which are either measured at amortised cost or fair value through other comprehensive income. The
measurement of the loss allowance depends upon the consolidated entity's assessment at the end of
each reporting period as to whether the financial instrument's credit risk has increased significantly
since initial recognition, based on reasonable and supportable information that is available, without
undue cost or effort to obtain.
VRX Silica Limited
85
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(o)
Investments and Other Financial Assets (continued)
Where there has not been a significant increase in exposure to credit risk since initial recognition, a
12-month expected credit loss allowance is estimated. This represents a portion of the asset's lifetime
expected credit losses that is attributable to a default event that is possible within the next 12 months.
Where a financial asset has become credit impaired or where it is determined that credit risk has
increased significantly, the loss allowance is based on the asset's lifetime expected credit losses. The
amount of expected credit loss recognised is measured on the basis of the probability weighted present
value of anticipated cash shortfalls over the life of the instrument discounted at the original effective
interest rate.
For financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, the loss allowance
is recognised within other comprehensive income. In all other cases, the loss allowance is recognised
in profit or loss.
(p) Plant and Equipment
Plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment
losses.
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the assets as
follows:
Plant and equipment – over 3 to 5 years
The assets' residual values, useful lives and amortisation methods are reviewed, and adjusted if
appropriate, at each financial year end.
(i) Impairment
The carrying values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment at each reporting
date, with recoverable amount being estimated when events or changes in circumstances indicate that
the carrying value may be impaired.
The recoverable amount of plant and equipment is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value
in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value
using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and
the risks specific to the asset.
For an asset that does not generate largely independent cash inflows, recoverable amount is
determined for the cash-generating unit to which the assets belongs, unless the asset's value in use
can be estimated to be close to its fair value.
An impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or cash-generating units exceeds its
estimated recoverable amount. The asset or cash-generating unit is then written down to its
recoverable amount.
For plant and equipment, impairment losses are recognised in the statement of comprehensive
income.
(ii) Derecognition and disposal
An item of plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no further future economic
benefits are expected from its use or disposal.
Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net
disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in profit or loss in the year the
asset is derecognised.
VRX Silica Limited
86
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(q) Right-of-use Assets
A right-of-use asset is recognised at the commencement date of a lease. The right-of-use asset is
measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability, adjusted for, as applicable,
any lease payments made at or before the commencement date net of any lease incentives received,
any initial direct costs incurred, and, except where included in the cost of inventories, an estimate of
costs expected to be incurred for dismantling and removing the underlying asset, and restoring the site
or asset.
Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the unexpired period of the lease or
the estimated useful life of the asset, whichever is the shorter. Where the consolidated entity expects
to obtain ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease term, the depreciation is over its
estimated useful life. Right-of use assets are subject to impairment or adjusted for any remeasurement
of lease liabilities.
The consolidated entity has elected not to recognise a right-of-use asset and corresponding lease
liability for short-term leases with terms of 12 months or less and leases of low-value assets. Lease
payments on these assets are expensed to profit or loss as incurred.
(r) Mineral Exploration and Evaluation Expenditure
Exploration and evaluation expenditures in relation to each separate area of interest are recognised as
an exploration and evaluation asset in the year in which they are incurred where the following conditions
are satisfied:
(i)
the rights to tenure of the area of interest are current; and
(ii)
at least one of the following conditions is also met:
(a)
(b)
the exploration and evaluation expenditures are expected to be recouped through
successful development and exploitation of the area of interest, or alternatively, by its sale;
or
exploration and evaluation activities in the area have not, at the reporting date, reached a
stage which permits a reasonable assessment of the existence, or otherwise, of
economically recoverable reserves and active and significant operations in, or relation to,
the area of interest are continuing.
Exploration and evaluation assets are initially measured at cost and include acquisition of rights to
explore, studies, exploratory drilling, trenching and sampling and associated activities and an allocation
of depreciation and amortisation of assets used in exploration and evaluation activities. General and
administrative costs are only included in the measurement of exploration and evaluation costs where
they are related directly to operational activities in a particular area of interest.
Exploration and evaluation assets are assessed for impairment when facts and circumstances suggest
that the carrying amount of an exploration and evaluation asset may exceed its recoverable amount.
The recoverable amount of the exploration and evaluation asset (for the cash generating unit(s) to
which it has been allocated being no larger than the relevant area of interest) is estimated to determine
the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying
amount of the asset is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but only to the
extent that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been
determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in previous years.
Where a decision has been made to proceed with development in respect of a particular area of
interest, the relevant exploration and evaluation asset is tested for impairment and the balance is then
reclassified to development.
VRX Silica Limited
87
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(s)
Impairment of Assets
The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be
impaired. If any such indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the
Group makes an estimate of the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the
higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use and is determined for an individual asset,
unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets
or groups of assets and the asset's value in use cannot be estimated to be close to its fair value. In
such cases the asset is tested for impairment as part of the cash-generating unit to which it belongs.
When the carrying amount of an asset or cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, the
asset or cash-generating unit is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.
In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using
a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the
risks specific to the asset. Impairment losses relating to continuing operations are recognised in those
expense categories consistent with the function of the impaired asset unless the asset is carried at
revalued amount (in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation decrease).
An assessment is also made at each reporting date as to whether there is any indication that previously
recognised impairment losses may no longer exist or may have decreased. If such indication exists,
the recoverable amount is estimated. A previously recognised impairment loss is reversed only if there
has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last
impairment loss was recognised. If that is the case the carrying amount of the asset is increased to its
recoverable amount. That increased amount cannot exceed the carrying amount that would have been
determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years.
Such reversal is recognised in profit or loss unless the asset is carried at revalued amount, in which
case the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase. After such a reversal the depreciation charge is
adjusted in future periods to allocate the asset’s revised carrying amount, less any residual value, on
a systematic basis over its remaining useful life.
(t)
Trade and Other Payables
Trade payables and other payables are carried at amortised costs and represent liabilities for goods
and services provided to the Group prior to the end of the financial year that are unpaid and arise when
the Group becomes obliged to make future payments in respect of the purchase of these goods and
services. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of recognition.
(u) Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result
of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required
to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
When the Group expects some or all of a provision to be reimbursed, for example under an insurance
contract, the reimbursement is recognised as a separate assets but only when the reimbursement is
virtually certain. The expense relating to any provision is presented in the statement of comprehensive
income net of any reimbursement.
If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax
rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability.
When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a
borrowing cost.
VRX Silica Limited
88
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(v)
Employee Benefits
Short-term employee benefits
Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits, annual leave and long service leave
expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date are recognised in current liabilities in
respect of employees' services up to the reporting date and are measured at the amounts expected to
be paid when the liabilities are settled
Defined contribution superannuation expense
Contributions to defined contribution superannuation plans are expensed in the period in which they
are incurred.
Other long-term employee benefits
The liability for annual leave and long service leave not expected to be settled within 12 months of the
reporting date are recognised in non-current liabilities, provided there is an unconditional right to defer
settlement of the liability. The liability is measured as the present value of expected future payments
to be made in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date using the projected
unit credit method. Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of
employee departures and periods of service. Expected future payments are discounted using market
yields at the reporting date on national government bonds with terms to maturity and currency that
match, as closely as possible, the estimated future cash outflows.
(w) Lease Liabilities
A lease liability is recognised at the commencement date of a lease. The lease liability is initially
recognised at the present value of the lease payments to be made over the term of the lease,
discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the
consolidated entity's incremental borrowing rate. Lease payments comprise of fixed payments less any
lease incentives receivable, variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, amounts
expected to be paid under residual value guarantees, exercise price of a purchase option when the
exercise of the option is reasonably certain to occur, and any anticipated termination penalties. The
variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate are expensed in the period in which
they are incurred.
Lease liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The carrying
amounts are remeasured if there is a change in the following: future lease payments arising from a
change in an index or a rate used; residual guarantee; lease term; certainty of a purchase option and
termination penalties. When a lease liability is remeasured, an adjustment is made to the
corresponding right-of use asset, or to profit or loss if the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset is
fully written down.
(x)
Finance Costs
Finance costs attributable to qualifying assets are capitalised as part of the asset. All other finance
costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred, including interest on short-term and long-
term borrowings.
(y)
Issued Capital
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new
shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds. Incremental costs
directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options for the acquisition of a new business are not
included in the cost of acquisition as part of the purchase consideration.
VRX Silica Limited
89
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(z)
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated as net profit attributable to members of the parent, adjusted to
exclude any costs of servicing equity (other than dividends) and preference share dividends, divided
by the weighted average number of ordinary shares, adjusted for any bonus element.
Diluted earnings per share is calculated as net profit attributable to members of the parent, adjusted
for:
▪
▪
costs of servicing equity (other than dividends) and preference share dividends;
the after tax effect of dividends and interest associated with dilutive potential ordinary shares that
have been recognised as expenses; and
▪ other non-discretionary changes in revenues or expenses during the period that would result from
the dilution of potential ordinary shares; divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares
and dilutive potential ordinary shares, adjusted for any bonus element.
(aa) Share-Based Payment Transactions
The Group provides benefits to employees (including senior executives) of the Group in the form of
share-based payments, whereby employees render services in exchange for shares or rights over
shares (equity-settled transactions).
When provided, the cost of these equity-settled transactions with employees is measured by reference
to the fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. The fair value is
determined by using the Black-Scholes model or the binomial option valuation model.
In valuing equity-settled transactions, no account is taken of any performance conditions, other than
conditions linked to the price of the shares of VRX Silica Limited (market conditions) if applicable.
The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognised, together with a corresponding increase in equity,
over the period in which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on
which the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (the vesting period).
The cumulative expense recognised for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until vesting
date reflects (i) the extent to which the vesting period has expired and (ii) the Group’s best estimate of
the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. No adjustment is made for the likelihood of
market performance conditions being met as the effect of these conditions is included in the
determination of fair value at grant date. The statement of comprehensive income charge or credit for
a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of
that period.
No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest, except for awards where vesting is
only conditional upon a market condition.
If the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, as a minimum an expense is recognised as if the
terms had not been modified. In addition, an expense is recognised for any modification that increases
the total fair value of the share-based payment arrangement, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee,
as measured at the date of modification.
If an equity-settled award is cancelled, it is treated as if it had vested on the date of cancellation, and
any expense not yet recognised for the award is recognised immediately. However, if a new award is
substituted for the cancelled award and designated as a replacement award on the date that it is
granted, the cancelled and new award are treated as if they were a modification of the original award,
as described in the previous paragraph.
The dilutive effect, if any, of outstanding options is reflected as additional share dilution in the
computation of earnings per share.
VRX Silica Limited
90
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
(ab) Fair value measurement
When an asset or liability, financial or non-financial, is measured at fair value for recognition or
disclosure purposes, the fair value is based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid
to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date;
and assumes that the transaction will take place either: in the principal market; or in the absence of a
principal market, in the most advantageous market.
Fair value is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the
asset or liability, assuming they act in their economic best interests. For non-financial assets, the fair
value measurement is based on its highest and best use. Valuation techniques that are appropriate in
the circumstance and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, are used, maximising
the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the use of unobservable inputs.
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified into three levels, using a fair value hierarchy
that reflects the significance of the inputs used in making the measurements. Classifications are
reviewed at each reporting date and transfers between levels are determined based on a reassessment
of the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
For recurring and non-recurring fair value measurements, external valuers may be used when internal
expertise is either not available or when the valuation is deemed to be significant. External valuers are
selected based on market knowledge and reputation. Where there is significant change in fair value of
an asset or liability from one period to another, an analysis is undertaken which includes a verification
of the major inputs applied in the latest valuation and a comparison, where applicable, with external
sources of data.
(ac) Critical Accounting Judgements, Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements. Management continually
evaluates its judgements and estimates in relation to assets, liabilities, contingent liabilities, revenue
and expenses. Management bases its judgements, estimates and assumptions on historical
experience and on other various factors, including expectations of future events, management believes
to be reasonable under the circumstances. The resulting accounting judgements and estimates will
seldom equal the related actual results. The judgements, estimates and assumptions that have a
significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities (refer
to the respective notes) within the next financial year are discussed below.
Exploration and evaluation assets
The Group’s accounting policy for exploration and evaluation expenditure is set out at Note 1(q). The
application of this policy necessarily requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions
as to future events and circumstances. Any such estimates and assumptions may change as new
information becomes available. If, after having capitalised expenditure under the policy, it is concluded
that the expenditures are unlikely to be recovered by future exploitation or sale, then the relevant
capitalised amount will be written off to the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income.
Share-based payment transactions
The Group measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with employees by reference to the fair
value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. The fair value is determined by
using valuation model taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the instruments were
granted. The accounting estimates and assumptions relating to equity-settled share-based payments
would have no impact on the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next annual reporting
period but may impact profit or loss and equity.
VRX Silica Limited
91
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
2.
Revenue and Expenses
(a) Revenue
Interest received
Other
(b) Other Expenses
Audit fees
Consulting fees
Legal fees
Marketing
Rent
Securities exchange and registry fees
Superannuation
Travel
Other
3.
Income Tax
(a) Income tax expense
The income tax expense for the year differs from the prima facie
tax as follows:
Loss for year
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
99,776
13,703
113,479
16,332
40,569
56,901
45,500
251,659
207,005
592,801
36,501
81,217
52,584
132,925
622,908
41,500
210,175
180,000
516,061
52,050
91,412
26,000
54,702
298,791
2,023,100
1,470,691
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
Prima facie income tax (benefit) @ 30.0% (2022: 25%)
(1,518,130)
(1,258,319)
Tax effect of non-deductible/(non-assessable) items
Deferred tax assets not brought to account
Total income tax expense
(240,563)
1,758,693
(377,366)
1,635,685
-
-
(b) Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax assets not brought to account arising from tax losses,
the benefits of which will only be realised if the conditions for
deductibility set out in Note 1(j) occur:
There are no franking credits available to the Group.
4. Auditors’ Remuneration
The auditor of VRX Silica Limited is RSM Australia Partners.
Amounts, received or due and receivable by RSM Australia
Partners for:
- audit or review services
- other non-audit services – taxation, R&D and grant compliance
VRX Silica Limited
13,009,888
9,756,657
45,500
115,932
161,432
41,500
45,485
86,985
92
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
5.
Earnings per Share (EPS)
Basic earnings per share
The earnings and weighted average number of ordinary shares
used in the calculation of basic earnings per share is as follows:
Earnings – Net loss for year
Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in the
calculation of basic EPS
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
Cents
Cents
(0.90)
(0.91)
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
No.
No.
559,570,152
554,149,808
6.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash at bank
1,581,811
9,305,877
Cash at bank earns interest at floating rates based on daily bank deposit rates.
(i) Reconciliation of loss for the year to net cash flows from
operating activities:
Loss for the year
Depreciation
Equity settled share-based payment
Exploration and evaluation expenditure
Loss on revaluation of equity instruments
Net gain on termination of property lease
Changes in assets and liabilities
Receivables
Payables
Provisions
GST payable/receivable
Net cash flows used in operating activities
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
108,954
1,207,573
900,428
353,125
(9,292)
84,527
1,930,849
760,580
312,500
-
(13,433)
(462,515)
31,620
14,081
(12,969)
32,025
3,089
(20,574)
(2,929,894)
(1,943,247)
(ii) Non-cash financing and investing activities:
There were no non-cash financing and investing activities during the year or the previous year.
VRX Silica Limited
93
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
7.
Trade and Other Receivables
Current
GST recoverable
Other receivables
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
87,588
75,002
162,590
174,287
62,623
236,910
Terms and conditions relating to the above financial instruments:
• Other receivables are non-interest bearing and generally repayable within 30 days.
• Due to the short term nature of these receivables, their carrying value is assumed to approximate their
fair value.
Non-Current
Security bonds
93,156
93,156
26,171
26,171
Allowance for expected credit losses
The Group has not recognised any expected credit losses for the year ended 30 June 2023.
8.
Financial Assets at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss
Non-Current
Listed ordinary shares – designated at fair value through profit or
loss
Listed share options – designated at fair value through profit or loss
Reconciliation
Opening fair value
Additions
Revaluation decrement
Closing fair value
Refer to Note 25 for further information on fair value measurement.
418,750
25,000
443,750
781,250
-
781,250
781,250
15,625
(353,125)
1,093,750
-
(312,500)
443,750
781,250
VRX Silica Limited
94
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
9.
Plant and Equipment
Plant and equipment - at cost
Less: Accumulated depreciation
Construction in progress – at cost
Net carrying amount
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
341,066
(266,026)
75,040
2,196,189
316,681
(243,396)
73,285
358,384
2,271,229
431,669
Reconciliation
Consolidated
2023
Balance at 1 July 2022
Additions
Depreciation expense
Balance at 30 June 2023
2022
Balance at 1 July 2021
Additions
Depreciation expense
Balance at 30 June 2022
Plant and
Equipment
$
Construction
In Progress
$
Total
$
73,285
24,385
(22,630)
75,040
10,802
75,187
(12,704)
73,285
358,384
1,837,805
-
2,196,189
431,669
1,862,190
(22,630)
2,271,229
-
358,384
-
358,384
10,802
433,571
(12,704)
431,669
10. Right-of-use Assets
Land and buildings – right-of-use
Less: Accumulated depreciation
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
467,869
(62,383)
287,292
(107,734)
405,486
179,558
There were no additions to the right-of-use assets during the year.
The consolidated entity leased land and buildings for its offices under a two year agreement with an option
to extend for an additional two years. Due to change in ownership of the premises, the lease was terminated
on 31 October 2022. On 1 November 2022, the consolidated entity commenced a fixed five year lease at
new premises.
The consolidated entity leases warehouse space and office equipment. These leases are either short-term
or low-value, so have been expensed as incurred and not capitalised as right-of-use assets.
VRX Silica Limited
95
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
11. Deferred Exploration Expenditure
Expenditure brought forward
Expenditure incurred during the year
R&D tax incentive received
Expenditure written off during the year
Expenditure carried forward
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
11,951,536
2,745,655
(197,674)
(900,428)
8,803,987
3,908,129
-
(760,580)
13,599,089
11,951,536
The expenditure above relates principally to the exploration and evaluation phase. The ultimate recoupment
of this expenditure is dependent upon the successful development and commercial exploitation, or
alternatively, sale of the respective areas of interest, at amounts at least equal to book value.
12. Trade and Other Payables
Current
Trade and other payables
381,685
1,146,269
Terms and conditions relating to the above financial instruments:
•
• Due to the short term nature of trade payable and accruals, their carrying value is assumed to
Trade payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 30 day terms.
approximate their fair value.
13. Provisions
Current
Employee benefits
220,548
188,928
Employee benefits represent annual leave and long service leave entitlements of employees within the Group
and are non-interest bearing.
Amounts not expected to be settled within the next 12 months
The current provision for employee benefits includes all unconditional entitlements where employees have
completed the required period of service and also those where employees are entitled to pro-rata payments
in certain circumstances. The entire amount is presented as current, since the consolidated entity does not
have an unconditional right to defer settlement. However, based on past experience, the consolidated entity
does not expect all employees to take the full amount of accrued leave or require payment within the next 12
months. The following amounts reflect leave that is not expected to be taken within the next 12 months:
Employee benefits expected to be settled after 12 months
78,490
68,543
VRX Silica Limited
96
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
14. Lease Liabilities
Current
Non-current
15. Equity - Accumulated Losses
Accumulated losses at the beginning of the year
Loss after income tax expenses for the year
Accumulated losses at the end of the year
16.
Issued Capital
Issued and paid up capital
(a)
Ordinary shares - fully paid
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
80,934
71,676
337,222
116,514
(35,039,343)
(5,060,435)
(30,006,069)
(5,033,274)
(40,099,778)
(35,039,343)
49,906,519
49,906,519
(b) Movement in ordinary shares on issue
Issue
Price
No. of Shares
$
2023
Balance at the beginning of the year
Exercise of options expiring 30 November 2022
- using cashless exercise facility
Balance at the end of the year
2022
Balance at the beginning of the year
Exercise of listed options expiring 31 July 2021
Exercise of options expiring 30 November 2021
Exercise of options expiring 30 November 2021
Exercise of options expiring 30 November 2021
- using cashless exercise facility
Balance at the end of the year
558,403,029
49,906,519
-
2,000,000
-
560,403,029
49,906,519
$0.180
$0.090
$0.100
530,651,486
21,226,543
1,025,000
5,250,000
45,468,491
3,820,778
92,250
525,000
-
250,000
-
558,403,029
49,906,519
VRX Silica Limited
97
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
16.
Issued Capital (Continued)
(c) Share options
At the end of the year, the following options over unissued ordinary shares were outstanding:
•
•
•
•
2,500,000 options expiring 23 October 2023, exercisable at 15 cents each;
28,800,000 options expiring 31 August 2024, exercisable at 30 cents each;
10,000,000 options expiring 31 December 2025, exercisable at 20 cents each; and
7,200,000 options expiring 31 December 2026, exercisable at 15 cents each.
(d) Terms and conditions of issued capital
Ordinary shares have the right to receive dividends as declared and, in the event of winding up the Company,
to participate in proceeds from the sale of all surplus assets in proportion to the number of and amounts paid
up on shares held.
Ordinary shares entitle their holder to one vote, either in person or by proxy, at a meeting of the Company.
(e) Capital management
Management controls the capital of the Company in order to maintain a good debt to equity ratio, provide the
shareholders with adequate returns and ensure that the Company can fund its operations and continue as a
going concern.
The Company’s debt and capital includes ordinary share capital and financial liabilities, supported by financial
assets. There are no externally imposed capital requirements.
Management effectively manages the Company’s capital by assessing its financial risks and adjusting its
capital structure in response to changes in these risks and in the market. These responses include the
management of debt levels, distributions to shareholders and share issues. There have been no changes in
the strategy adopted by management to control the capital of the Company since the prior year. The gearing
ratios for the year ended 30 June 2023 and 30 June 2022 are as follows:
Total liabilities (excluding provisions)
Less: Cash and cash equivalents
Net debt
Total equity
Total capital
Gearing ratio
Note
12, 14
6
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
799,841
(1,581,811)
(781,970)
17,536,722
1,334,459
(9,305,877)
(7,971,418)
21,389,584
16,754,752
13,418,166
N/A
N/A
VRX Silica Limited
98
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
17. Reserves
Option issue reserve
Option issue reserve
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
7,729,981
6,522,408
(i) Nature and purpose of reserve
The option issue reserve is used to accumulate amounts received on the
issue of options and records items recognised as expenses on valuation of
incentive based share options.
(ii) Movements in reserve
Balance at the beginning of the year
Issue and vesting of incentive based share options
Options vesting in lieu of fees payable
Balance at the end of the year
6,522,408
1,158,157
49,416
4,591,559
1,881,433
49,416
7,729,981
6,522,408
18. Commitments
Exploration commitments
The Company has certain obligations to perform minimum exploration work and to expend minimum amounts
of money on such work on mining tenements. These obligations may be varied from time to time subject to
approval and are expected to be fulfilled in the normal course of the operations of the Group. These
commitments have not been provided for in the accounts. Due to the nature of the Group’s operations in
exploring and evaluating areas of interest, it is difficult to accurately forecast the nature and amount of future
expenditure beyond the next year. Expenditure may be reduced by seeking exemption from individual
commitments, by relinquishment of tenure or any new joint venture arrangements. Expenditure may be
increased when new tenements are granted or joint venture agreements amended. The minimum expenditure
commitment on the tenements is:
Not later than one year
941,800
859,800
VRX Silica Limited
99
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
18. Commitments (Continued)
Operating lease commitments
Non-cancellable operating leases contracted for but not recognised
in the financial statements:
Payable – minimum lease payments
- Not later than one year
- After one year but not more than five years
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
54,199
176,024
230,223
42,175
61,325
103,500
The property lease is a non-cancellable lease with a fixed five year term commencing 1 November 2022, with
rent payable monthly in advance. At 30 June 2023 this consists of the variable outgoings and parking licence
payments portions of the rent not recognised as a right-of-use asset.
The storage lease is currently on a month by month basis, and as a short term lease is not recognised as a
right-of-use asset.
19. Contingent Liabilities and Assets
Contingent liabilities
It is possible that native title, as defined in the Native Title Act 1993, might exist over land in which the
Company has an interest. It is not possible at this stage to quantify the impact (if any) that the existence of
native title may have on the operations of the Company. However, at the date of this report, the Directors
are aware that applications for native title claims have been accepted by the Native Title Tribunal over
tenements held by the Company.
On 19 September 2018, Wisecat Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, completed the
acquisition of the Muchea Tenement (E70/4886) from Australian Silica Pty Ltd. Under the terms of the
acquisition, Wisecat Pty Ltd will pay Australian Silica Pty Ltd an ongoing net production royalty of 1% on
gross revenue on all product sold from minerals mined from the Muchea Tenement minus allowable
deductions.
Contingent assets
On 6 May 2021, the Company completed the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary, Ventnor Gold Pty Ltd to
NickelX Limited. Ventnor Gold Pty Ltd owns 100% of the Biranup Nickel and Gold Project tenements.
The consideration for the sale includes cash milestone payments of:
-
$200,000 upon delineation of a JORC compliant inferred resource of no less than 7.5mt at a grade of
2% nickel and 0.5% copper on the land comprising the tenements;
$200,000 at the completion of a feasibility study with respect to the Biranup Project demonstrating an
ability to operate it as a commercially viable enterprise, and
$500,000 at the first commercial extraction of any minerals, mineral products, ore or concentrates, in
whatever form, from the Biranup Project.
-
-
VRX Silica Limited
100
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
20. Financial Reporting by Segments
The Group has identified its operating segments based on the internal reports that are used by the Board
(the chief operating decision makers) in assessing performance and in determining the allocation of
resources.
The operating segments are identified by the Board based on the phase of operation within the mining
industry. For management purposes, the Group has organised its operations into two reportable segments
on the basis of stage of development as follows:
• Development assets
• Exploration and evaluation assets, which includes assets that are associated with the determination
and assessment of the existence of commercial economic reserves.
The Board as a whole will regularly review the identified segments in order to allocate resources to the
segment and to assess its performance.
During the year ended 30 June 2023, the Group had no development assets. The Board considers that it has
only operated in one segment, being mineral exploration within Australia.
Where applicable, corporate costs, finance costs, interest revenue and foreign currency gains and losses are
not allocated to segments as they are not considered part of the core operations of the segments and are
managed on a Group basis.
The consolidated entity is domiciled in Australia. All revenue from external customers is generated from
Australia only. Segment revenues are allocated based on the country in which the customer is located
Revenues of approximately Nil (2022: Nil) are derived from a single external customer.
21. Related Party Transactions
(a) Subsidiaries
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of VRX Silica Limited and the
subsidiaries listed in the following table.
County of
Incorporation
% Equity Interest
2022
2023
%
%
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
VRX Boyatup Pty Ltd
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
(b) Parent entity
VRX Silica Limited is the ultimate Australian parent entity and ultimate parent of the Group.
VRX Silica Limited
101
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
21. Related Party Transactions (Continued)
(c) Key management personnel
Refer to the Remuneration Report contained in the Directors’ Report for details of the remuneration paid or
payable to each member of the consolidated entity’s key management personnel for the year ended 30 June
2023.
The totals of remuneration paid to key management personnel of the Company during the year are as follows:
Short-term benefits
Post-employment benefits
Share-based payments
Consolidated
2023
$
525,384
32,916
187,438
745,738
2022
$
488,591
32,409
676,502
1,197,502
Shares Issued to Key Management Personnel on Exercise of Compensation Options
Key management personnel did not exercise any options during the year or previous financial year.
Loans with Key Management Personnel
There were no loans to key management personnel or their related entities during the financial year (2022:
Nil).
Other Transactions with Key Management Personnel
Transactions between related parties are on normal commercial terms and conditions no more favourable
than those available to other parties unless otherwise stated.
During the year, the Group subleased office space for:
-
$15,699 (2022: $40,569) to Aruma Resources Limited, a company Mr Paul Boyatzis was a director of
during the relevant period.
At 30 June 2023, the Group has an outstanding receivable of:
- Nil (2022: $11,305) from Aruma Resources Limited, a company Mr Paul Boyatzis was a director of until
9 November 2022.
VRX Silica Limited
102
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
22. Parent Entity Disclosures
(a) Summary financial information
Financial Position
Assets
Current assets
Non-current assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Equity
Issued capital
Reserves
Accumulated losses
Total equity
Financial Performance
Loss for the year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive loss
(b) Guarantees
Parent
2023
$
2022
$
1,710,604
16,790,912
9,416,656
12,570,737
18,501,516
21,987,393
627,572
337,222
964,794
481,295
116,514
597,809
50,006,519
7,729,981
(40,199,778)
50,006,519
6,522,408
(35,139,343)
17,536,722
21,389,584
(5,060,435)
-
(5,060,435)
(5,033,274)
-
(5,033,274)
VRX Silica Limited has not entered into any guarantees in relation to the debts of its subsidiary.
(c) Other commitments and contingencies
VRX Silica Limited has no commitments to acquire property, plant and equipment, and has no contingent
liabilities apart from the amounts disclosed in Note 19.
(d) Significant accounting policies
The accounting policies of the parent entity are consistent with those of the consolidated entity as disclosed in
Note 1 except for the following:
● Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for at cost, less any impairment, in the parent entity.
● Investments in associates are accounted for at cost, less any impairment, in the parent entity.
● Dividends received from subsidiaries are recognised as other income by the parent entity and its receipt
may be an indicator of an impairment of the investment.
VRX Silica Limited
103
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
23. Share Based Payments
(a) Value of share-based payments in the financial statements
Expensed:
Incentive based payments to consultants:
Unlisted options
Incentive based payments to employees:
Unlisted options
Directors remuneration issued during the year ended 30 June 2022:
Unlisted options*
Incentive based payments to employees issued during the year ended
30 June 2022:
Unlisted options*
Share based payments in lieu of fees payable:
Unlisted options*
Recognised in the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive
income
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
574,650
1,100,010
366,510
-
187,438
676,502
29,559
104,921
49,416
49,416
1,207,573
1,930,849
Total share-based payments
1,207,573
1,930,849
* Amortisation of options issued in previous periods.
(b) Summary of share-based payments
Shares:
During the year, and previous financial year, no shares were issued as share based payments.
Options:
Set out below are the summaries of options granted as share based payments:
2023
Grant
Date
Expiry
Date
Exercise
Price
Balance
01/07/22
Granted
during the
year
Exercised
during the
year
Expired
Balance
30/06/23
31/05/19
23/10/19
11/11/19
19/08/21
29/11/21
07/12/21
13/12/22
29/05/23
30/11/22
23/10/23
23/10/23
31/08/24
31/08/24
31/08/24
31/12/25
31/12/26
$0.090
$0.150
$0.150
$0.300
$0.300
$0.300
$0.200
$0.150
4,000,000
2,000,000
500,000
11,100,000
15,300,000
2,400,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
- 10,000,000
7,200,000
-
(4,000,000)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,000,000
-
500,000
-
- 11,100,000
- 15,300,000
-
2,400,000
- 10,000,000
7,200,000
-
Number
vested and
exercisable
-
-
500,000
11,100,000
15,300,000
2,400,000
10,000,000
7,200,000
35,300,000 17,200,000
(4,000,000)
- 48,500,000
46,500,000
Weighted average exercise price
$0.266
$0.179
$0.090
-
$0.249
$0.254
VRX Silica Limited
104
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
23. Share Based Payments (Continued)
2022
Grant
Date
Expiry
Date
Exercise
Price
Balance
01/07/21
Granted
during the
year
Exercised
during the
year
Expired
Balance
30/06/22
18/09/18
21/11/18
30/11/18
09/04/19
31/05/19
23/10/19
11/11/19
29/01/20
19/08/21
29/11/21
07/12/21
30/11/21
30/11/21
30/11/21
30/11/21
30/11/22
23/10/23
23/10/23
31/07/21
31/08/24
31/08/24
31/08/24
$0.100
$0.100
$0.217
$0.090
$0.090
$0.150
$0.150
$0.180
$0.300
$0.300
$0.300
5,500,000
250,000
11,000,000
1,025,000
4,000,000
2,000,000
500,000
5,111,852
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- 11,100,000
- 15,300,000
2,400,000
-
(5,500,000)
(250,000)
-
(1,025,000)
-
-
-
(3,835,238)
-
-
-
-
-
(11,000,000)
-
-
-
-
(1,276,614)
-
-
-
-
4,000,000
2,000,000
500,000
-
- 11,100,000
- 15,300,000
2,400,000
-
Number
vested and
exercisable
-
-
-
-
4,000,000
-
500,000
-
11,100,000
10,200,000
1,600,000
29,386,852 28,800,000
(10,610,238)
(12,276,614) 35,300,000
27,400,000
Weighted average exercise price
$0.160
$0.300
$0.128
$0.213
$0.266
$0.267
The value of options incurred as share-based payments are as follows:
Value per
Option
Number of
Options
$
2023
Options granted during the period:
Unlisted options exercisable at $0.20 each on or before 31
December 2025, issued to consultants and employees and vesting
on issue.
Unlisted options exercisable at $0.15 each on or before 31
December 2026, issued to consultants and employees and vesting
on issue.
$0.0543
10,000,000
543,000
$0.0553
7,200,000
398,160
Amortisation of options granted in prior periods:
Value of options previously issued to the Directors, expensed
during the year.
Value of options previously issued to employees, expensed during
the year.
Value of options previously issued as part of financial advisory fees
to Argonaut Capital Limited, expensed during the year.
187,438
29,559
49,416
1,207,573
VRX Silica Limited
105
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
23. Share Based Payments (Continued)
2022
Options granted during the period:
Value per
Option
Number of
Options
$
Unlisted options exercisable at $0.30 each on or before 31 August
2024, issued to consultants and vesting on issue.
$0.0991
11,100,000
1,100,010
Unlisted options exercisable at $0.30 each on or before 31 August
2024, issued to the Directors. The options vest and become
exercisable on the following dates, provided the holder continues to
be a director on those dates:
Vesting on issue
Vesting on 30 June 2022
Vesting on 30 June 2023
Less value of options not vested at 30 June 2022
Unlisted options exercisable at $0.30 each on or before 31 August
2024, issued to employees. The options vest and become
exercisable on the following dates, provided the holder continues to
be an employee on those dates:
Vesting on issue
Vesting on 30 June 2022
Vesting on 30 June 2023
Less value of options not vested at 30 June 2022
Amortisation of options granted in prior periods:
Value of options previously issued as part of financial advisory fees
to Argonaut Capital Limited, expensed during the year.
$0.0555
$0.0557
$0.0582
5,100,000
5,100,000
5,100,000
283,050
284,070
296,820
(187,438)
$0.0551
$0.0553
$0.0577
800,000
800,000
800,000
44,080
44,240
46,160
(29,559)
49,416
1,930,849
VRX Silica Limited
106
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
23. Share Based Payments (Continued)
Where deferred vesting options are subject to milestones or vesting dates, probability of achieving those
milestones or vesting dates have been assessed at 100% unless otherwise stated.
The 10,000,000 unlisted options granted to consultants and employees on 13 December 2022 were for nil
consideration. The options were valued using the Hoadley ESO2 binomial valuation model using an
underlying share price of $0.12, volatility of 100%, interest rate of 3.12%, early exercise multiple of 2.5x and
nil dividend yield.
On 29 May 2023, 7,200,000 unlisted options were granted to consultants and employees for nil consideration.
The options were valued using the Hoadley ESO2 binomial valuation model using an underlying share price
of $0.11, volatility of 100%, interest rate of 3.43%, early exercise multiple of 2.5x and nil dividend yield.
The 11,100,000 unlisted options granted to consultants on 19 August 2021 were for nil consideration. The
options were valued using the Hoadley ESO2 binomial valuation model using an underlying share price of
$0.23, volatility of 85%, interest rate of 0.12%, early exercise multiple of 2.5x and nil dividend yield.
The 15,300,000 unlisted options issued to the Directors for nil consideration were approved by shareholders
on 29 November 2021. The options were valued using the Hoadley ESO2 binomial valuation model using an
underlying share price of $0.16, volatility of 85%, interest rate of 0.92%, early exercise multiple of 2.5x and
nil dividend yield.
On 7 December 2021, 2,400,000 unlisted options were granted to employees for nil consideration. The
options were valued using the Hoadley ESO2 binomial valuation model using an underlying share price of
$0.16, volatility of 85%, interest rate of 0.98%, early exercise multiple of 2.5x and nil dividend yield.
Unlisted options granted on 23 October 2019, exercisable at $0.15 each on or before 23 October 2023, were
issued as part of financial advisory fees to Argonaut Capital Limited, with the following vesting criteria
applying:
Tranche 1 – 1,000,000 options - no vesting criteria, exercisable from date of issue.
Tranche 2 – 1,000,000 options - exercisable only after the receipt of credit approval in respect of any
transaction (or series of transactions) that in aggregate contemplate the issuance of debt financing of at least
$20 million to the Company.
Tranche 3 – 1,000,000 options - exercisable only after the raising of sufficient capital, including debt or equity
or other financing, to fully fund construction of the first of one of the Arrowsmith Silica Sand Projects or the
Muchea Silica Sand Project.
The options were issued for $300 consideration and vest upon the satisfaction of milestones considered to
be non-market factors. The options were valued using the Black-Scholes model using an underlying share
price of $0.145, volatility of 100%, nil dividend yield and an interest rate of 0.745%.
The weighted average remaining contractual life of share-based payment options that were outstanding as
at 30 June 2023 was 1.750 years (2022: 1.913 years).
The weighted average fair value of share-based payment options granted during the year was $0.05472 each
(2022: $0.07286).
VRX Silica Limited
107
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
24. Financial Risk Management
The consolidated entity’s principal financial instruments comprise receivables, payables, loans, cash and
short-term deposits. The consolidated entity manages its exposure to key financial risks in accordance with
the consolidated entity’s financial risk management policy. The objective of the policy is to support the delivery
of the consolidated entity’s financial targets while protecting future financial security.
The main risks arising from the consolidated entity’s financial instruments are interest rate risk, credit risk and
liquidity risk. The consolidated entity does not speculate in the trading of derivative instruments. The
consolidated entity uses different methods to measure and manage different types of risks to which it is
exposed. These include monitoring levels of exposure to interest rates and assessments of market forecasts
for interest rates. Ageing analysis of and monitoring of receivables are undertaken to manage credit risk,
liquidity risk is monitored through the development of future rolling cash flow forecasts.
The Board reviews and agrees policies for managing each of these risks as summarised below.
Primary responsibility for identification and control of financial risks rests with the Board. The Board reviews
and agrees policies for managing each of the risks identified below, including for interest rate risk, credit
allowances and cash flow forecast projections.
Details of the significant accounting policies and methods adopted, including the criteria for recognition, the
basis of measurement and the basis on which income and expenses are recognised, in respect of each class
of financial asset and financial liability are disclosed in Note 1 to the financial statements.
Risk Exposures and Responses
Interest Rate Risk
The consolidated entity’s exposure to risks of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to the
consolidated entity’s cash balances. The consolidated entity constantly analyses its interest rate exposure.
Within this analysis consideration is given to potential renewals of existing positions, alternative financing
positions and the mix of fixed and variable interest rates. As the Company has no variable interest rate bearing
borrowings its exposure to interest rate movements is limited to the amount of interest income it can potentially
earn on surplus cash deposits. The following sensitivity analysis is based on the interest rate risk exposures
in existence at the reporting date.
At balance date, the consolidated entity had the following financial assets exposed to variable interest rates
that are not designated in cash flow hedges:
Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents (interest-bearing accounts)
Net exposure
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
1,450,370
9,274,160
1,450,370
9,274,160
VRX Silica Limited
108
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
24. Financial Risk Management (Continued)
The following sensitivity analysis is based on the interest rate risk exposures in existence at the reporting
date.
At 30 June, if interest rates had moved, as illustrated in the table below, with all other variables held constant,
post tax profit and equity relating to financial assets of the consolidated entity would have been affected as
follows:
Judgements of reasonably possible movements:
Post tax profit – higher / (lower)
+ 0.05%
- 0.05%
Equity – higher / (lower)
+ 0.05%
- 0.05%
Liquidity Risk
Consolidated
2023
$
2022
$
725
(725)
725
(725)
4,637
(4,637)
4,637
(4,637)
The Group’s objective is to maintain a balance between continuity of funding and flexibility through the use
of loans and other available credit lines.
The consolidated entity manages liquidity risk by monitoring immediate and forecast cash requirements and
ensuring adequate cash reserves are maintained.
Credit risk
Credit risk arises from the financial assets of the consolidated entity, which comprise deposits with banks and
trade and other receivables. The consolidated entity’s exposure to credit risk arises from potential default of
the counter party, with the maximum exposure equal to the carrying amount of these instruments. The
carrying amount of financial assets included in the statement of financial position represents the consolidated
entity’s maximum exposure to credit risk in relation to those assets.
The consolidated entity does not hold any credit derivatives to offset its credit exposure.
The consolidated entity trades only with recognised, credit worthy third parties and as such collateral is not
requested nor is it the consolidated entity’s policy to secure its trade and other receivables.
The consolidated entity has adopted a lifetime expected loss allowance in estimating expected credit losses
to trade receivables through the use of a provisions matrix using fixed rates of credit loss provisioning.
Receivable balances are monitored on an ongoing basis with the result that the consolidated entity does not
have a significant exposure to bad debts.
The consolidated entity’s cash deposits are held with a major Australian banking institution otherwise, there
are no significant concentrations of credit risk within the consolidated entity.
VRX Silica Limited
109
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
24. Financial Risk Management (Continued)
The following table details the expected maturity of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities based on the
earliest date of maturity or payment respectively. The amounts are stated on an undiscounted basis and
include interest.
Consolidated
2023
Financial Assets:
Non-interest bearing
Variable interest rate
Fixed interest rate
Financial Liabilities:
Non-interest bearing
Fixed interest rate
2022
Financial Assets:
Non-interest bearing
Variable interest rate
Fixed interest rate
Financial Liabilities:
Non-interest bearing
Fixed interest rate
Weighted
average
effective
interest rate
%
Less than 1
month
$
1 – 3
Months
$
3 months
– 1 year
$
1 – 5 years
$
-
1.35
4.42
-
6.85
-
0.35
0.43
-
4.60
294,032
1,450,370
-
1,744,402
-
-
-
-
2,583
-
-
2,583
381,685
6,370
388,055
-
19,322
19,322
-
55,242
55,242
268,627
4,256,813
5,017,347
9,542,787
-
-
-
-
2,583
-
-
2,583
1,146,269
5,788
1,152,057
-
17,493
17,493
-
48,395
48,395
443,750
-
90,572
534,322
-
337,222
337,222
781,250
-
23,588
804,838
-
116,514
116,514
Capital Management Risk
Management controls the capital of the consolidated entity in order to maximise the return to shareholders
and ensure that the Group can fund its operations and continue as a going concern.
Management effectively manages the Group’s capital by assessing the consolidated entity’s financial risks
and adjusting its capital structure in response to changes in these risks and in the market. These responses
include the management of expenditure and debt levels and share and option issues.
There have been no changes in the strategy adopted by management to control capital of the consolidated
entity since the prior year.
Equity Price Risk
The consolidated entity’s investment in listed equity securities are susceptible to market price risk arising
from uncertainties about future values of the investment securities.
At the reporting date, the consolidated entity’s exposure to listed equity securities at fair value was $443,750
(2022: $781,250). A decrease of 10% (2022: 10%) on the share prices could have an impact of approximately
$44,375 (2022: $78,125) on the profit or loss attributable to the consolidated entity.
VRX Silica Limited
110
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
24. Financial Risk Management (Continued)
Commodity Price and Foreign Currency Risk
The consolidated entity’s exposure to price and currency risk is minimal given the consolidated entity is still
in the exploration phase.
25. Fair Value Measurement
Fair value hierarchy
The following tables detail the consolidated entity's assets and liabilities, measured or disclosed at fair value,
using a three level hierarchy, based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the entire fair value
measurement, being:
Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can
access at the measurement date
Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability,
either directly or indirectly
Level 3: Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability
Level 1
$
Level 2
$
Level 3
$
Total
$
2023
Assets
Ordinary shares at fair value through profit or loss
Share options at fair value through profit or loss
Total assets
418,750
25,000
443,750
2022
Assets
Ordinary shares at fair value through profit or loss
Total assets
781,250
781,250
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
418,750
25,000
443,750
781,250
781,250
Assets and liabilities held for sale are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.
There were no transfers between levels during the financial year.
The carrying amounts of trade and other receivables and trade and other payables are assumed to
approximate their fair values due to their short-term nature.
VRX Silica Limited
111
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023
26. Events Subsequent to Year End
Consultants Options
On 31 August 2023, the Company issued 1,250,000 options exercisable at 18 cents each on or before 31
August 2025, to consultants for no consideration.
Capital Raising
On 28 August 2023, the Company announced a $3 million capital raising, comprising a share placement of
$1.5 million (“Placement”) and a share purchase plan of up to $1.5 million (“SPP”). The Placement to new
and existing sophisticated investors comprises the issue of 12,500,000 new fully paid ordinary shares in the
Company (“new shares”) at a price of 12 cents per share, to raise $1,500,000 (before costs). The Company
is also undertaking a SPP offer to eligible shareholders to apply for up to $30,000 each of new shares at a
price of 12 cents per share. Participants in the Placement and the SSP are entitled to subscribe for one free-
attaching option for every two new shares issued, each at an exercise price of 18 cents and expiring on 31
August 2025.
On 1 September 2023, the Company issued 12,500,000 ordinary fully paid shares under the Placement. The
SPP offer has not yet closed and the free-attaching options have not yet been issued.
Other than the above, there are no other matters or circumstances that have arisen since 30 June 2023 that
have or may significantly affect the operations, results, or state of affairs of the consolidated entity in future
financial years.
VRX Silica Limited
112
DIRECTORS' DECLARATION
The directors of the Company declare that:
1.
The financial statements and notes, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and:
a.
b.
Comply with Accounting Standards, which, as stated in accounting policy Note 1(c) to the financial
statements, constitutes explicit and unreserved compliance with International Financial Reporting
Standards (IFRS); and
Give a true and fair view of the Consolidated Entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2023 and of
its performance for the year ended on that date;
2.
In the directors’ opinion there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its
debts as and when they become due and payable.
3.
The directors have been given the declarations required by s295A of the Corporation Act 2001.
Signed in accordance with a resolution of directors made pursuant to section 295(5)(a) of the Corporations
Act 2001.
Bruce Maluish
Director
Perth, 28 September 2023
VRX Silica Limited
113
RSM Australia Partners
Level 32 Exchange Tower
2 The Esplanade Perth WA 6000
GPO Box R1253 Perth WA 6844
T +61 (0) 8 9261 9100
F +61 (0) 8 9261 9111
www.rsm.com.au
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF VRX SILICA LIMITED
Opinion
We have audited the financial report of VRX Silica Limited (the Company) and its subsidiaries (the Group), which
comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2023, the consolidated statement of profit
or loss and other comprehensive income, the consolidated statement of changes in equity and the consolidated
statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of
significant accounting policies, and the directors' declaration.
In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of the Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001,
including:
(i)
giving a true and fair view of the Group's financial position as at 30 June 2023 and of its financial
performance for the year then ended; and
(ii)
complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001.
Basis for Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those
standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of
our report. We are independent of the Group in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the
Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board's
APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial
report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.
We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Corporations Act 2001, which has been given to
the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors as at the time of this auditor's
report.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our
opinion.
THE POWER OF BEING UNDERSTOOD
AUDIT | TAX | CONSULTING
RSM Australia Partners is a member of the RSM network and trades as RSM. RSM is the trading name used by the members of the RSM network. Each member of the RSM network is an independent
accounting and consulting firm which practices in its own right. The RSM network is not itself a separate legal entity in any jurisdiction.
RSM Australia Partners ABN 36 965 185 036
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation
Key Audit Matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of
the financial report of the current period. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial
report as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.
Key Audit Matter
How our audit addressed this matter
Deferred Exploration Expenditure
Refer to Note 11 in the financial statements
The Group has capitalised deferred exploration
expenditure with a carrying value of $13,599,089 as
at 30 June 2023.
We considered this to be a key audit matter due to
the significant management judgments involved in
assessing the carrying value of the assets including:
Determination of whether the exploration and
evaluation expenditure can be associated with
finding specific mineral resources, and the basis
on which that expenditure is allocated to an area
of interest;
Assessing whether any indicators of impairment
are present and if so, judgement applied to
determined and quantify any impairment loss;
and
Assessing whether exploration activities have
reached a stage at which the existence of an
economically recoverable reserves may be
determined.
Our audit procedures included:
Assessing
the Group’s accounting policy
for
compliance with Australian Accounting Standards;
Assessing whether the rights to tenure of those
areas of interest are current;
Testing a sample of additions
to supporting
documentation and assessing whether the amounts
capitalised during the year are in compliance with
the Group’s accounting policy and relate to the
relevant area of interest;
Enquiring with management and reading budgets
and other documentation as evidence that active
and significant operations in, or relation to, the
relevant area of interests will be continued in the
future;
Assessing
evaluating management’s
determination that exploration activities have not yet
progressed to the stage where the existence or
otherwise of economically recoverable reserves
may be determined;
and
Assessing
and
evaluating management’s
assessment of whether indicators of impairment
existed at the reporting date; and
Assessing the appropriateness of the disclosures in
the financial statements.
Other Information
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included
in the Group's annual report for the year ended 30 June 2023, but does not include the financial report and the
auditor's report thereon.
Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not express any
form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing
so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial report or our knowledge
obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other
information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair
view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal
control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true
and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the ability of the Group to continue as
a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of
accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic
alternative but to do so.
Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion.
Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance
with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements
can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably
be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report.
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial report is located at the Auditing and
Assurance Standards Board website at: https://www.auasb.gov.au/auditors_responsibilities/ar2.pdf. This
description forms part of our auditor's report.
Report on the Remuneration Report
Opinion on the Remuneration Report
We have audited the Remuneration Report included within the directors' report for the year ended 30 June 2023.
In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of VRX Silica Limited, for the year ended 30 June 2023, complies with
section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001.
Responsibilities
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the Remuneration Report
in accordance with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards.
RSM AUSTRALIA PARTNERS
Perth, WA
Dated: 28 September 2023
AIK KONG TING
Partner
RSM Australia Partners
Level 32 Exchange Tower,
2 The Esplanade Perth WA 6000
GPO Box R1253 Perth WA 6844
T +61 (0) 8 9261 9100
F +61 (0) 8 9261 9111
www.rsm.com.au
AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION
As lead auditor for the audit of the financial report of VRX Silica Limited for the year ended 30 June 2023, I declare
that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been no contraventions of:
(i)
(ii)
the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and
any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.
RSM AUSTRALIA PARTNERS
Perth, WA
Dated: 28 September 2023
AIK KONG TING
Partner
THE POWER OF BEING UNDERSTOOD
AUDIT | TAX | CONSULTING
RSM Australia Partners is a member of the RSM network and trades as RSM. RSM is the trading name used by the members of the RSM network. Each member of the RSM network is an independent
accounting and consulting firm which practices in its own right. The RSM network is not itself a separate legal entity in any jurisdiction.
RSM Australia Partners ABN 36 965 185 036
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation
SECURITIES EXCHANGE INFORMATION
HOLDINGS AS AT 20 SEPTEMBER 2023
Listed Securities
Ordinary Fully Paid Shares
Number of Securities Held
No. of Holders No. of Shares %
1
1,001
5,001
10,001
to 1,000
to 5,000
to 10,000
to 100,000
100,001 and over
Total
Number of holders of less
than a marketable parcel
112
804
600
1,736
647
3,899
0.00
26,985
0.46
2,608,110
0.85
4,847,940
11.8
67,605,489
497,814,505
86.9
572,903,029 100
792
2,016,740
Unlisted Securities - Options
Exercise Price
Expiry Date
$0.15
23/10/2023
$0.30
31/08/2024
Number of Securities Held
No. of
Holders
No. of
Options
%
No. of
Holders
No. of
Options
%
1
1,001
5,001
10,001
to 1,000
to 5,000
to 10,000
to 100,000
100,001 and over
Total
2
2
2,500,000
100
2,500,000 100
4
4
11,100,000
100
11,100,000 100
Exercise Price
Expiry Date
$0.30
31/08/2024
$0.20
31/12/2025
Number of Securities Held
No. of
Holders
No. of
Options
%
No. of
Holders
No. of
Options
%
1
1,001
5,001
10,001
to 1,000
to 5,000
to 10,000
to 100,000
100,001 and over
Total
17,700,000
100
5
5 17,700,000 100
7
7
100
10,000,000
10,000,000 100
Exercise Price
Expiry Date
$0.15
31/12/2026
$0.18
31/08/2025
Number of Securities Held
No. of
Holders
No. of
Options
%
No. of
Holders
No. of
Options
%
1
1,001
5,001
10,001
to 1,000
to 5,000
to 10,000
to 100,000
100,001 and over
Total
8
8
7,200,000
100
7,200,000 100
1
1
1,250,000
100
1,250,000 100
VRX Silica Limited
118
SECURITIES EXCHANGE INFORMATION
Substantial Shareholders
The company has been notified of the following substantial shareholdings:
Name Number of Shares
Sparta AG 51,100,000 8.92%
% of Total Shares on Issue
Voting Rights
The Constitution of the company makes the following provision for voting at general meetings:
On a show of hands, every ordinary shareholder present in person, or by proxy, attorney or representative has one vote.
On a poll, every shareholder present in person, or by proxy, attorney or representative has one vote for any share held
by the shareholder.
20 Largest Holders of Securities as at 20 September 2023:
Ordinary Fully Paid Shares
1. SPARTA AG
2. MR MICHELE GALEA
3. MOSCH PTY LTD
4. PARLIN INVESTMENTS PTY LTD
5. GOLDFIRE ENTERPRISES PTY LTD
6. MR MICHELE GALEA
7. MR BRUCE DENNIS MALUISH
8. MORKIM PTY LTD
9. AUSTRALIAN SILICA PTY LTD
10. CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED
11. MASH SUPER PTY LTD
12. MR JOHN CHARLES GEARY
13. AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SERVICES PTY LTD
14. ANDREW MALUISH SUPER PTY LTD
15. HAVEN SUPER PTY LTD
16. LESUER PTY LTD
17. VAULT (WA) PTY LTD
17. AURO PTY LTD
19. SURPION PTY LTD
20. GOLDFIRE ENTERPRISES PTY LTD
Number
51,200,000
15,046,237
13,333,332
11,900,025
11,217,124
8,000,000
7,060,535
7,000,000
6,892,754
6,824,857
6,750,000
6,000,000
5,805,804
5,420,000
5,383,437
5,180,000
5,125,000
4,850,000
4,750,000
4,500,000
192,239,105
%
8.94
2.63
2.33
2.08
1.96
1.40
1.23
1.22
1.20
1.19
1.18
1.05
1.01
0.95
0.94
0.90
0.89
0.85
0.83
0.79
33.56
VRX Silica Limited
119
SECURITIES EXCHANGE INFORMATION
Unlisted Options
Details of unlisted option holders are as follows:
Class of unlisted options
Options exercisable at 15 cents each on or before 23 October 2023
Holdings of more than 20% of this class
- Argonaut Investments Pty Ltd
Options exercisable at 30 cents each on or before 31 August 2024
Holdings of more than 20% of this class
- Remcor Pty Ltd
-
- Yoonil Kim
Terence Robert Abel
Options exercisable at 30 cents each on or before 31 August 2024
Holdings of more than 20% of this class
- MASH Super Pty Ltd
Lesuer Pty Ltd
-
Options exercisable at 20 cents each on or before 31 December 2025
Holdings of more than 20% of this class
- Parlin Investments Pty Ltd
Options exercisable at 15 cents each on or before 31 December 2026
Holdings of more than 20% of this class
- Parlin Investments Pty Ltd
Options exercisable at 18 cents each on or before 31 August 2025
Holdings of more than 20% of this class
- Parlin Investments Pty Ltd
Number
of
Options
Number
of
Holders
2,500,000
2
2,000,000
11,100,000
4
4,500,000
2,400,000
2,400,000
17,700,000
5
5,400,000
3,900,000
10,000,000
2,000,000
7,200,000
1,500,000
1,250,000
1,250,000
7
8
1
Restricted Securities
The company does not have any restricted securities on issue as at the date of this report.
On-market Buy-back
Currently there is no on-market buy-back of the Company’s securities.
Consistency with business objectives
The company has used its cash and assets in a form readily convertible to cash that it had at the time of listing in a way
consistent with its stated business objectives.
VRX Silica Limited
120
INTERESTS IN MINING TENEMENTS
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Arrowsmith Project – Silica
Tenement
E70/4986
E70/4987
E70/5027
E70/5109
E70/5197
E70/5817
M70/1389
M70/1392
M70/1418
L70/198
L70/199
L70/202
L70/203
L70/208
L70/229
L70/230
G70/264
G70/265
G70/266
Muchea Project – Silica
Tenement
E70/4886
E70/5157
E70/5548
E70/5651
M70/1390
M70/1414
L70/200
L70/204
L70/205
L70/206
Boyatup Project – Silica
Status
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Application
Granted
Granted
Granted
Granted
Status
Granted
Granted
Granted
Application
Granted
Application
Granted
Granted
Application
Granted
Holder / Applicant
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Ventnor Mining Pty Ltd
Holder / Applicant
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Wisecat Pty Ltd
Interest (%)
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
Interest (%)
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
Tenement
E69/3560
E69/3668
Status
Granted
Granted
Holder / Applicant
VRX Boyatup Pty Ltd
VRX Boyatup Pty Ltd
Interest (%)
100
100
Dandaragan Project
Tenement
E70/6501
E70/6502
E70/6503
E70/6504
E70/6505
Status
Granted
Granted
Application
Application
Application
Holder / Applicant
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
VRX Midwest Pty Ltd
Interest (%)
100
100
100
100
100
VRX Silica Limited
121