Gold Rush tensions hit new highs this week as Tyson’s unexpected absence due to a serious hand injury left the crew scrambling to stay on track. With a torn tendon requiring stitches, Tyson’s dog-related emergency meant his crew had to operate without their experienced lead.
With time ticking, mechanic Alec Kelly and operator Damian Brown were thrust into the spotlight to move the 45-ton wash plant “Sluicifer” across treacherous terrain. The mission: drag the plant 300 feet across the cut and up a steep 30-degree, 40-foot-high ramp using the 750 excavator.
Despite it being Damian’s first-ever plant move, and with only hours before the night shift needed the machine in place, the team pulled it off. After a tense ascent up the hill—marked by slipping equipment and stressful instructions—Sluicifer was finally stationed on top.
“I wasn’t actually sure if we were going to get it up,” Damian admitted. “I’m just happy—it’s on top of the hill.”
Just six hours after shutdown, the wash plant was operational again, thanks to the team’s efforts. Tyson returned soon after, relieved to find the move successful and his crew holding the fort in his absence.
Meanwhile, Parker Schnabel’s gold recovery continues to surge, as the team pushes toward their season goal of 5,000 ounces. With 4,000 ounces already mined, this week’s haul delivered a strong boost.
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Australia Creek returned 103.85 ounces worth $277,000, including nuggets, fine gold, and melted super fines.
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The Money Pit followed with 361.35 ounces worth more than $720,000.
Despite the pit’s production being slightly down from previous weeks, the combined total of 465.16 ounces keeps Parker’s team well on track.
“It’s not always going to be 500 ounces a week,” Parker noted, “but we’re almost at the drilling estimate and still have a lot of ground to run.”
As the gold rush continues, all eyes are on Parker and his crew as they inch closer to their massive season target. Stay tuned.
