Man accused of stealing gold-bearing ore from Kanowna Belle gold mine will take matter to trial next year

A man accused of stealing gold-bearing ore from a Kalgoorlie-Boulder mine site will take the matter to trial, with dates set for next year.

Thomas Luke Gibbons appeared in Kalgoorlie Magistrate Court on Monday charged with stealing, stealing a motor vehicle, and possession of stolen or unlawfully obtained property.

The 31-year-old is accused of stealing gold-bearing ore from Kanowna Belle gold mine, about 20km north-east of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, in March.

He has denied all allegations, having previously pleaded not guilty to the three charges.

His lawyer Paul Holmes told the court an independent analysis of the alleged gold-bearing material would likely play a role in his case when the matter goes to trial.

The matter will come before Kalgoorlie Magistrate Court for two trials to take place in the same week in September next year.

During Monday’s appearance, Mr Gibbons pleaded guilty to a separate charge of meth possession for which he was fined $100.