Record First Half EBITA
EBITA reached a new first-half record of $160 million, up 3% year-on-year, with EBITA margin improving to 9.3% from 9.0%, driven by portfolio mix improvements and the conclusion of underperforming contracts.
Strong Profitability and EPS Growth
Underlying NPATA was reported at $92 million, up ~12% year-on-year, and underlying EPS increased 12% to $0.098 per share, supported by improved operating performance and lower net finance costs.
Solid Free Cash Flow and Improved Guidance
Normalized free cash flow was $33.1 million (adjusted for delayed receipts), up 8% on a like-for-like basis, with adjusted cash conversion of 77% for the half and management guiding FY'26 free cash flow to greater than $170 million.
Stronger Balance Sheet and Lower Leverage
Net leverage reduced to 0.6x from 0.9x a year earlier; gross debt fell to its lowest level since the Barminco acquisition; liquidity of $818 million (cash $275 million + undrawn $543 million); completed an oversubscribed refinancing increasing the syndicated facility to $650 million.
Lower Interest Expense
Interest expense declined 20% to $28 million for the half due to early repayment of 2025 senior unsecured notes and lower gross debt, supporting earnings-per-share improvements.
Revenue Stability and Division Growth
Group revenue remained steady at $1.73 billion (flat vs prior corresponding period). Drilling Services revenue grew to $422 million, up 9% year-on-year, with improved utilization across the division.
Dividend Increase
Interim dividend declared of $0.0325 per share, an 8% increase from $0.03 in H1 FY'25, reflecting confidence in earnings and cash generation.
Operational Wins and Strong Pipeline
Secured work in hand of $5.8 billion and a pipeline of $18.6 billion. Notable progress in North America: letter of intent from Barrick for Fourmile (early works), ramping Goldrush project, and potential expansion opportunities at Red Chris and other North American projects (now 8 projects in region).
Cost and Depreciation Improvements
Depreciation reduced from $168 million to $157 million due to fleet sales and contract conclusions; group depreciation expected to normalize at low-to-mid 9% of revenue. idoba development costs reduced ~30% to $4.7 million with further reductions planned.