The company declared the dividend ahead of its half-year profit results due out next month.

Regis’ three Duketon gold mines in Western Australia generated strong operating cashflow of $49.8 million for the quarter, boosting its cash and bullion balance to $98.5 million at the end of December.

The mines produced 75,544 ounces of gold at all-in sustaining costs of $918 an ounce.

December half production was 150,960oz, tracking at the top end of its FY16 guidance of 275,000-305,000oz.

“The Regis board is committed to delivering ongoing returns to shareholders so it is pleasing that the strong operational performance and cashflow of our business has underpinned the declaration of a 4c per share interim 2016 dividend,” Regis executive chairman Mark Clark said.

Regis did not declare an interim dividend last year, as it recovered from the flooding of the Garden Well pit, but paid a 6c per share final dividend for FY15.

Meanwhile, the company also announced the retirement of its long-serving general manager of exploration Jens Balkau.

Former WCP Resources managing director Peter Woodman has been appointed as chief geological officer as of next Monday.

Woodman is a former employee of Samantha Gold, where much of the Regis board once worked together.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Regis in regards to exploration, with much of the company’s cash being directed towards new discoveries and regional work around Duketon.

Regis shares rose 3.5% to $2.39.