The following article says that the drilling for gold could begin as early as December.

Australian Company Explores Eilat Desert In Israel For Gold

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3452778,00.html
 
The following article that I e-mailed to 5doves on 9/25 says the drilling for gold could begin by the end of 2008.
 
Gold Found in Negev
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/Flash.aspx/133750