Brightstar Accelerates Menzies Hub Growth with Phase 2 Drilling at Yunndaga

Brightstar’s Strategic Push at Yunndaga

Brightstar Resources Limited (ASX, BTR) has commenced the second phase of its drilling program at the Yunndaga deposit, a key asset within its Menzies Hub in Western Australia. This move follows a successful initial phase completed in April, which focused on infill drilling to better define the existing mineral resource. The current resource at Yunndaga stands at 3.4 million tonnes grading 1.4 grams per tonne gold, equating to approximately 156,000 ounces.

The Phase 2 program is more ambitious, combining 5,000 metres of reverse circulation (RC) drilling with 2,500 metres of diamond drilling. This dual approach aims not only to extend the known resource both at depth and along strike but also to gather vital geotechnical and metallurgical data. These data are essential for advancing feasibility and mine planning, particularly as Brightstar eyes an underground mining operation.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

Yunndaga has a rich mining history, with over 270,000 ounces extracted at high grades exceeding 16 grams per tonne from the late 19th century through to the mid-20th century. More recent open pit mining in the 1990s added around 64,000 ounces at a lower grade of 2.5 grams per tonne. The current resource extends to a vertical depth of 240 metres, and a feasibility study released in June 2025 highlighted the potential for an underground operation producing around 50,000 ounces of gold annually from 600,000 tonnes at 2.6 grams per tonne.

Phase 1 drilling results were promising, with notable intersections such as 16 metres at 8.03 grams per tonne gold from 220 metres depth, underscoring the presence of wide, high-grade zones. The ongoing Phase 2 drilling will test extensions beyond these zones and provide the detailed data necessary to de-risk the project and refine the mine plan.

Broader Operational Context

Brightstar is actively drilling across multiple hubs, with three rigs operating simultaneously at Laverton, Menzies, and Sandstone. At Laverton, diamond drilling is targeting extensions at the Fish deposit, while exploration continues at Sandstone. The Menzies drilling campaign, including Yunndaga, is central to Brightstar’s strategy to fast-track development and production growth.

Managing Director Alex Rovira emphasized the importance of this phase, noting that the combined underground potential at Yunndaga complements the nearby Lady Shenton open pit mine. The integration of these assets is expected to enhance the overall economics and operational flexibility of the Menzies Hub.

Looking Ahead

Assay results from Phase 2 drilling are eagerly awaited and will be critical in confirming resource extensions and upgrading confidence levels. The data collected will also support ongoing feasibility and development studies, positioning Brightstar to potentially accelerate its transition to production. With a portfolio boasting over 3 million ounces of gold resources across Western Australia, Brightstar’s focused drilling programs are a key pillar in its ambition to become a leading mid-tier gold producer.