Brightstar Uncovers New Lode, Boosts Second Fortune Output 25%
Brightstar Resources reports a 25% production increase at its Second Fortune mine and unveils a promising new lode, while ore haulage begins at its Fish underground operation.
- Second Fortune mine production rises 25% to 4,000 ounces in June quarter
- Discovery of FTV Lode extends mineralisation beyond historical northern fault
- Fish underground mine commences ore haulage to Genesis Minerals’ Laverton Mill
- Targeted drilling programs underway to expand resources at both Second Fortune and Fish
- Brightstar advances debt financing and operational readiness post-Definitive Feasibility Study
Production Gains at Second Fortune
Brightstar Resources has delivered a notable 25% increase in gold production at its Second Fortune underground mine during the June 2025 quarter. The operation mined 35,000 tonnes at a grade of 3.29 grams per tonne, yielding approximately 4,000 ounces of gold. This uplift reflects steady-state operations and improved mining efficiencies, positioning the company well as it looks to build on this momentum.
Discovery of the FTV Lode, Unlocking New Potential
A key highlight of the quarter was the discovery of the FTV Lode, a northern extension of the Second Fortune Main Lode beyond a previously limiting fault. This new lode was developed on the 1015 Level, revealing a strike length of about 25 meters with encouraging face grades averaging 4.55 grams per tonne. The FTV Lode represents a compelling in-mine exploration opportunity, offering the potential to increase gold ounces per vertical metre at relatively low incremental cost. Brightstar plans to aggressively drill this extension both from surface and underground to delineate its full extent.
Fish Mine Advances with First Ore Haulage
The Fish underground mine, Brightstar’s second high-grade operation in the Laverton Hub, has reached a significant milestone with the commencement of ore haulage to Genesis Minerals’ Laverton Mill. Since mining began in April, over 500 meters of development has been completed, including key infrastructure and diamond drilling platforms. Early face assays from the 1350 Level access are consistent with grade expectations, underpinning confidence in the mine’s resource potential. Surface and underground drilling programs are underway to upgrade and extend the mineral resource, targeting life-of-mine extensions.
Strategic Growth and Financing Progress
Brightstar is advancing its broader growth strategy, dubbed 'TARGET200', aiming to surpass 200,000 ounces of annual production within five years. Following the release of a Definitive Feasibility Study in late June, the company is progressing debt project financing and operational readiness activities to enable final investment decisions and mine development. These efforts complement ongoing exploration across its portfolio, including drilling at Yunndaga and Sandstone projects, reinforcing Brightstar’s ambition to become a leading mid-tier gold producer.
Outlook
With production ramping up at Fish and promising exploration results at Second Fortune, Brightstar is well positioned to enhance its resource base and production profile. The discovery of the FTV Lode could materially extend mine life and improve economics, while financing progress sets the stage for sustained growth.
Bottom Line?
Brightstar’s operational strides and new discoveries set a strong foundation, but upcoming drilling results will be critical to validate growth ambitions.
Questions in the middle?
- How extensive is the FTV Lode beyond the initial 25-meter strike length discovered?
- What are the expected timelines and capital requirements for ramping up Fish mine production?
- How will debt financing terms impact Brightstar’s development pace and financial flexibility?