Can Brightstar Deliver on Aspirational +200,000oz Gold Production Goal?
Brightstar Resources has enhanced its leadership team with seasoned mining executives and is advancing its Sandstone project, targeting a resource upgrade in early 2026 as it pursues a +200,000-ounce annual gold production goal.
- Appointment of experienced mining leaders to key operational and project roles
- Sandstone Pre-Feasibility Study progressing with ongoing drilling campaigns
- Mineral Resource upgrade for Sandstone targeted in first half of 2026
- Brightstar aims to become a mid-tier gold producer with +200,000oz annual output
- Portfolio includes 3.0Moz Mineral Resources across Western Australia
Leadership Strengthening Brightstar’s Operational Edge
Brightstar Resources Limited (ASX – BTR) has taken a decisive step to reinforce its operational and project delivery capabilities by appointing three highly experienced mining professionals to pivotal leadership roles. John Croall, a veteran with over 30 years in underground and open-pit mining, joins as General Manager Mining to oversee existing operations and expansion efforts. Daniel Jolley, with two decades of expertise in processing plant engineering and project execution, steps in as Project Director to lead the Laverton processing plant construction and the Sandstone Pre-Feasibility Study. Complementing this team, Julie Budrey brings more than 25 years of safety leadership to the role of Group Health and Safety Manager, underscoring Brightstar’s commitment to a strong safety culture.
Advancing the Sandstone Project and Resource Growth
The Sandstone Gold Project is a focal point of Brightstar’s growth strategy. The company is progressing its Pre-Feasibility Study with GR Engineering Services engaged for processing infrastructure design and Independent Metallurgical Operations conducting metallurgical test work. Currently, six drilling rigs operated jointly by Brightstar and Aurumin Ltd are targeting resource expansion and infill drilling to enhance confidence in key deposits. This drilling campaign aims to underpin a Mineral Resource upgrade, anticipated for release in the first half of 2026. The combined pro forma Mineral Resource for Sandstone stands at 2.4 million ounces at 1.5 grams per tonne gold, reflecting significant potential for growth.
Strategic Vision for Mid-Tier Gold Production
Brightstar’s Managing Director, Alex Rovira, emphasized that the calibre of new leadership appointments reflects strong confidence in the company’s assets and development pathway. The recent Definitive Feasibility Study on the Menzies and Laverton projects outlined a production profile of approximately 70,000 ounces per annum over five years. Building on this foundation, Brightstar aspires to surpass 200,000 ounces annually through staged growth across its Menzies, Laverton, and Sandstone projects. The company’s portfolio boasts 3.0 million ounces of Mineral Resources strategically located in Western Australia’s Tier-1 mining jurisdiction, supported by infrastructure and granted mining leases.
Balancing Aspirations with Rigorous Study
While Brightstar’s production target of +200,000 ounces per annum is aspirational, the company acknowledges that further work remains, particularly at Sandstone, where the Pre-Feasibility Study is ongoing. This study will address critical variables including updated Mineral Resource estimates, mining cost optimizations, mine design, permitting, and processing flowsheet engineering. The outcomes will be vital in confirming the economic viability and operational parameters necessary to support Brightstar’s growth ambitions.
Outlook and Market Positioning
Brightstar’s strategic leadership hires and project advancements position it well to transition from an emerging producer to a mid-tier gold miner in Western Australia. The company’s focus on disciplined operational execution, safety, and sustainable growth underpins its commitment to creating long-term value for shareholders and stakeholders alike. As drilling results and feasibility studies unfold, Brightstar’s trajectory will be closely watched by investors seeking exposure to a growing gold producer in a stable jurisdiction.
Bottom Line?
Brightstar’s strengthened leadership and advancing Sandstone project set the stage for a pivotal growth phase, with resource upgrades and production targets in clear sight.
Questions in the middle?
- How will drilling results at Sandstone influence the scale and timing of the Mineral Resource upgrade?
- What are the key risks and milestones remaining in the Sandstone Pre-Feasibility Study?
- How quickly can Brightstar scale production to reach its +200,000-ounce annual target?