Larvotto’s Hillgrove Set for Mid-2026 Restart with 2,530m Underground Rehab

Larvotto Resources is on track to restart production at its Hillgrove Antimony-Gold Project by mid-2026, while progressing metallurgical testing at Eyre and due diligence on a copper acquisition at Mt Isa.

  • Hillgrove plant refurbishment and underground development on schedule
  • Workforce expansion planned to support production ramp-up
  • Rare Earth Element metallurgical testwork underway at Eyre
  • Due diligence drilling completed at Mt Isa’s Blockade Copper Mine
  • Strong community engagement and cultural initiatives at Hillgrove
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Hillgrove Project, On the Cusp of Production

Larvotto Resources Limited is steadily advancing its flagship Hillgrove Antimony-Gold Project in New South Wales towards a mid-2026 production start. The company reports that refurbishment of the processing plant is progressing on budget and schedule, with critical equipment being overhauled and essential services upgraded. Underground mining activities have commenced, with contractors rehabilitating over 2,500 metres of underground drives and preparing for ore blasting early this year.

Supporting this operational push, Larvotto is significantly expanding its workforce at Hillgrove, aiming to triple full-time staff numbers by mid-2026. Recruitment efforts are focused on building a predominantly local residential workforce, with targeted campaigns generating strong interest. This growth phase is critical to ensuring the site is ready for commissioning and sustained production.

Exploration and Metallurgical Progress at Eyre

In Western Australia, Larvotto has completed an aircore drilling program at its Eyre Project, targeting Rare Earth Element (REE) mineralisation. The samples collected are now undergoing metallurgical testwork to assess processing and recovery potential. This step follows promising initial drilling results and is key to evaluating the technical viability of the REE deposits alongside the project’s broader multi-metal potential, which includes nickel, gold, and lithium.

Mt Isa Copper Acquisition Opportunity

Larvotto is also advancing due diligence on the Blockade Copper Mine near Mt Isa in Queensland. The company completed over 4,100 metres of reverse circulation drilling across multiple prospects in 2025, with assays pending. The Blockade Mine, historically a small-scale copper producer, is strategically positioned to complement Larvotto’s broader Mt Isa Project, potentially enabling a hub-and-spoke development model. Positive assay results could pave the way for resource definition and acquisition.

Community and Cultural Engagement

Beyond operational updates, Larvotto is actively engaging with local communities and Traditional Owners. At Hillgrove, the company has established a community hub and initiated educational and environmental programs, including a grazing initiative with O’Connor Catholic College. A significant cultural mural created by respected Anaiwan artists now adorns the Hillgrove Hub, symbolising Larvotto’s commitment to respectful partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Permitting processes are advancing, with a key mine life extension modification entering public exhibition. Larvotto acknowledges strong government support as it navigates regulatory approvals essential for its production timeline.

With critical minerals like antimony gaining national strategic importance and copper prices at record highs, Larvotto’s multi-asset portfolio positions it well to capitalise on growing demand. The company’s near-term focus remains on executing the Hillgrove restart while laying groundwork for future growth through exploration and acquisitions.

Bottom Line?

Larvotto’s progress at Hillgrove and strategic moves at Eyre and Mt Isa set the stage for a pivotal year in its emergence as a critical minerals producer.

Questions in the middle?

  • When will assay results from Mt Isa drilling clarify the Blockade Mine’s resource potential?
  • How will metallurgical testwork outcomes at Eyre influence development plans for Rare Earth Elements?
  • What operational risks could impact the mid-2026 production target at Hillgrove?