Brightstar Targets 70,000ozpa from New Laverton Plant, Secures Mining Approvals

Clearing the Way for Growth

Brightstar Resources has made significant progress in advancing its Goldfields Hub project, a cornerstone in its strategy to scale up gold production. The company recently completed major site works at its Laverton Mill site, including the removal of old tanks, steelwork, and processing equipment. This groundwork clears the path for the construction of a new 1.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) processing plant, with earthworks and site preparation already underway.

The company is targeting a final investment decision (FID) by late March 2026, aligning with ongoing debt financing negotiations. Brightstar’s Managing Director, Alex Rovira, emphasised the focus on cost control and schedule discipline to de-risk the project and accelerate development.

Updated Feasibility and Production Outlook

Brightstar is finalising an updated Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS2.0), expected in February 2026. This update builds on the initial DFS released in June 2025, which outlined a production profile of approximately 70,000 ounces of gold per annum over five years, excluding output from the existing Second Fortune and Fish mines currently producing around 30,000 ounces annually.

The combined output from the Goldfields Hub is projected to complement the future Sandstone Gold Project, supporting Brightstar’s ambition to surpass 200,000 ounces per annum by 2029. While the Sandstone project remains aspirational pending further studies, the Goldfields Hub forms a solid foundation for this growth trajectory.

Infrastructure and Approvals in Place

Brightstar has secured mining approvals for open pit operations at the Lord Byron and Lady Shenton sites, which together hold a mineral resource of 13.5 million tonnes at 1.4 grams per tonne gold, equating to approximately 600,000 ounces. To support the ramp-up, the company has expanded accommodation facilities near the Fish underground mine from 52 to 160 rooms, ensuring adequate housing for construction crews and mining personnel.

Significant investments in haul road upgrades, site services, and communications infrastructure have also been completed, largely funded by ongoing operations at the Fish underground mine. These enhancements reduce capital expenditure risks and streamline the processing plant construction and mining ramp-up phases.

Financing and Contracting Progress

Brightstar is advancing a competitive Front End Engineering Design (FEED) process for the new processing plant, with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) tender packages received from two firms. The preferred contractor selection is scheduled for January 2026, aiming for a lump-sum, fixed-price contract to manage costs effectively.

On the financing front, the company is in advanced discussions with multiple parties, holding non-binding term sheets for up to A$150 million in debt funding. This financial backing is critical to underpin the construction phase and support Brightstar’s medium-term production goals.

Looking Ahead

Brightstar’s methodical approach to developing the Goldfields Hub, combining technical diligence, infrastructure readiness, and financial planning, positions it well to unlock value from its 4.0 million ounce mineral resource base. The company’s progress signals a transformative phase, moving from steady production to a more substantial mid-tier gold producer status in Western Australia.