Stanmore Posts 14Mt Saleable Coal, Boosts Liquidity to US$482M in Q4
Stanmore Resources capped 2025 with record coal production and sales, overcoming early-year weather setbacks to meet full-year guidance and significantly reduce net debt. The company enters 2026 with strong liquidity but faces fresh weather challenges.
- Record December quarter production and sales across all metrics
- Full-year saleable production of 14.0Mt achieved at mid-point of guidance
- Net debt reduced by US$57 million to US$33 million
- Liquidity strengthened to US$482 million with upsized credit facility
- Ongoing development projects and exploration progressing on schedule
A Year of Resilience and Recovery
Stanmore Resources Limited has delivered a standout performance in the December 2025 quarter, posting record production and sales figures that capped a strong recovery year. Despite significant operational headwinds from adverse weather in the first half, the company achieved quarterly records with 6.0 million tonnes of run-of-mine coal mined and 4.0 million tonnes sold. This robust finish helped the company meet its full-year saleable production guidance of 14.0 million tonnes, landing squarely at the mid-point of its revised targets.
Market Dynamics and Financial Strength
Market conditions for metallurgical coal improved notably during the quarter, with premium hard coking coal prices rising to approximately US$218 per tonne. This late rally was driven by stronger demand from China and India, alongside supply constraints exacerbated by Australia’s wet season. The improved pricing environment, combined with record production, translated into strong cash generation. Stanmore reduced its net debt by US$57 million during the quarter, finishing the year with a modest US$33 million net debt position. Total liquidity was bolstered to US$482 million, supported by an upsized US$200 million revolving credit facility, reflecting solid backing from the banking sector.
Operational Highlights Across Key Sites
Stanmore’s three main operations; South Walker Creek, Poitrel, and Isaac Plains Complex; each contributed to the record results. South Walker Creek delivered steady growth and maintained healthy inventories ahead of the wet season. Poitrel achieved a nearly 30% increase in run-of-mine volumes quarter-on-quarter, supported by mine plan optimisation and equipment productivity gains. Isaac Plains overcame early weather and geotechnical challenges to post its highest quarterly saleable production for the year, including a record month in December.
Development and Exploration Progress
Exploration activities continued with A$5.5 million spent in the quarter, concluding the 2025 drilling and seismic programs. The Isaac Downs Extension project is advancing through its approvals pathway, with environmental impact assessments and stakeholder engagement underway. Meanwhile, Eagle Downs development studies are progressing, focusing on underground mine planning and infrastructure design, positioning Stanmore well for future growth.
Looking Ahead – Weather Challenges and Strategic Focus
Entering 2026, Stanmore faces renewed challenges from ex-tropical cyclone Koji, which has intensified supply concerns across the Bowen Basin. The company has proactively built ROM inventories to mitigate wet season impacts and is closely monitoring conditions. While production from Isaac Plains is expected to decline as the operation transitions to the Isaac Downs Extension, South Walker Creek and Poitrel are forecast to deliver solid performances. Full-year 2026 guidance will be provided with the annual report in late February, offering investors a clearer view of the company’s outlook amid ongoing market and weather uncertainties.
Bottom Line?
Stanmore’s record close to 2025 and strong balance sheet set the stage for navigating 2026’s weather and market challenges.
Questions in the middle?
- How will ongoing weather disruptions impact Stanmore’s production and sales in 2026?
- What cost efficiencies and capital expenditure plans will accompany the transition at Isaac Plains?
- How might metallurgical coal price volatility affect Stanmore’s revenue and guidance updates?