Horizon Minerals has completed mining at Boorara and plans to use its substantial ore stockpiles to support the mid-2027 commissioning of the Black Swan Processing Hub, aiming for a smooth production restart in early 2027.
- Completion of current mining phase at Boorara Gold Project
- Mutual termination of Ore Purchase Agreement with Paddington Gold Mine
- 460,000 tonnes of gold ore stockpiled at Boorara (14.2koz Au)
- Stockpiles to feed Black Swan Processing Hub commissioning in mid-2027
- Pre-production planning underway for mining restart in early 2027
Boorara Mining Phase Concludes
Horizon Minerals Limited has announced the completion of its current mining phase at the Boorara Gold Project as of December 2025. This milestone marks a significant step in the company’s operational timeline, setting the stage for the next chapter in its gold production strategy.
Strategic Shift in Ore Supply Agreements
In a notable development, Horizon and the Paddington Gold Mine have mutually terminated their Ore Purchase Agreement effective 11 February 2026. While the details behind this decision remain private, the termination signals a strategic pivot in how Horizon plans to source ore for its processing operations moving forward.
Utilising Stockpiles to De-Risk Black Swan Commissioning
Crucially, Horizon holds a substantial stockpile of 460,000 tonnes of gold ore at Boorara, containing approximately 14,200 ounces of gold. This stockpile will serve as the primary ore source for the commissioning of the Black Swan Processing Hub, scheduled for mid-2027. By relying on these existing stockpiles, Horizon aims to mitigate risks associated with mill startup, ensuring a consistent and reliable ore feed during this critical phase.
Operational Readiness and Future Production Plans
Preparations are already underway at Boorara to facilitate a seamless restart of mining operations in early 2027. The company has commenced pre-production planning and operational readiness activities, alongside ordering long lead items to accelerate the gold conversion process at Black Swan. This proactive approach underscores Horizon’s commitment to maintaining momentum and achieving its goal of becoming a standalone mid-tier gold producer in the Western Australian Goldfields.
Looking Ahead
Managing Director Grant Haywood emphasised the importance of Boorara within Horizon’s broader strategy, highlighting the stockpiles as a key asset for the Black Swan hub’s successful commissioning. The company’s focus on de-risking and operational efficiency positions it well for the next phase of growth, though market watchers will be keen to see how the termination of the haulage contract with Paddington impacts logistics and cost structures.
Bottom Line?
Horizon’s smart use of Boorara stockpiles sets a steady course for Black Swan’s mid-2027 launch and a promising production restart.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the termination of the Ore Purchase Agreement affect ore logistics and costs?
- What are the updated production targets and financial forecasts post-Black Swan commissioning?
- Could further operational challenges delay the planned early 2027 mining restart at Boorara?