Native Mineral Resources has successfully poured 560 ounces of gold doré at its Blackjack plant and is on track to begin mining at Podosky in April, advancing multiple projects in Queensland.
- 560oz gold doré poured at Blackjack processing plant
- Podosky mining set to start in April 2026
- Drilling and mine planning completed at Podosky
- Infrastructure upgrades and approvals progressing at Blackjack and Far Fanning
- Environmental and regulatory milestones achieved, supporting future growth
Strong Gold Production Momentum at Blackjack
Native Mineral Resources Holdings Limited (ASX:NMR) has marked a significant operational milestone with the successful production of 560 ounces of gold doré at its Blackjack processing plant on 25 March 2026. This latest pour, comprising three doré bars, underscores the company’s steady progress in northern Queensland’s Charters Towers region. To date, the Blackjack plant has milled 138,000 tonnes of ore, yielding over 2,200 ounces of gold and 4,000 ounces of silver post-refinement, reflecting a solid foundation for ramping up production.
Podosky Mining Set to Commence in April
Looking ahead, Native Mineral Resources is preparing to launch mining operations at its Podosky site, with the first blast targeted for 7 April 2026. The company has completed reverse circulation drilling, geological modelling, and mine planning, positioning Podosky for a timely start. Ore extracted will be transported to the Blackjack ROM pad for processing, enhancing feed flexibility and supporting the company’s production profile. Exclusive mining rights secured for a 12-month period further solidify NMR’s operational control in the area.
Advancing Infrastructure and Approvals Across Projects
Beyond production, Native Mineral Resources is actively advancing critical infrastructure upgrades and environmental approvals. The company recently completed the Stage 3 lift construction of its tailings storage facility (TSF) and is progressing designs for Stage 4 and new TSF phases. These developments are vital for accommodating increased throughput and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Concurrently, drilling programs at Blackjack South Pit and Far Fanning are underway or imminent, supported by recent Environmental Authority amendments and ongoing regulatory engagement.
Environmental and Regulatory Progress
On the compliance front, the company has secured Estimated Rehabilitation Cost (ERC) determinations for both Blackjack and Far Fanning projects, a key step in environmental management and closure planning. Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plans (PRCPs) are being prepared with submissions expected in the coming months. Groundwater monitoring and hydrogeochemical assessments continue to support operational planning and regulatory requirements, reflecting NMR’s commitment to sustainable mining practices.
Positioning for Growth in Queensland Gold Sector
Managing Director Blake Cannavo emphasised the strategic importance of these developments, highlighting the combination of current production and disciplined project advancement as the foundation for the company’s next phase of value creation. With multiple projects progressing in parallel and infrastructure enhancements underway, Native Mineral Resources is positioning itself to increase production capacity and capitalise on the rich gold prospects in the Charters Towers and Ravenswood regions.
Bottom Line?
As Native Mineral Resources ramps up production and advances approvals, the coming months will be critical in translating operational momentum into sustained growth.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming mining at Podosky impact overall production volumes and costs?
- What are the timelines and risks associated with regulatory approvals for Far Fanning’s mining restart?
- How will infrastructure upgrades, particularly TSF expansions, influence processing capacity and operational efficiency?