Aquirian Nets $48M Lord Byron Drilling Deal with Brightstar

Significant Contract Win at Lord Byron Mine

Aquirian Limited’s (ASX:AQN) subsidiary Drillforce WA has landed a sizeable $48 million drilling and blasting services contract with Brightstar Resources (ASX:BTR) for the Lord Byron open pit mine in Laverton, Western Australia. The initial three-year deal, commencing September 2026, is part of a broader five-year Strategic Framework Agreement (SFA) covering Brightstar’s Goldfields Hub operations, which also includes the Cork Tree Well and Lady Shenton sites.

This contract follows Aquirian’s earlier breakthrough with Mt Ida Gold in 2025, reinforcing Drillforce’s position as a technology-led mining services provider. The deal’s value and scope underscore the growing appetite for integrated, data-driven drilling solutions in the Goldfields region, a key mining hub.

Technology and Asset Integration Drive Value

Central to this agreement is Aquirian’s patented automated Collar Keeper® system, a technology designed to enhance drilling precision and safety. Managing Director Greg Patching highlighted the vertically integrated nature of the offering, which combines drilling and blasting with energetics supply, logistics, and on-site reload facilities.

Approximately $6 million in assets are required to fulfil the contract, with Aquirian already owning about 75% of the necessary equipment, including two T45 drill rigs. The balance will be funded through a mix of cash and existing debt facilities, reflecting the company’s ongoing investment in expanding its operational capacity.

Brightstar’s Managing Director Alex Rovira emphasised the alignment between the two companies’ operational philosophies, particularly around safety, precision, and cost control. The partnership aims to optimise material flows and ore recovery, supporting Brightstar’s focus on whole-of-mine efficiency.

Strategic Framework Agreement Sets Stage for Growth

The SFA, underpinning this initial Lord Byron contract, is conditional on Brightstar’s final investment decision for the Goldfields Hub development. It includes options to extend the term by up to five additional years, reflecting potential for expanded collaboration across the hub’s three open pit sites.

This development follows Aquirian’s recent momentum, including a $20 million Mt Ida contract and advances in their Collar Keeper® technology, as detailed in their $20 million Mt Ida contract. The new agreement with Brightstar not only boosts Aquirian’s revenue prospects but also consolidates its reputation as a provider of innovative, safety-focused mining services.

While the contract’s execution hinges on Brightstar’s investment decision, the deal signals confidence in Aquirian’s technology and service model. The company’s ability to fund the remaining asset requirements and successfully integrate its systems on-site will be critical to delivering on contract expectations and potentially expanding within the Goldfields Hub.