Forrestania Begins Ore Haulage Ahead of Lake Johnston Plant Commissioning

Ore Haulage Signals Progress Toward Production

Forrestania Resources (ASX:FRS) has kicked off haulage operations from its British Hill gold deposit to the Lake Johnston processing facility, a critical milestone ahead of the plant's commissioning planned for later in 2026. This move marks a tangible step toward unlocking value from Forrestania’s growing portfolio across Western Australia’s premier mining districts.

Chairman David Geraghty highlighted the strategic importance of Lake Johnston, noting the plant’s design supports a long-term processing solution not only for Forrestania’s internal resources like British Hill but also for potential third-party ore sources. The company’s recent binding agreement with Polaris Engineering to refurbish and recommission the Lake Johnston carbon-in-leach (CIL) plant, with a targeted throughput of approximately 3.2 million tonnes per annum, remains on track after the haulage start. This follows the detailed plans outlined in Forrestania’s binding agreement with Polaris Engineering signed in March.

Infrastructure Collaboration Enhances Regional Benefits

Beyond operational progress, Forrestania is working closely with the Shire of Dundas to upgrade the Hyden-Norseman Road, a vital artery for industry and tourism in the region. By combining ore haulage with backloading of roadbase materials, the company is contributing to improving road conditions, which will benefit all users long term. Peter Fitchat, CEO of the Shire, welcomed this partnership, emphasizing the shared goal of easier access and planned future sealing of sections along this route.

This infrastructure collaboration reflects a growing trend where mining companies integrate regional development into their operational plans, potentially easing community relations and supporting local economies.

Advancing Development Across Multiple Projects

The British Hill project itself has shown promising results, with recent drilling confirming high-grade gold extensions that could underpin resource growth. Forrestania’s broader strategy includes expanding its footprint across the Southern Cross, Eastern Goldfields, and Forrestania regions, all known for their mineral endowment. The company’s acquisition of the Lake Johnston facility in late 2025 provides a valuable processing hub to accelerate production timelines.

While the current haulage and refurbishment progress are positive, actual production ramp-up remains contingent on the successful commissioning of the Lake Johnston plant and ongoing exploration outcomes. Forrestania’s ability to secure third-party ore feed could further enhance the plant’s utilisation and revenue potential.