Brightstar Receives Mining Approval for Lord Byron Project in Western Australia

Brightstar Advances Lord Byron Project with Key Mining Approval

Brightstar Resources secured mining approval from the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE) for its Lord Byron project. Located about 85km southeast of Laverton, Western Australia, this approval follows the Native Vegetation Clearing Permit granted in July 2025. With these permits in place, Brightstar plans to begin open-pit mining in the second half of 2026 (H2 CY26). The company aims to commission a new one million tonnes per annum carbon in leach (CIL) processing plant in Laverton shortly thereafter.

According to the definitive feasibility study, construction on the Laverton processing plant will start in the first quarter of 2026. This schedule allows Brightstar to stockpile mill feed from Lord Byron before the plant’s commissioning. The company expects the project to accelerate gold production within its Laverton Hub.

Brightstar’s Growth Strategy and Exploration Upside at Lord Byron

Brightstar Managing Director Alex Rovira emphasized the importance of mining approval in fast-tracking development. The Lord Byron open pit lies less than 10km from Brightstar’s operational Fish underground mine. This proximity allows for streamlined infrastructure use and lower capital expenditure. Rovira highlighted recent exploration successes, including a drill result of 32 meters at 7.16 g/t gold beneath the proposed open pit, indicating significant resource potential.

Brightstar acquired the Lord Byron project in June 2024 after purchasing Linden Gold Alliance, which held interests in Jasper Hills, including Lord Byron and Fish mines. The company began Fish underground mining in January 2025 and continues aggressive exploration across its portfolio. Its ongoing programs include reverse circulation and diamond drilling at Sandstone, targeting resource expansions in the Goldfields and Murchison regions.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Brightstar’s mining approval at Lord Byron marks a key milestone for gold production growth in Western Australia. The company’s strategic alignment of mining and processing infrastructure reduces costs and expedites project timelines. As global demand for gold remains robust, Brightstar’s exploration upside and operational synergy position it well for sustained output growth. Industry watchers should note how integrated project development accelerates value creation amid a competitive metals market.