Heliostar Restarts Mining Operations at San Agustin, Durango

Core Viewpoint - Heliostar Metals Ltd. has successfully restarted mining operations at the San Agustin mine, which is expected to significantly increase gold production in 2026, generating substantial cash flow at current gold prices [2][3]. Mining Operations - Mining, crushing, and stacking of ore at San Agustin have recommenced, with the company planning to produce 45,000 ounces of gold at an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $1,990 per ounce, yielding a margin of over $2,300 per ounce at current gold prices [1][2][3]. - The company has completed two ore blasts and two waste blasts, with 90% of the mobile equipment fleet mobilized to site to meet production targets [5]. Financial Projections - The expected cash flow from mining the current reserve is projected to be approximately $40 million at a gold price of $3,000 per ounce [3]. - The life-of-mine (LOM) plan indicates a probable mineral reserve of 68,000 ounces of gold, with a post-tax NPV of $35.3 million and an IRR of 548% based on a $3,000 per ounce gold price [9]. Drilling Program - A drilling program of 10,000-15,000 meters is underway, with 37 holes completed to date, aimed at identifying extensions of the orebody to potentially increase the mine life [3][13]. - Previous drilling results from the Corner SW target area have shown higher-grade oxide results, enhancing the potential of certain lower-grade areas [14][22]. Technical Report - An amended technical report filed in January 2025 outlines the operational and economic parameters of the San Agustin project, including the estimated initial capital cost of $4.2 million [9][10]. - The report emphasizes the importance of the existing infrastructure, including a crusher and conveyor system with a throughput capacity of 30,000 tonnes per day [10]. Company Outlook - Heliostar is focused on production growth and enhancing shareholder value, with plans to provide formal guidance in January 2026 [3]. - The company has demonstrated progress in crystallizing growth opportunities within its portfolio, including studies on flagship projects like Ana Paula and Cerro del Gallo [3].