Northern Star Resources (ASX:NST) has disclosed that gold production at its KCGM processing plant reached 15.3 thousand ounces from 766 thousand tonnes milled in October, below plan, as commissioning of the expanded facility continued to be affected by variable plant performance, while the Hemi Gold Project received its primary Federal and State environmental approvals.

Key Points

  • KCGM gold production for October was below plan at 15.3koz from 766kt milled, with KCGM production currently tracking towards the lower end of previously announced guidance of 550–650koz.
  • Commissioning issues included intermittent problems with mill motor control systems, now addressed, and minor rectification work on selected equipment, described as ongoing.
  • A planned 3.5-day maintenance shutdown was completed on 30 October, enabling remedial works and further commissioning activities.
  • The Hemi Gold Project has received Federal approval under the EPBC Act and State approval under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986.
  • FY27 Group production guidance remains unchanged at 1,500–1,650koz gold sold.

KCGM Expanded Plant Commissioning Progress

Commissioning of the expanded KCGM processing plant progressed during October, though plant performance remained variable. Availability and throughput were affected by intermittent problems with mill motor control systems, which have since been addressed, as well as minor rectification work on selected equipment, which remains ongoing. Specialist technical support and equipment vendors are working alongside the KCGM team to address remaining issues. The company said plant performance in November, month to date, is showing greater stability with higher availability and higher average throughput rates, with the immediate focus on achieving consistent plant availability and utilisation while progressively increasing throughput and recovery.

October Production Outcome and Full-Year Guidance

KCGM gold production for October was below plan at 15.3koz from 766kt milled, with the result partly attributable to a planned 3.5-day maintenance shutdown completed on 30 October. KCGM production is currently tracking towards the lower end of previously announced guidance of 550–650koz, with the ultimate outcome within the full range dependent primarily on the timing and pace of ramp-up over the remainder of FY27. Mining activities across KCGM's open pit and underground operations continue to perform to plan, with ROM stockpiles continuing to build, providing an inventory of higher-grade ore to support the ramp-up. FY27 Group production guidance remains unchanged at 1,500–1,650koz gold sold, weighted to the second half.

Hemi Project Environmental Approvals Received

The Hemi Gold Project has received its primary Federal and State environmental approvals. The Federal approval was granted under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and the State approval under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986. Work is continuing to secure remaining secondary approvals under the Mining Act 1978, the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914, and Part V of the EP Act. This includes approval of three management plans for the main mining area, completion of the Managed Aquifer Recharge Trial and associated groundwater licensing requirements. A separate approval pathway applies to the accommodation village, and the project schedule remains subject to completion of outstanding land access and regulatory processes.