
November 26, 2024
Heliostar Metals Ltd. (TSXV: HSTR) (OTCQX: HSTXF) (FSE: RGG1) ("Heliostar" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the first results from a 12,500 metre drilling program at the La Colorada Mine in Sonora, Mexico. La Colorada is currently producing gold from residual leaching having ceased mining in late 2023. Heliostar is reviewing the potential to restart mining in 2025 and is completing a drill program intended to expand the mineral reserve ahead of this decision.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- 5.0m grading 18.0 g/t gold
- 37.0m grading 1.24 g/t gold
- 11.8m grading 1.71 g/t gold
- 14.5m grading 1.69 g/t gold
- 10.1m grading 0.85 g/t gold
- Five drill rigs operating at site completing a 12,500m drill program
- Program designed to expand oxide mineral reserves at the El Creston pit
- Results show shallow mineralization is open and can positively impact mining economics
- Production decision at El Creston expected by mid-2025
Heliostar CEO, Charles Funk, commented, "La Colorada has long been a successful mine that helped build El Dorado Gold in 1990s and Argonaut Gold in the 2010s. It has operated profitably over its history and has reserves to support growth. Mining ceased in 2023 when stripping to expand the pit was not completed. This pre-strip is now a capital project and the opportunity to restart is a priority for Heliostar in 2025. Our team recognized that there are significant opportunities to expand shallow mineralization and today's results demonstrate the potential to convert a portion of the previously assumed waste into ore. This can result in lower capital costs and higher cash flow at the beginning of the restart. We value speed as a guiding business principle at Heliostar and have hit the ground running to deliver these results at the mine. I believe La Colorada will help build a third mining company over the next decade!"
Drill Results Summary
Mineralization at La Colorada's Creston Pit is predominantly hosted in three veins: the North, Intermediate and South Veins (Figure 1). These veins trend northeast-southwest to east-west, dip northward and are surrounded by halos of smaller mineralized vein zones. The Creston Pit has historically mined all three of these veins. Drilling prior to Heliostar's acquisition of the mine had successfully focussed on these veins beneath the pit and had expanded the mineral reserve.
Reviewing the expansion potential revealed two opportunities for reserve growth; near surface extensions of known veins where little or no drilling had been completed and upgrading and expanding mineralization beneath the pit. Both opportunities were defined using historical drilling, blasthole data, mining shapes, and the geological model.
High density blast hole data strongly emphasizes the potential for continuation of veins at shallow depth. It defines elevated gold grades continuing to the edge of the pit walls where they remain open for expansion.
Figure 1: Plan view of the Creston Pit showing historic drilling, blast hole samples and new Heliostar drillholes
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/231392_cd32a07ff498da60_003full.jpg
Twenty-four holes are reported in this release for a total of 3257.1 metres, principally targeting shallow zones to the east and west of the Creston Pit. The results show narrow to wide, low to high grade oxide gold intercepts. They consistently return intercepts above the average above the mining cutoff of the pit while it was in operation and suggest that areas of waste could be converted to ore in an updated reserve model.
Next Steps
An updated technical report will be completed in January 2025 using the existing resource model at La Colorada. This report will not include the drill results presented in this press release. Results from the current drill program will be incorporated into a resource model and will support a reserve update that will be published with a feasibility study in mid-2025.
Should the drilling define a significant enough volume of gold mineralization, the results have the potential to reduce the capital requirements and improve the economics of the feasibility study. This study will be the basis of a construction decision for the restart of mining from the Creston Pit at La Colorada in mid-2025.
Drilling continues at the mine with three areas of focus. Additional shallow drilling, to follow up these results, is designed to bring production ounces forward in the mine plan. A program of infill and expansion drilling deeper in the pit will attempt to grow the overall gold reserves. A small allocation of drill metres will also test new areas of potential gold mineralization.
The Company anticipates additional drilling results from the current program will be released early next year.
Drilling Results Table
Table 1: Significant Drill Intersections
Hole ID | From | To | Interval | Au | Ag | % True Width | Comment |
24-LCDD-218 | 24.85 | 35.0 | 10.15 | 0.85 | 9.8 | 100 | Intermediate Vein |
24-LCDD-219 | 77.9 | 87.75 | 9.85 | 0.25 | 19.7 | 90 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-220 | 47.0 | 53.0 | 6.0 | 0.37 | 7.2 | 100 | North Vein |
24-LCDD-221 | No significant intervals | ||||||
24-LCDD-222 | 9.9 | 21.75 | 11.85 | 1.71 | 21.6 | 100 | North Vein |
including | 15.55 | 16.8 | 1.25 | 13.1 | 20.5 | 100 | North Vein |
24-LCDD-223 | 74.4 | 76.4 | 2.0 | 0.55 | 38.8 | 100 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-224 | 0.0 | 22.15 | 22.15 | 0.40 | 8.8 | 85 | Intermediate Vein |
24-LCDD-225 | 22.2 | 23.15 | 0.95 | 4.43 | 0.5 | 100 | North Vein |
and | 35.75 | 45.5 | 9.75 | 0.16 | 8.1 | 100 | North Vein |
and | 93.0 | 101.35 | 8.35 | 0.22 | 53.9 | 95 | Intermediate Vein |
24-LCDD-226 | 18.05 | 35.9 | 17.85 | 0.34 | 69.0 | 90 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-227 | 1.1 | 14.8 | 13.7 | 0.25 | 37.5 | 90 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-228 | 27.15 | 39.1 | 11.95 | 0.18 | 35.7 | 90 | South Vein |
and | 46.7 | 51.15 | 4.45 | 0.29 | 43.8 | 90 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-229 | 15.45 | 19.55 | 4.1 | 2.27 | 4.0 | 100 | North Vein |
and | 82.2 | 89.15 | 6.95 | 0.38 | 3.4 | 85 | Intermediate Vein |
24-LCDD-230 | 73.8 | 79.9 | 6.1 | 0.79 | 3.3 | 90 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-231 | 0.0 | 13.0 | 13.0 | 2.22 | 5.1 | 90 | Intermediate Vein |
including | 0.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 8.79 | 4.8 | 90 | Intermediate Vein |
and | 36.5 | 41.5 | 5.0 | 18.5 | 20.3 | 90 | Intermediate Vein |
36.5 | 41.5 | 5.0 | 6.62 | 20.3 | 90 | Top-cut to 23 g/t gold | |
and | 67.4 | 73.5 | 6.1 | 0.34 | 3.5 | 100 | South Vein |
and | 96.2 | 133.15 | 36.95 | 1.24 | 5.4 | 85 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-232 | 65.0 | 82.5 | 17.5 | 0.39 | 4.9 | 95 | North Vein |
24-LCDD-233 | 168.3 | 171.55 | 3.25 | 0.26 | 123 | 90 | North Vein |
24-LCDD-234 | 79.5 | 89.3 | 9.8 | 0.36 | 4.8 | 95 | North Vein |
24-LCDD-235 | 82.55 | 86.1 | 3.55 | 0.25 | 8.9 | 95 | North Vein |
and | 169.5 | 184.0 | 14.5 | 1.69 | 5.2 | 100 | North Vein |
including | 174.35 | 175.6 | 1.25 | 16.6 | 13.6 | 100 | North Vein |
24-LCDD-236 | 43.0 | 53.4 | 10.4 | 0.26 | 25.7 | 90 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-237 | 45.9 | 58.25 | 12.35 | 0.20 | 26.4 | 100 | South Vein |
24-LCDD-238 | Assays pending | ||||||
24-LCDD-239 | No significant intervals | ||||||
24-LCDD-240 | Assays pending | ||||||
24-LCDD-241 | 81.25 | 86.0 | 4.75 | 0.49 | 158 | 100 | South Vein |
Figure 2: Longitudinal section view of the western end of the Creston Pit highlighting the lack of previous drilling beyond the pit boundary. Section shows historic drilling, blast hole samples and new Heliostar drillhole results.
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/231392_cd32a07ff498da60_004full.jpg
Drilling Coordinates Table
Table 2: Drill Hole Details
Hole ID | Northing | Easting | Elevation | Azimuth | Inclination | Length |
24-LCDD-218 | 3185843 | 543104 | 442.1 | 180 | -40 | 118.20 |
24-LCDD-219 | 3185579 | 542101 | 455.8 | 155 | -47 | 156.45 |
24-LCDD-220 | 3185874 | 543079 | 445.9 | 180 | -40 | 150.75 |
24-LCDD-221 | 3185629 | 542111 | 450.9 | 175 | -50 | 175.50 |
24-LCDD-222 | 3185837 | 543080 | 440.9 | 180 | -40 | 100.00 |
24-LCDD-223 | 3185603 | 542104 | 453.3 | 167 | -48 | 147.20 |
24-LCDD-224 | 3185798 | 543080 | 437.8 | 180 | -40 | 97.40 |
24-LCDD-225 | 3185881 | 543105 | 442.3 | 180 | -40 | 136.45 |
24-LCDD-226 | 3185537 | 542126 | 441.3 | 160 | -55 | 66.70 |
24-LCDD-227 | 3185581 | 542191 | 382.0 | 180 | -55 | 77.30 |
24-LCDD-228 | 3185603 | 542195 | 380.4 | 191 | -57 | 107.20 |
24-LCDD-229 | 3185871 | 543129 | 443.4 | 180 | -45 | 128.70 |
24-LCDD-230 | 3185835 | 543128 | 441.0 | 180 | -45 | 88.45 |
24-LCDD-231 | 3185732 | 542533 | 190.9 | 139 | -45 | 142.70 |
24-LCDD-232 | 3185892 | 543053 | 444.3 | 180 | -40 | 140.85 |
24-LCDD-233 | 3185887 | 542390 | 346.9 | 180 | -49 | 175.25 |
24-LCDD-234 | 3185899 | 543025 | 441.6 | 180 | -49 | 191.50 |
24-LCDD-235 | 3185974 | 542975 | 475.0 | 180 | -42 | 267.40 |
24-LCDD-236 | 3185625 | 542212 | 378.8 | 180 | -50 | 78.80 |
24-LCDD-237 | 3185563 | 542091 | 457.5 | 180 | -45 | 78.70 |
24-LCDD-238 | 3186027 | 542850 | 479.7 | 180 | -51 | 419.85 |
24-LCDD-239 | 3185594 | 542089 | 454.8 | 180 | -45 | 89.35 |
24-LCDD-240 | 3185472 | 542671 | 405.9 | 355 | -40 | 200.35 |
24-LCDD-241 | 3185607 | 542101 | 453.2 | 146 | -40 | 122.40 |
Quality Assurance / Quality Control
Core samples were shipped to ALS Limited in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico for sample preparation and for analysis at the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver. The Hermosillo and North Vancouver ALS facilities are ISO/IEC 17025 certified. Gold was assayed by 30-gram fire assay with atomic absorption spectroscopy finish and overlimits were analysed by 30-gram fire assay with gravimetric finish.
Control samples comprising certified reference and blank samples were systematically inserted into the sample stream and analyzed as part of the Company's quality assurance / quality control protocol.
Statement of Qualified Person
Stewart Harris, P.Geo., a Qualified Person, as such term is defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this news release and has approved the disclosure herein. Mr Harris is employed as Exploration Manager of the Company.
About Heliostar Metals Ltd.
Heliostar is a gold producer with production from operating mines in Mexico. This includes the La Colorada Mine in Sonora and San Agustin Mine in Durango. The Company also has a strong portfolio of development projects in Mexico and the USA. These include the Ana Paula project in Guerrero, the Cerro del Gallo project in Guanajuato, the San Antonio project in Baja Sur and the Unga project in Alaska, USA.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Charles Funk
President and Chief Executive Officer
Heliostar Metals Limited
Email: charles.funk@heliostarmetals.com
Phone: +1 844-753-0045
Rob Grey
Investor Relations Manager
Heliostar Metals Limited
Email: rob.grey@heliostarmetals.com
Phone: +1 844-753-0045
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things, the Company's plans, prospects and business strategies; the potential update and expansion of mineral reserves; the Company's integration of acquisitions and any anticipated benefits thereof; the completion of a Feasibility Study on the La Colorada Mine in 2025; the potential re-start of mining operations at the Creston Pit;; the release of an updated technical report on the La Colorada Mine; exploration and development plans, including drilling; and expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors.
Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to the terms and completion of the Facility, any future mineral production, liquidity, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the receipt of necessary approvals, price of metals; no escalation in the severity of public health crises or ongoing military conflicts; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; and the Company's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms.
These statements reflect the Company's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mining activities in foreign jurisdictions; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; risks regarding exploration and mining activities; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises, ongoing military conflicts and general economic factors to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's public disclosure documents. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.
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11 February
Heliostar Metals
Investor Insight
Heliostar Metals has a clear, execution-focused strategy. They are on track to go from no gold production in 2023 to 150,000 ounces of annual gold production in just a couple of years. As one of the fastest-growing gold producers in the industry, Heliostar presents a compelling investment opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on a continued gold bull market.
Overview
Heliostar Metals (TSXV:HSTR,OTCQX:HSTXF,FRA:RGG1) is an emerging mid-tier gold producer focused on unlocking high-grade gold production in Mexico’s premier mining regions.
The company rapidly expanded its asset base by acquiring a diverse portfolio of producing and development-stage assets. This positions it for long-term, scalable production growth.
The company holds two operating mines (San Agustin and La Colorada), two advanced development projects (Ana Paula and Cerro del Gallo), and two additional growth assets (San Antonio and Unga in Alaska). Unlike most of its peers, Heliostar is uniquely positioned to fund growth through internal cash flow while continuing to expand its resource base.The company prioritizes capital discipline and low-cost acquisitions, significantly expanding its asset base while maintaining a lean financial structure. Unlike many juniors reliant on heavy dilution, Heliostar leverages internal cash flow from its producing assets to drive project development.
Heliostar Metals is strategically positioned to scale its gold production to 150,000 ounces per year in the near term by leveraging its producing mines and development assets. San Agustin and La Colorada provide immediate cash flow and serve as the foundation for production growth. At La Colorada, a permitted expansion plan allows for low-cost increases in output, while the advancement of Ana Paula Phase 1 will significantly enhance production capacity.
Looking ahead, the company has a long-term vision of achieving 500,000 ounces of gold production annually by 2030. This growth will be driven by the development of Cerro del Gallo and San Antonio, both positioned as next-generation mines. Additionally, Ana Paula Phase 2 is expected to scale production beyond 100,000 ounces per year, further solidifying Heliostar’s production base. The company will also pursue strategic mergers and acquisitions to supplement organic growth and expand its project pipeline.
Heliostar’s focus is on minimizing shareholder dilution (and maximizing shareholder value) by funding growth through internal cash flow. The company is reinvesting revenue from operating mines into exploration and development, ensuring efficient capital allocation to high-impact assets. This self-sustaining approach is further strengthened by a strong institutional investor base, which holds 53 percent of the company’s shares, providing confidence in Heliostar’s growth trajectory.
Company Highlights
- Heliostar Metals is rapidly advancing from a junior explorer to a mid-tier gold producer, targeting 150,000 oz per year in the near term and 500,000 oz annually by 2030.
- Heliostar has rapidly expanded its portfolio with key acquisitions, now controlling two producing mines and four advanced-stage growth assets in Mexico. Added 3.5 million measured and indicated gold ounces for just US$15 million, reinforcing a capital-efficient growth model.
- The company prioritizes capital discipline and low-cost acquisitions to expand its asset base and maintain a lean financial structure. Unlike many juniors who dilute shareholders to grow, Heliostar leveraged gold production cash flows to drive project development.
- Its flagship project, Ana Paula, is one of Mexico’s highest-grade undeveloped gold projects. The Heliostar team took on the permitted open pit design and revised it to an underground operation. The current mine plan has potential to produce more than 100,000 gold ounces per year.
- In 2024, Heliostar acquired the La Colorada and San Agustin gold projects. Production at these two mines provide immediate cash flow. That funds Heliostar’s exploration and development without significant dilution.
- CEO Charles Funk leads a seasoned team of mine builders and exploration experts with a track record of developing world-class deposits.
- The company also features a favorable shareholder registry: 53 percent institutional investors, 42 percent high-net-worth and retail investors, and 5 percent held by the board and management.
Key Projects
Ana Paula (Flagship Development Project)
Ana Paula Project NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate Update effective November 27, 2023.
The Ana Paula project is Heliostar’s flagship high-grade underground gold deposit, located in the Guerrero Gold Belt, Mexico. With 710,920 oz measured and indicated gold (6.6 g/t) and 447,500 oz inferred gold (4.24 g/t), the project has significant exploration upside. Originally envisioned as an open-pit operation, Heliostar has transitioned Ana Paula into an underground mining project to improve economics and reduce environmental impact. The company is currently conducting a feasibility study, expected to be completed in late 2025, with a construction decision to follow.
Phase 1 production is projected at 50,000 oz per year, scaling to more than 100,000 oz in Phase 2. Exploration is ongoing to expand the high-grade panel, with exceptional drill results, including 125.9 meters @ 4.02 g/t gold (23.6 meters @ 12.5 g/t gold). Ana Paula is a high-impact, high-grade asset that will form the backbone of Heliostar’s production growth.
La Colorada Mine
Located in Sonora, Mexico, La Colorada is one of Heliostar’s cash-flow-generating assets, currently in production with a 2025 guidance of 17,000 to 23,300 oz gold. The mine features a permitted expansion plan, including the Creston Pit Cutback, which contains 220,000 oz probable reserves, and the Veta Madre Pit, which holds an additional 163,000 oz probable reserves (awaiting permitting).
Heliostar is actively drilling below the existing pits, targeting high-grade underground extensions. The company is also evaluating low-grade stockpiles and optimizing heap leach recovery to enhance profitability. By Q1 2025, La Colorada’s expansion will be restarted, leading to a significant increase in gold output.
San Agustin Mine
San Agustin is a low-cost, open-pit heap leach gold mine located in Durango, Mexico, producing between 14,650 to 14,950 oz gold in 2024. The mine offers significant upside through heap leach reprocessing, with a plan to recover 20 Mt of non-agglomerated, run-of-mine material.
The Corner Permit Cutback contains an additional 86,000 oz gold and 4.5 Moz silver, requiring approval before mining. Additionally, San Agustin has sulfide mineralization potential at depth, which remains underexplored. The mine continues to be a consistent cash flow generator, supporting Heliostar’s development pipeline.
Cerro del Gallo Project
Cerro del Gallo is a large-scale, low-cost development asset located in Guanajuato, Mexico. With 2.86 Moz measured and indicated gold and 1 Moz inferred gold, the project represents a long-term growth opportunity for Heliostar.
The company is currently advancing permitting efforts to unlock the heap leach processing potential, which could significantly contribute to its mid-term production goals. Cerro del Gallo is expected to become a core asset as Heliostar scales toward the longer-term 500,000 oz per year production goal.
Pro Forma Total Gold Resources
San Antonio Project
located in Baja California Sur, Mexico, San Antonio is an open-pit gold development project with a 1.74 Moz measured and indicated gold resource. The project is currently awaiting environmental permitting, after which Heliostar will assess development timelines. San Antonio’s favorable metallurgy and location make it a strategic asset with potential for future near-term production.
Unga Project
The Unga project in Alaska is a high-grade gold exploration asset, with an inferred resource of 384,000 oz gold (13.8 g/t). While not a primary focus, the project remains a long-term high-grade growth opportunity.
Management Team
Charles Funk – President & CEO
Charles Funk brings over 18 years of experience in business development and exploration. Before joining Heliostar, he held senior roles at Newcrest Mining and OZ Minerals, two of the world's most prominent mining companies. Funk led the Panuco discovery for Vizsla Silver in 2020, demonstrating his strong expertise in identifying and advancing high-potential gold and silver deposits. Under his leadership, Heliostar has pursued transformational acquisitions that have rapidly expanded the company’s asset base while maintaining capital efficiency.
Gregg Bush – Chief Operating Officer
A highly regarded mine builder, Gregg Bush has a strong track record in mine development, project integration, and operations management. He previously served as COO of Capstone Mining for nine years and as SVP of Mexico for Equinox Gold. With deep experience in Latin American mining operations, Bush plays a pivotal role in advancing Heliostar’s production assets, optimizing operations and ensuring efficient project execution.
Sam Anderson – VP Projects
Sam Anderson brings 20 years of experience in mine geology and project management, including 17 years at Newmont, where he served as mine geology superintendent and senior manager of exploration business development. He played a significant role in the development of Newmont’s Merian Mine in Suriname, from resource stage to steady-state operation. His expertise in mineral resource expansion and project evaluation is crucial to advancing Ana Paula and Cerro del Gallo toward production.
Mike Gingles – VP of Corporate Development
With over 35 years of corporate and entrepreneurial experience in the mining industry, Mike Gingles has been a key player in major mining deals. He led the Pueblo Viejo and Turquoise Ridge transactions for Placer Dome, two of the largest gold assets in North America. His expertise in strategic partnerships, corporate finance, and project acquisitions has positioned Heliostar for transformational growth.
Hernan Dorado – VP Sustainability & Special Projects
As a fifth-generation miner, Hernan Dorado has more than 20 years of experience in the mining sector, including a founding role at Guanajuato Silver, where he served as COO. He has extensive experience in Mexican mining operations, permitting and sustainability practices, ensuring that Heliostar’s projects meet the highest environmental and social responsibility standards.
Vitalina Lyssoun – Chief Financial Officer
Vitalina Lyssoun is a chartered professional accountant (CPA, CA) with over 16 years of financial expertise with a focus on the resource sector. She has strengths in Canadian and US public company reporting, regulatory and tax compliance, and internal controls. She is fluent in Spanish and has experience in operations based in Mexico, Central America and West Africa. Most recently, Lyssoun built and led the corporate accounting team at Gatos Silver, including through their recent merger with First Majestic Silver.
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Gold miner with a portfolio of producing and developing gold projects in Mexico.
4h
Grande Portage Resources
Investment Insight
With an established mineral resource and further significant exploration upside, the New Amalga gold project presents substantial opportunities for Grande Portage to advance the project, generate cash flow, and create shareholder value. The company’s ongoing exploration efforts and strategic partnerships enhance the potential for long-term growth and value appreciation.
Overview
Grande Portage Resources (TSXV:GPG,OTCQB:GPTRF,FSE:GPB) is a junior resource company focused on the exploration and development of its high-grade gold asset in southeast Alaska. The company’s flagship project, the New Amalga Gold project (formerly known as the Herbert Gold project), is located approximately 25 kilometers north of Juneau, within the prolific Juneau Gold Belt.
This historic 160-kilometer-long belt has yielded nearly eight million ounces of gold to date, and New Amalga represents one of the most prospective undeveloped gold systems in the region. The rebranding from Herbert Gold to New Amalga Gold reflects the company’s commitment to advancing and expanding its exploration and development efforts in this promising district.
Over the years, Grand Portage has significantly expanded its resource base through extensive exploration and drilling campaigns. The current mineral resource estimate, published in June 2024, outlines an indicated resource of 1.44 million ounces of gold at an average grade of 9.47 grams per ton (g/t) gold, and an inferred resource of 515,700 ounces at an average grade of 8.85 g/t gold. Additionally, the project hosts significant silver mineralization, with indicated resources of 891,600 ounces at 5.86 g/t silver and inferred resources of 390,600 ounces at 7.33 g/t silver. The deposit has demonstrated exceptional metallurgical recoveries of up to 98.2 percent, reinforcing its economic viability.
Grande Portage is led by an experienced management team with a strong background in exploration and project development. The team’s focus is on creating shareholder value through the advancement of the Herbert Gold Project while maintaining a commitment to environmental and community responsibilities.
Company Highlights
- Grande Portage Resources is a junior resource company advancing its high-grade New Amalga Gold project, located in a prolific gold belt in SE Alaska.
- Strong management team led by Ian Klassen who has 30 years’ experience in business management, public relations and government affairs, and Kyle Mehalek, former chief mining engineer at Hecla Mining’s Greens Creek Mine.
- The flagship New Amalga Gold project, located near Juneau, Alaska, boasts a measured and indicated resource of 1.44 million ounces at 9.47 g/t gold, and inferred resource of 515,700 ounces at 8.85 g/t gold.
Key Project
New Amalga Gold Project
The New Amalga Gold project (formerly, Herbert Gold project) is a high-grade mesothermal quartz vein system containing six or more known parallel gold-bearing vein structures. The project consists of 91 unpatented lode claims covering approximately 2,000 acres.
Grande Portage has completed extensive drilling campaigns, with more than 54,000 meters of diamond drilling across 240 drill holes from 55 platforms, confirming a large, structurally complex gold-quartz system. The deposit remains open at depth and along strike, highlighting strong potential for further resource expansion. Historical production in the broader district, including previous operations at the historic Amalga Mine, has demonstrated the potential for high-grade ore shoots. Modern exploration drilling has intersected robust mineralization in multiple vein structures, supporting the project's continued development.
Primary veins with geology
Grande Portage is committed to responsible mining practices that minimize environmental impact. The company prioritizes low-impact mining methods and is exploring off-site processing solutions to align with community concerns regarding environmental preservation in the Juneau area.
The company has filed its 2025 Plan of Operation, proposing up to 10,000 meters of diamond drilling, along with detailed geological mapping and trench sampling. These initiatives aim to expand the known mineralization, refine geological modeling, and identify new high-priority targets. To further optimize project economics, the company is advancing sensor-based ore sorting testwork to improve processing efficiency.
Additionally, a Letter of Intent has been signed with Goldbelt, Juneau’s Alaska Native Corporation, to explore strategic collaborations that could enhance the project’s development and operational sustainability.
Management Team
Ian Klassen – President and Director
Ian Klassen brings almost 30 years experience in business management, public relations, government affairs and entrepreneurship to the company. He has extensive experience in the administration of public companies, government policy, media relations strategies, business/government project management, and legislative decision-making. Klassen is an (Honours) B.A. graduate from Western University and is a recipient of the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada, in recognition of his significant contribution to his community and country.
Kyle Mehalek – Lead Mine Planning Consultant
Kyle Mehalek is the lead consultant at OreLogic, providing underground mine planning and project development services. Mehalek is the former chief mining engineer of Hecla Mining Company’s (NYSE:HL) Greens Creek Mine. More recently he was the chief technical officer for Talon Metals, a TSX-listed company advancing the Tamarack nickel project in Minnesota.
Michele Pillon – Chief Financial Officer
Michele Pillon has 25 years of experience in the junior mining exploration sector, providing accounting and regulatory assistance to public companies. Since May 1988, she has worked as an accountant to public companies in the resource sector.
Carl Hale – Director of Exploration
Carl Hale received his Bachelor of Science degree in geology from the University of Washington in 1972. He has worked the majority of his career on mineral exploration projects in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest for various mining companies and consulting groups. He supervised massive sulfide exploration projects in the Brooks Range, Alaska, mineral reconnaissance programs in the Alaska Range and Southeast Alaska, and is presently the project manager on a gold exploration venture in the United States. Mr. Hale spent several years as a mine geologist at the Cannon Mine, a large gold mine in Wenatchee, Washington, as a geologist at the Sunshine silver mine in Idaho, managed a copper exploration project at Bornite, Alaska for three years for Kennecott and served as a geologist on a gold exploration project in Myanmar.
Alistair MacLennan – Director
Alistair MacLennan has been working in the junior resources sector (oil/gas/minerals), in various capacities, for over 30 years. He has gained industry knowledge through founding, investment in and serving on the boards of a number of public and private exploration companies. MacLennan is also the chairman and director of Helijet International, a helicopter airline operating a fleet of Sikorsky S76 helicopters throughout the Pacific Northwest since 1986. MacLennan is actively involved in a number of private companies which are involved in leasing, manufacturing and natural gas production.
Ronald Handford – Director
Ronald Handford is a professional engineer (non-practicing) and is president of Handford Management, a private management services company. He has been a senior executive of Sixty North Gold Mining since September 2016. He was formerly the executive vice-president, corporate development for Yellowhead Mining. Handford holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Western University (1979) and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia (1974). He has over 20 years of international experience as a mining and technology entrepreneur, executive and advisor, plus 15 years as an international mining project finance and corporate banker, including Barclays Bank and the International Finance Corporation; and six years as an engineer/project manager related to mining and resource projects.
Douglas A. Perkins – Director
Douglas Perkins is a geology graduate from the University of British Columbia. Perkins has served on public company boards for over 25 years involving the promotion and representation of their geological properties. He has been involved in several start-ups of both public and private companies not only geological but including manufacturing, wholesale and developmental industries. From an exploration standpoint, Perkins has worked on the Gataga Trend for Cyprus Anvil, where several multi-million-ton deposits were discovered. He also worked for UTAH, UMEX, Cominco and oversaw Freeport/ Stryker's exploration project in northern BC near the Windy Craggy deposit. Perkins has tropical experience in the jungle of the Darien Gap in Panama during 1988 to 1989. For the last two years he has been senior vice-president and director of GMV Minerals in Guyana South America.
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6h
Gold Price Hits New Record, Breaking US$2,975 for First Time
The gold price reached yet another record high on Thursday (March 13), breaking US$2,975 per ounce.
The precious metal has seen significant momentum since the start of the year.
Recent US consumer and producer price index data released on Wednesday (March 12) and Thursday shows that inflation has become stuck, adding more fuel to recession speculation and buoying gold.
Gold price chart, March 6 to 13, 2025.
Chart via the Investing News Network.
These releases come as trade tensions between the US and other countries ramp up.
Tempers flared when Ontario Premier Doug Ford imposed a 25 percent surcharge on electricity exports to the US on Tuesday (March 11). Although the charges were withdrawn after the two sides agreed to meet in Washington on Thursday, there is still much uncertainty about Canada-US relations, as well as US relations globally.
Broad 25 percent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports to the US went into effect on Wednesday. Canada quickly applied retaliatory tariffs on US$20 billion worth of goods, while the EU responded with tariffs on US$28 billion worth of goods. Trump had threatened to boost the tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum to 50 percent, but backed down for now after Ford withdrew the 25 percent electricity surcharge.
Trump has also said he will impose further tariffs on auto imports by April 2, creating significant uncertainty for manufacturers and businesses that rely on cross-border trade.
Don't forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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12 March
John Feneck: Gold Landscape Never Better, Plus 9 Stocks on My Radar Now
John Feneck, portfolio manager and consultant at Feneck Consulting, shares his updated outlook for gold, saying that the yellow metal still has space to run.
He also discusses nine gold and "special situations" companies that are on his radar.
Watch the interview for more, or click here for the Investing News Network's Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention playlist on YouTube.
Don't forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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12 March
Brian Leni: Latest Mining Stock Wins and How I'm Deploying Cash Now
Brian Leni, founder of Junior Stock Review, runs through his investment strategy, saying he's looking for stocks with an "X factor" that's being overlooked.
Watch the interview above for more of this thoughts.
You can also click here to view the Investing News Network's Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention playlist on YouTube.
Don't forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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11 March
Willem Middelkoop: Gold to Benefit as Chaos Rises, Silver's Path to US$100
Willem Middelkoop, founder of Commodity Discovery Fund, shared his thoughts on the commodities space, saying that an "era of shortages" is arriving.
He believes that will propel prices up from today's rock-bottom levels, creating investment opportunities.
Middelkoop also discussed geopolitics, looking at recent moves from the Trump administration.
Click here to view the Investing News Network's Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention playlist on YouTube.
Don't forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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11 March
Chen Lin: Gold, Silver, Critical Minerals — Where I'm Investing in 2025
Chen Lin of Lin Asset Management told the Investing News Network where he's investing in 2025, mentioning gold, silver and critical minerals.
In his view, the mining industry is returning to exciting times after a long bear market.
Watch the interview above for more from Lin on those topics.
You can also click here to view the Investing News Network's Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention playlist on YouTube.
Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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