#Australia #Franco-Nevada #Bullabulling #Minerals 260 #Kalgoorlie

Franco-Nevada's Significant Investment in Bullabulling Gold Project

Franco-Nevada Corporation has recently made waves in the mining sector with the announcement of a groundbreaking investment initiative. The company has committed to a funding package totaling A$220 million (approximately $155 million) aimed at propelling the Bullabulling Gold Project, managed by Minerals 260 Limited, into a new phase of development. This comprehensive financing arrangement consists of an A$170 million royalty acquisition and an A$50 million equity investment, showcasing Franco-Nevada's confidence in Minerals 260 and its project strategy.

A Game Changer for Bullabulling

The Bullabulling Gold Project, situated about 65 kilometers from Kalgoorlie in Western Australia, is identified as one of Australia's most promising gold ventures. With resources amounting to 3.0 million ounces of indicated gold and 1.5 million ounces of inferred gold, Bullabulling presents immense potential for growth and profitability. The recent infusion of funds will not only enhance the existing operations but will also facilitate significant expansion efforts, marking a transformative point in the project's lifecycle.

Paul Brink, President and CEO of Franco-Nevada, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "Bullabulling is a large and growing resource and one of the most attractive gold development projects in Australia." This acquisition represents Franco-Nevada's largest royalty investment yet in Australia, reflecting a strategic alignment with Minerals 260's operational goals and growth trajectory.

Driving Towards Production

With this substantial capital influx, Minerals 260 plans to accelerate the path towards production. The financing will support extensive resource drilling and infrastructure development essential for fast-tracking production schedules. A pre-feasibility study is set to be concluded by mid-2026, with expectations for a final investment decision to follow by early 2027, potentially leading to the first gold production in the latter half of 2028.

The planned development strategy aims to incrementally expand operations, with Franco-Nevada projecting the processing rate could reach between 7 to 8 million tons per annum based on historical studies and reviews. This phased approach appeals to both operational efficiency and value maximization, while also maintaining a focus on risk reduction throughout the development process.

Exploration Potential and Resource Expansion

The royalty agreement encompasses an extensive land package, including key deposits such as Phoenix, Bacchus, Dicksons, Kraken, and Gibraltar. Since its acquisition of the Bullabulling project in 2025, Minerals 260 has successfully augmented its resource base through targeted drilling, nearly doubling the estimated mineral content. Further discoveries are anticipated, particularly as drilling continues along strike and at depth across the project area. The financing initiative is also poised to pave the way for additional exploration endeavors within the context of the acquired royalties.

Franco-Nevada's strategic investment is set to fortify the financial foundation of the Bullabulling Project, enabling continual resource assessment and development. The presence of an experienced management team, led by Minerals 260's Managing Director Luke McFadyen, underscores the project's robust potential, with over 15 years of industry expertise driving the venture forward.

A Strong Future Ahead

As the Bullabulling Gold Project prepares to embark on this new chapter of development, the partnership with Franco-Nevada highlights the collaborative efforts necessary for success in the mining industry. The significant financing package not only enhances the growth prospects for Minerals 260 but also positions Franco-Nevada as a prominent player in Australia’s flourishing gold market.

With the imminent mobilization of funds and a clear roadmap toward production, both companies look ahead to a promising future filled with opportunities for growth and advancement in the gold mining sector.