Operational update on Hellyer Mining Operations

Hellyer Gold Mines Pty Ltd (HGM) and its owner Celestial Pacific Group (Celestial) is signalling an extremely positive year ahead and is already announcing a number of significant milestones.
 

Export ore shipments progressing
 

According to the company spokesperson, approximately 12,000 tonnes of high-grade Zinc and Lead ore is currently being transported to the Port of Burnie to meet Celestial's first export shipment since the cease works notice was issued.
 

"In addition, a further 10,000 tonnes of high-grade Zinc and Lead ore is presently being crushed on-site and is scheduled for transport to the Port of Burnie in mid-February 2026, targeting an early March 2026 export shipment," the spokesperson said.
 

Processing plant maintenance and dredging restart
 

Detailed planning is now underway to undertake important maintenance on the Hellyer mill and processing plant. Completion of this maintenance program will enable dredging operations to recommence in April 2026, a key milestone in restoring full operational capability.
 

Tailings recovery and Chinese technical partnership
 

HGM and Celestial's Chinese technical partners are currently travelling from China to the Hellyer mine to provide cutting edge technical advice and on-site support in relation to a new tailings' recovery methodology. This initiative is expected to unlock significant further reserves of export material previously believed to be unrecoverable as well as positively rehabilitating the site well ahead of end of mine life. It is also a positive step to enhancing the site's rehabilitation following decades of mining. HGM is working with the EPA on its restart activities and also with its environmental advisers to model these new developments and impact on the recently approved mine plan.
 

"The extraordinary trust and support provided to us by our operational partners is wonderful and is enabling us to grow and advance innovative recovery techniques that could significantly enhance resource recovery and unlock substantial long-term value for shareholders," the spokesperson said.
 

Senior Leadership Appointment
 

Celestial has formally announced to staff, Mineral Resources Tasmania (MRT) and key suppliers the appointment of a new Executive General Manager of Mining. This critical appointment brings over 20 years' experience across Australia's largest and most complex mining operations and strengthens HGM and Celestial's executive leadership team during this next phase of development.

"Celestial is incredibly thankful to all employees who have remained loyal and are focused on 'getting on with mining' and our role in building Tasmania," the spokesperson said.
 

Underground drilling results
 

Prior to the unlawful cease works notice issued on 11 November 2025, underground development drilling was being undertaken within the existing Fossey underground portal. This drilling returned world-class Zinc and Lead grades, adding millions of dollars of high-grade ore to the company's reserve base.
 

Government and regulatory engagement
 

HGM and Celestial executives met with Minister Ellis in early January 2026 at his electoral office in an attempt to engage constructively on the post-cease works phase of the Hellyer mining operations.
 

"The company also acknowledges and thanks Treasurer Abetz for his positive and constructive public comments made today in relation to the Hellyer mine and for helping to dispel unfounded rumours, reported earlier today," the spokesperson said.
 

"Celestial further acknowledges the ongoing support of the EPA, Mineral Resources Tasmania and WorkSafe Tasmania, all of whom have been highly constructive and supportive in facilitating the restart of mining operations."
 

Commodity price tailwinds
 

Since September 2025, Gold and Silver prices have increased 32 percent and 115 percent respectively. This positive commodity market movement provides Celestial with the opportunity to capitalise on improved pricing, enabling accelerated capital reinvestment into operations and strengthening the economic outlook for the Hellyer mine.
 

"Celestial is committed to safely restarting remaining operations, maximising value from existing assets and working collaboratively with regulators, government, staff and partners to ensure the long-term success of the Hellyer mining operations," the spokesperson said.
 

About Celestial Pacific Group
 

HGM and Celestial Pacific Group is an Australian resources company focused on the responsible development and operation of mining assets. The company owns the Hellyer mining operations in Tasmania, a historically significant base metal asset with substantial zinc, lead, silver and gold mineralisation. Celestial is committed to safe, compliant and sustainable mining practices, maximising value from existing resources, and working collaboratively with government, regulators, employees and technical partners to support long-term operational success and shareholder value.