Northern Star Resources has announced a significant increase in gold reserves at Kalgoorlie's Super Pit, rising from 14.4 million to 15 million ounces over the past year. The growth adds at least another year to the mine's life, which has produced over 60 million ounces since 1893.
The reserves boost follows a $48 million exploration campaign during the 2025–26 financial year, focused on underground sources beneath the pit. Eight underground access portals have been established on the western wall, part of the Fimiston underground mine, where reserves grew by 600,000 ounces to 2.4 million ounces. Historic Mount Charlotte mine also added 928,000 ounces.
Since Northern Star took full ownership in 2021, total reserves have increased 54% from 9.7 million ounces six years ago. The mine employs about 1,500 people and is the largest employer in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
However, the company faces challenges including a leadership transition, with managing director Stuart Tonkin set to step down after the commissioning of a $1.6 billion mill expansion. The project, which will double the Fimiston Mill's capacity to 27 million tonnes per year, has faced cost blowouts and delays, with an additional $170 million allocated this year.
Once commissioned early in the new financial year, the Super Pit is expected to produce 900,000 ounces annually by 2028–29, potentially reclaiming its title as Australia's biggest gold mine. The current record holder, Boddington mine, produced 565,000 ounces in 2025.
