Estrella begins manganese market sample extraction at Ira Miri

Estrella Resources Limited has commenced market sample extraction activities at its Ira Miri manganese project in Timor Leste, marking a significant operational milestone for the company and for the host nation’s modern mining framework. The program is designed to extract up to 30,000 tonnes of manganese ore for market appraisal, testing and engagement with potential international offtake partners.

The Ira Miri project is located in Timor Leste and is considered strategically important for Estrella. The company notes that the bulk sample is expected to represent one of the country’s first economic mineral bulk extractions under the current Mining Code. The material will be used for sale, export and technical evaluation, providing a practical demonstration of the project’s commercial potential and supporting discussions with future long term buyers.

Extraction activities are being carried out by a fully local Timor Leste based contractor operating a sizeable fleet of equipment. This includes three production excavators, a loader, a backhoe, an ancillary excavator for drainage and support works, two bulldozers and a fleet of twelve community operated dump trucks fitted for wet season conditions. Estrella has stated that using local contractors is central to its operating model in the country and forms part of its broader community engagement strategy.

Operations are progressing across multiple bench levels to accelerate pit development. Excavation is advancing toward the manganese bearing horizon, with first ore exposure expected within days of the announcement. Project management and operational oversight are being provided by Estrella’s geological and engineering teams, supported by external surveyors appointed to provide full time coverage. Detailed metallurgical, quality and commercial assessments of the manganese material are being undertaken as mining progresses.

The initial extraction is focused on a well defined pit designed around previously reported high grade manganese intersections. These include drill results such as 8.05 metres at 53 percent manganese and 11.97 metres at 28.9 percent manganese, which underpin confidence in the quality and thickness of mineralisation at Ira Miri. The pit is expected to reach a maximum depth of around 15 metres, with total excavation estimated at approximately 85,000 cubic metres. Topsoil is being stored separately for later rehabilitation, while overburden is placed in a benched external stockpile.

Once extracted, the manganese ore will be transported about 17 kilometres from the Stage 1 pit head stockpile to the former Lautem airstrip and decommissioned fish processing facility, which hosts an existing barge landing site. From there, material will be loaded onto a barge and shipped offshore for transfer into a bulk carrier. This logistics pathway allows Estrella to progress sales and export activities using existing coastal infrastructure.

Managing Director Chris Daws described the commencement of extraction as a pivotal step for the company. He said the market sample would enable Estrella to sell and export material, strengthen relationships with export partners, generate valuable geological data and deliver royalty benefits for both the company and the Government of Timor Leste.

Community engagement remains a key focus as operations ramp up. Estrella continues to work closely with local stakeholders, government bodies and community leaders, supported by safety management systems and traffic and site access controls. The company reports strong local support as the project advances.

Next steps include transferring the project concession into the Estrella Murak Rai Timor joint venture entity, sampling and assaying of as mined ore to generate a product specification sheet, and continued engagement with prospective buyers. Estrella has indicated it will keep shareholders informed as the program progresses.