LaFleur Minerals Engages Bumigeme for Beacon Gold Mill Valuation to Support Restart Strategy

LaFleur Minerals Inc. has taken a significant step toward restarting its Beacon Gold Mill in Val-d'Or, Québec, by engaging Bumigeme Inc. to conduct an independent valuation report. This report will evaluate the replacement value and restart costs for the mill and its tailings facility, which benefited from over $20 million in upgrades in 2022. The valuation represents a critical component of LaFleur Minerals' strategy to secure financing and underscore the mill's potential to contribute to gold production, particularly in connection with the Swanson Gold Project.

The company is positioning itself to capitalize on favorable gold market conditions, with J.P. Morgan forecasting gold prices could reach $4,100 by 2026. The Beacon Gold Mill, capable of processing over 750 tonnes per day, is not only pivotal for the Swanson Gold Project but also for potential custom milling operations for nearby gold projects. This move reflects LaFleur Minerals' commitment to advancing its district-scale gold projects in the Abitibi Gold Belt, leveraging its consolidated land package and infrastructure to deliver long-term value.

The engagement of Bumigeme Inc., an established engineering firm with expertise in mineral processing facilities, provides independent validation of the mill's current value and restart requirements. This objective assessment is essential for potential financiers and investors who require third-party verification of asset values before committing capital to mining projects. The comprehensive valuation will examine all aspects of the mill's operations, including processing capacity, equipment condition, and infrastructure requirements for successful recommissioning.

The timing of this initiative aligns with strengthening gold market fundamentals and growing interest in gold projects within the Abitibi region. The Beacon Gold Mill's strategic location and existing infrastructure position it as a potential processing solution for multiple gold projects in the area, creating additional revenue streams beyond the company's primary development focus. The mill's previous $20 million upgrade investment significantly enhances its value proposition and reduces the capital requirements for restart compared to building new processing facilities from scratch.

This valuation process represents a methodical approach to project development that emphasizes financial discipline and risk management. By obtaining an independent assessment of restart costs and replacement value, LaFleur Minerals can make informed decisions about financing structures and project timelines. The company's focus on the Swanson Gold Project, combined with the mill's custom milling potential, creates multiple pathways to revenue generation and shareholder value creation in a strengthening gold price environment.