Bonterra Announces Start of 2026 Exploration Program at Phoenix JV with Gold Fields, Highlighted by Deep-Drilling at Barry Deposit

Bonterra Resources Inc. has announced the commencement of its 2026 exploration program at the Phoenix Joint Venture property, located in the Val-d'Or region of Quebec. The program represents a significant development in the partnership between Bonterra and Gold Fields Ltd, with Gold Fields' subsidiary taking the operational lead on exploration activities.

The centerpiece of the 2026 program is deep-drilling activities at the Barry Deposit, suggesting the joint venture partners are targeting deeper mineralization zones that could expand the known gold resource. Deep-drilling programs typically indicate confidence in the geological potential of a property and represent substantial capital investment in exploration activities.

This announcement demonstrates the continued commitment of major gold producer Gold Fields to the Phoenix Joint Venture, validating the geological potential of the Quebec property. The involvement of Gold Fields, a leading international gold mining company, brings significant technical expertise and financial resources to the exploration effort, which could accelerate development timelines and increase the probability of discovery success.

For the broader Quebec mining sector, this program reinforces the province's position as a premier gold exploration jurisdiction. The Phoenix Joint Venture represents the type of partnership between junior explorers and major producers that drives exploration investment and potential new mine development in established mining camps like Val-d'Or.