Aura Minerals Inc. Press Releases

Aura Minerals Announces First Quarter of 2013 Financial and Operating Results

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:05:00 -0400

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - May 13, 2013) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) announces financial and operating results for the first quarter of 2013.

This release does not constitute management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") as contemplated by applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the MD&A and the Company's condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2013, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's website.

Highlights:

Highest gold ounce ("oz") production in Aura's history achieved in the first quarter of 2013, which was 34% higher as compared to the first quarter of 2012;
Net sales revenues in the first quarter of 2013 increased 17% over the first quarter of 2012;
Copper concentrate sales are from the shipment of 5,370 dry metric tonnes ("DMT") and 5,396 DMT of copper concentrate for the quarters ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively;
Copper production at Aranzazu for the first quarter of 2013 was in line with management's expectations at 3,005,000 pounds. On-site average cash cost¹ per pound of payable copper produced, net of gold and silver credits was $3.69 for the first quarter of 2013, including $0.57 in respect of Arsenic related charges and penalties;
Gross margin of $(7.2) million and $(10.5) for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively;
Loss of $10.9 million or $0.05 per share for the first quarter of 2013 compared to a loss of $18.7 million or $0.08 per share for the first quarter of 2012;
Cash flows from operating activities of $16.1 million for the first quarter of 2013 compared to $20.6 million for the first quarter of 2012;
The Company was not in compliance with its revolving credit facility's financial covenant at March 31, 2013 and is in negotiations with its Lenders to obtain a waiver or a forbearance; and
Subsequent to quarter end, received R$20.6 million (approximately $10.3 million) in additional preliminary bridge financing for Serrote development.

Jim Bannantine, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer stated, "Over the past year and a half, we have focused on achieving cost-efficient improvements to our existing operations while continuing to focus on our expansion plans at Aranzazu and the development of the Serrote Project. As a result of this effort, this quarter shows an overall improvement in throughput and production at our operations and the highest quarterly gold production in the Company's history. Aranzazu is producing to expectations with a substantially reduced Arsenic content, and the Company has generated a strong cash flow from operations.

As we move into Aranzazu's expansion phase including the installation of the partial roasting facility, it is currently anticipated that major equipment purchases for this phase will commence in the middle of this year. The Serrote Project continues to be under budget and negotiations for long-term financing are progressing. We are exploring our value maximization options with respect to all the Brazilian Projects in addition to a number of corporate financing alternatives.

I'd also like to announce that Ian Stalker decided not to stand for re-election to the Board of Directors at the Company's annual general meeting on May 10th to focus on his other endeavours. Management and the Board wish to thank Ian for his valuable contributions and dedication to the development of the Company during his tenure as a director."

Production and Cash Costs

The Company's production and cash costs for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 are summarized in the table below:

	For the three months ended			For the three months ended
	March 31, 2013			March 31, 2012
	Oz Produced		Cash Costs¹	Oz Produced		Cash Costs¹
San Andres	15,714	$	1,116	13,386	$	1,130
Sao Francisco	25,652		1,332	15,349		2,424
Sao Vicente	9,048		1,410	8,852		1,553
Total / Average	50,414	$	1,279	37,587	$	1,758

Gold production at San Andres in the first quarter 2013 increased 17% over the comparable period due to higher plant feed. Average cash cost per oz of gold produced¹ in the first quarter of 2013 decreased 1% over the first quarter of 2012.

Gold production at Sao Francisco in the first quarter of 2013 was 67% higher than the first quarter of 2012 due to both the higher plant throughput and recovery of additional gold from the staged leach on the heap quarter on quarter, as well as the first quarter of 2012's production being impacted by a structural failure of the primary crusher feed bin in February 2012, which resulted in Sao Francisco not having use of the primary crusher for 47 days. The crushing system at Sao Francisco has performed well since it was repaired and stockpile management policies have resulted in sufficient ore feed being fed to the plant during the rainy season which is now over. Average cash cost per oz of gold produced² in the first quarter of 2013 was 45% lower than the first quarter of 2012. The higher average cash cost per oz of gold produced in the first quarter of 2012 was primarily due to lower volumes caused by the structural failure of the primary crusher during that period.

During the first quarter of 2013 at Sao Vicente, 2% more gold oz was produced compared to the first quarter of 2012. The average cash cost per oz of gold produced¹ in the first quarter of 2013 was 9% lower than the average cash cost¹ in the first quarter of 2012. Sao Vicente implemented revised stockpile management plans which have mitigated the effect of the heavy rainy season.

At Aranzazu, the 4% decrease in copper grades for the three months ended March 31, 2013 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2012 was primarily due to the blending of ore from four distinct zones to reduce the arsenic feed grades. Copper concentrate production decreased by 10% in the first quarter of 2013 as compared to the first quarter of 2012 and the copper recovery increased by 5%.

Average cash cost per payable pound of copper produced¹ for the three months ended March 31, 2013 increased by 50% as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2012. Average cash cost per payable pound of copper produced¹ decreased to $3.69 from the fourth quarter of 2012 of $5.42 due to higher production volumes and lower penalties and charges related to the improvement in the concentrate quality. The impact on the first quarter of 2013's average cash cost¹ as a result of arsenic related charges and penalties is estimated to be $0.57 per payable pound of copper as compared to the fourth quarter of 2012's $1.21 per payable pound of copper.

Brazilian Assets - Value Maximization

The Company has been investigating multiple options to maximize the disposal and closure value of the assets of the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente mines, including selling the plant and equipment and utilizing key members of their operating teams in other group locations. The Company is also considering multiple options to maximize the value of Serrote including, but not limited to, a disposal of either a majority holding or the entire project.

Revenues and Cost of Goods Sold

Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 was $88,585,000 and $75,596,000, respectively. The Company's revenue for the first quarter 2013 is comprised of sales of gold from the Company's gold mines of $78,541,000 and copper concentrate sales from Aranzazu of $10,044,000 compared to $61,618,000 from the gold mines and $13,978,000 from Aranzazu for the first quarter of 2012.

Revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 increased 17% compared to the three months ended March 31, 2012. The increase in revenues resulted from a 27% increase in gold sales partially offset by a 28% decrease in copper concentrate sales.

The increase in gold sales is mainly attributable to a 31% increase oz sold partially offset by a 3% decrease in the realized average gold price per oz.

The decrease in copper concentrate sales is fully attributable to the decrease in realized revenue per DMT of copper concentrate as the DMT sold were consistent quarter over quarter. Total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 at Aranzazu related to the shipment of 5,370 DMT of copper concentrate compared to 5,396 DMT of copper concentrate for the prior comparable period. Total concentrate shipment revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were $1,870 per DMT and $2,590 per DMT, respectively. The lower concentrate shipment revenue per DMT is due to lower copper prices and the arsenic penalties incurred starting in the second quarter of 2012.

At San Andres, for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, total cost of goods sold was $20,721,000 or $1,456 per oz compared to $17,160,000 or $1,354 per oz, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, cash operating costs were $1,189 per oz and $1,116 per oz, respectively, while non-cash depletion and amortization charges were $266 per oz and $237 per oz, respectively.

At the Brazilian Mines, total cost of goods sold for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were $62,028,000 or $1,794 per oz and $56,878,000 or $2,317 per oz, respectively. Cash operating costs for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were $1,404 per oz and $2,017 per oz, respectively, while non- cash depletion and amortization charges were $390 per oz and $300 per oz, respectively. The three months ended March 31, 2013 included a write-down of $3,194,000 or $92 per oz to bring production inventory to its net realizable value (2012: $13,422,000 or $547 per ounce).

At Aranzazu, total cost of goods sold for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were $13,031,000 or $2,427 per DMT and $12,090,000 or $2,241 per DMT, respectively. Cash operating costs for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were $2,034 per DMT and $1,797 per DMT, respectively, while non- cash depletion and amortization charges were $393 per DMT and $444 per DMT, respectively. The three months ended March 31, 2013 included a write-down of $1,024,000 or $191 per DMT to bring production inventory to its net realizable value (2012: $918,000 or $170 per DMT of concentrate).

Additional Highlights

Other expense items for the first quarter of 2013 include general and administrative expenses of $3,466,000 (2012: $6,268,000) and exploration expenses of $676,000 (2012: $3,865,000). The first quarter 2012 exploration primarily consisted of expenditures at the Serrote Project and the Aranzazu PEA.

Additionally, for the first quarter of 2013, the Company recorded finance costs of $1,664,000 (2012: $872,000), interest and other income of $120,000 (2012: expense of $19,000), and other gains of $1,817,000 (2012: $4,913,000). Loss before income taxes for the first quarter of 2013 was $11,164,000 (2012: $16,643,000).

For the quarter ended March 31, 2013, the Company recorded income tax recovery of $226,000 (2012: expense of $2,040,000) comprising a current income tax expense of $1,034,000 (2012: $1,353,000) relating to the San Andres Mine, offset by a future income tax recovery of $1,260,000 (2012: $687,000).

For the first quarter of 2013, the Company recorded a loss of $10,938,000 or $0.05 per share. This compares to a loss of $18,683,000 or $0.08 per share for the first quarter 2012.

Outlook and Strategy

Aura Minerals' future profitability, operating cash flows and financial position will be closely related to the prevailing prices of gold and copper. Key factors influencing the price of gold and copper include the supply of and demand for these commodities, the relative strength of currencies (particularly the U.S. dollar) and macroeconomic factors such as current and future expectations for inflation and interest rates. Management believes that the short-to-medium term economic environment is likely to remain relatively supportive for both gold and copper prices but with continued volatility for both commodities. In order to decrease risks associated with gold price volatility the Company will evaluate entering into additional hedging programs.

Other key factors influencing profitability and operating cash flows are production levels (impacted by grades, ore quantities, labour, plant and equipment availabilities, and process recoveries) and production and processing costs (impacted by production levels, prices and usage of key consumables, labour, inflation, and exchange rates).

Aura Minerals' production and cash cost per oz guidance for the 2013 year has not changed from previous guidance and is as follows:

Gold Mines	Cash Cost per oz	2013 Production
San Andres	$1,000 - $1,150	60,000 - 65,000 oz
Sao Francisco	$1,100 - $1,250	78,000 - 88,000 oz
Sao Vicente	$950 - $1,100	28,000 - 32,000 oz
Total	$1,050 - $1,200	166,000 - 185,000 oz

Aranzazu's production for 2013 is expected to be between 13,000,000 and 15,000,000 pounds of copper at a revised range of $2.90 to $3.40 average cash cost per payable pound of copper.

With respect to the Company's gold operations, the first quarter 2013 results were in line with the Company's expectation that the first two quarters of 2013 would have higher cash costs. The Company expects to meet the previously reported annual guidance and it is anticipated that the cash costs per ounce over the remainder of the 2013 year will be at the lower end of the guidance range provided above.

For the remainder of 2013, total capital spending is expected to be $43 million. This amount relates to growth and sustaining capital for existing mines - including $36 million on the Aranzazu expansion and roaster installation and $5 million on completing Phase V of the heap leach expansion and community expenditures at San Andres. These capital expenditures are expected to be funded by a combination of internal cash flows and external financing and may be delayed if financing is not obtained; The Company has also delayed previously planned development expenditures at Serrote until the bridge loan financing is completed.

Conference Call

Aura Minerals' management will host a conference call and audio webcast for analysts and investors on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) to review the first quarter 2013 results. Participants may access the call by dialing 416-340-8530 or the toll-free access at 1-888-340-9642. Participants are encouraged to call in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to avoid delays.

The call is being webcast and can be accessed at Aura Minerals' website at www.auraminerals.com. Those who wish to listen to a recording of the conference call at a later time may do so by dialing 905-694-9451 or 1- 800-408-3053 (Passcode 6892960#). The conference call replay will be available from 2:00 p.m. on May 14, 2013, until 11:59 p.m. (EST) on May 28, 2013.

Non-GAAP Measures

This news release includes certain non-GAAP performance measures, in particular, the average cash cost of gold per oz, average cash cost per payable pound of copper and operating cash flow which are non-GAAP performance measures. These non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning within IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company believes that these measures provide investors with additional information which is useful in evaluating the Company's performance and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.

Total cash costs of gold produced are divided by oz produced to arrive at per oz cash costs. Similarly, total cash costs of copper produced include the above costs, and are net of gold and silver by-products, but include offsite treatment and refining charges. Total cash costs of copper produced are divided by payable pounds of copper produced to arrive at per payable pound cash costs.

Operating cash flow is the term the Company uses to describe the cash that is generated from operations excluding depletion and amortization, stock based compensation, impairment charges and the effect of changes in working capital.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold- silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold-iron Serrote project in Brazil. Activities to date on the Serrote project include detailed negotiations for debt and equity financing, a geotechnical drill program, the engineering has been awarded and the Company has commenced advancing with early procurement.

For further information, please visit Aura Minerals' web site at www.auraminerals.com.

National Instrument 43-101 Compliance

Unless otherwise indicated, Aura Minerals has prepared the technical information in this press release ("Technical Information") based on information contained in the technical reports and news releases (collectively the "Disclosure Documents") available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Each Disclosure Document was prepared by or under the supervision of a qualified person (a "Qualified Person") as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). Readers are encouraged to review the full text of the Disclosure Documents which qualifies the Technical Information. Readers are advised that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Disclosure Documents are each intended to be read as a whole, and sections should not be read or relied upon out of context. The Technical Information is subject to the assumptions and qualifications contained in the Disclosure Documents. The disclosure of Technical Information in this MD&A has been reviewed and approved by Bruce Butcher, P. Eng., Vice President, Technical Services.

Cautionary Note

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements", as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the Company's current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the amount of mineral reserves and mineral resources; the amount of future production over any period; the amount of waste tonnes mined; the amount of mining and haulage costs; cash costs; operating costs; strip ratios and mining rates; expected grades and ounces of metals and minerals; expected processing recoveries; expected time frames; prices of metals and minerals; mine life; and gold hedge programs. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements in this news release and related MD&A are based upon, without limitation, the following estimates and assumptions: the presence of and continuity of metals at the Company's Mines at modeled grades; the capacities of various machinery and equipment; the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices; exchange rates; metals and minerals sales prices; appropriate discount rates; tax rates and royalty rates applicable to the mining operations; cash costs; anticipated mining losses and dilution; metals recovery rates, reasonable contingency requirements; and receipt of regulatory approvals on acceptable terms.

Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to predict or control could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Annual Information Form on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward- looking statements, which include, without limitation, gold and copper or certain other commodity price volatility, changes in debt and equity markets, the uncertainties involved in interpreting geological data, increases in costs, environmental compliance and changes in environmental legislation and regulation, interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations, general economic conditions and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward- looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
Vice President, Corporate Development
(416) 509-0583 or (416) 649-1033
(416) 649-1044 (FAX)
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Aura Minerals Announces First Quarter Conference Call Details

Fri, 03 May 2013 09:25:00 -0400

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - May 3, 2013) - Aura Minerals Inc. (TSX:ORA) (the "Company") announces that the Company will release its first quarter financial and operational results after the close of business on May 13, 2013. A conference call and audio webcast will follow on May 14, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. (EST) for management to discuss the results. This discussion will be followed by a question-and-answer period with investors.

Live Dial-In Information
Toronto and International: 416.340.8530
North America (Toll Free): 888.340.9642
Participant Audio Webcast: www.auraminerals.com

Replay Call Information
Toronto and International: 905.694.9451 Passcode: 6892960#
North America (Toll Free): 800.408.3053 Passcode: 6892960#

The conference call replay will be available from 2:00 p.m. on May 14, 2013 until 11:59 p.m. on May 28, 2013.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold-silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold-iron Serrote project in Brazil. Activities to date on the Serrote project include detailed negotiations for debt and equity financing, a geotechnical drill program, the engineering has been awarded and the Company has commenced advancing with early procurement.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
Vice President, Corporate Development
(416) 509-0583 or (416) 649-1033
(416) 649-1044 (FAX)
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Aura Minerals Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2012 Financial and Operating Results

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:20:00 -0400

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 20, 2013) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) announces financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2012.

This release does not constitute management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") as contemplated by applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the MD&A and the Company's audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's website.

Summarized Results:

Operating cash flow¹ of $12.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2012 and $18.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to $15.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2011 and $49.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011;
Net sales revenue in the fourth quarter of 2012 was consistent with the fourth quarter of 2011 while revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased 7% over the prior year. The average realized prices per oz for the quarters ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 were $1,725 and $1,669 per oz, respectively, which closely compare to the average market prices (London PM Fix);
Shipments of copper concentrate for the quarters ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 totaled 4,110 dry metric tonnes ("DMT") and 4,711 DMT, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, shipments of copper concentrate were 20,321 DMT and 13,455 DMT, respectively;
Gold oz production in the fourth quarter of 2012 was 15% higher compared to the fourth quarter of 2011. For the year ended December 31, 2012 gold oz production was 8% higher than the prior year;
Copper production at Aranzazu for the fourth quarter of 2012 and 2011 was 2,223,100 pounds and 2,856,500 pounds, respectively, a decrease of 22%. On-site average cash cost per pound of payable copper produced, net of gold and silver credits was $5.42 for the fourth quarter of 2012 compared to $2.32 for the fourth quarter of 2011. Copper production at Aranzazu for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was 10,980,100 and 7,695,300, respectively, an increase of 43%. On-site average cash cost¹ per pound of payable copper produced, net of gold and silver credits was $3.63 for the full year of 2012 compared to $2.82 for the full year of 2011;
Gross margin of $(2.6) million and $(16.9) for the fourth quarter and full year 2012, respectively, compared to a gross margin of $3.7 million and $24.2 million for the fourth quarter and full year 2011, respectively;
Loss of $9.7 million or $0.04 per share for the fourth quarter of 2012 compared to a loss of $10.1 million or $0.04 per share for the fourth quarter of 2011. Loss for 2012 of $56.8 million or $0.25 per share compared to a loss of $41.8 million or $0.19 per share for 2011;
For the year ended December 31, 2012, amended the revolving credit facility, extending the maturity to June 30, 2014 and increasing the credit available to $45 million;
Completed the Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Aranzazu expansion project. Subsequent to year end, in February 2013, a partial roasting facility package has been selected and awarded, with an expected delivery time of 46 weeks;
Completed the definitive Feasibility Study for the Serrote Project;
The Company optimized the Sao Francisco mine plan in order to maximize the remaining cash flows. It is anticipated that, with current information available, mining activity at Sao Francisco will cease in late 2013 and final processing of the heap treatment will continue during 2014 until closure date. Sao Vicente's mining activity will cease in mid-2013 and final processing of the heap treatment will continue until closure in 2014. The Company has been investigating multiple options to maximize the value of the assets of these mines; and
Subsequent to year end, received R$20 million (approximately US$10 million) in preliminary bridge financing for Serrote development.

¹Please see cautionary note at the end of this press release.

Mr. Jim Bannantine, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer stated, "Aura finished 2012 with a good fourth quarter and demonstrated an upward trend, which is shown by our steady and growing operating cash flow quarter on quarter. This appears to be continuing into 2013 as on a pro-rata, year-to-date basis, the Company has been performing to previously circulated 2013 guidance. Management reconfirms this guidance.

We have made significant operational improvements and addressed the challenges that impacted our existing operations during 2012 with logical and cost-efficient solutions. We have also made significant progress on our expansion and development projects, the future cash flows from which are expected to replace the income stream that we forego following the closure of the Brazilian gold mines. Consideration is being given to exchanging - for value - the assets of the Brazilian operating mines into one or more junior mining companies that will be developing and building new mining projects.

The Aranzazu expansion is on schedule and on budget and we have awarded the partial roasting facility which is expected to substantially reduce the level of Arsenic in the concentrate. Serrote's development is on schedule and below budget. The required land acquisitions have been substantially completed and we have awarded the engineering and the contracts for the major equipment required for the process plant, with the project financing well underway.

We believe that the Company is better positioned at the end of 2012 than it was at the end of 2011, based on its operational run rate and streamlined organization. The status of development and execution of our new projects will drive our future growth, adding substantial value for all stakeholders."

Production and Cash Costs

The Company's production and cash costs for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2012 are summarized in the table below:

	For the three months ended December 31, 2012			For the year ended December 31, 2012
	Oz Produced	Cash Costs ¹		Oz Produced	Cash Costs ¹
San Andres	11,936	$	1,242	59,751	$	1,015
Sao Francisco	29,368		1,218	80,357		1,528
Sao Vicente	8,952		1,092	33,155		1,537
Total / Average	50,256	$	1,201	173,263	$	1,353

Gold production at San Andres in the fourth quarter 2012 decreased 10% over the comparable period due to lower feed grade and recoveries.

Average cash cost per oz of gold produced¹ in the fourth quarter of 2012 was 12% higher than the fourth quarter of 2011. The increased cash cost per oz of gold produced was a result of lower oz produced.

Gold production at Sao Francisco in the fourth quarter of 2012 was 67% higher than the fourth quarter of 2011 primarily due to the higher plant feed.

Average cash cost per oz of gold produced in the fourth quarter of 2012 was 23% lower than the fourth quarter of 2011. The decreased average cash cost per oz of gold produced was primarily a result of focusing mining in the higher grade south end of the Sao Francisco pit to provide a large sump that would allow continued mining of the pit base during rainy season. The higher grade in the base of the pit has confirmed the model predictions of increased grade in the south end and will allow the mine to optimise the short term model reliability.

At Sao Vicente, 32% less gold oz were produced during the quarter ended December 31, 2012 compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2011 due to lower grades and the unexpected failure of the primary crusher at Sao Vicente during the third quarter. A rented crusher was utilized to mitigate this failure. The original primary crusher was replaced at the end of December 2012 and is working well with high availability.

The average cash cost per oz of gold produced¹ in the fourth quarter of 2012 was 8% higher than the average cash cost in the fourth quarter of 2011. The increase in the average cash cost per oz produced over the comparable period in 2011 was due to the lower grade processed.

Copper concentrate produced decreased by 14% in the fourth quarter 2012 when compared to the fourth quarter of 2011.

Average cash cost per payable pound of copper produced¹ for the fourth quarter of 2012 increased 134% compared to the fourth quarter of 2011. Average cash cost per payable pound of copper produced¹ increased to $5.42 from the third quarter of 2012 of $4.48 per payable pound of copper due to low production volumes and excess penalties and charges related to elevated arsenic levels. The impact on the fourth quarter of 2012's average cash cost¹ as a result of arsenic related charges and penalties is estimated to be $1.21 per payable pound of copper against the third quarter of 2012 of $1.14 per payable pound of copper.

¹ Please see cautionary note at the end of this press release.

Brazilian Mines - Value Maximization

Revenues and Cost of Goods Sold

Revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $86,404,000 and $85,750,000, respectively. The Company's revenue for the fourth quarter 2012 is comprised of sales of gold from the Company's gold mines of $81,469,000 and copper concentrate sales from Aranzazu of $4,935,000 compared to $75,468,000 from the gold mines and $10,282,000 from Aranzazu for the fourth quarter of 2011.

	For the three months ended December 31, 2012		For the three months ended December 31, 2011		For the year ended December 31, 2012		For the year ended December 31, 2011

San Andres, (oz)		12,632		15,921		52,690		65,988
Sao Francisco, (oz)		26,790		17,156		77,350		55,559
Sao Vicente, (oz)		8,164		13,028		34,912		44,289
Total ounces sold		47,586		46,105		164,952		165,836

Realized average gold price per ounce ("oz")	$	1,725	$	1,669	$	1,667	$	1,572

Gold sales revenues (in '000's) net of local sales taxes	$	81,469	$	75,468	$	270,445	$	257,147
Copper concentrate sales (in '000's)	$	4,935	$	10,282	$	36,967	$	31,293
Total net sales (in '000's)	$	86,404	$	85,750	$	307,412	$	288,440

The 8% increase in gold sales resulted from a 3% increase in oz sold and a 3% increase in the realized average gold price per oz. The 52% decrease in copper concentrate sales resulted from a 13% decrease in DMT sold and a 45% decrease in the average price realized per DMT. The average price realized per DMT decreased due to the impact of the arsenic penalties and charges.

For the three months ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded total cost of goods sold of $89,027,000. Cost of gold sold of $76,453,000 or $1,607 per ounce consisted of cash costs of $58,309,000 or $1,225 per ounce and non-cash depletion and amortization charges of $18,144,000 or $382 per ounce. Cost of copper concentrate sold of $12,574,000 or $3,059 per DMT consisted of cash costs of $11,246,000 or $2,736 per DMT and non-cash costs of $1,328,000 or $323 per DMT.

For the three months ended December 31, 2011, the Company recorded total cost of goods sold of $82,044,000. Cost of gold sold of $67,754,000 or $1,470 per ounce consisted of cash costs of $56,462,000 or $1,225 per ounce and non-cash depletion and amortization charges of $11,292,000 or $245 per ounce. Cost of copper concentrate sold of $14,290,000 or $3,033 per DMT consisted of cash costs of $6,891,000 or $1,462 per DMT and non-cash costs of $7,399,000 or $1,571 per DMT.

Additional Highlights

Other expense items for the fourth quarter of 2012 include general and administrative expenses of $4,935,000 (2011: $4,577,000) and exploration expenses of $419,000 (2011: $3,779,000). The fourth quarter 2011 exploration primarily consisted of expenditures at the Serrote Project of $3,173,000.

Additionally, for the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company recorded finance costs of $2,837,000 (2011: $1,082,000), interest and other income of $17,000 (2011: $523,000), and other gains of $899,000 (2011: loss of $3,580,000). Loss before income taxes for the fourth quarter of 2012 was $9,932,000 (2011: $9,835,000).

For the quarter ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded income tax recovery of $251,000 (2011: expense of $286,000) comprising a current income tax expense of $1,564,000 (2011: $1,655,000) relating to the San Andres Mine, offset by a future income tax recovery of $1,313,000 (2011: $1,369,000).

For the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company recorded a loss of $9,681,000 or $0.04 per share. This compares to a loss of $10,121,000 or $0.04 per share for the fourth quarter 2011.

Outlook and Strategy

Aura Minerals' future profitability, operating cash flows and financial position will be closely related to the prevailing prices of gold and copper. Key factors influencing the price of gold and copper include the supply of and demand for these commodities, the relative strength of currencies (particularly the U.S. dollar) and macroeconomic factors such as current and future expectations for inflation and interest rates. Management believes that the short-to-medium term economic environment is likely to remain supportive for both gold and copper prices but with continued volatility for both.

Aura Minerals' production and cash cost per oz guidance for the 2013 year is as follows:

Gold Mines	Cash Cost per oz	2013 Production
San Andres	$1,000 - $1,150	60,000 - 65,000 oz
Sao Francisco	$1,100 - $1,250	78,000 - 88,000 oz
Sao Vicente	$ 950 - $1,100	28,000 - 32,000 oz
Tot	$1,050 - $1,200	166,000 - 185,000 oz

Aranzazu's production for 2013 is expected to be between 13,000,000 and 15,000,000 pounds of copper at a range of $3.10 to $3.60 average cash cost per payable pound of copper.

In the first quarter of 2013 and to the date of this press release, the indicators have been that the pro-rata guidance will be achieved at each operating mine.

For 2013, capital spending is expected to be $101 million. Of this amount, $53 million relates to growth and sustaining capital for existing mines - including $36 million on the Aranzazu expansion and roaster installation and $7 million on Phase V of the heap leach expansion and community expenditures at San Andres. The remaining $48 million relates to the development and initial construction of Serrote.

Conference Call

Aura Minerals' management will host a conference call and audio webcast for analysts and investors on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) to review the fourth quarter and full year 2012 results. Participants may access the call by dialing 416-340-8530 or the toll-free access at 1-888-340-9642. Participants are encouraged to call in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to avoid delays.

The call is being webcast and can be accessed at Aura Minerals' website at www.auraminerals.com. Those who wish to listen to a recording of the conference call at a later time may do so by dialing 905-694-9451 or 1-800-408-3053 (Passcode 6892960#). The conference call replay will be available from 2:00 p.m. on March 21, 2013, until 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 4, 2013.

Non-GAAP Measures

Average cash costs per oz of gold or per payable pound of copper are presented as they represent an industry standard method of comparing certain costs on a per unit basis. Total cash costs of gold produced include on-site mining, processing and administration costs, off-site refining and royalty charges, reduced by silver by-product credits, but exclude amortization, reclamation, and exploration costs, as well as capital expenditures. Total cash costs of gold produced are divided by oz produced to arrive at per oz cash costs. Similarly, total cash costs of copper produced include the above costs, and are net of gold and silver by-products, but include offsite treatment and refining charges. Total cash costs of copper produced are divided by payable pounds of copper produced to arrive at per payable pound cash costs.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold-silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold-iron Serrote project in Brazil. Activities to date on the Serrote project include detailed negotiations for debt and equity financing, a geotechnical drill program, the engineering has been awarded and the Company has commenced advancing with early procurement.

National Instrument 43-101 Compliance

Unless otherwise indicated, Aura Minerals has prepared the technical information in this press release ("Technical Information") based on information contained in the technical reports and news releases (collectively the "Disclosure Documents") available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Each Disclosure Document was prepared by or under the supervision of a qualified person (a "Qualified Person") as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Readers are encouraged to review the full text of the Disclosure Documents which qualifies the Technical Information. Readers are advised that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Disclosure Documents are each intended to be read as a whole, and sections should not be read or relied upon out of context. The Technical Information is subject to the assumptions and qualifications contained in the Disclosure Documents. The disclosure of Technical Information in this MD&A has been reviewed and approved by Bruce Butcher, P. Eng., Vice President, Technical Services.

Cautionary Note

Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to predict or control could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Annual Information Form on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements, which include, without limitation, gold and copper or certain other commodity price volatility, changes in debt and equity markets, the uncertainties involved in interpreting geological data, increases in costs, environmental compliance and changes in environmental legislation and regulation, interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations, general economic conditions and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
Vice President, Corporate Development
(416) 509-0583 or (416) 649-1033
(416) 649-1044 (FAX)
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Aura Minerals Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2012 Conference Call Details

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:25:00 -0400

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 11, 2013) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) announces that the Company will release its fourth quarter and full year 2012 financial and operational results after the close of business on March 20, 2013. A conference call and audio webcast will follow on March 21, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. (EST) for management to discuss the results. This discussion will be followed by a question-and-answer period with investors.

Live Dial-In Information
Toronto and International:	416.340.8530
North America (Toll Free):	888.340.9642
Participant Audio Webcast:	www.auraminerals.com


Replay Call Information
Toronto and International:	905.694.9451 Passcode: 6892960#
North America (Toll Free):	800.408.3053 Passcode: 6892960#

The conference call replay will be available from 2:00 p.m. on March 21, 2013 until 11:59 p.m. on April 4, 2013.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold-silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold-iron Serrote project in Brazil. Activities to date on the Serrote project include detailed negotiations for debt and equity financing, a geotechnical drill program, the engineering has been awarded and the Company has commenced advancing with early procurement.

For further information, please visit Aura Minerals' web site at www.auraminerals.com.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
Vice President, Corporate Development
(416) 509-0583 or (416) 649-1033
(416) 649-1044 (FAX)
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Aura Minerals Announces Update on Serrote- Bridge Loan from Banco ITAU- R$20 Million Received To-Date

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:25:00 -0500

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 25, 2013) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) is pleased to announce that the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary Mineração Vale Verde Ltda. ("MVV") has received funds in the amount of R$20 million (the "Bridge Loan") from Banco Itaú BBA S.A. ("Itaú"), a subsidiary of Itaú Unibanco Group and one of Brazil's leading investment banks. The Bridge Loan will be used to further develop the Company's Serrote da Laje project located in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. The Company is in negotiations with Itaú to increase the amount of the Bridge Loan to an aggregate of R$100 million.

The Bridge Loan, and any increase, is being used by the Company for community engagement and specifically with respect to acquiring lands required for the Serrote project, of which approximately 60% have been acquired to-date, and for engineering, long-lead equipment procurement and early site improvements.

In addition to the Bridge Loan, the Company has retained Itaú as a financial advisor to assist in structuring the project financing for Serrote. Itaú is a major Brazilian private bank and has expertise in negotiating long-term project financing with development banks.

Jim Bannantine, President and CEO of Aura Minerals stated: "The Bridge Loan from Itaú is a significant milestone in advancing the Serrote Project and ably demonstrates the level of confidence that the various financial institutions have in the project. The Company is in advanced negotiations with adjacent communities for the remainder of the land acquisitions for Serrote. The Company is also in advanced negotiations with potential equity partners and is proceeding with engineering and early procurement. The Company is confident that it will obtain long-term project financing and that the Company will be in a position to commence construction in the second half of 2013, with production start-up by mid-2015."

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the exploration, development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold-silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold-iron Serrote project in Brazil. Activities to date on the Serrote project include detailed negotiations for debt and equity financing, a geotechnical drill program, the engineering has been awarded and the Company has commenced advancing with early procurement. The Company also has the Inaja Greenstone Belt project currently optioned to Vale.

Cautionary Note

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements", as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the Company's current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, without limitation, statements with respect to financing activities for the Serrote project. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements in this news release are based upon, without limitation, the following estimates and assumptions: the presence of and continuity of metals at the Company's Mines at modeled grades; the capacities of various machinery and equipment; the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices; exchange rates; metals and minerals sales prices; appropriate discount rates; tax rates and royalty rates applicable to the mining operations; cash costs; anticipated mining losses and dilution; metals recovery rates, reasonable contingency requirements; and receipt of regulatory approvals on acceptable terms.

Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to predict or control, could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Annual Information Form on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements, which include, without limitation, gold and copper or certain other commodity price volatility, changes in debt and equity markets, the uncertainties involved in interpreting geological data, increases in costs, environmental compliance and changes in environmental legislation and regulation, interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations, general economic conditions and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
Vice President, Corporate Development
(416) 509-0583 or (416) 649-1033
(416) 649-1044 (FAX)
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Aura Minerals Reports Preliminary Fourth Quarter Operational Results and 2013 Guidance

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:25:00 -0500

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Jan. 22, 2013) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) is pleased to announce preliminary 2012 fourth quarter and full year production results and guidance for 2013 production and capital expenditure. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.

Preliminary Operating Results - 2012

The Company produced 49,472 ounces ("oz") of gold in the fourth quarter ("Q4") of 2012, representing a 13% increase over 43,863 oz gold produced in Q4 2011 and a 15% increase over the third quarter ("Q3") 2012 gold production of 43,059 oz.

In 2012, Aura Minerals produced 172,479 oz of gold, representing an 8% increase over 160,159 oz produced in 2011. Full year gold production for 2012 was in line with originally provided guidance for 2012 and at the higher end of the range updated in Q3 2012.

Aura Minerals' full year 2012 preliminary gold production per mine is as follows:

Gold Mines - Preliminary Production	Q4 Oz Produced ¹	2012 Oz Production ¹
San Andres Mine	11,936	59,751
Sao Francisco Mine	28,584	79,573
Sao Vicente Mine	8,952	33,155
Total	49,472	172,479

¹ Subject to change until 2012 audited annual financial statements are filed with regulatory authorities.

The Company's Aranzazu Mine produced 2,044,000 pounds ("lb") of contained copper in Q4 2012, as compared to 2,856,500 lb of contained copper in Q4 2011 and 2,450,800 lb of contained copper in Q3 2012. In 2012, Aranzazu produced 10,801,000 lb of contained copper, representing a 40% increase over the 7,695,300 lb of contained copper produced in 2011.

Production and Capital Expenditure Guidance - 2013

The Company announces the following production and cash cost per oz² guidance for the 2013 calendar year:

Gold Mines - 2013	Cash Cost per oz ²	2013 Production
San Andres Mine	$1,000 - $1,150	60,000 - 65,000 oz
Sao Francisco Mine	$1,100 - $1,250	78,000 - 88,000 oz
Sao Vicente Mine	$ 950 - $1,100	28,000 - 32,000 oz
Total	$1,050 - $1,200	166,000 - 185,000 oz

² A cautionary note regarding non-GAAP measures is included at the end of this press release.

Aranzazu's production for 2013 is expected to be between 13,000,000 and 15,000,000 lb of copper at a range of $3.10 to $3.60 cash cost per payable lb² of copper.

For 2013, capital spending is expected to be $101M. Of this amount, $53M relates to growth and sustaining capital for existing mines - including $36M on the Aranzazu expansion and roaster installation and $7M on Phase V of the heap leach expansion and community expenditures at San Andres. The remaining $48M relates to the development of the Serrote da Laje ("Serrote") Project in Brazil.

The Company is currently optimizing the Sao Francisco mine plan in order to maximize the remaining cash flows. It is anticipated that, with current information available, mining activity at Sao Francisco will cease in late 2013 and mine closure in the first half of 2014. The Company will provide additional details as they become available. Sao Vicente's mining activity will cease in mid-2013 and its mine closure is scheduled for early 2014.

The disclosure of technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Bruce Butcher, P. Eng., Vice President, Technical Services, a qualified person as defined in NI 43-101.

Non-GAAP Measures

This news release includes certain non-GAAP performance measures, in particular, the average cash cost of gold per oz and average cash cost per payable pound of copper are non-GAAP performance measures. These non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning within IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company believes that these measures provide investors with additional information which is useful in evaluating the Company's performance and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

For further information, please visit Aura Minerals' web site at www.auraminerals.com.

Cautionary Note

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements", as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the Company's current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, without limitation, statements with respect to: Q4 and 2012 full year production, 2013 production and capital expenditure guidance and the optimization of the Sao Francisco mine plan. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions.

All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
Vice President, Corporate Development
(604) 669-4777
(604) 696-0212 (FAX)
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Contact:

Aura Minerals Announces Third Quarter 2012 Financial and Operating Results and Corporate Office Relocation in 2013

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:14:00 -0500

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Nov. 13, 2012) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company")(TSX:ORA) announces financial and operating results for the third quarter of 2012.

This release does not constitute management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") as contemplated by applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the MD&A and the Company's unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's website.

Summarized Results:

Operating cash flow of $10.2 million for the third quarter of 2012 and $6.5 million for the 9 months ended September 30, 2012;
Gold ounce ("oz") production in the third quarter of 2012 was 43,059 oz, consistent with previous guidance and 2% lower compared to the third quarter of 2011;
Copper production at Aranzazu for the third quarter of 2012 and 2011 was 2,450,800 pounds and 2,276,800 pounds, respectively, an increase of 8%, but below previous 2012 guidance. On-site average cash cost per pound of payable copper produced, net of gold and silver credits and including off-take penalties is $4.48 for the third quarter of 2012 compared to $2.53 for the third quarter of 2011;
Revenue in the third quarter of 2012 of $72.8 million, a decrease of 9% over the third quarter of 2011;
Gross margin of $4.5 million for the third quarter of 2012, compared to a gross margin of $12.0 million for the third quarter of 2011; Loss of $16.9 million or $0.07 per share for the third quarter of 2012 compared to a loss of $37.3 million or $0.16 per share for the third quarter of 2011; and
Completed the definitive feasibility study and advanced execution of the Serrote Project.

Mr. Jim Bannantine , the Company's President and CEO stated, "We remain committed to our growth strategy of realizing the value of our existing assists and our third quarter results are a very good indication that the Company is moving in the right direction. The Company's operating cash flow during the quarter was approximately $10.2 million and is positive year-to-date.

"During the third quarter we announced the results of the positive feasibility study on the Serrote project and we are now well into the development phase. The level of interest expressed from potential lenders, strategic partners and stakeholders demonstrates the commercial viability of the project and the benefits that it will bring to the region. Our relationship with the adjacent communities is very positive and we are confident that we can continue to work together for land purchases and resettlement of communities. We have started work on the project debt and equity financing, a geotechnical drill program, awarded the engineering, and will be advancing with early procurement in the coming months.

"The expansion plan at Aranzazu is moving forward and we have initiated the permitting process. We continue to experience high arsenic levels at Aranzazu the effect of which we are mitigating through a number of activities, including blending and the optimization of multiple off-take contracts. We have also experienced intermittent high concentrations of zinc at certain levels in the open pit that have affected copper recovery when encountered. This has required increased blending from the underground, thus reducing throughput at those times. Despite these short term anomalies in the concentrate at Aranzazu, we are encouraged with the long term prospects of being able to effectively treat the arsenic and increase the tonnage to 4,000 tonnes per day ("tpd"). A completed pilot test has demonstrated exceptional reduction of the arsenic level in the concentrate which results we would expect to be mirrored with the fluid bed roaster. We have entered into an agreement for basic and detailed engineering for the expansion and expect to commence further engineering and procurement for the roaster in December.

"We are very pleased to announce that Rory Taylor has been appointed the Company's permanent Chief Financial Officer and look forward to his continued contributions to the Company.

"Finally, we are taking this opportunity to announce that Aura has made the decision to relocate its corporate office to Toronto, effective February 1, 2013. This will enable the Company to better support its operations at less distance and in closer time zones."

Production and Cash Costs

The Company's production and cash costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 are summarized in the table below:

	For the three months ended			For the nine months ended
	September 30, 2012			September 30, 2012
	Oz Produced		Cash Costs	Oz Produced		Cash Costs
San Andres	16,298	$	863	47,815	$	959
Sao Francisco	19,814		1,116	50,989		1,707
Sao Vicente	6,947		2,038	24,203		1,702
Total / Average	43,059	$	1,169	123,007	$	1,415

Gold production at San Andres in the third quarter 2012 increased 20% over the comparable period because of a higher percentage of oxide ore mined during the quarter resulting in better recoveries. Recoveries were also positively affected by increased cyanide dosage and improved crushing controls.

Average cash cost per oz of gold produced at San Andres in the third quarter of 2012 were 8% lower than the third quarter of 2011. The decreased cash costs per oz of gold produced(1) are a result of higher production resulting from higher oz produced.

Gold production at Sao Francisco in the third quarter of 2012 was 6% higher than the third quarter of 2011 primarily due to the higher plant feed. Successful tailings retreatment has also added gold at a lower cash cost.

Average cash cost per oz of gold produced at Sao Francisco in the third quarter of 2012 was 14% lower than the third quarter of 2011. The decreased average cash cost per oz of gold produced(1) is primarily a result of higher gold production. Most of the third quarter production was focused on the pit base from the central area to the south. This not only exposes higher grade ore in the ore body, but more importantly creates a high capacity sump for the rainy season that will allow mining of the pit base from the central area back to the north. Exposing the higher grades in the base of the pit confirms the model predictions of increased grade in the south and allows the mine to optimise the short term model reliability.

During the three months ended September 30, 2012, 41% less gold oz were produced at Sao Vicente compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011 due to lower grade processed and the unexpected failure of the primary crusher during the quarter which resulted in 20 days of downtime. The primary crusher has been replaced by a rented crusher with capacity equal to or greater than the original which will be fully repaired and operating by the first quarter of 2013.

The average cash cost per oz of gold produced at Sao Vicente in the third quarter of 2012 was 61% higher than the average cash cost in the third quarter of 2011. The increase in the average cash cost per oz produced over the comparable period in 2011 is due to the lower grade processed and low production resulting from the crusher failure. The current mine plan calls for consistent grades for the balance of 2012, and a decreasing waste-to-ore ratio. This is expected to result in lower costs, particularly in the fourth quarter.

Aranzazu continued its ramp up to designed production levels with an 8% increase in the copper concentrate produced compared to the third quarter of 2011.

Average cash costs per payable pound of copper produced for the third quarter of 2012 increased 77% compared to the third quarter of 2011. Average cash costs increased from the second quarter of 2012 of $2.92 per payable pound of copper due to low production volumes and excess penalties and charges related to elevated arsenic levels. The impact on the current quarter's average cash costs of arsenic related charges and penalties is estimated to be $1.14 per payable pound of copper against the second quarter of 2012 of $0.72 per payable pound of copper. The arsenic related charges and penalties realized in the third quarter of 2012 were primarily reflective of one-off terms for concentrate off-take placed in the quarter with a specific non-recurring customer. The Company expects the arsenic related charges and penalties for the fourth quarter of 2012 to return to second quarter 2012 levels as more favourable terms have been finalized with two customers.

Revenues and Cost of Goods Sold

Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by 9% compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in revenues resulted from an 11% decrease in gold sales, partially offset by a 3% increase in copper concentrate sales.

The decrease in gold sales is attributable to an 8% decrease in gold oz sold during the quarter and a 2% decrease in the realized average gold price per oz.

The increase in copper concentrate sales is attributable to a 37% increase in dry metric tonnes ("DMT") sold, partially offset by a 25% decrease in realized revenue per DMT of copper concentrate. Total revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2012 at Aranzazu related to the shipment of 5,486 DMT of copper concentrate compared to 4,000 DMT of copper concentrate for the three months ended September 30, 2011. Total concentrate shipment revenues for the third quarter of 2012 were $1,685 per DMT compared to $2,233 per DMT for the third quarter of 2011 due to arsenic penalties and charges. The Company recorded an average price of $7,890 per tonne ($3.58 per pound) of copper, $1,660 per oz of gold and $31.46 per oz of silver, excluding the impact of price adjustments during the quarter. The third quarter 2012 revenues reflect additional charges and penalties for the arsenic content within the concentrate sold.

		For the three		For the three		For the nine		For the nine
	months ended		months ended		months ended		months ended
	September 30,		September 30,		September 30,		September 30,
		2012		2011		2012		2011

San Andres, (oz)		13,500		12,758		40,058		50,067
Sao Francisco, (oz)		18,631		18,691		51,760		38,403
Sao Vicente, (oz)		7,368		11,410		26,748		31,262
Total ounces sold		39,499		42,859		118,566		119,732

Realized average gold price per ounce ("oz")	$	1,643	$	1,683	$	1,626	$	1,534

Gold sales revenues (in '000's) net of local sales taxes	$	63,576	$	71,205	$	188,976	$	181,679
Copper concentrate sales (in '000's)	$	9,242	$	8,932	$	32,032	$	21,011
Total net sales (in '000's)	$	72,818	$	80,137	$	221,008	$	202,690

The average realized prices per oz for the quarters ended September, 2012 and 2011 in the above table compare to the average market prices (London PM Fix) of $1,652 and $1,702, respectively.

Copper concentrate sales are from the shipment of 5,486 DMT and 4,000 DMT of copper concentrate for the quarters ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Copper concentrate revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 are comprised as follows:

	For the three months ended September 30, 2012		For the three months ended September 30, 2011

Copper revenue, net of treatment and refining charges	$	5,258	$	6,511
Gold by-product revenue		3,337		2,549
Silver by-product revenue		1,162		888
Price adjustments recorded		(515)		(1,016)
Total revenue	$	9,242	$	8,932

For the three months ended September 30, 2012, total cost of goods sold from San Andres were $13,915,000 or $1,031 per oz compared to $14,820,000 or $1,162 per oz for the three months ended September 30, 2011. For the third quarters of 2012 and 2011, cash operating costs were $898 per oz and $939 per oz, respectively, while non-cash depletion and amortization charges were $133 per oz and $223 per oz, respectively.

Total cost of goods sold from the Brazilian Mines for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 were $42,762,000 or $1,645 per oz and $42,751,000 or $1,420 per oz, respectively. For the third quarters of 2012 and 2011, cash operating costs were $1,336 per oz and $1,216 per oz, respectively, while non -cash depletion and amortization charges were $309 per oz and $204 per oz, respectively. The third quarter results included a write-down of $10,555,000 or $406 per oz to present production inventory at net realizable value.

Total cost of goods sold from Aranzazu for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 were $11,641,000 or $2,122 per DMT and $10,549,000 or $2,637 per DMT, respectively. For the third quarters 2012 and 2011, cash operating costs were $1,972 per DMT and $1,898 per DMT, respectively, while non-cash depletion and amortization charges were $150 per DMT and $739 per DMT, respectively. The third quarter results included a write-down of $1,167,000 or $213 per DMT to present production inventory at net realizable value.

Additional Highlights

In February 2012, the Company took steps to reduce general and administrative costs in Canada and Brazil. Salaries, wages and benefits have decreased 35% due to reorganizations at the Company's corporate offices. Share-based payment expense has decreased 82% as a result of the increase in forfeitures during the quarter.

On May 10, 2012, the Company entered into an amended credit facility (the "Amended Credit Facility") pursuant to which a second bank was added as a lender to the Company. Under the Amended Credit Facility, the maturity was extended from June 30, 2013 to June 30, 2014. The revolving credit available to the Company has been increased from $25,000,000 to $45,000,000, but will be reduced by $3,750,000 per quarter from June 30, 2013 to March 31, 2014. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged from the original Credit Facility, except for the interest margin which has increased from 2.75% over LIBOR to 3.25% over LIBOR, the arrangement fee which has increased to 1.75% from 1.5%, and the standby fee on undrawn funds which has increased from 1.0% to 1.5% per annum. Pursuant to the terms of the Amended Credit Facility, the Company is required to maintain a total debt/EBITDA ratio of not more than one to one for each reporting period. The Company was in violation of this financial covenant at September 30, 2012 and a waiver has been received from the Company's lenders.

Outlook and Strategy

Aura Minerals' future profitability, operating cash flows and financial position will be closely related to th e prevailing prices of gold and copper. Key factors influencing the price of gold and copper include the supply of and demand for these commodities, the relative strength of currencies (particularly the U.S. dollar) and macroeconomic factors such as current and future expectations for inflation and interest rates. Management believes that the short-to-medium term economic environment is likely to remain supportive for both gold and copper prices but continued volatility for both.

Aura Minerals' full year 2012 gold production and operating cash cost guidance per mine is as follows:

Gold Mines - Production Estimates


San Andres	$900 - $1,000	61,000 - 65,000 oz
Sao Francisco	$1,500 - $1,600	73,000 - 78,000 oz
Sao Vicente	$1,550 - $1,650	31,000 - 33,000 oz
	$1,300 to $1,400	165,000 - 176,000 oz

The Company reaffirms its guidance for the San Andres and Sao Francisco gold mines and the overall gold production estimate as previously provided. Production guidance for Sao Vicente has been adjusted downwards. Production is expected to improve in the final quarter as the replacement crusher is now fully operational and higher grade areas of the pit are being mined. Corresponding to the production revision, cash cost estimates have been revised.

Copper production for 2012 of 10,500,000 to 11,000,000 pounds of payable copper has been adjusted downward from previous guidance. Cash cost guidance has been adjusted upwards to between $3.10 and $3.40 per pound of payable copper as a result of the lower production estimate and continuing high charges and penalties relating to the elevated arsenic levels. The Company continues to work on reducing the cash cost impact of arsenic charges through blending and optimizing against our new off-take contracts.

The Company expects operating cash flow to further improve in the fourth quarter of 2012. The Company is currently reviewing its mine plans as part of the annual budgeting process. These are expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2012 and the Company will update its future projections accordingly.

Total capital expenditure guidance for the remainder of 2012 is $10 million, with $4 million relating to growth and sustaining projects, $2 million relating to the continued development at Aranzazu and $4 million related to initial land spending on the Serrote Project. Exploration expenses are forecast to be approximately $1 million for the balance of 2012, with costs relating to resource definition and expansion drilling at San Andres.

Conference Call

Aura Minerals' management will host a conference call and audio webcast for analysts and investors on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to review the third quarter 2012 results. Participants may access the call by dialing 416-340-2216 or the toll-free access at 1-866-226-1792. Participants are encouraged to call in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to avoid delays.

The call is being webcast and can be accessed at Aura Minerals' website at www.auraminerals.com. Those who wish to listen to a recording of the conference call at a later time may do so by dialing 905-694-9451 or 1- 800-408-3053 (Passcode 8366060#). The conference call replay will be available from 2 p.m. eastern time on November 15, 2012, until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on November 28, 2012.

Non-GAAP Measures

Average cash costs per oz of gold or per payable pound of copper are presented as they represent an industry standard method of comparing certain costs on a per unit basis. Total cash costs of gold produced include on - site mining, processing and administration costs, off-site refining and royalty charges, reduced by silver by- product credits, but exclude amortization, reclamation, and exploration costs, as well as capital expenditures. Total cash costs of gold produced are divided by oz produced to arrive at per oz cash costs. Similarly, total cash costs of copper produced include the above costs, and are net of gold and silver by-products, but include offsite treatment and refining charges. Total cash costs of copper produced are divided by payable pounds of copper produced to arrive at per payable pound cash costs.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the exploration, development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold-silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold- iron Serrote da Laje project in Brazil. The Company also has the Inaja Greenstone Belt project currently optioned to Vale.

National Instrument 43-101 Compliance

Cautionary Note

Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to predict or control could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Annual Information Form on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward - looking statements, which include, without limitation, gold and copper or certain other commodity price volatility, changes in debt and equity markets, the uncertainties involved in interpreting geological data, increases in costs, environmental compliance and changes in environmental legislation and regulation, interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations, general economic conditions and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the forward-looking statements.

Contact Information:

Aura Minerals Inc.

Jim Bannantine

President and Chief Executive Officer

(604) 669-4777

(604) 696-0212 (FAX)

info@auraminerals.com

www.auraminerals.com

Contact:

Aura Minerals Announces Third Quarter 2012 Conference Call Details

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 09:25:00 -0500

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Nov. 5, 2012) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) announces that the Company will release its third quarter 2012 financial and operational results after the close of business on Tuesday, November 13, 2012. A conference call and audio webcast will follow on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) for management to discuss the results. This discussion will be followed by a question and answer period.

Live Dial-In Information
Toronto and International: 416-340-2216
North America (Toll Free): 866-226-1792
Participant Audio Webcast: www.auraminerals.com

Replay Call Information
Toronto and International: 905-694-9451 Passcode: 8366060#
North America (Toll Free): 800-408-3053 Passcode: 8366060#
The conference call replay will be available until November 28, 2012.

About Aura Minerals Inc.

Aura Minerals is a Canadian mid-tier gold and copper production company focused on the exploration, development and operation of gold and base metal projects in the Americas. The Company's producing assets include the San Andres gold mine in Honduras, the Sao Francisco and Sao Vicente gold mines in Brazil and the copper-gold-silver Aranzazu mine in Mexico. The Company's core development asset is the copper-gold Serrote da Laje project in Brazil. The Company also has the Inaja Greenstone Belt project currently optioned to Vale.

For further information, please visit the Company's web site at www.auraminerals.com.

Contact Information:
Aura Minerals Inc.
Alex Penha
VP, Corporate Development
(416) 509-0583
info@auraminerals.com
www.auraminerals.com

Contact:

Aura Minerals Files Positive Feasibility Study on the Serrote Project

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 17:57:00 -0400

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 22, 2012) - Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura Minerals" or the "Company") (TSX:ORA) announces that, in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 and in support of the Company's September 4, 2012 news release, it has filed a technical report entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Feasibility Study for the Serrote da Laje Project, Alagoas State, Brazil" (the "Feasibility Study") dated October 15, 2012 prepared by Micon International Limited under the guidance of SNC-Lavalin Inc. The Feasibility Study is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's website at www.auraminerals.com.

About Aura Minerals

Contact Information:

Aura Minerals Inc.

Jim Bannantine

President & Chief Executive Officer

(604) 669-4777

(604) 696-0212 (FAX)

info@auraminerals.com

www.auraminerals.com

Contact:

Aura Minerals Announces Positive Feasibility Study on Its Serrote da Laje Property

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 09:15:00 -0400