** Shares of Santana Minerals SMI.AX rise as much as 10.5%
to A$2.21, eyeing their best day since Aug. 19 if gains hold
** Precious metal explorer announces fast-track project
designation for its Bendigo-Ophir gold project in New Zealand
** Says project has been recognised for meeting the bill's
objective of driving economic growth both regionally and
nationally
** Stock up ~117.8% YTD, including current session's moves
(Reporting by Nikita Maria Jino in Bengaluru)
((Nikita.Jino@thomsonreuters.com;))