Javelin Minerals is set to enhance its maiden drilling program at the Coogee gold project near Kambalda, Western Australia, increasing the planned drilling from 2,500 meters to 3,000 meters. This adjustment comes after the company identified multiple opportunities to extend known mineralization in the area.
Planned Drilling Program Launch
The drilling campaign, which combines reverse-circulation (RC) and diamond drilling methods, is scheduled to begin in mid-November. The program will be executed in two phases, aimed at confirming potential extensions beneath the old Coogee open pit and expanding mineralization to the north and west of the existing site. Notably, the Coogee open pit and its surroundings have not undergone systematic exploration drilling since Ramelius Resources ceased mining operations there in 2014.
Expert Consultation and Data Review
To optimize the drilling program, Javelin has enlisted the expertise of geologist Peter Langworthy through his consultancy, OmniGeoX, to design and plan the operations. Additionally, Alf Gilman’s Odessa Resources consultancy has conducted a thorough review of historic drilling data, uncovering immediate opportunities around the old pit that warrant exploration.
This proposed drilling initiative was motivated by Javelin’s comprehensive review of reprocessed geophysical data and other relevant information, which has already resulted in an increased resource estimate for Coogee to approximately 126,685 ounces of gold.
Identification of New Targets
The reinterpretation of geophysical data has revealed eight new geophysical targets, with a particular focus on testing the five closest priority targets situated at Coogee, as well as to the north and west of the old mine site.
The first three high-priority targets are located within Javelin’s smaller mining lease, all within 1 kilometer of the former Coogee open-pit mine. This includes a high-intensity magnetic anomaly identified as the top priority at Coogee North.
Exploration Strategy at Coogee North
The initial phase of the drilling campaign will commence at Coogee North, where Javelin aims to explore the potential for a northward extension from the old Coogee mine across a 350-meter strike distance. Coogee North currently boasts a resource of 2.95 million tonnes with a grade of 1.01 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, yielding over 96,000 ounces of gold. In addition, it contains approximately 1.01 million tonnes of copper, averaging 0.41 percent, equating to over 4,000 tonnes of the red metal.
Significance of the Drilling Program
The expansion of the drilling program and the identification of new targets underscore Javelin’s commitment to maximizing the potential of the Coogee gold project. With the current resource estimates already substantial, further exploration could significantly enhance the project’s viability and output. As the mining industry continues to adapt to fluctuating market conditions and increasing demand for precious metals, Javelin’s proactive approach positions the company favorably within the competitive landscape.
Conclusion
Javelin Minerals’ strategic expansion of its drilling program at the Coogee gold project reflects a robust plan to capitalize on existing mineralization and identify new opportunities. With expert consultation and advanced data analysis driving their efforts, the company is poised to uncover further resources in a region with a rich history of gold mining. As the November launch approaches, stakeholders will be closely watching the outcomes of this ambitious exploration initiative.
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