Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) plans to drill 26 holes for 3,120m to test extensions beyond the historical Pithara Gold Mine pit, following the first comprehensive geological reinterpretation since mining ceased.
The historical mine produced approximately 9,000 ounces at an average recovered grade of 15.4 grams per tonne gold (Au). Discovery drilling returned 7m @ 21.8g/t Au from 20m, including 2m @ 61.5g/t Au.
Catalina’s work has integrated historical drilling, detailed pit mapping, modern geophysics, and surface geochemistry. The aim is to develop a revised exploration model that has already highlighted multiple new targets.
The reinterpretation has identified a north-south trending shear zone as the principal mineralising structure, approximately 20m wide on the northern pit face and narrowing to 10m southward.
An east-west-trending dolerite dyke crosscuts both the granite gneiss host and shear zone. Mapping has indicated the shear zone is displaced eastward south of the dyke.
High-resolution magnetic data have identified a distinct anomaly coincident with the historical pit, correlating with mapped mafic lithologies within the mineralised shear zone.
“Pithara has already demonstrated its ability to produce exceptionally high-grade gold, but our work shows there is still considerable untapped exploration potential beyond the historical pit,” Executive Director Ross Cotton says.
“By integrating historical drilling, detailed pit mapping, modern geophysics, and surface geochemistry, we’ve developed a much clearer understanding of the geological controls on mineralisation. That work has identified multiple high-priority drill targets that previous exploration either didn’t recognise or couldn’t effectively test.”
The planned reverse circulation program will target continuation of the magnetic anomaly to the south and north. This program will also test a potential eastward-displaced extension of the shear zone in the south-eastern extents.
Drilling is designed on nominal 50m by 50m spacing with holes to an average depth of 120m.
Catalina Resources has executed the required land access agreement and has an approved program of work in place. Drilling is expected to commence following completion of heritage due diligence.
Write to JC Villarba at Mining.com.au
Images: Catalina Resources
