Dalaroo Metals (ASX:DAL) has moved to two-shift operations, commencing night shift drilling at its maiden reverse circulation (RC) drilling program at the Bondoukou Gold Project in Côte d’Ivoire.
CEO John Morgan says the company took the time at the beginning of the campaign to ensure the right systems, procedures, and training were in place prior to transitioning to two-shift operations.
“Having completed that initial training and familiarisation phase, we have now introduced a night shift. The rig is expected to operate six days a week, balancing efficient progress with respect for local customs and community practices,” Morgan says.
Drilling is progressing at the Wilfred target as part of the phase one program designed to test the Wilfred, Mag, and Ali targets. The first drill hole, BDRC001, reached a depth of 250m, while the second drill hole reached 180m of a planned 250m depth. Dalaroo reports approximately 430m of the initial 4,200m orientation program has been completed.
Preliminary geological logging of BDRC001 identified several zones of quartz veining with characteristics similar to veins observed in nearby artisanal workings.
Dalaroo says the first batch of RC samples has been dispatched to the SGS laboratory in Yamoussoukro for analysis.
The 24-hole orientation program comprises drill holes planned to depths of 150–250m across 11 drill fences. Selected priority areas are currently being tested using opposing drill directions to evaluate alternative structural orientations.
Côte d’Ivoire Exploration Manager Frank Twum-Berima Bosompem says the program is building ‘strong momentum’ following the transition to expanded operations.
“Early drill returns include features that will help us refine our understanding of the structures, alteration, and geological controls across the Gold Ridge target corridor,” Bosompem says.
“This is a dynamic, geology-led campaign designed to respond quickly to emerging information. If the initial reverse circulation drilling delivers the results we are targeting, we will be well positioned to advance priority areas through additional reverse circulation drilling and potentially deeper diamond drilling.”
Dalaroo is currently in talks with drilling contractors for the potential mobilisation of diamond drill rigs to Bondoukou before the end of 2026. Selected RC drill holes may also be cased to preserve the option of completing future diamond tails.
Subject to results from the initial 24 drill holes, an indicative follow-up program comprises 78 RC drill holes drilled to approximately 100m, representing a further 7,800m.
Dalaroo Metals is an explorer focused on the discovery and development of gold and critical mineral projects across Australia and international jurisdictions.
Write to Paula Fabe at Mining.com.au
Main image: Dalaroo Metals
