Global Lithium Resources (ASX:GL1) has launched a resource expansion drilling program at its Manna Lithium Project in Western Australia, the results of which will be used to upgrade the project’s mineral resource estimate (MRE).
The company will deploy up to 6 drill rigs to facilitate the 50,000m reverse circulation and diamond drilling program, which will target LCT pegmatite extensions at depth across the project’s entire strike length. Infill drilling will also take place to lift more of Global Lithium’s resource base to the ‘measured’ classification.
The program — which drilling contractors K-Drill, Profile Drilling and DDH1 Drilling have been appointed to carry out — follows the recent signing of a land access agreement in mid-June, as well as the completion of heritage surveys across the entire Manna property.
Located 100km east of Kalgoorlie, the Manna Project currently hosts a resource measuring 36 million tonnes at 1.13% lithium oxide. Once drilling has been completed and the results incorporated into an upgraded MRE, the final resource estimate will be added to the completed DFS program, potentially improving the project’s economics.
“I am pleased to see the drill rigs spinning again at the Manna Lithium Project after completing a significant amount of development and planning work throughout the first half of 2023,” Global Lithium Head of Geology Stuart Peterson says.
“I am looking forward to seeing how large this resource can grow”
“To complete the heritage surveys over the entire mining lease application area is a big step forward for the further development of the project and I am looking forward to seeing how large this resource can grow now we have a clear path for exploration and resource expansion.”
In preparation for the ramp-up of activities, Global Lithium recently completed a ‘significant upgrade’ to its exploration camp at the Manna Project, including additional accommodation and operational and dining facilities to support the expanded workforce.
Based in Perth, Global Lithium’s portfolio of assets also includes the Marble Bar Lithium Project 15km north-east of Marble Bar in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. Combined, the Manna and Marble Bar projects represent a total mineral resource of 54 million tonnes at 1.09% lithium oxide.
Write to Oliver Gray at Mining.com.au
