NickelSearch (ASX:NIS) has launched reverse circulation drilling at the recently acquired Mt Isa North Project in a program poised to take two weeks, with results expected in the new year.
The Surprise copper prospect within the project has historical drill intercepts identifying thick, ‘high-grade’ copper mineralisation and is the first to be drill tested by NickelSearch.
The Surprise copper-gold mine had produced 5,600 tonnes of material, grading 10-22% copper and 2-4g/t gold.
NickelSearch says its initial drill program comprises roughly 11 holes for about 1,500m and aims to confirm historical drilling while testing extensions of the copper mineralisation.
CEO Johan Lambrechts says the company is thrilled to have investors along for the ride the company hunts for the “red metal” in Queensland.
“NickelSearch has a ‘laser’ focus on exploring the potential of this newly acquired project suite and to build opportunities for our investors. Our maiden drill program at the Surprise copper prospect aims to validate historical drilling and extend known mineralisation,” Lambrechts says.
“It will form the basis of future activities at Surprise as we plan to build something meaningful there. The greater project suite includes several additional and exciting copper prospects, which we will explore in conjunction with our main targets and priorities.
“We also have strong uranium prospects in the region, but for the near term, we will focus on advancing the copper prospects and our shareholder value.”
The historical Surprise Copper Mine is situated about 80km northeast of Mount Isa and is considered a structurally hosted high-grade copper-gold target.
Write to Adam Orlando at Mining.com.au
Images: NickelSearch
