Lunnon Metals has launched a co-funded diamond drilling program at its high-potential Defiance West target near the historic Victory-Defiance Gold Mine, aiming to unlock new gold mineralisation in a previously untested area.
- Co-funded diamond drilling program initiated at Defiance West target
- Target area adjacent to Victory-Defiance Gold Mine and Conqueror deposit
- Program supported by Western Australian Government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme
- First deep bedrock test over 4km² area with potential for ‘Defiance-style’ gold lodes
- Lunnon Metals leverages recent successes at Lady Herial and Guiding Star prospects
Exploration Momentum Builds at Defiance West
Lunnon Metals Limited (ASX: LM8) has commenced a pivotal diamond drilling program at its Defiance West target, part of the company’s broader Kambalda Gold & Nickel Project (KGNP) in Western Australia. This initiative, co-funded by the Western Australian Government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS), represents the first deep bedrock exploration in a 4 square kilometre area adjacent to the historically significant Victory-Defiance Gold Mine.
The Defiance West target is strategically located in the footwall of Lunnon’s Foster nickel mine and immediately southwest of the Conqueror gold deposit, discovered by WMC Resources and now held by Gold Fields Ltd. The area has remained largely untested at depth, making this drilling program a critical step in assessing its gold potential.
Targeting ‘Defiance-Style’ Gold Mineralisation
The program aims to test for the presence of gently dipping, quartz-breccia gold lodes analogous to those found at the Beta/Hunt mine to the north. These so-called 'Defiance-style' lodes occur within favourable rock types such as Lunnon Basalt and iron-rich Lunnon Sediment, which have previously hosted significant discoveries including the 2018 Father's Day Vein.
Recent exploration successes at Lady Herial and Guiding Star, both within Lunnon’s tenure, have demonstrated the presence of extensive gold mineralised structures in the hanging wall of the Foster nickel mine. The current drilling will extend this exploration into the footwall, potentially expanding the company’s gold resource footprint.
Strategic Backing and Regional Significance
The EIS funding underscores the Western Australian Government’s commitment to supporting mineral exploration in the region. Managing Director Edmund Ainscough expressed enthusiasm about the program, highlighting the opportunity to aggressively test Lunnon’s ground surrounded by some of Western Australia’s most prolific gold mines.
The KGNP sits within the Kambalda/St Ives gold camp, one of Australia’s most prolific gold production centres, with over 15 million ounces of gold mined historically. The proximity to major infrastructure, including nearby gold processing plants operated by Gold Fields, enhances the project’s development potential.
Looking Ahead
The initial phase involves two diamond drill holes totaling approximately 1,800 metres. Results from this program will be closely watched by investors and analysts, as positive outcomes could significantly enhance Lunnon Metals’ resource base and exploration upside. The company’s integrated gold and nickel focus within a world-class district positions it well to capitalise on both commodities’ market dynamics.
Bottom Line?
The Defiance West drilling program could redefine Lunnon Metals’ gold potential and reshape investor expectations in the Kambalda district.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the drilling confirm the presence of ‘Defiance-style’ gold lodes at depth?
- How might positive results impact Lunnon Metals’ resource estimates and valuation?
- What are the timelines and next steps following the initial drilling phase?