QMines Unveils Massive 114m Copper Hit at Develin Creek
QMines Limited has reported outstanding near-surface copper intersections at its Develin Creek project, confirming the continuity of high-grade mineralisation at the Scorpion deposit and setting the stage for imminent resource upgrades and further drilling.
- 114m @ 1.64% copper intersection at Scorpion deposit
- Multiple high-grade copper, zinc, gold, and silver intercepts confirmed
- Final results validate historical drilling and extend mineralised envelope
- Resource upgrades for Scorpion and Window deposits expected Q1 2025
- Diamond drilling to commence imminently for follow-up exploration
Robust Maiden Drilling Program at Develin Creek
QMines Limited (ASX: QML) has delivered a significant milestone with the release of final assay results from its maiden Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling program at the Develin Creek copper project in Queensland. Located approximately 90km northwest of Rockhampton, the project has revealed outstanding near-surface copper intersections, notably a 114-metre intercept grading 1.64% copper at the Scorpion deposit.
This drilling campaign, completed on schedule, was designed to validate historical data, infill the resource, and test extensions to enhance geological confidence. The results confirm the tenor and continuity of high-grade massive sulphide mineralisation, reinforcing the potential for open pit mining operations.
Highlight Intersections and Geological Insights
Among the standout results, hole DCRC040 intersected 114m at 1.64% copper, 0.86% zinc, 0.3g/t gold, and 13g/t silver from just 11m depth, ending in mineralisation and indicating further down-dip potential. Similarly, hole DCRC041 returned 88m at 1.06% copper and 0.93% zinc from 3m depth. These intercepts demonstrate the deposit's consistency and continuity, critical for future mining plans.
Petrological analysis suggests the mineralisation is associated with hydrothermally altered sedimentary breccia, linked to submarine basaltic volcanism. This style aligns with volcanic-associated massive sulphide (VMS) systems akin to Cyprus and Besshi deposits, known for their economic significance.
Resource Upgrade and Strategic Outlook
QMines is on track to release updated Mineral Resource Estimates (MRE) for both the Scorpion and Window deposits in the first quarter of 2025. The drilling results will be incorporated to potentially upgrade resource classifications from Inferred to Indicated and Measured categories, enhancing the project's valuation and development prospects.
Following the RC program, a diamond drill rig is mobilising to site to commence follow-up drilling, focusing on down-dip extensions and metallurgical testwork. This next phase aims to refine the resource model and support mine planning activities.
Broader Project Context and Growth Potential
The Develin Creek project complements QMines’ Mt Chalmers copper-gold operations, collectively forming a substantial resource base with a combined JORC 2012-compliant resource of 15.1 million tonnes at 1.3% copper equivalent. The company’s strategy focuses on sustainable copper production, leveraging high-grade deposits close to existing infrastructure.
Looking ahead, QMines plans to commence further drilling at the Sulphide City deposit in Q2 2025 and advance environmental studies for Mt Chalmers. Regional exploration and updated mine planning are also slated for later in the year, underscoring a comprehensive approach to growth and value creation.
Bottom Line?
QMines’ robust drilling results at Develin Creek set a strong foundation for resource upgrades and accelerated development, but upcoming diamond drilling will be pivotal in confirming the deposit’s full potential.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming resource upgrade impact QMines’ valuation and project economics?
- What are the metallurgical characteristics of the Scorpion deposit and their implications for processing?
- Could further drilling reveal additional extensions or new deposits within the Develin Creek project area?
