Llahuin Drilling Extends Cerro-Ferro Strike by 300m with 128m at 0.41% CuEq

Robust Drilling Results Signal Resource Growth

Southern Hemisphere Mining Limited (ASX: SUH) has reported compelling results from its 2024 reverse circulation (RC) drilling program at the Llahuin Copper-Gold-Moly Project in Chile’s Coquimbo region. The campaign, comprising 2,728 metres drilled over 26 holes, delivered multiple wide zones of copper-gold mineralisation with encouraging grades, including standout intercepts such as 105 metres at 0.64% copper equivalent (CuEq) from surface and 128 metres at 0.41% CuEq from 16 metres depth.

These results build on prior drilling success and notably extend the strike length of the Cerro-Ferro mineralised system by 300 metres to 2.2 kilometres, with the mineralisation remaining open along strike. Many holes ended in mineralisation, underscoring the potential for further resource expansion both laterally and at depth.

Advancing Depth Potential with Diamond Drilling

Recognising the promise of deeper mineralisation, Southern Hemisphere plans to follow up with diamond drilling in the first half of 2025. These diamond tails will test the depth extensions of the mineralised zones, aiming to refine the resource model and assess the potential for higher-grade underground mining opportunities beyond the current open pit focus.

The company’s chairman, Mark Stowell, highlighted the strategic importance of Llahuin within a rapidly emerging copper-gold district, noting its proximity to the El Espino mine, currently under construction just 8 kilometres west by Pucobre and Resource Capital Funds. This regional context enhances Llahuin’s appeal as a significant copper-gold asset with infrastructure advantages.

Water Resources and Infrastructure Implications

All 2024 drill holes intersected water between 40 and 60 metres depth, with flow testing indicating a rate of 40 litres per minute of fresh, though non-potable, water. This onsite water availability could be a valuable asset for future mining operations, potentially reducing reliance on external water sources, a critical factor in Chile’s arid mining regions.

Geophysical Surveys and Regional Exploration Synergies

Complementing the drilling, a Magneto-Telluric (MT) survey is nearing completion, aimed at refining deep copper targets beneath the known mineralisation. Integration of MT data with existing geophysical and geochemical datasets is expected to enhance targeting precision for future exploration phases.

Southern Hemisphere’s approach leverages advanced geochemical footprint modelling and detailed geological mapping, positioning Llahuin to capitalize on the growing investor interest in Chile’s copper sector amid global electrification and green energy trends.

Outlook and Strategic Positioning

The Llahuin project’s expanding resource footprint, combined with its location near a major developing mine and positive drilling results, underscores its potential as a flagship copper-gold asset. The company’s commitment to advancing towards mine study stages reflects confidence in unlocking significant value beyond the current JORC resource estimates.

As Southern Hemisphere prepares for diamond drilling and further exploration, the market will be watching closely for results that could redefine the scale and economics of this promising Chilean project.