Centurion Drilling Risks Loom as Buxton Targets Major IOCG Discovery
Buxton Resources has secured key contracts and is set to commence its inaugural drilling program at the Centurion IOCG Project in Western Australia's West Arunta region this June, targeting a significant geophysical anomaly.
- Contracts awarded to JB Contracting and DDH1 Drilling for earthworks and drilling
- Maiden 1,000-metre diamond drillhole planned to test large-scale IOCG anomaly
- Drilling costs partially offset by $220,000 WA Government Exploration Incentive Scheme grant
- Project located in underexplored West Arunta region with strong geological potential
- Heritage agreements secured with local Aboriginal corporations
Strategic Contract Awards Set Stage for Drilling
Buxton Resources Ltd has taken a decisive step forward in its exploration journey by awarding major contracts to JB Contracting and DDH1 Drilling. These partnerships will support the company’s maiden drilling program at the Centurion Iron-Oxide Copper-Gold (IOCG) Project, located in the remote West Arunta region of Western Australia. The earthworks and drilling services contracts are crucial to unlocking the potential of this large-scale geophysical target.
Targeting a Major IOCG System
The Centurion Project is distinguished by a compelling magnetic and gravity anomaly spanning approximately 3.5 by 5 kilometres, a signature often associated with world-class IOCG deposits such as Olympic Dam and Carrapateena. Buxton plans to drill a 1,000-metre vertical diamond hole (CN001DD) designed to penetrate beneath sedimentary cover and test the basement rocks where mineralisation is expected. The program includes provisions for immediate follow-up holes to further investigate the gravity and magnetic features, allowing for a rapid and efficient exploration phase.
Cost Efficiency and Local Expertise
Buxton’s drilling campaign benefits from partial financial support through the Western Australian Government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme, which will offset up to $220,000 of drilling costs. Additionally, the selection of JB Contracting and DDH1 Drilling, both with established operations in the West Arunta region, offers operational synergies and cost advantages. This local expertise is expected to streamline logistics and reduce risks associated with remote-area drilling.
Heritage and Environmental Considerations
Recognising the importance of cultural heritage, Buxton has secured Heritage Protection Agreements with the Ngurra Kayanta and Parna Ngururrpa Aboriginal Corporations, alongside access agreements with the Kiwirrkurra People. A heritage survey completed in mid-2024 ensures that exploration activities respect local traditions and statutory requirements, reflecting Buxton’s commitment to responsible and sustainable exploration practices.
Looking Ahead
With drilling scheduled to commence in June 2025, subject to weather conditions, Buxton Resources is poised to test one of the most promising IOCG targets in a region that remains underexplored. Historical drilling by CRA in 1993 encountered technical challenges but revealed encouraging geological signs consistent with a hydrothermal system. Buxton’s modern approach, including continuous drilling and improved pre-collar techniques, aims to overcome previous limitations and deliver definitive results.
Bottom Line?
As Buxton embarks on this critical drilling campaign, the market will be watching closely for results that could redefine the West Arunta’s mineral potential.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the maiden drillhole confirm the presence of economically viable IOCG mineralisation?
- How will operational challenges in this remote region impact the drilling timeline and costs?
- What are the potential implications for Buxton’s valuation if the follow-up 'daughter' holes confirm the anomaly’s extent?
