How Equinox Resources Plans to Unlock High-Grade Antimony at Alturas

Permit Approval Marks a Major Step Forward

Equinox Resources Limited (ASX: EQN) has announced the granting of a Multi-Year Area-Based Notice of Work permit by the British Columbia Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals for its Alturas Antimony Project. This approval authorises a suite of exploration activities including drilling, induced polarisation geophysical surveys, and geochemical sampling across a 7 square kilometre area. The permit is a pivotal regulatory milestone that enables Equinox to advance its exploration strategy on a high-grade antimony deposit located in a historically productive corridor.

Antimony, a critical mineral with increasing demand in North America, is central to Equinox’s ambitions. The project area has demonstrated exceptional tenor, with surface sampling returning antimony assays as high as 69.98% Sb, underscoring the potential for near-surface mineralisation that could be economically significant.

Collaborative Indigenous Engagement and Environmental Considerations

Equinox’s approach to permitting has been marked by proactive and respectful engagement with four local First Nations groups: the Shuswap Band, Okanagan Indian Band, Ktunaxa Nation Council, and Splatsin. The company addressed concerns related to wildlife, land access, and cultural heritage through a revised Work Management and Mitigation Plan. This collaborative process not only mitigates environmental and social risks but also fosters potential Indigenous participation through local enterprises, reflecting a modern and inclusive approach to resource development.

Comprehensive 2025 Exploration Program Underway

Preparations for the 2025 field season are well advanced. Equinox has commissioned a high-resolution LiDAR survey to map terrain and structural features critical for targeting mineralisation along the 1.5-kilometre mineralised shear zone that hosts the historic Alps-Alturas mine. Following this, geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and an induced polarisation geophysical survey will refine drill targets.

The integration of these datasets into a 3D GIS environment will guide drill planning, with a maiden drill program potentially commencing in late 2025 or 2026, subject to results and approvals. The drilling aims to test the down-dip extent of high-grade stibnite mineralisation and explore structural repetitions along the shear corridor.

Bulk Sampling and Metallurgical Assessment Pending

In parallel with exploration, Equinox has submitted a separate Notice of Work application to extract up to 10,000 tonnes of mineralised material for bulk sampling. This step is critical to assess the metallurgy and direct shipping ore potential, which could accelerate the project’s path toward commercialisation. The decision on this application is expected by mid to late 2025.

Managing Director Zac Komur highlighted the significance of the permit and the company’s clear strategy to fast-track exploration and development amid a rapidly growing North American antimony market. The Alturas Project’s advancement reflects both the technical promise of the deposit and Equinox’s commitment to responsible development.