Antares Metals’ ‘Marvel’ Discovery Could Double Surprise Project’s Copper Potential

A New Chapter for Surprise Copper Project

Antares Metals Limited (ASX – AM5) has announced a compelling new development in its Mt Isa North Project, Queensland, with the discovery of a fresh copper mineralisation zone dubbed ‘Marvel’. Located approximately 1.2 kilometres north of the existing Surprise Copper Mine, this new target emerged from the recently completed Phase 2 reverse circulation drilling campaign.

The standout result from drillhole ASD015 revealed an 80-metre wide intersection of disseminated sulphide and chalcopyrite mineralisation, a style distinct from the high-grade, structurally controlled mineralisation at Surprise. This discovery not only extends the known mineralised trend but also introduces a potentially large-scale copper system to Antares’ portfolio.

Validating Exploration Strategy and Regional Context

The ‘Marvel’ target is supported by a strong coincident geophysical chargeability anomaly, confirming the effectiveness of Antares’ targeting methodology. The company draws parallels between Marvel and the Barbara deposit operated by Aeris Resources, a shear-hosted copper-gold system within the Mt Isa region, suggesting promising geological analogues that could underpin significant resource potential.

In addition to Marvel, the Phase 2 drilling also confirmed an extensional copper zone at Surprise itself, with drillhole ASD008 intersecting 2 metres at 2.0% copper, indicating that the mineralised system remains open and potentially more extensive than previously understood.

Looking Ahead – Phase 3 Drilling and Broader Exploration

Early portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) results have identified three further discrete targets outside the Surprise Mine area, all slated for follow-up in the upcoming Phase 3 drilling program. Antares’ CEO, Johan Lambrechts, expressed optimism about the discoveries, highlighting the potential to more than double the mineralisation footprint at Surprise and the excitement around the new Marvel target.

While laboratory assay results for Phase 2 drilling are pending, expected within 5 to 6 weeks, the company has already commenced field activities on other prospects within its tenure, including Conglomerate Creek. Additionally, recent uranium market developments may spur increased activity at the Queens Gift uranium project, signalling Antares’ multi-commodity exploration ambitions.

Implications for Investors and the Mt Isa Region

The discovery of Marvel and the confirmation of Surprise’s extensional mineralisation underscore Antares Metals’ growing copper inventory in a globally significant mining district. The potential scale and distinct mineralisation style of Marvel could position the company well within the competitive landscape of copper exploration, particularly as demand for copper intensifies amid the energy transition.

However, it is important to note that current copper grades are based on field pXRF readings, which are indicative but not definitive. The awaited laboratory assays will be crucial in validating the economic viability of these targets and guiding future development decisions.