Heritage Survey Completion Critical Before Drilling Could Unlock Ilgarari Copper Potential
Lord Resources has initiated a heritage survey at its Ilgarari Copper Project, paving the way for targeted drilling programs focused on high-grade copper zones. The survey, conducted in partnership with the Ngarlawangga people, is a critical step before site preparation and rig mobilisation.
- Heritage survey commenced at Ilgarari Copper Project
- Survey covers Main and Alac zones with known high-grade copper mineralisation
- Collaboration with Ngarlawangga Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC
- Upcoming drilling targets extensions of copper mineralisation and magnetic anomalies
- Survey results expected by mid-June 2025 ahead of drilling mobilisation
Heritage Survey Marks Key Milestone
Lord Resources Limited (ASX – LRD) has taken a significant step forward in advancing its Ilgarari Copper Project in Western Australia by commencing a heritage survey. This survey is a prerequisite for the company’s planned drilling programs and is being conducted in close collaboration with the Ngarlawangga people, the registered native title holders for the area. Their involvement through the Ngarlawangga Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC underscores the importance of respectful engagement with traditional owners in resource development.
Targeting High-Grade Copper Zones
The heritage survey focuses on the Main and Alac zones, where previous drilling has revealed promising high-grade copper mineralisation. Notable intercepts include 17 meters at 1.27% copper and 7 meters at 2.04% copper in one hole, and another with 4 meters grading 3.42% copper. These results highlight the potential for economically significant copper deposits. Additionally, magnetic anomalies identified between and beneath these zones suggest further mineralisation may be present at depth, which the upcoming diamond drilling program aims to test.
Preparing for Drilling and Exploration Progress
Completion of the heritage survey is expected by mid-June 2025, after which Lord Resources plans to begin site preparation and mobilise drilling rigs. The forthcoming reverse circulation drilling will target extensions of known mineralisation and geophysical anomalies, while the deep diamond drilling will explore a regionally significant magnetic high that could indicate additional copper resources. These efforts align with Lord Resources’ broader strategy to expand its portfolio of future-facing metals in Western Australia, including copper, gold, and lithium.
Strategic Collaboration and Forward Outlook
Lord Resources’ engagement with the Ngarlawangga people reflects a growing industry emphasis on indigenous partnerships and native title respect, which can be critical for project approvals and community support. CEO Andrew Taylor, who is also the company’s Competent Person for exploration results, has emphasised the importance of these collaborations alongside the technical work. While the heritage survey and drilling programs carry inherent uncertainties, the company’s methodical approach positions it well to unlock further value from the Ilgarari project.
Bottom Line?
As heritage clearance nears completion, all eyes turn to the drilling results that could redefine Ilgarari’s copper potential.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific targets will the upcoming drilling programs prioritise beyond the Main and Alac zones?
- How might the magnetic anomalies influence the scale and grade expectations for the deposit?
- What are the timelines and regulatory hurdles anticipated after the heritage survey before full-scale drilling begins?
