Woodlark Gold Project Extends Surface Mineralisation with 63.6 g/t Peak Assay

Extending the Gold Footprint

Geopacific Resources Limited (ASX, GPR) has announced a significant advance in its exploration efforts at the Woodlark Gold Project in Papua New Guinea. Recent auger sampling has revealed high-grade gold mineralisation extending the surface footprint at key prospects including MacKenzie and Wayai Creek. Notably, assays have returned multiple samples exceeding 1.0 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, with a standout peak of 63.6 g/t at the northernmost line of the MacKenzie prospect.

This discovery is particularly compelling given the relatively shallow depth of the auger samples, which were collected using conventional hand augers to less than one metre depth. The results highlight coherent gold anomalies over strike lengths of more than one kilometre, suggesting a robust and potentially extensive mineralised system.

Strategic Trenching and Upcoming Drilling

To build on these encouraging surface results, Geopacific has commenced trenching activities aimed at refining the orientation and extent of mineralisation. Trenching at Little MacKenzie and Wayai Creek is underway, with assay results expected in the coming months. This preparatory work is critical for optimising drill targeting and understanding the geological controls on mineralisation.

Looking ahead, the company has mobilised drilling equipment for a major exploration program scheduled to start in June 2025. This program will comprise approximately 30,000 metres of reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling designed to test both known mineralisation and new targets identified through recent sampling and geophysical surveys. The drilling campaign represents a significant step in Geopacific’s strategy to expand and upgrade the Woodlark resource base.

Resource Context and Geological Potential

The Woodlark Gold Project currently hosts a JORC-compliant mineral resource of 1.67 million ounces of gold at an average grade of 1.07 g/t, predominantly classified as indicated and inferred resources. The recent surface sampling and trenching results add to a growing pipeline of exploration targets within a geologically favourable setting characterised by epithermal-style mineralisation and structurally controlled gold deposits.

Geopacific’s CEO, James Fox, emphasised the significance of these findings, noting that the high-grade surface anomalies and extensive strike lengths reinforce the prospectivity of the Woodlark area. He highlighted the upcoming drilling program as a pivotal phase aimed at converting exploration success into resource growth and ultimately advancing the project towards development.

Technical and Operational Notes

The auger sampling program was conducted with approximately 100-metre spacing along lines oriented east-west and northeast-southwest, covering under-explored southwestern portions of the project area. The sampling targeted favourable lithologies and structural corridors identified through magnetic and geochemical surveys. Assays were performed using industry-standard fire assay methods with multi-element analysis to characterize the mineralisation style.

Trenching results will be integrated with the auger data to refine drill collar locations, with a staged drilling approach prioritizing well-defined targets such as Little MacKenzie, which offers both high-grade potential and logistical accessibility. The company is also assessing broader regional prospects to sustain exploration momentum beyond the current program.