Pilbara Expansion Raises Stakes for Golden State Mining’s Next Exploration Phase
Golden State Mining has significantly increased its exploration ground in the Pilbara’s Mallina Basin, setting the stage for a substantial air-core drilling campaign targeting promising gold mineralisation.
- Acquisition of 122 km² new tenement adjacent to Yule project
- Total exploration footprint now 678 km² in Mallina Basin
- Heritage survey underway to support planned 4,000m air-core drilling
- Targets include granite-greenstone geology and Millindinna Intrusive Suite
- Proximity to major regional deposits like the 11.2 Moz Hemi deposit
Strategic Expansion in a Proven Gold Province
Golden State Mining Limited (ASX – GSM) has taken a decisive step to bolster its presence in Western Australia’s Pilbara region by applying for an additional 122 square kilometres of exploration ground adjacent to its existing Yule project. This move expands GSM’s total landholding in the Mallina Basin to a substantial 678 square kilometres, positioning the company firmly within a highly prospective gold belt.
The Mallina Basin is renowned for hosting significant gold deposits, including the nearby 11.2 million ounce Hemi deposit, underscoring the potential value of GSM’s expanded tenure. The new tenement application (E47/5318) lies strategically between key geological features, the Sholl and Mallina Shear Zones, and straddles the boundary between granitic and sedimentary rock units, a setting often conducive to orogenic and intrusive-related gold mineralisation.
Preparing for a High-Impact Drilling Campaign
With statutory approvals secured and heritage surveys scheduled for July 2025, GSM is gearing up for a ~4,000 metre air-core drilling program. This campaign aims to test multiple newly identified gold targets highlighted by independent geological consultants, including the intriguing Millindinna Intrusive Suite, a deformed mafic intrusive unit that has not been previously drilled despite its geological similarity to mineralised zones at Hemi.
Previous exploration in the area has been limited, largely constrained by thick sedimentary cover that obscures outcrop and has restricted earlier efforts to magnetic surveys. GSM’s planned drilling represents a fresh and focused attempt to penetrate this cover and unlock the underlying gold potential.
Positioning for Discovery and Growth
Managing Director Michael Moore emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion, noting GSM’s eagerness to grow its footprint in a region that continues to deliver exciting exploration results. The company’s approach combines geological expertise with targeted drilling to maximise the chances of uncovering new gold mineralisation.
While the tenement application is still pending approval, GSM is actively working to expedite the process and commence drilling as soon as possible. The upcoming exploration phase will be closely watched by investors and analysts eager to see whether GSM can replicate the success of its regional neighbours.
Bottom Line?
Golden State Mining’s expanded Pilbara footprint and imminent drilling mark a pivotal moment that could redefine its exploration trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the upcoming air-core drilling confirm the presence of significant gold mineralisation beneath the sedimentary cover?
- How quickly will regulatory approvals and heritage surveys be completed to allow drilling to commence?
- Could GSM’s exploration success trigger further land acquisitions or partnerships in the Mallina Basin?
