Montezuma Drilling Yields Up to 9.16% Antimony Equivalent and 3,254 g/t Silver Equivalent

Strong Start to Extensive Drilling Campaign

Lode Resources Ltd (ASX – LDR) has released the first batch of assay results from its ambitious 50-to-60-hole drilling program at the Montezuma Antimony & Silver Project, situated in Tasmania's renowned West Coast Mining Province. The initial nine drill holes have returned multiple high-grade intercepts, with antimony equivalent grades reaching as high as 9.16% and silver equivalent grades up to 3,254 grams per tonne. These results underscore the project's potential as a significant source of critical minerals.

New Lode Discovery and Mineralisation Extent

Notably, the drilling has uncovered a second semi-parallel antimony-silver lode alongside numerous stockwork vein zones, expanding the known mineralised footprint. Mineralisation was intercepted in every drill hole to date, indicating robust continuity. The deposit remains open both along strike and at depth, suggesting further upside as drilling progresses.

Strategic Importance of Montezuma

Montezuma stands out as Tasmania's only antimony project, a metal classified as critical by both Australian federal and state governments, as well as by many Western nations. Antimony's role in renewable energy technologies and supply chain security has become increasingly vital, especially amid recent export restrictions from China, the world's dominant producer. Lode Resources’ Managing Director, Ted Leschke, highlighted that the project not only delivers high-grade mineralisation but also enhances Tasmania’s credentials in critical minerals.

Infrastructure and Metallurgical Progress

The project benefits from existing mining and beneficiation infrastructure, including grid power, crushing and milling equipment, gravity tables, spirals, and a recently constructed tailings dam. Preliminary metallurgical test work indicates promising recoveries for antimony, silver, lead, and copper, supporting the economic viability of the deposit. Further metallurgical studies and pilot-scale beneficiation are planned as drilling continues.

Pending Assays and Next Steps

While the initial focus has been on antimony and silver, gold assay results from the first nine holes are awaited, which could add further value to the project. Additional drill holes have been completed with assays underway at multiple ALS laboratories due to the volume of samples. The ongoing drilling campaign aims to refine resource estimates and explore extensions, with results expected to shape the next phase of development.