Tasman Uncovers Vast New Conductive Zone Near Vulcan Drill Hole VUD 008

A New Frontier at Vulcan

Tasman Resources has announced the discovery of a substantial new conductive target zone approximately 3 kilometres northeast of its northernmost drill hole, VUD 008, at the Vulcan project. This revelation stems from advanced magnetotelluric (MT) and seismic surveys conducted in late 2024 and early 2025, which have delineated a 7-kilometre prospective conductive area that could redefine the exploration potential of the region.

Revisiting VUD 008 – A Benchmark Drill Hole

Drilled in 2011, VUD 008 remains a pivotal reference point for Tasman’s exploration efforts. The hole penetrated nearly 180 metres of mineralised basement rock, revealing an average copper grade of 0.19%, gold at 0.10 grams per tonne, alongside uranium and molybdenum. Notably, a higher-grade zone within this intersection showed copper concentrations exceeding 0.6%, accompanied by elevated gold and molybdenum values. The presence of bornite, a copper-iron sulphide mineral, with higher copper-to-sulphur ratios than previously recorded, suggests a complex sulphide zoning that could guide future targeting of richer mineralisation.

Geophysical Insights and Exploration Implications

The recent MT and seismic surveys have not only expanded the known conductive zone but also provided a high-definition cross-sectional view extending to depths of 5 kilometres. This includes a deep conductive feeder zone over 1 kilometre wide, interpreted as a pathway for metal-rich fluids linked to a significant magmatic event 1.59 billion years ago. The conductive anomaly’s alignment with basement faults, imaged through seismic velocity models, underscores the dynamic geological processes that have shaped the mineralisation.

Supporting Research and Future Directions

Complementing the field data, a recent peer-reviewed study published in Exploration Geophysics offers a detailed interpretation of the MT and seismic results. The research highlights the importance of integrating drill hole data with geophysical inversions to map fluid pathways critical to ore formation. This integrated approach enhances the precision of exploration targeting, suggesting that the newly identified conductive zone could host commercially attractive mineralisation yet to be drilled.

What Lies Ahead for Tasman Resources?

While the conductive zone presents an exciting new target, it remains untested by drilling. The continuity, grade, and economic viability of mineralisation within this area are still unknown. Tasman’s next steps will likely focus on detailed drilling campaigns to validate the geophysical interpretations and assess the resource potential. Success here could significantly enhance the Vulcan project’s profile and attract increased market interest.