FMR Resources has completed detailed geological mapping and historic drillhole re-logging at its Southern Porphyry target in Chile, confirming surface indications of a copper porphyry system and setting the stage for drilling in late 2025.
- Detailed field mapping confirms upper levels of copper porphyry at surface
- Historic drillhole re-logging supports surface alteration observations
- Geophysical data reprocessing underway to refine deep drill targets
- Phase I drilling planned for Q4 2025 with contractors being engaged
- Project is a joint venture with Southern Hemisphere Mining Ltd in Chile
Exploration Progress at Southern Porphyry
FMR Resources Limited (ASX – FMR) has provided a comprehensive update on its Southern Porphyry target within the Llahuin Project in Chile, marking a significant step forward in its copper-gold-molybdenum exploration efforts. The company has completed detailed geological mapping across the target area, revealing alteration assemblages consistent with the upper levels of a mineralised copper porphyry system exposed at surface. This finding bolsters the hypothesis that a substantial porphyry system exists at depth, a prospect that has long intrigued exploration teams.
Historic Data Validation and Geophysical Insights
Complementing the fieldwork, FMR has re-logged historic drillholes, integrating assay data that aligns with the surface mapping observations. Notably, drillhole 22LHRC024 exhibited hydrothermal alteration and disseminated chalcopyrite indicative of porphyry mineralisation. These validations provide a stronger geological framework for targeting. Meanwhile, the company is advancing geophysical reprocessing, including magneto-telluric and induced polarization surveys, to refine drill targets at depth. The integration of these datasets is expected to sharpen the focus for the upcoming drilling campaign.
Drilling Plans and Strategic Positioning
FMR is actively tendering drilling contractors, with engagements anticipated within the next 4 to 6 weeks. The Phase I drilling program is on track to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025, aiming to test the refined targets generated from the combined geological and geophysical work. This drilling campaign represents a critical milestone for the Southern Porphyry JV, which grants FMR the right to earn up to a 60% interest in the project through its partnership with Southern Hemisphere Mining Ltd.
Project Context and Potential
The Llahuin Project is strategically located in Chile’s prolific Coquimbo Region, near Illapel and well-serviced by infrastructure, including proximity to the electricity grid and sealed airstrips. The Southern Porphyry target lies within a corridor of proven copper porphyry fertility extending over approximately 6 kilometers. Early-stage exploration results, including surface alteration and historic mineralisation, suggest the potential for a large, telescoped copper-gold-molybdenum system. If confirmed, this could be transformative for FMR’s portfolio and position in the copper sector.
Looking Ahead
While no new assay results were released in this update, the forthcoming geophysical reprocessing outcomes and the imminent drilling campaign will be pivotal in validating the exploration model and advancing resource definition. FMR’s methodical approach, combining detailed mapping, historic data integration, and modern geophysics, exemplifies a disciplined pathway toward discovery in a highly prospective region.
Bottom Line?
FMR’s upcoming drilling at Southern Porphyry will be a key test of its early-stage exploration promise in Chile’s copper heartland.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the geophysical reprocessing reveal about the depth and size of the porphyry system?
- How will the Phase I drilling results influence FMR’s stake and future investment in the Llahuin Project?
- What are the potential timelines and capital requirements for advancing beyond initial drilling?