Helix Resources reveals compelling evidence of large-scale copper-gold mineralisation at its White Hills Project in Arizona, highlighting dual mineralisation styles and plans for targeted drilling and geophysical surveys.
- Integration of historical geophysical, geological, and geochemical data indicates porphyry copper-gold potential
- Two mineralisation generations identified, Cretaceous porphyry copper-gold and Tertiary detachment fault gold
- Historical drillholes focused on gold, missing copper assays despite high copper in surface samples
- Project strategically located near major copper and gold deposits with strong infrastructure access
- Planned exploration includes up to 2,000m diamond drilling, expanded soil sampling, and geophysical surveys
Strategic Acquisition and Geological Context
Helix Resources’ recent acquisition of the White Hills Copper-Gold Project in Arizona marks a significant step in its US exploration portfolio. Situated at the northern end of the Arizona Arc and adjacent to the Gold Basin Joint Venture, White Hills occupies a geologically rich corridor known for world-class porphyry copper and gold deposits. The project’s location also intersects the southern extent of the Walker Lane gold trend, a prolific gold-producing region in Nevada.
Dual Mineralisation Styles Unveiled
Through a comprehensive review and integration of historical geophysical, geological, and geochemical datasets, Helix has identified strong indicators of two distinct mineralisation events. The first is Cretaceous-aged porphyry copper-gold mineralisation, evidenced by copper anomalism and granitic intrusions typical of the Arizona Arc. The second is Tertiary-aged detachment fault-style gold mineralisation, akin to the multi-million-ounce epithermal gold deposits found along the Walker Lane trend.
Historical Data Reveals Untapped Copper Potential
Historical exploration at White Hills primarily targeted gold, with 10 drillholes analyzed solely for gold content. However, surface rock chip samples reveal copper grades as high as 5.7%, coinciding with a gold anomaly spanning over a kilometre. This oversight in previous drilling highlights a compelling copper-gold system yet to be fully tested. The presence of radiometric potassium anomalies and interpreted Cretaceous intrusions further supports the porphyry copper potential.
Infrastructure and Proximity to Major Mines
White Hills benefits from excellent infrastructure, located just 1.5 hours by road from Las Vegas and approximately 50 kilometres from the Mineral Park copper porphyry mine, currently undergoing a substantial expansion. This proximity to an operating mine and major transport routes enhances the project’s logistical appeal and potential economic viability.
Forward Exploration Plans
Helix plans an initial diamond drilling program of up to 2,000 metres to re-examine historical drill areas with comprehensive copper assays included. This will be complemented by expanded soil sampling and potentially new geophysical surveys such as induced polarization and passive seismic to refine target zones. The company also intends to extend exploration activities onto the broader Gold Basin Joint Venture area, aiming to delineate the scale and continuity of mineralisation.
Management Perspective
Executive Chairman Mike Povey emphasised the strategic importance of White Hills, noting the project's alignment with growing US policy support for domestic copper production. He highlighted the transformative potential of consolidating White Hills with Gold Basin, underscoring Helix’s commitment to unlocking long-term shareholder value through disciplined exploration.
Bottom Line?
Helix’s upcoming drilling and geophysical programs at White Hills could redefine its copper-gold resource potential and reshape its growth trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the upcoming drill program confirm significant copper mineralisation alongside gold at White Hills?
- How might the dual mineralisation styles influence the project’s development strategy and economics?
- What impact will evolving US copper policies have on Helix’s ability to attract investment and advance the project?