Drilling at Degrussa West Could Face Challenges Despite Promising Conductors

Solara Minerals has identified multiple compelling drill targets for gold and copper at its newly acquired Degrussa West Project following a detailed electromagnetic survey. The project lies near major regional deposits, setting the stage for an exciting exploration phase.

  • Acquisition of Degrussa West Project near Sandfire’s Degrussa Mine
  • Completion of moving loop electromagnetic (MLEM) survey revealing large conductive plates
  • Conductors coincide with favorable geological structures and magnetic anomalies
  • Historical soil and rock chip sampling support mineralisation potential
  • Drilling planned imminently with approved Program of Work
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Strategic Acquisition and Survey

Solara Minerals Ltd has recently taken a significant step in expanding its exploration footprint with the acquisition of the Degrussa West Project, located just 17 kilometres from Sandfire Resources’ prolific Degrussa Copper Gold Mine and 10 kilometres from Catalyst Metals’ Old Highway Gold Deposit. This proximity places Solara in a highly prospective geological corridor known for rich copper and gold mineralisation.

Compelling Geophysical Results

During the due diligence phase of the acquisition, Solara completed a moving loop electromagnetic (MLEM) survey over a key target area. The survey identified multiple large-scale conductive plates dipping northwards, interpreted as mineralised structures. These conductors, spanning approximately 700 metres on the western plate and 1,300 metres on the eastern plate, align with a strong magnetic anomaly and the contact zone between the Narracoota Volcanics and Karalundi Formation; both significant geological units associated with mineralisation in the region.

Historical Data Corroborates Potential

Solara’s findings build on a rich history of exploration in the area. Previous airborne electromagnetic surveys by Sandfire and Ausgold Exploration highlighted conductive bodies, while soil and rock chip sampling by Barrick Gold and others revealed anomalous concentrations of gold, copper, and associated elements. Notably, elevated gold values up to 345 parts per billion were recorded along structural trends coincident with the newly identified conductors.

Structural Complexity Favouring Mineralisation

The identified conductors coincide with the hinge of a geological fold, interpreted as a thickening of the Narracoota Volcanics. This structural complexity is considered highly favourable for concentrating mineral deposits, as folding and faulting can create traps and pathways for mineralising fluids. The intersection of a northeast-trending fault with the stratigraphy further enhances the prospectivity of these targets.

Next Steps, Drilling and Exploration

With a Program of Work already approved, Solara plans to commence drilling as soon as practicable to test these compelling targets. The drilling campaign will aim to validate the geophysical and geochemical indications of gold and copper mineralisation. This exploration phase is critical to unlocking the potential of the Degrussa West Project and could position Solara as a significant player in this mineral-rich region.

Bottom Line?

Solara’s upcoming drilling at Degrussa West could unlock significant value, but the market will be watching closely for assay results to confirm the promise of these geophysical targets.

Questions in the middle?

  • What are the expected timelines and scale for the upcoming drilling program?
  • How might Solara’s acquisition and exploration progress impact its financial position and share price?
  • Will further geophysical or geochemical surveys refine target definitions before drilling?