Drilling at Anglo-Saxon Could Make or Break Open Pit Expansion Plans

Exploration Momentum Builds at Anglo-Saxon

Hawthorn Resources Limited has embarked on a significant exploration campaign at its Anglo-Saxon gold project, situated within the prolific South Laverton Tectonic Zone of Western Australia’s eastern Yilgarn Craton. The company has launched an 8000-metre reverse circulation (RC) drilling program, designed to bolster confidence in the existing mineral resource and to underpin plans for expanding open pit mining operations.

The Anglo-Saxon project, held under the Trouser Legs Joint Venture with Gel Resources, currently boasts a Mineral Resource Estimate of approximately 157,000 ounces of gold at a robust grade of 6.1 grams per tonne. This follows a successful open pit mining phase completed in 2021, which yielded 49,000 ounces. The new drilling initiative is a direct response to a recent positive pit optimisation study conducted by Minecomp, which factored in current gold prices and operational costs, highlighting the potential for further economic extraction.

Two-Stage Drilling Strategy Targets Resource Expansion

The program is structured in two stages, beginning with an initial 3000 metres of drilling. Depending on the outcomes and geological interpretations, a subsequent 5000 metres will follow. The primary objective is to refine the geological model, reduce uncertainties in the resource estimate, and validate the continuity of mineralisation along strike and at depth. Historical drilling has indicated promising mineralisation beneath the existing pit and along a structural corridor trending southwards, which the current program aims to delineate more clearly.

Strategically located near established gold operations such as Northern Star’s Carosue Dam and Ramelius’ Rebecca development, the Anglo-Saxon project benefits from regional infrastructure and a proven mining jurisdiction. The drilling positions have been carefully selected to support a potential first-stage cutback of the open pit, which could extend the mine life and improve project economics if successful.

Looking Ahead, Assay Results and Market Implications

Assay results from the drilling program will be released progressively, providing the market with ongoing insights into the project’s potential. Positive results could pave the way for an updated resource estimate and further feasibility studies, potentially attracting increased investor interest and enhancing the project’s valuation. The involvement of experienced geoscientists and consultants, including Mr Joseph Clarry, adds credibility to the exploration efforts and reporting standards.

While the drilling outcomes remain to be seen, Hawthorn Resources’ proactive approach and the favourable geological setting position Anglo-Saxon as a compelling asset in the competitive Western Australian gold landscape.