Environmental Permits Pending as Litchfield Targets World-Class Discovery at Oonagalabi
Litchfield Minerals is set to commence a major Phase 2 drilling program at its Oonagalabi Project, aiming to unlock a potentially world-class base metals system through targeted geophysical anomalies. The campaign will test a dual mineralisation model combining SEDEX-style and intrusive gold-bismuth signatures.
- Up to 14 reverse circulation drill holes planned for 3,750m starting late September 2025
- Focus on Bomb Diggity cluster with coincident gravity, magnetic, and VTEM conductor anomalies
- Previous drilling intersected mineralisation in every hole, confirming system continuity
- Targets include large VTEM conductor anomalies VT1 and VT2 with potential high-grade sulphides
- Environmental permitting advanced; program designed for rapid, capital-efficient testing
Setting the Stage for a Major Discovery
Litchfield Minerals Limited is preparing to ramp up exploration at its Oonagalabi Project in the Northern Territory with a comprehensive Phase 2 reverse circulation (RC) drilling campaign. Scheduled to commence in late September 2025, the program will drill up to 14 holes totaling approximately 3,750 metres. This campaign aims to rigorously test multiple high-priority geophysical and geochemical targets identified through recent surveys, including gravity, magnetic, and versatile time-domain electromagnetic (VTEM) anomalies.
A Dual Mineralisation Model Under the Microscope
The Oonagalabi system is interpreted as a large sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX)-style deposit, with an intriguing overprint of intrusive-related gold-bismuth mineralisation. This dual-system thesis is significant because it mirrors the geological fingerprints of several Tier-1 base metals camps worldwide, where multiple high-grade domains coexist within a broad mineralised architecture. The upcoming drilling will focus on testing this model, particularly targeting the Bomb Diggity cluster, where rare coincident gravity, magnetic, and VTEM conductors align near mapped mineralisation and strong conductivity and chargeability responses.
Building on Encouraging Early Results
Previous drilling at Oonagalabi has been promising, with six holes spaced roughly 150 metres apart intersecting mineralisation in every hole. This continuity underpins the confidence in the system's scale and fertility. The new campaign will expand on this by drilling twelve holes along a roughly 4-kilometre strike corridor between Oonagalabi and VT2, plus two holes at VT1, potentially extending the mineralised system to over 10 kilometres. The program includes testing the VT1 and VT2 VTEM conductor anomalies, which are highly conductive and laterally extensive, with independent geophysical reviews supporting a strong likelihood of sulphide mineralisation.
Operational Readiness and Environmental Compliance
Preparations for the drilling campaign are well advanced. Approximately 80% of earthworks are complete, including the construction of six new drill pads and the reopening of historical pads. Ten of the fourteen planned drill holes have already received environmental permits, with the remaining four targeting VT1 and VT2 awaiting final approval expected imminently. The company has proactively engaged with regulators to address bonding, water management, and flora and fauna considerations, reflecting a commitment to responsible exploration practices.
Looking Ahead
Litchfield Minerals’ Managing Director emphasises that this campaign is designed to be capital-efficient and high-conviction, aiming to quickly answer critical questions about the system’s potential. Should the drilling confirm the anticipated mineralisation, Oonagalabi could evolve into a world-class base metals discovery, significantly enhancing the company’s asset portfolio and market position. The drill rig mobilization later this month will be closely watched by investors and analysts eager for assay results and further geological insights.
Bottom Line?
As drilling kicks off, all eyes will be on Oonagalabi to see if it can deliver on its promise as a Tier-1 scale base metals system.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the Phase 2 drilling confirm the dual SEDEX and intrusive Au-Bi mineralisation model?
- How quickly will assay results be available to validate the geophysical targets?
- What impact will final environmental permitting have on the drilling schedule and program scope?