Morella Corporation has identified 12 new high-priority lithium exploration targets at its Mallina project in Western Australia through a detailed ground gravity survey, setting the stage for further drilling and sampling.
- 12 new high-priority exploration targets identified via ground gravity survey
- Targets up to 100m wide and 450m long within a proven spodumene pegmatite field
- Survey co-funded by WA Government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme
- Joint venture between Morella (51%) and Elevra Lithium (49%)
- Next steps include mapping, sampling, and targeted drilling
Exploration Breakthrough at Mallina
Morella Corporation Limited (ASX, 1MC) has announced a significant advancement in its lithium exploration efforts at the Mallina Lithium Project, located in Western Australia's Mid-West region. A recently completed ground gravity survey has revealed 12 new high-priority targets for spodumene-bearing pegmatite, a key lithium mineral. These targets, some extending up to 100 metres wide and 450 metres long, lie within an already established mineralised field, enhancing the prospect of meaningful discoveries.
Survey Details and Strategic Partnership
The gravity survey was conducted over tenement E47/2983, a joint venture between Morella (51%) and Elevra Lithium Limited (49%). The work was co-funded by the Western Australian Government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme, underscoring public sector support for critical battery mineral exploration. Atlas Geophysics Pty Ltd carried out the fieldwork, collecting 3,810 gravity stations on a fine 80m by 20m grid, while NewGenGeo Pty Ltd handled data processing and interpretation.
Implications of the Gravity Lows
The survey focused on identifying gravity lows within the central Mafic Gabbro unit, which are interpreted as potential large pegmatite bodies. The discovery of these gravity anomalies is particularly promising given their location within a proven spodumene-bearing pegmatite field, suggesting these concealed bodies may also host lithium mineralisation. Morella’s Managing Director James Brown highlighted the importance of these findings, noting that the results strengthen the company’s exploration pipeline and validate the strategic value of the Mallina joint venture.
Next Steps in Exploration
While the gravity survey results are encouraging, Morella is clear that further work is essential to confirm the mineral potential of these targets. The company plans to undertake detailed mapping and surface sampling to better understand the geology and mineralisation signatures. This will be followed by targeted drilling programs designed to test the anomalies and potentially delineate new lithium resources.
Context within the Lithium Market
The Mallina project sits within a region known for rare-metal spodumene pegmatites, part of the broader Split Rock Supersuite geological province that hosts several significant lithium deposits. As global demand for lithium surges, driven by electric vehicle and battery storage growth, discoveries like these could position Morella as a key player in the Australian lithium sector. The joint venture structure with Elevra also provides a collaborative framework to accelerate exploration and development.
Bottom Line?
Morella’s gravity survey has opened a promising new chapter at Mallina, but the real test lies ahead in drilling and assay results.
Questions in the middle?
- Will follow-up drilling confirm lithium mineralisation in the newly identified targets?
- How might these new targets impact Morella’s resource estimates and project valuation?
- What timelines are expected for advancing from exploration to potential development?