FMR Begins 4,000m Diamond Drilling Program Targeting Large Porphyry Copper System
FMR Resources has initiated a significant 4,000-metre diamond drilling program at its Southern Porphyry target within the Llahuin Project JV in Chile, aiming to validate a large porphyry copper system. Assay results from the first drillhole are expected within weeks, marking a pivotal step in the company’s exploration journey.
- Phase I diamond drilling commenced at Southern Porphyry, Llahuin Project, Chile
- 4,000 metres planned over three months with directional drilling capabilities
- First drillhole at Target A to 1,600 metres testing geophysical anomalies
- Downhole geophysics to refine 3D models and identify new targets
- Assay results expected 4–6 weeks post-drilling, guiding follow-up plans
Exploration Milestone Achieved
FMR Resources Limited (ASX, FMR) has officially commenced its maiden diamond drilling program at the Southern Porphyry target, part of the Llahuin Project joint venture with Southern Hemisphere Mining Limited in Chile. This marks a significant milestone following the June 2025 acquisition announcement, reflecting the company’s swift progression from transaction to field operations within just three months.
Strategic Drilling Program
The Phase I program is designed to deliver approximately 4,000 metres of directional diamond drilling over the next quarter. The initial focus is on Target A, where the first drillhole is planned to reach 1,600 metres. This hole aims to test integrated geophysical models derived from magnetics, magnetotellurics, and induced polarisation surveys, alongside surface geological mapping and historic drillhole data. The objective is to evaluate both shallow epithermal mineralisation and a deeper, large-scale porphyry copper system.
Innovative Techniques and Flexibility
FMR is employing downhole geophysics on all drillholes, including induced polarisation, electromagnetic conductivity, and spectral gamma logging. This approach will refine existing 3D geophysical models and help identify new targets as drilling progresses. The directional drilling capability allows for multiple daughter holes from the same platform, enabling rapid follow-up on any promising mineralisation encountered, thereby maximising geological insight and operational efficiency.
Geological Context and Potential
The Southern Porphyry target lies within a six-kilometre mineralised corridor known for hosting multiple copper–gold–molybdenum porphyry centres. Recent field mapping and re-logging of historic drillholes have revealed alteration and mineralisation signatures typical of a telescoped system, where epithermal-style veining overlies a deeper porphyry core. These findings underpin the rationale for the current drilling campaign and highlight the prospectivity of the Llahuin Project.
Looking Ahead
Assay results from the first drillhole are anticipated within 4 to 6 weeks after completion, with subsequent results to be reported progressively. These data will be critical in refining the geological model and prioritising follow-up drilling, including potential additional holes at Target A and advancing to Target D. The company’s management emphasizes the importance of this program in unlocking the full potential of the Southern Porphyry system and advancing FMR’s strategic objectives in copper exploration.
Bottom Line?
As assay results loom, FMR’s maiden drilling at Southern Porphyry could redefine its copper exploration trajectory in Chile.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the initial assay results confirm the presence of economically viable copper mineralisation?
- How will the downhole geophysics data influence the prioritisation of follow-up drillholes?
- What implications could successful drilling have for FMR’s broader exploration strategy and valuation?