How WA1’s Latest Drilling Confirms High-Grade Zones at Luni Niobium Project
WA1 Resources has released new drilling results from its Luni Niobium Project, confirming the continuity of high-grade niobium zones and advancing pre-development activities ahead of a planned resource update in 2026.
- New assays confirm continuity of high-grade niobium mineralisation
- Over 80,000 metres of drilling completed with three rigs active
- Pre-development siteworks including airstrip construction underway
- Updated Mineral Resource estimate targeted for 2026
- Ongoing multidisciplinary studies supporting feasibility and approvals
Drilling Success Reinforces Luni’s Potential
WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX – WA1) has provided a comprehensive update on its 100% owned Luni Niobium Project in Western Australia, highlighting encouraging assay results from an extensive drilling campaign. The latest data affirms the continuity and thickness of high-grade niobium mineralisation zones, particularly within the eastern Indicated resource area, which is expected to play a pivotal role in the early stages of any future development.
The company has now completed over 80,000 metres of drilling since discovery, employing a combination of diamond, air core, and mud rotary techniques. The recent assays include significant intercepts with niobium oxide (Nb2O5) grades reaching up to 6.0% over substantial widths, underscoring the deposit’s robust grade profile.
Advancing Towards Resource Update and Development
WA1 is actively progressing towards an updated Mineral Resource estimate (MRE) scheduled for 2026. This update will incorporate the new drilling data aimed at increasing confidence in the resource, particularly in the key eastern zones. The company’s Managing Director, Paul Savich, emphasised the importance of these results in shaping the project’s development pathway.
Alongside drilling, WA1 has commenced critical pre-development siteworks, including clearing for a development airstrip, which will facilitate ongoing evaluation and operational logistics. These infrastructure efforts signal a clear intent to transition the project from exploration to feasibility and eventual development phases.
Comprehensive Field Activities and Community Engagement
Beyond drilling, WA1 is conducting a broad suite of field activities encompassing geophysical surveys, geotechnical studies, metallurgical sampling, and environmental and heritage assessments. The company continues to foster strong relationships with Traditional Owner groups and local community ranger teams, integrating their support into heritage and environmental programs.
These multidisciplinary efforts are designed to de-risk the project and inform mid-term workstreams, including environmental referrals and governmental assessments, which are crucial for securing approvals and advancing the project responsibly.
Looking Ahead
While the drilling results and site progress provide a solid foundation, WA1 acknowledges that further work remains. Metallurgical testwork and deeper drilling to explore primary mineralisation beneath the weathered zones are planned to refine the project’s economic potential. The company’s methodical approach reflects a commitment to building a tier 1 niobium asset in Australia’s underexplored regions.
Bottom Line?
WA1’s steady drilling success and infrastructure build position Luni for a critical resource update and next development steps in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming Mineral Resource estimate impact WA1’s project valuation?
- What are the timelines and challenges anticipated for environmental approvals?
- How might metallurgical testwork results influence future mine design and processing?