Solara Signs Heritage Deal Covering Four Key Exploration Projects
Solara Minerals has secured a Heritage Agreement with Traditional Owners, enabling early-stage exploration and drilling across multiple Western Australian project areas, including the promising Degrussa West site.
- Heritage Agreement signed with Nharnuwangga Wajarri and Ngarlawannga peoples
- Agreement covers Degrussa West, Wilgeena, Wagtail, and Mikhaburra projects
- Facilitates early-stage exploration and drilling after heritage surveys
- Focus on a key geophysical and geochemical target at Degrussa West
- Collaboration aims to preserve culture and environment alongside exploration
Heritage Agreement Unlocks Exploration Potential
Solara Minerals Ltd (ASX – SLA) has taken a significant step forward in its Western Australian exploration campaign by executing a Heritage Agreement with the Nharnuwangga Wajarri and Ngarlawannga peoples, represented by the Jidi Jidi Aboriginal Corporation (JJAC). This agreement covers four key project areas – Degrussa West, Wilgeena, Wagtail, and Mikhaburra, and establishes a framework for respectful collaboration between Solara and the Traditional Owners.
The agreement is designed to ensure that exploration activities proceed with cultural sensitivity and environmental stewardship. It formalises communication channels and joint oversight, allowing Solara to conduct early-stage exploration work, including drilling, once heritage surveys are completed by the JJAC.
Targeting Promising Geophysical Anomalies at Degrussa West
Among the covered areas, Degrussa West stands out as a focal point for upcoming exploration efforts. The site hosts a compelling target located at the contact between the Peak Hill Schist and the Naracoota Volcanics formations. This target has been identified through previous geophysical surveys, including Moving Loop Electromagnetic (MLEM) and Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic (VTEM) methods, revealing north and south dipping plates indicative of potential mineralisation.
Solara plans to undertake a heritage survey at Degrussa West shortly, which will precede drilling activities aimed at testing this structurally significant target. The combination of geophysical and geochemical signals has raised expectations for discovering valuable mineral deposits in this area.
Balancing Exploration with Cultural and Environmental Respect
The Heritage Agreement underscores Solara’s commitment to working closely with the Traditional Owners to preserve cultural heritage and protect the environment. By involving the JJAC in surveying and monitoring, the company aims to foster a collaborative relationship that respects Indigenous rights and knowledge while advancing its exploration objectives.
This approach aligns with broader industry trends where mining companies increasingly recognise the importance of Indigenous partnerships in securing social licence and ensuring sustainable operations.
Looking Ahead
With the Heritage Agreement now in place, Solara is positioned to progress its exploration programs with greater certainty and community support. The outcomes of the upcoming heritage surveys and subsequent drilling will be closely watched by investors and analysts, as they could materially influence the company’s resource potential and development trajectory.
Bottom Line?
Solara’s new Heritage Agreement opens the door to critical exploration milestones, setting the stage for potential discoveries and deeper community engagement.
Questions in the middle?
- When will the heritage surveys at Degrussa West be completed and drilling commence?
- What are the initial expectations for mineralisation based on the MLEM and VTEM data?
- How will Solara manage ongoing collaboration and environmental safeguards with the Traditional Owners?
