Trek Metals Uncovers Manganese Grades Up to 58% at Christmas Creek

A New High-Grade Manganese Discovery

Trek Metals Limited (ASX – TKM) has revealed a significant manganese discovery at its 100%-owned Christmas Creek Project, located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Recent rock chip sampling returned exceptionally high manganese grades, peaking at 58.37%, which approaches the theoretical maximum manganese content in pure manganese oxide. This discovery marks a notable milestone for the company in a largely underexplored greenfields setting.

Potential Scale and Geological Context

The manganese mineralisation was identified across a cluster of outcrops spanning approximately 750 meters in strike length before being obscured by recent sand cover. The geological interpretation suggests a hydrothermal origin, similar to the world-class Woodie Woodie manganese deposits in Western Australia's Pilbara region. The presence of both high-grade manganese and iron in close proximity is characteristic of such deposits and could indicate the potential for a premium product.

Next Steps – Assays, Geophysics, and Drilling

While no drilling has yet been undertaken to test the mineralisation, Trek Metals has completed additional rock chip sampling with assay results expected by late December. The company is also planning geophysical investigations, including electromagnetics and gravity surveys, to better delineate the subsurface extent of the mineralisation. These efforts aim to define a high-priority drill target that could unlock the full scale and economic potential of the system.

Strategic Importance of Manganese

Manganese remains a critical mineral globally, essential for steel alloy manufacturing and increasingly important in lithium-ion battery production. The discovery at Christmas Creek aligns with growing demand for high-quality manganese resources, positioning Trek Metals to potentially capitalize on these market dynamics. The project benefits from established native title agreements and a history of exploration activity, providing a solid foundation for advancing development.

Outlook and Market Implications

Trek Metals’ announcement injects fresh excitement into the Christmas Creek Project, highlighting a rare opportunity to explore a high-grade manganese system in a relatively underexplored region. The upcoming assay results and planned drilling campaign will be critical in confirming the resource’s scale and grade continuity. Investors and industry watchers will be keen to see how this discovery unfolds amid the broader push for critical minerals in Australia.