Briggs Drillhole Returns 222m at 0.26% Copper, Mineralisation Open at Depth
Canterbury Resources reports encouraging initial assay results from deep drilling at its Briggs copper deposit, confirming robust mineralisation and extending exploration potential. Further results and drilling progress are set to shape the project's next phase.
- Top 231.2m of drillhole 25BRD0037 shows consistent copper mineralisation
- Significant intervals include 54m at 0.31% Cu with molybdenum and silver credits
- Mineralisation remains open below current assay depth; further results pending
- Drilling program extended with new hole 25BRD0038 targeting strike and geochemical anomalies
- Results to feed into ongoing Prefeasibility Study and Mineral Resource Estimate update
Initial Assay Results Confirm Robust Mineralisation
Canterbury Resources Limited (ASX, CBY) has released initial assay results from its deep diamond drilling at the Briggs copper deposit in central Queensland. The recently completed hole 25BRD0037, drilled to a depth of 809.9 metres, delivered promising copper grades over the top 231.2 metres, averaging 0.26% copper with accompanying molybdenum and silver credits. Notably, within this interval, a 54-metre section returned 0.31% copper, 54ppm molybdenum, and 0.83 grams per tonne silver, underscoring the deposit's potential for multi-metal value.
Geological Insights and Mineralisation Controls
Geological logging of the drill core reveals that the strongest copper mineralisation clusters around the contact zone between the porphyritic granodiorite intrusion and the surrounding volcanic sediments, particularly within 100 metres either side of this boundary at approximately 472 metres downhole. This contact zone is interpreted as a key control on mineralisation intensity, consistent with Canterbury's existing geological and resource models. The presence of pervasive quartz-sulphide veining and potassic alteration further supports the deposit's porphyry copper style.
Ongoing Exploration and Drilling Program Expansion
The mineralisation remains open at depth beyond the current assay interval, with results for the remainder of hole 25BRD0037 expected within six weeks. Meanwhile, the drilling program has been extended with the commencement of hole 25BRD0038, positioned 80 metres northwest of the previous hole. This new hole aims to test the strike continuity of mineralisation and targets a strong surface copper-in-soils geochemical anomaly, potentially expanding the known mineralised footprint.
Strategic Partnerships and Funding Support
Part of the drilling program was supported by a $250,000 grant from the Queensland Government’s Collaborative Exploration Initiative, reflecting public sector confidence in the project's prospects. Canterbury operates the Briggs project in joint venture with Alma Metals Limited, with Rio Tinto holding a royalty interest. These partnerships help mitigate exploration risk and provide financial and technical support as the project advances.
Pathway to Prefeasibility and Resource Upgrade
The new drilling data will be integrated into an updated Mineral Resource Estimate and underpin the ongoing Prefeasibility Study announced earlier this year. This study aims to assess the viability of a large-scale, long-life mining operation producing copper concentrate for smelters. The results to date validate Canterbury’s geological models and reinforce the potential for resource expansion, setting the stage for further development decisions in 2026.
Bottom Line?
As assay results deepen and drilling extends, Canterbury’s Briggs project is poised for a critical resource update that could reshape its development trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the full assay results from the deeper sections of hole 25BRD0037 reveal about the deposit’s continuity?
- How will the new drilling at 25BRD0038 influence the overall resource model and potential mine plan?
- What are the timelines and key milestones for the Prefeasibility Study and subsequent project approvals?
