White Hills Exploration Faces Critical Test as Drilling Plans Take Shape

Exploration Momentum Builds at White Hills

Helix Resources Ltd (ASX – HLX) has reported significant progress in its exploration efforts at the White Hills Copper-Gold Project in Northern Arizona. Over December 2025 and early January 2026, the company completed a series of geophysical and field programs designed to better understand the subsurface geology and mineralisation potential of the area.

The recent work included a passive seismic survey using Fleet Space Technologies’ Ambient Noise Tomography system and a Controlled-Source Audio-Magnetotellurics (CSAMT) survey focused on a prominent copper-gold anomaly. Complementing these surveys, field teams conducted geological mapping and collected additional geochemical samples from new road cuttings.

Unlocking the Subsurface Architecture

These geophysical techniques are crucial for imaging the distribution of intrusive bodies and the geometry of large-scale gold-bearing detachment structures that have historically defined mineralisation in the region. The passive seismic data is expected to reveal lithological boundaries down to depths of nearly two kilometres, while the CSAMT survey will map resistivity contrasts associated with mineralised zones and structural features.

By integrating these new datasets with historical airborne magnetics, geochemical sampling, and drilling results, Helix aims to develop a robust three-dimensional geological model. This model will underpin the prioritisation of drill targets, ensuring that upcoming drilling campaigns are focused on the most prospective areas.

Historical Context and Project Significance

The White Hills Project sits at the intersection of two significant metallogenic belts – the Arizona Arc, known for porphyry copper systems, and the Walker Lane trend, which hosts multi-million-ounce gold deposits. Historical exploration has identified substantial copper and gold anomalies, including rock chip samples grading up to 23 grams per tonne gold with 0.8% copper, and others with 6 grams per tonne gold and 5.7% copper.

Notably, previous drilling focused primarily on gold and did not assay for copper, suggesting that the full copper potential remains underexplored. Helix’s current program, conducted under a joint venture with Newmont, is designed to address these gaps and meet expenditure requirements while advancing the project’s understanding.

Looking Ahead – Drilling and Discovery Potential

Following the interpretation of the geophysical data, Helix plans to commence a diamond drilling program targeting the strongest copper and gold anomalies, particularly at the Section 2 zone. The program is expected to involve between 1,000 and 3,000 metres of drilling, focusing on verifying historical gold results and obtaining copper assays where none previously existed.

This drilling will also test structural controls interpreted from the new data, providing fresh rock samples for detailed geochemical and mineralogical analysis. The results will be critical in evaluating both porphyry-related and detachment-related mineralisation models, potentially unlocking significant value for the project.

Strategic Positioning and Market Implications

Helix Resources’ methodical approach, combining advanced geophysical techniques with historical data and targeted drilling, positions the company well to advance its copper-gold exploration ambitions in a globally recognised mining jurisdiction. The collaboration with Newmont adds strategic depth and financial support, enhancing the project’s prospects.

As the market awaits the upcoming drill results, Helix’s progress at White Hills underscores the ongoing potential for new discoveries in established mining belts, reflecting broader investor interest in copper and gold amid evolving global demand dynamics.