Untested High-Grade Manganese Zones at Woodie Woodie North Pose Both Opportunity and Risk

Significant High-Grade Manganese Discoveries

Accelerate Resources Ltd (ASX, AX8) has announced a series of exceptional high-grade manganese discoveries at its wholly owned Woodie Woodie North Project in the East Pilbara region of Western Australia. Recent rock chip sampling along the newly defined El Largo Corridor, stretching over 4 kilometres, has returned manganese grades as high as 59.4% Mn, signalling a potentially valuable addition to the region’s manganese portfolio.

The El Largo Corridor is characterised by intense hydrothermal alteration within the Carawine Dolomite formation, the same geological host as the nearby Woodie Woodie manganese mine operated by Consolidated Minerals. This mine historically held ore reserves of 18 million tonnes at 36% manganese, underscoring the district’s rich endowment.

Emerging Manganese Hub with Multiple Prospects

Accelerate’s exploration has identified multiple high-grade manganese prospects along the corridor, including the Salamander, Area 66, DHZ, El Largo, and Badgely prospects. Notably, the Salamander Prospect has yielded rock chip samples grading up to 59.3% Mn, comparable to direct shipping ore quality. These surface zones remain untested by drilling, presenting compelling targets for upcoming programs.

The company’s CEO, Luke Meter, highlighted the strategic significance of these findings, noting the potential for a centralised high-grade manganese hub within the project area. The proximity to Port Hedland, a major bulk export port, and existing infrastructure from the Woodie Woodie mine enhances the project’s logistical appeal.

Next Steps, Drilling and Heritage Engagement

Accelerate Resources plans to resume fieldwork imminently to further define the extent and controls of mineralisation. This will be followed by maiden reverse circulation (RC) drilling, subject to heritage clearances with Traditional Owners. The drilling will focus on testing subsurface continuity, true thickness, and the broader scale of mineralisation beneath the high-grade surface zones.

These steps are critical to advancing the project from early-stage exploration towards resource definition. The company’s previous drilling campaigns have already established a maiden Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 1.2 million tonnes at 19.1% manganese at other areas within the project, indicating promising growth potential.

Market Context and Strategic Positioning

Global demand for manganese, particularly high-purity material for battery applications, is rising sharply. Woodie Woodie North’s potential to supply premium manganese positions it well to capitalise on this trend. The project’s location within a proven manganese district, combined with Accelerate’s targeted exploration approach, could unlock significant value for investors.

While the exploration target remains conceptual pending drilling results, the scale and grade of surface mineralisation discovered so far provide a strong foundation for optimism. The company’s methodical approach to heritage engagement and environmental compliance also reflects a commitment to responsible development.