Flynn Gold has initiated its first diamond drilling program in nearly 80 years at the Silver King prospect in Western Tasmania, aiming to test high-grade silver-lead-zinc mineralisation along a historically rich trend. This staged program seeks to validate and extend historical findings with modern exploration techniques.
- First modern drilling at Silver King prospect in 80 years
- Targeting down-plunge extensions of high-grade silver-lead-zinc mineralisation
- Historical grades up to 547g/t silver and 47.5% lead reported
- Staged diamond drilling program of up to six holes totaling 1,200m
- Project benefits from strong infrastructure and 100% ownership
Historic Silver King Prospect Revisited
Flynn Gold Limited (ASX: FG1) has embarked on a significant milestone by commencing its first diamond drilling program at the Silver King prospect, part of its wholly owned Henty Silver-Lead-Zinc Project near Zeehan in Western Tasmania. This marks the first modern drill testing of the Silver King Trend in approximately 80 years, aiming to explore the down-plunge extensions of mineralisation that were historically mined for their exceptional grades.
Legacy of High-Grade Mineralisation
The Silver King mine, originally developed in the late 19th century, was renowned for its rich silver and lead veins. Historical records describe selectively mined ore with grades ranging from 780 to 1,400 grams per tonne silver and 70-75% lead, with some localised assays reportedly reaching as high as 3,110 grams per tonne silver. Limited drilling in 1947 by North Broken Hill Limited intersected narrow but high-grade zones beneath the old workings, including an impressive 0.5 metres at 547 grams per tonne silver and 47.5% lead. However, these historical data points are incomplete and not compliant with modern reporting standards, leaving significant uncertainty about the continuity and extent of the mineralisation.
A Measured, Staged Exploration Approach
The current drilling campaign is designed as a proof-of-concept, with up to six diamond drill holes planned to total approximately 1,200 metres. The initial phase involves two holes, with further drilling contingent on geological observations and assay results. This staged methodology allows Flynn Gold to manage exploration risk prudently while building a contemporary geological model of the Silver King Trend. Drilling will test mineralisation approximately 50-70 metres below the deepest historical underground levels at Silver King and 20-80 metres below workings at South King, located about one kilometre along strike.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Zeehan’s rich mining heritage and established infrastructure provide a strategic advantage for Flynn Gold’s operations. The Henty Project’s location benefits from proximity to existing mining services and transport networks, which could facilitate future development should exploration results prove promising. Flynn Gold’s broader portfolio in Tasmania and Western Australia further underscores its commitment to advancing mineral exploration in prolific regions.
Looking Ahead
While assay results from the current drilling are pending, the program’s outcomes will be pivotal in determining the next steps for Flynn Gold at Silver King. The company’s transparent communication through its interactive Investor Hub invites stakeholders to engage directly, reflecting a modern approach to investor relations. As the drilling progresses, the market will be watching closely for signs that this historic silver-lead-zinc system can be revitalised with contemporary exploration techniques.
Bottom Line?
Flynn Gold’s staged drilling at Silver King could redefine the potential of a historic high-grade silver-lead-zinc system in Tasmania.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the modern drilling confirm the continuity of high-grade mineralisation at depth?
- How might assay results influence Flynn Gold’s exploration strategy and capital allocation?
- Could Silver King’s success trigger renewed investor interest in Tasmania’s historic mining districts?