GoldArc Launches Massive 34,000m Drilling Push at Mt Stirling
GoldArc Resources has kicked off a comprehensive 34,000-metre grade control drilling campaign at its Mt Stirling gold deposit, aiming to sharpen resource estimates and pave the way for mining operations.
- 34,000m grade control drilling commenced at Mt Stirling
- Program split into two phases targeting high-density geological data
- Data to underpin updated Ore Reserve estimates and feasibility studies
- Additional drilling planned at Stirling Well, Orion, Sapphire, and other prospects
- Soil sampling underway to identify new greenfields targets
A Strategic Step Forward at Mt Stirling
GoldArc Resources (ASX:GA8) has officially begun a significant grade control drilling program at its Mt Stirling gold deposit, part of the Leonora North Gold Project in Western Australia. The initiative involves approximately 34,000 metres of reverse circulation (RC) drilling, designed to deliver high-resolution geological data critical for refining Ore Reserve estimates and advancing feasibility assessments.
The commencement of this program marks a clear transition for GoldArc from exploration towards operational readiness. Managing Director Paul Stephen emphasised the importance of this phase, noting that the collaboration with BML Ventures Pty Ltd is accelerating the company’s ability to de-risk the resource and prepare for potential mining activities.
Program Structure and Objectives
The drilling campaign is divided into two phases to optimise both operational efficiency and data quality. Phase 1, currently underway in the northern sector of Mt Stirling, consists of 1,137 holes covering nearly 30,000 metres. Phase 2 will follow, adding further holes at Mt Stirling and extending drilling to the nearby Stirling Well deposit.
This high-density, shallow drilling approach; averaging 25 metres depth per hole; is tailored to enhance geological resolution. The resulting data will be instrumental in refining pit designs, improving ore block modelling, and ultimately supporting more accurate production scheduling. These improvements are expected to optimise gold recovery and bolster project economics.
Broader Exploration and Development Activities
Beyond Mt Stirling, GoldArc is preparing to launch an 8,500-metre RC drilling program targeting the Orion and Sapphire gold deposits, as well as advanced prospects including Euroa, Eclipse, Cosmopolitan, Whistler, and Woodpecker. Concurrently, soil sampling is ongoing northeast of Mt Stirling to identify new greenfields targets in underexplored areas.
These complementary activities underscore GoldArc’s systematic approach to expanding its resource base and advancing multiple projects within the Eastern Goldfields region. The company’s portfolio currently holds over 200,000 ounces of JORC-compliant gold resources, with Mt Stirling and Stirling Well among its key assets.
Looking Ahead
Phase 1 drilling is expected to continue through the second quarter of 2026, with Phase 2 to commence thereafter. Investors and analysts will be watching closely for assay results and updated resource statements that will provide clearer insight into the deposit’s economic potential and the timeline for possible mining operations.
Bottom Line?
GoldArc’s extensive drilling program sets the stage for critical resource updates that could reshape its mining prospects.
Questions in the middle?
- When will assay results from the Phase 1 drilling be released?
- How might updated Ore Reserve estimates impact GoldArc’s project financing plans?
- What are the potential timelines for transitioning from drilling to production at Mt Stirling?
