Werumata Project’s Bulk Density Tests Could Make or Break Estrella’s Resource Ambitions

Comprehensive Drilling Program Completed

Estrella Resources Limited (ASX:ESR) has announced the completion of its maiden drilling campaign at the Werumata Limestone Project in Timor-Leste, delivering a comprehensive set of assay results from 33 reverse circulation and 9 diamond drill holes totaling 3,717 metres. The program targeted the Werumata plateaus near the coastal town of Uero-Mata, aiming to delineate limestone and chalk mineralisation with potential industrial applications.

Encouraging Broad Intersections and High Grades

The assay results reveal broad intersections of high-quality limestone and chalk. The Baucau Limestone, a younger marine carbonate formation, shows intersections up to 87 metres with an average thickness around 30 metres. It boasts an average calcium grade of 33.15%, equivalent to approximately 83% calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Similarly, the underlying Batu Putih Chalk exhibits intersections up to 59 metres, also averaging 30 metres in thickness, with an average calcium grade of 31%, or 77.5% CaCO3.

Geological Context and Quality Assurance

Diamond drilling has verified the stratigraphy, confirming the presence of the Baucau Limestone overlying the Batu Putih Chalk, with minor interbedded marl and mudstone units. The limestone is characterised by low impurities, including low magnesium and alumina content, enhancing its suitability for acid neutralisation purposes. Estrella’s geological team, led by Exploration Manager Peter Spitalny, has ensured rigorous sampling and assay protocols, with quality control measures including twinned drill holes and laboratory verification conducted by PT Geoservices in Jakarta.

Towards a Maiden JORC Mineral Resource Estimate

To advance the project towards commercialisation, Estrella is currently undertaking bulk density determinations in collaboration with the Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa'e. These measurements are critical to accurately convert assay data into a JORC-compliant Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE), which the company anticipates delivering by mid-April 2026. The MRE is targeted at approximately 500 million tonnes, positioning Werumata as a significant limestone resource in the region.

Industrial and Environmental Potential

Beyond its industrial mineral value, the Werumata limestone deposit holds promise as an acid neutralisation agent, a key component in mitigating environmental impacts of mining operations. Estrella highlights the potential for the limestone to reduce acidity and improve community outcomes in mining regions, aligning with growing environmental stewardship trends in the sector.

Outlook and Next Steps

With assay results confirming the quality and extent of mineralisation, Estrella is poised to finalise its maiden resource estimate and explore development pathways. The company’s strong local partnerships and established laboratory infrastructure in Timor-Leste underpin a streamlined path to resource definition and potential industrial utilisation.