Estrella Resources Targets Deep Mineralisation with Record-Depth Drilling in Timor-Leste

Mobile MTd Survey Uncovers New Drill Targets at Ira Miri

Estrella Resources (ASX:ESR) has leveraged cutting-edge drone technology to unlock fresh exploration potential at its Ira Miri Manganese Project in Timor-Leste. The recently completed Mobile Magneto-Telluric drone (MTd) survey identified multiple high-conductivity anomalies, some manifesting as plume-like structures rising from depth. These anomalies are spatially associated with the Laleno Dome, a geological feature linked to copper mineralisation, suggesting possible hydrothermal-fluid pathways that could host sulphide deposits.

Ambitious Drilling Program to Test Anomalies

Responding to these geophysical signals, Estrella has designed an initial ~3,000-metre drilling campaign combining Reverse Circulation (RC) and Diamond drilling. This program targets three primary anomalies, including deep “plumes” that may indicate sulphide mineralisation, and will represent the deepest mineral exploration holes ever drilled in Timor-Leste, reaching depths of around 500 metres. Additional drill-holes will probe shallow-dipping conductivity zones interpreted as manganese-bearing beds within the Noni Formation.

The company is also planning a separate ~4,000-metre drilling campaign to expand limestone resources at the Sagadate region, complementing the Werumata Limestone Deposit. This limestone drilling is contingent on regulatory approvals but aims to diversify Estrella’s product range.

Strategic Exploration Advances Amid Regional Survey Plans

Preparations for drilling are underway with site and access track construction set to begin imminently, aiming for a September 2026 start. Estrella is simultaneously conducting further ground geophysics and has scheduled a large-scale regional helicopter magnetotelluric (MT) survey across its Timor-Leste tenure. The integration of these datasets is expected to refine existing targets and reveal new prospects beneath the region’s challenging clay and vegetation cover.

Managing Director Robert Mencel highlighted the significance of the survey results, noting the strong conductivity anomalies provide a compelling new exploration vector despite not being definitive proof of mineralisation. The company’s systematic approach combines innovative geophysical techniques with targeted drilling to unlock Timor-Leste’s mineral potential.

Progress on Manganese Bulk Sample Shipment

Alongside exploration, Estrella continues to advance the shipment and export approval for its maiden manganese bulk sample, estimated at approximately 27,000 tonnes wet. The company has completed customer selection for this trial parcel and lodged export documentation with the Timor-Leste government. Execution of sales agreements remains conditional on regulatory approvals.

Exploration Context and Potential

Estrella’s extensive exploration ground in Timor-Leste hosts multiple mineralisation styles, including manganese, copper, and gold. The newly detected high-conductivity anomalies add to a growing body of evidence suggesting significant sulphide and manganese mineralisation beneath surface cover. This follows recent discoveries of high-grade copper and manganese mineralisation in the region, underscoring the emerging multi-commodity potential of the Laleno Dome and surrounding concessions.