Miramar Resources Ltd (ASX:M2R) has identified multiple strong conductors from the electromagnetic survey underway at its Mount Vernon Project in the Gascoyne region of WA, indicating the potential for nickel-copper sulphide mineralisation.
Miramar’s 100% owned Bangemall Projects have the potential for Norilsk-style nickel (Ni), copper (Cu) and platinum group element (PGE) mineralisation related to Kulkatharra Dolerite sills, part of the Warakurna Large Igneous Province and the same age as the large Nebo/Babel Ni-Cu deposits in the West Musgraves.
A fixed loop electromagnetic (FLTEM) survey is currently underway within the Mount Vernon and Trouble Bore project areas, aiming to refine EM anomalies outlined by previous airborne surveys.
Mount Vernon and Trouble Bore showing airborne EM anomalies and planned ground EM.
The FLTEM survey at Mount Vernon has identified multiple late-time conductors at the first two targets tested to date with modelling of the data suggesting south-dipping conductive plates near the base of the dolerite sill where nickel-copper sulphides may have accumulated.
Mount Vernon Project showing FLTEM conductors over magnetic image (TMI-RTP).
Miramar executive chairman Allan Kelly said the Bangemall Project had the potential for a style of Ni-Cu-PGE mineralisation not previously seen in WA, and similar to the giant Norilsk nickel-copper deposits in Siberia.
“We are the first company to explore for this style of deposit in the Bangemall region.
“At Mount Vernon, we identified multiple anomalies from our airborne EM survey and now, the first targeted ground EM surveys have confirmed and refined those large anomalies, any one of which could represent an accumulation of nickel-copper sulphide mineralisation.
“This is the tip of the iceberg for the Bangemall region, with the next step involving the first targeted drilling of the best airborne and/or ground EM anomalies.
“We are very excited about the Project as, if we can show proof of concept of the Norilsk-style deposit model at Mount Vernon and/or Trouble Bore, it opens up the entire Bangemall region as a new nickel-copper province, one where we have built a dominant landholding.
Planned work
Miramar’s initial aim for the Bangemall Project is to show “proof of concept” of the company’s Ni-Cu-PGE deposit model by identifying Ni-Cu sulphide mineralisation.
Work planned for 2024 includes:
- Completion of ground EM surveys over selected airborne EM anomalies at Mount Vernon and Trouble Bore;
- application for funding under the WA government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS);
- RC drill testing;
- progressing existing tenement applications to grant;
- identifying other prospective areas to peg and/or acquire; and
- discussions with potential joint venture partners.