Greatland Gold PLC's (AIM:GGP, OTC:GRLGF) chief executive Shaun Day described the first underground drilling results from the West Dome project as “exceptional”, confirming the potential for high-grade gold and copper below the Telfer West Dome open pit.
Out of 19 holes, 16 returned strong mineralisation, with an average intercept of 23.2 metres grading 2.95 grams per tonne of gold and 1.07% copper - this equates to 4.23 grams per tone of gold equivalent.
One of the standout results included 14.3 metres at 9.06 grams per tonne of gold and 8.57% copper.
The data confirmed that high-grade mineralisation stretches over 700 metres and remains open in multiple directions, meaning there is potential to expand the resource with further drilling.
Greatland also pointed out that West Dome shares the same geological features as the nearby Main Dome underground mine, which has already produced more than 3.1 million ounces of gold and 210,000 tonnes of copper.
The company highlighted that Telfer’s existing infrastructure makes the economics of a new underground project at West Dome more attractive, potentially accelerating development. Plans are already underway for a second phase of drilling to explore the site further.
CEO Day said: "The exceptional drilling results from the maiden underground drilling campaign validate the exciting opportunity we identified at the West Dome Underground during our acquisition due diligence.
"The Main Dome Underground began production in mid-2006 and continues operating today, almost 20 years later, having produced more than three million ounces of gold. This underground drilling campaign is the first since driving across to gain access beneath the West Dome."
The high grades and strong widths from the West Dome drilling confirm that it shares the same key geological features as Main Dome, reinforcing its potential, the Greatland boss added.
He told investors that the mineralisation remains open along strike and at depth, and further drilling will focus on expanding the known resource and increasing confidence in the initial deposit.
Extending Telfer’s mine life is a key priority, and these results position West Dome Underground as a top exploration target, Day said.
A second phase of drilling is already being planned, including geotechnical and hydrogeological testing to support mine studies. If exploration continues to deliver positive results, existing underground infrastructure, such as the haulage shaft, could allow for fast-tracked development.