Geochemical stream and soil sampling, AP2372 and AP2392 Huckitta, NT

Abstract

Late Cambrian to Early Ordovician carbonaceous sediments were tested for lead, zinc by geochemical soil and drainage sampling. At least three anomalous zones were broadly defined, and it is recommended to test these in more detail while extending the search to similar rocks further east. The geochemical stream and soil sampling program in APs 2372 and 2392 in the Huckitta area, NT, was described fully in Report No NT 112 (Kostlin, 1970). It was pointed out that a number of weakly anomalous zones had been outlined and that these should be investigated in more detail, Consequently APs 2372 and 2392 were relinquished, and applications were submitted on 5th March, 1971 for securing ground covering two of the anomalies within the area of A. 's to P. 2372 and 2392, known respectively as Huckitta No 1 (31 square miles) and Huckitta No 2 (16 square miles). The applications have since been withdrawn. G. Tham and C. Marmont re-visited the area in March in an attempt to trace the source of the anomalies and to undertake more detailed geochemical sampling. The sample values, which require little further comment, are shown on Plan No. NT 701, and on the attached sampling ledger, The geochemical values which had been obtained during the original survey were comparable to those obtained from the Turkey Creek lead prospect, and it was thought that similar mineralisation might be encountered in the present area, however, no mineralisation was seen, and it seems probable that the slight metal enrichment in drainage sediments stems from small patches of laterite which are described in Report NT 112, The source of the relatively high Pb value in sample number 197966 is not known, but the drainage area is too small (<1/10 square mile) to be of interest. As a result of Thamsand Marmont's findings and of the disappointingly low metal values, follow-up work was confined to Huckitta No. 2. Applications for both areas were withdrawn.