EL 23682 Chilling project annual report 18 September 2004 to 17 September 2005

Abstract

During the first two years of exploration of EL23682, work has consisted of: Literature research of previous exploration, geological survey and geophysical survey over the EL and surrounding district; data compilation; planning for upcoming field program; helicopter- supported geological reconnaissance and collection of stream sediment samples, and -1.2mm samples for diamond exploration; analysis by low level scans for 63 elements including precious metals and platinoids; interpretation of results; planning and budgeting; intensive Helicopter - supported follow- up stream sediment sampling on closer sample spacing; ICP and Fire assay -ICP low level scans of stream sediment samples; reinterpretation of airborne geophysics; re-assessment of project aims and directions. In addition, contacts were made with other stakeholders in the area for introduction purposes, and the Sacred Sites register was searched. While the area has not been intensively sampled in the past, it has not responded to the methods used in the past (BLEG) for gold exploration, and no previous encouragement from diamond exploration was received. Our initial reconnaissance results indicated a substantially higher level of gold content in stream sediments, but the results of our follow up sampling to investigate this did not confirm markedly elevated values. The laboratory has suggested that the difference may be caused by different sample preparation procedures between batches, but it is not possible to rule out contamination during sample preparation. Unfortunately there was no sample left from the initial reconnaissance survey to resolve this. Nonetheless, given the initial reasons for selecting the area, the locus of the area on the intersection of major basin boundaries and other structures, and, considering the presence of widespread cover, the still favourable geochemical response of the stream sediment samples, further work is recommended to localise drilling targets beneath the cover rocks. Airborne geophysical techniques are favoured if suitable surveys can be scheduled in appropriate climatic conditions.