Annual report for EL 24028 Saddle Creek

Abstract

Access to the area is area is extremely difficult. The old tracks are in a poor condition and have been washed away particularly adjacent to the stream systems that occur in the vicinity of the licence. Despite this vehicle access can be gained to the southernmost part of the licence area without disturbing the environment. Access to the remainder of the licence area was by foot only which after an initial climb out of the incised valleys in the south remained was relatively flat and easy walking. A number of traverses were conducted across the licence area. Initial activity included the examination of existing air photos of an area that included the licence area and the immediately adjacent environ. A preliminary geo-structural interpretation was undertaken to highlight areas which required special attention during the subsequent field examination. Three areas of significance emerged from this study. These areas were prioritised. Geological mapping and sample collecting were conducted throughout the licence during the year. Preliminary maps have been prepared and samples selected for detailed analysis. In addition geophysical studies included the acquisition of preliminary ground magnetic data in the prioritised areas. No gravity data was collected due to a malfunction of the equipment on site. A number of rock and soil samples have been selected for analysis. This will include petrological as well as geochemical investigations. Depending on the outcome of this work specific samples will be selected for electron beam microanalysis and trace element analysis work. Specific portions of the licence area have significant mineralisation. Dominant mineralisation in the area includes the occurrence of numerous barite veins. These veins have specific orientations and are believed to be part of a much larger zone of mineralisation. The barite contains a number of exotic elements/minerals that are in the process of being identified. At the time of writing these investigations had not been completed and will therefore be reported next year.