Exploration for diamond and base metals report (annual report)

Abstract

In August 2010 exploration for diamonds and base metals was undertaken, this mainly involved reconnaissance sampling of stream, soil and rock. This report details the findings of this activity and examines base metal potential of EL 25520. Since granting of the Exploration License, a review of previous exploration activities in the area was conducted. A consultant geophysicist, Grant Boxer reviewed the geophysical data. This data as well as geological data and stream-sediment sampling data have been processed and assessed. The tenement has been covered by heavy mineral stream and loam sampling. A review was undertaken of the past diamond exploration which indicated that although there were recoveries of microdiamonds in the southern two EL's (EL 25084 and EL 25085), no source could be identified. Nokimberlitic indicator minerals for example chrome diopside and pyrope garnet have been recovered from the tenements in previous sampling. Data from the recent airborne magnetic surveys flown by the Northern Territory Geological Survey (NTGS) over the tenement was processed for targets that may represent kimberlite or lamproite. Four targets were selected for ground inspection, with ground magnetic surveys recommended for those targets that are unexplained after surface inspection. These targets and the immediate surrounding hills were recently investigated and systematically sampled. Our most recent visit to the tenement involved a more vigorous method of sampling. We utilised a helicopter to get to targets situated at the northern end of EL 25520. Selected rock chip samples of basalt and mineralized sandstone collected during our recent visit to the tenements were assayed. The results indicate anomalous values of aluminium, magnesium calcium and potassium compared to other samples taken in the region.