Second annual report on the evaluation of AN 455, AN 456 and AN 457 McArthur River

Abstract

Authorisation Northern 455, 456 and 457 cover highly prospective near mine exploration leases close to the Here's Your Chance (HYC) Zn-Pb SEDEX deposit, located approximately 60km south of Borroloola in the Northern Territory. The deposit is currently mined by McArthur River Mining. The departure of the MRM Technical Services department's only field geologist in early 2008 and the loss of other critical geological staff caused the proposed programme outlined in the 1st annual report to be scaled back. Recruitment for suitably qualified personnel continued throughout the 2008 field season without success, so the scope of intended exploration during the 2008 field season was never realised. A day was spent with a hand held GPS in establishing the corner lease boundaries of all three AN's and an overview of the work required for 2009 was undertaken. It is proposed to complete 1:5000 outcrop mapping over the three AN's in order to fill in the gaps that remain from the MIMEX outcrop mapping located during the 2007 literature research. This will focus on vein and fracture orientations and the identification of prospective stratigraphy adjacent to identified major structural dislocations. Establishment of an AMG based grid over these areas will be undertaken.