GreenTech Metals Limited (ASX: GRE) has announced a new phase of exploration at its 100%-owned Whundo Copper-Zinc (Cu-Zn) project in Western Australia’s resource-rich Pilbara region. A second stage drill program, comprising up to 4,000 metres of diamond core drilling, is set to commence in the coming weeks. This initiative follows a successful earlier program and aims to expand the resource potential of this Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) deposit.
With a mix of exploration optimism and strategic planning, the drill campaign will target the under-explored mineralised shoots at Austin, Shelby, Yannery, and Ayshia. The results of the drilling will be supplemented by downhole electromagnetic (DHEM) surveys to refine the hunt for deeper and more extensive mineralised zones.
Why Whundo Matters
The Whundo project is a VMS-style deposit featuring six known mineralised shoots spread over a 2-kilometre strike zone. These shoots are part of a broader northeast-trending corridor that remains open along strike and at depth, offering significant exploration upside. GreenTech aims to significantly boost its resource base, with Executive Director Tom Reddicliffe stating:
“We believe a project with around 10-15 million tonnes could make a significant difference to the economics of the Whundo Copper Project. The Shelby conductor, in particular, stands out due to its scale and will be a priority target in this campaign.”
Reddicliffe’s confidence underscores the broader significance of Whundo, not just for GreenTech but for a copper-hungry market driven by the global energy transition.
Drilling Details and Standout Targets
The upcoming program is funded through a $2.3 million placement, a $1 million drill-for-equity agreement with contractor Topdrill, and a $140,000 Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS) grant from the Western Australian government.
Among the standout targets:
- Shelby: Identified as a deep conductor with immense potential, Shelby’s previous drilling results include an intercept of 11.25 metres at 1.6% Cu, including 5.8 metres at 2.4% Cu. The latest DHEM surveys suggest a conductive plate extending over 400 metres, making it a high-priority drill target.
- Austin: Recent drilling at Austin confirmed its copper-rich zones, with highlights such as 16 metres at 1.2% Cu, including 8 metres at 1.5% Cu. The continuity of mineralisation here hints at the potential for further discoveries at depth.
- Ayshia: With a JORC Inferred Resource of 0.92 million tonnes grading 1.3% Cu and 2.3% Zn, Ayshia remains open at depth, and historical high-grade intersections point to significant resource growth opportunities.
- Yannery: Known for its high-grade surface oxidised copper ores, Yannery offers an intriguing exploration angle with copper dominant mineralisation from the outset.
What’s Next?
Field preparations are underway, with drilling anticipated to commence in December. Results from this phase will guide additional exploration, including further DHEM surveys and potential follow-up drilling.
GreenTech is positioning itself to capitalise on the accelerating demand for copper—a critical material in electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy systems, and global electrification projects. As the company shifts from exploration to resource definition, the outcomes of this campaign could redefine the economic potential of the Whundo project.
Broader Implications
As the world transitions to greener technologies, the demand for base metals like copper and zinc is skyrocketing. GreenTech Metals, with its focus on projects catering to the energy transition, is betting on Whundo’s potential to deliver both scale and quality. While risks remain inherent to exploration, the company’s systematic approach and funding structure give it a solid platform to unlock value.
Investors and industry watchers alike will be keeping a keen eye on this program. A significant resource upgrade could not only bolster GreenTech’s portfolio but also mark a pivotal step towards becoming a major player in the battery metals space. As Reddicliffe aptly noted, the scale of Whundo’s potential could be transformative—not just for the company, but for a sector hungry for supply security.
