M3 Mining Limited (ASX:M3M) has identified nine priority base-metal targets after the completion of a litho-structural interpretation and a regional targeting exercise at the Victoria Bore Copper Project in Western Australia.
M3 Mining is pleased to release our detailed litho-structural interpretation for the Victoria Bore Copper Project,” Executive Director, Simon Eley, said.
“Through analysis of the aeromagnetic and radiometric survey data, we have been able to understand the geological and structural complexities that are hidden under shallow cover within our project area.
“The produced maps highlight multiple generations of deformation present, which provides the team with valuable knowledge for future exploration.
“In addition, a targeting exercise was completed that focused on outlining areas prospective for base metals mineralisation. Nine priority areas have been identified within our granted tenure and we will be initiating field work promptly to analyse their potential. This marks a step forward for the company, as we begin to expand regionally across our ground at Victoria Bore.”
Litho-Structural Interpretation
A litho-structural interpretation of the Victoria Bore project area was completed using a combination of high resolution magnetic and radiometric data and previous mapping by GSWA.
The identified rock types include Paleoproterozoic meta-sediments of the Wyloo Group, which contain the historical Victoria Copper Mine. This formation extends southeastward, forming a limb that tapers off in the south-eastern corner. Wyloo meta-sediments are also present on the western side of the tenement.
The majority of the Project’s area is occupied by two distinct types of granitic batholiths which have been locally intruded by dolerite dykes. Towards the south and east, there are Mesoproterozoic dolostones and siltstones from the Edmund Group which contains intrusive sills of the Narimbunna Dolerite.
The sediments within the project area have been subjected to multiple events of folding, faulting, and thrust faulting, resulting in a complex structural environment within the identified geology.
Regional Targeting
Base metals potential at Victoria Bore is evident with reported copper, lead, zinc, silver anomalies found in Wyloo Group meta-sediments nearby, specifically in the Ashburton Formation. These occurrences, including historic mines, are situated adjacent to the east of the company’s tenure.
The Victoria Copper Mine along with recent drilling by M3 is interpreted to also occur within the aforementioned Ashburton Formation. The litho-structural interpretation has highlighted 13 sq. km of ground that is interpreted to be meta-sediments of the Wyloo Group. Areas within this geology that occur alongside major folding and/or thrust faulting is the subject for priority base metal targeting.
To assess the mineralisation potential, the company is currently planning soil geochemistry surveys to determine if the identified targets exhibit the required geochemical signatures indicative of underlying base metal mineralisation.
In addition to base metals, the highly folded sediments in Victoria Bore may offer potential for antiform-hosted orogenic gold. Specifically, deformed sediments in close proximity to the dolerite formations exhibit favourable conditions for gold mineralisation due to the combination of competency contrast and the presence of a geochemical front. Surface geochemistry surveys will also be utilised over priority areas to assess the projects potential for gold mineralisation.