Highlights
- Joint drilling program initiated by Koonenberry Gold (ASX:KNB) and Newmont to explore copper-gold prospects at Fairholme.
- The drill targets features resembling the Northparkes mine, seeking both porphyry and epithermal system discoveries.
- This collaborative effort underscores the ongoing interest and investment in the Lachlan Fold Belt region.
The Fairholme joint venture between Koonenberry Gold (ASX:KNB) and Newmont has launched a promising drilling initiative within the Lachlan Fold Belt of New South Wales, Australia. The goal is to assess geophysical features at the site that resemble the renowned Northparkes copper-gold mine.
Exploration Strategy
At the heart of the venture is an aircore drill program funded by Newmont, targeting Northparkes-like geophysical anomalies. These are primarily characterized by circular magnetic lows within broader magnetic high complexes. The initiative not only aims to uncover Northparkes-style porphyry deposits but also intermediate sulphidation epithermal systems, similar to those found at nearby operations.
Regional Geology and Prospects
The exploration focuses on the Fairholme Igneous Complex, part of the underexplored Junee-Narromine Belt, which features Ordovician basement geology. The region's geological characteristics, coupled with a relatively shallow cover, present an attractive scenario for potential mineral discoveries. The program's outcome is eagerly awaited, given the area's similarity to established mining locales.
Koonenberry's Strategic Position
Koonenberry Gold currently holds a controlling interest in Fairholme, with potential to expand further based on the results of ongoing explorations. The company's significant landholdings in New South Wales, amounting to 4,360 km² following recent expansions, position it strategically within a region that has seen substantial investments by major players seeking copper-gold deposits.
Outlook and Regional Importance
The collaboration between Koonenberry and Newmont exemplifies the broader interest in the Lachlan Fold Belt, a region that has attracted significant investment due to its potential endowment of copper and gold resources. As exploration progresses, the venture could yield insights that strengthen the area's standing as a critical mining hub, offering both a historical context and a glimpse into future possibilities.
The ongoing drill program at Fairholme represents a significant step in understanding the mineral prospects of New South Wales's Lachlan Fold Belt. The strategic partnership between Koonenberry and Newmont is set to explore further the economic potential of this underexplored area, potentially adding to the global copper-gold supply chain.
This collaborative exploration does not form any financial product advice. Interested parties are encouraged to seek independent advice before undertaking any financial endeavors.