Highlights
- Promising gold resource estimate of 831,000 ounces at the Kusi deposit
- New historical data suggests additional mineralization potential
- 3D geophysical surveys planned to refine exploration targets
LCL Resources (ASX:LCL) has revealed a significant maiden mineral resource estimate (MRE) at its 100%-owned Ono gold project in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The latest data strengthens the company’s ongoing strategy of optimizing operations while prioritizing exploration across its PNG gold and copper assets.
Strong Maiden Resource Estimate
The initial inferred estimate at the Kusi skarn deposit stands at 18.3 million tonnes at 1.42 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, totaling 831,000 ounces of gold. This estimate, reported with a 0.5 g/t gold cutoff, showcases the project's scale and potential.
Potential for Additional Discoveries
Beyond the maiden estimate, historical trenching data has highlighted further upside potential in the southwest region of the Kusi resource area. A past trench from CRA reported notable mineralization, including 28 meters at 0.9 g/t gold and 21.6 g/t silver, alongside 6.3% lead and 1.9% zinc. Another rock chip sample from the same zone returned 3.35 g/t gold, 170 g/t silver, 6.3% lead, and 13.9% zinc.
These results indicate the possibility of additional gold-rich zones, particularly within the lower limestone unit near the existing resource area.
Advancing Exploration Efforts
The company’s executive chair, Chris van Wijk, emphasized the broader geological opportunity at the project, pointing to shallow gold mineralization near the central Kusi intrusive center and potential deeper mineralization in the lower limestone unit.
To refine exploration targets, LCL Resources is evaluating 3D Induced Polarisation (IP) surveys. This advanced geophysical method will aid in mapping deeper mineralized zones within the challenging terrain of PNG.
Next Steps and Infrastructure Advantages
The company is currently sourcing proposals from geophysical contractors to execute the planned survey, with timelines dependent on equipment and personnel availability. Ono’s strategic location, approximately 150 kilometers from Lae, provides logistical advantages, being in the same geological belt as the renowned Hidden Valley gold mine and the Wafi-Golpu copper-gold project.
With an expanding resource estimate, historical data supporting further upside, and upcoming geophysical surveys, LCL Resources is progressing towards unlocking the full potential of its Ono gold project in Papua New Guinea.