Baker Shoot nickel assays deliver a strong new year start for Lunnon Metals
Drilling results are firming up Lunnon Metals’ Baker Shoot prospect as a high-grade, near-surface nickel discovery.
Early results from reverse circulation drilling at the emerging Baker Shoot discovery within the Kambalda nickel project in Western Australia have delivered a strong start to the new year for owner Lunnon Metals (ASX: LM8).
Assays for the first complete line of holes drilled in November and December returned intercepts of 7 metres at 9.22% nickel from 123m including 6m at 10.5% nickel from 124m; 8m at 2.52% nickel from 97m including 3m at 4.74% nickel from 102m; and 6m at 3.67% nickel from 132m including 4m at 4.86% nickel from 133m.
The majority of final nickel assay results are believed to be extremely close to (or better than) levels indicated by in-field portable x-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis.
Results for key elements such as iron, magnesium and sulphur were also considered typical of those expected to be associated with Kambalda nickel sulphide mineralisation.
Exciting discovery
Lunnon managing director Ed Ainscough said the first line results delivered a strong start to the year.
“As we had hoped, the assays are now confirming Baker as an exciting, high-grade, near-surface discovery,” he said.
“We have planned to get the reverse circulation and diamond rigs back to target these thick zones as they could have a significant impact on our maiden mineral resource figures.”
He said geological modelling for the mineral resource estimation is already underway.
DHTEM structures
The zone of nickel sulphides observed in the Baker Shoot assays is interpreted to be related to structures identified by earlier downhole transient electromagnetic (DHTEM) surveys.
Logging of diamond drill core indicated the structures may thicken the mineralised zone and may also contain concentrated nickel in proximity to a blanket of laterally-extensive mineralisation which formed the original “hanging wall” target horizon at Baker.
Final results and interpretation of the diamond holes will assist the company to determine the extent of the “very highest, thickest grade mineralisation”.
“Subject to ongoing positive results, we will seek to increase the resources we have allocated to Baker to reflect its high priority status, including the recruitment of dedicated project personnel to advance planning and permitting goals,” Mr Ainscough said.