Home » Posts tagged 'exploration' (Page 2)
Tag Archives: exploration
#SVML Sovereign Metals LTD – Follow-Up Drilling Initiated North of Kasiya
FOLLOW-UP DRILLING INITIATED NORTH OF KASIYA RESOURCE AREA
· Wide-spaced regional follow-up drilling for the Kasiya Project underway focusing on the region to the north of the current resource footprint, with results from the drill program expected in the coming weeks
· Recently reported reconnaissance drilling to the south identified an 8km extension of mineralisation which remains open along strike and at depth
· Kasiya is already the largest natural rutile deposit and second-largest flake graphite deposit in the world
· Kasiya’s current MRE of 1.8 Billion tonnes at 1.0% rutile and 1.4% graphite comprises broad and contiguous zones of high-grade rutile and graphite that occur across an area of over 201km2
· Optimisation program for the Kasiya Project continues in conjunction with our strategic investor, Rio Tinto
Sovereign Metals Limited (ASX:SVM; AIM:SVML) (the Company or Sovereign) is pleased to report that the Company has initiated a follow-up 400 metre spaced drill program at its tier one Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project (Kasiya) in Malawi. The program will focus on determining the boundaries and extent of mineralisation north of the known Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) area.
The 70+ hole hand-auger drill program has been designed to target areas where mineralisation was identified in earlier wide-spaced regional hand-auger drilling. The target area is up to 20km north of the current MRE boundary. Drilling is currently underway and will be completed in the coming weeks. Four hand-auger teams have been deployed under the supervision of Sovereign’s in-country technical team.
Samples will be initially processed in the Company’s Lilongwe own lab facility and then shipped for final analysis at certified international laboratories. Results from the drill program are expected in the coming weeks.
SOUTHERN EXTENSION
In February 2024, the Company announced regional hand-auger drilling south of the Kasiya MRE footprint had identified significant strike extensions of approximately 8km across a number of parallel mineralised zones ranging from 400m to 2km in width.
All newly defined mineralisation in the south remains open at depth due to the limitations of the hand-auger drilling method but are expected to continue to the saprock boundary normally between 20 and 30 vertical metres from surface. The multiple mineralised zones identified remain open along strike both to the north and south.
These results indicate the potential to expand the already significant, high-grade rutile and graphite MRE at Kasiya.
Figure 1: Southern mineralised extensions at Kasiya
ENQUIRIES
|
Frank Eagar (South Africa/Malawi) +61(8) 9322 6322 |
Sam Cordin (Perth) |
Sapan Ghai (London)
|
|
Nominated Adviser on AIM and Joint Broker |
|
|
SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP |
+44 20 3470 0470 |
|
Ewan Leggat Charlie Bouverat Harry Davies-Ball |
|
|
|
|
|
Joint Brokers |
|
|
Stifel |
+44 20 7710 7600 |
|
Varun Talwar |
|
|
Ashton Clanfield |
|
|
|
|
|
Berenberg |
+44 20 3207 7800 |
|
Matthew Armitt |
|
|
Jennifer Lee |
|
|
|
|
|
Buchanan |
+ 44 20 7466 5000 |
Competent Person Statement
The information in this announcement that relates to the Exploration Results is extracted from the announcement dated 1 February 2024 entitled ‘Extensions to Rutile & Graphite Mineralisation at Kasiya’. which is available to view at www.sovereignmetals.com.au. Sovereign confirms that a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement; b) all material assumptions included in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed; and c) the form and context in which the relevant Competent Persons’ findings are presented in this announcement have not been materially changed from the original announcement.
The information in this announcement that relates to the Mineral Resource Estimate is extracted from an announcement dated 5 April 2023 entitled ‘Kasiya Indicated Resource Increased by over 80%’ which is available to view at www.sovereignmetals.com.au and is based on, and fairly represents information compiled by Mr Richard Stockwell, a Competent Person, who is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG). Mr Stockwell is a principal of Placer Consulting Pty Ltd, an independent consulting company. The original announcement is available to view on www.sovereignmetals.com.au. Sovereign confirms that a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement; b) all material assumptions included in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed; and c) the form and context in which the relevant Competent Persons’ findings are presented in this announcement have not been materially changed from the original announcement.
The information in this announcement that relates to Production Targets, Ore Reserves, Processing, Infrastructure and Capital Operating Costs, Metallurgy (rutile and graphite) is extracted from an announcement dated 28 September 2023 entitled ‘Kasiya Pre-Feasibility Study Results’ which is available to view at www.sovereignmetals.com.au and is based on, and fairly represents information compiled by . Sovereign confirms that: a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement; b) all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the Production Target, and related forecast financial information derived from the Production Target included in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed; and c) the form and context in which the relevant Competent Persons’ findings are presented in this presentation have not been materially modified from the original announcement.
|
Ore Reserve for the Kasiya Deposit |
|
||||||
|
Classification |
Tonnes |
Rutile Grade |
Contained Rutile |
Graphite Grade (TGC) (%) |
Contained Graphite |
RutEq. Grade* |
|
|
Proved |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
|
|
Probable |
538 |
1.03% |
5.5 |
1.66% |
8.9 |
2.00% |
|
|
Total |
538 |
1.03% |
5.5 |
1.66% |
8.9 |
2.00% |
|
* RutEq. Formula: Rutile Grade x Recovery (100%) x Rutile Price (US$1,484/t) + Graphite Grade x Recovery (67.5%) x Graphite Price (US$1,290/t) / Rutile Price (US$1,484/t). All assumptions are taken from the PFS ** Any minor summation inconsistencies are due to rounding
|
Kasiya Total Indicated + Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate at 0.7% rutile cut-off grade |
|||||
|
Classification |
Resource |
Rutile Grade |
Contained Rutile |
Graphite Grade (TGC) (%) |
Contained Graphite |
|
Indicated |
1,200 |
1.0% |
12.2 |
1.5% |
18.0 |
|
Inferred |
609 |
0.9% |
5.7 |
1.1% |
6.5 |
|
Total |
1,809 |
1.0% |
17.9 |
1.4% |
24.4 |
Forward Looking Statement
This release may include forward-looking statements, which may be identified by words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “projects”, “plans”, and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are based on Sovereign’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Sovereign, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Sovereign makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this release, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of that release.
#FCM First Class Metals PLC – Zigzag Drilling Results
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings is delighted to announce the results of an inaugural drilling programme on the Company’s Zigzag Property, (the “Property”) located in the Seymour-Falcon corridor in northwestern Ontario, Canada.
HIGHLIGHTS
· Assay results from the recent drill programme are in line with and exceed the channel sample results.
Selected highlights include:
o ZIG-23-01 4.3m @ 1.65% Lithium (Li20) including 1m at 2.93%
o ZIG-23-02 5.0m @ 1.5% Li20 including 0.2m @ 5.19% and 5.75m @ 0.21% Rb20
o ZIG-23-07 6.5m @ 1.09% Li20 including 0.5m @ 2.76%
· Elevated grades of several key technology critical metals present including: gallium (Ga), rubidium (Rb20) , caesium (Ca) and tantalum (Ta).
· Significant upside for the expansion of the geochemical envelope along strike in both directions and down dip.
· Initial geochemical results indicate the probable existence of a second structure.
· An Exploration Permit to allow additional stripping and drilling on the Property is being drafted.
Marc J Sale Chief Executive Officer Commented- “The results from our first drill programme at Zigzag are first class and have not only confirmed our belief in the potential of the ‘core zone’, but have also significantly exceeded our expectations for the Property. The associated critical metals identified have added another dimension to the Property’s potential. Obviously more work is required specifically along strike and further exploration of the southern structure, hence we are to initiate discussion regarding a new Exploration Permit.
Zigzag is growing as a significant lithium and critical metal play in this rapidly emerging pegmatite district.”
A focussed drill programme of under 500m in 10 NQ diamond drillholes was completed in late December and all the geochemical assay results are now available. Nine of the holes were targeted at the pegmatite with two ‘step-back’ holes and a 10th being drilled as a scissor. All targeted holes successfully intersected the pegmatite.
The drilling has vindicated the channel sampling as well as extended the geochemical and geological knowledge of the structure hosting the pegmatite, (see Map 1). The most easterly and westerly holes indicate the structure remains open along strike and importantly the successful step-back holes show the structure continues and remains open at depth.
The Company will now look to initiate the next most appropriate plan of exploration which will be focussed to extend strike and delineate the recently discovered southern structure.
Map 1 showing the drill traces of the 10 holes drilled as well as their locations relative to the previous channel sampling.
Significant intersections for the drill programme appear in table 1, see below
|
Drill Hole |
Metal |
Depth From |
Width |
Grade |
|
ZIG-23-01 |
Li₂O |
12.7m |
4.3m |
1.65% |
|
incl. |
1.0m |
2.93% |
||
|
Rb₂O |
11.7m |
5.3m |
0.21% |
|
|
ZIG-23-02 |
Li₂O |
15.0m |
5.0m |
1.5% |
|
incl. |
0.2m |
5.19% |
||
|
Rb₂O |
14.25m |
5.75m |
0.21% |
|
|
incl. |
0.3m |
0.54% |
||
|
Cs |
14.25m |
3.25m |
132 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
0.25m |
430 ppm |
||
|
Ta |
14.0m |
6.8m |
90 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
0.2m |
235 ppm |
||
|
Ga |
15.5m |
0.2m |
144 ppm |
|
|
ZIG-23-03 |
Li₂O |
14.7m |
0.75m |
2.1% |
|
Rb₂O |
12.6m |
2.1m |
0.16% |
|
|
Cs |
12.0m |
5.0m |
151 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
0.45m |
480 ppm |
||
|
Ta |
12.6m |
3.9m |
164 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
0.45m |
624 ppm |
||
|
Ga |
21.9m |
0.25m |
127 ppm |
|
|
and |
||||
|
ZIG-23-03 |
Li₂O |
28.4m |
1.6m |
0.46% |
|
Rb₂O |
27.8m |
2.2m |
0.17% |
|
|
ZIG-23-04 |
Li₂O |
20.0m |
1.6m |
0.79% |
|
Rb₂O |
20.0m |
1.6m |
0.21% |
|
|
Ta |
15.3m |
7.8m |
165 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
1.0m |
347 ppm |
||
|
ZIG-23-05 |
Li₂O |
7.6m |
6.0m |
1.13% |
|
incl. |
1.0m |
2.17% |
||
|
Rb₂O |
5.7m |
3.8m |
0.16% |
|
|
Ta |
4.8m |
9.9m |
167 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
0.4m |
401 ppm |
||
|
ZIG-23-06 |
Li₂O |
28.8m |
2.2m |
1.09% |
|
|
incl. |
0.3m |
2.26% |
|
|
Rb₂O |
28.8m |
2.2m |
0.19% |
|
|
ZIG-23-07 |
Li₂O |
9.9m |
6.5m |
1.09% |
|
incl. |
0.5m |
2.76% |
||
|
Rb₂O |
10.4m |
6.6m |
0.21% |
|
|
incl. |
1.0m |
0.41% |
||
|
Cs |
13.0m |
4.0m |
126 ppm |
|
|
Ta |
9.0m |
7.4m |
131 ppm |
|
|
incl. |
0.6m |
177 ppm |
||
|
ZIG-23-08 |
Li₂O |
65.5m |
3.0m |
1.28% |
|
Rb₂O |
65.5m |
3.4m |
0.11% |
|
|
Ga |
65.5m |
3.0m |
98 ppm |
|
|
incl |
1.0m |
114 ppm |
||
|
ZIG-23-09 |
Li₂O |
47.25m |
4.75m |
0.52% |
|
incl. |
0.8m |
1.06% |
||
|
Rb₂O |
47.25m |
4.75m |
0.14% |
Table 1 assays from the (nine) hole drill programme at Zigzag, every hole had reportable intersections of Li₂O with significant ‘credits’ from the accessory critical elements / metals, specifically rubidium oxide, Rb₂O.
Map 2 showing the relative position of the ‘core’ drill area and the soil sample lines as well as the geochemistry indicating the potential for a second subparallel structure to the south.
The combined geochemical data that the initial grab samples (RNS 31 October 2023), the subsequent channel sampling programme (RNS 28 November 2023) and the recent MMI soil survey (RNS 7 February 2024) support the belief that the ‘core 400m zone’ contains a significant structure of >1% Li₂O and is open along strike. As previously reported, both the most eastern and western holes of the recent drilling programme intersected pegmatite. The soil sample results further suggest that the mineralisation is open in both directions.
Furthermore, there is strong geochemical support for a sub parallel trend about 200m to the south of the Main Zone. Additional work is needed to expand and confirm the anomalism identified. As well follow up sampling is required to confirm the presence of a possible third trend currently identified in anomalous rare element results in grab samples.
Critical Technology Metals @ Zigzag
While the focus of the project remains on the lithium component, the presence of elevated levels of Rb₂O (peak 0.54% over 0.3m within interval of 5.75m @ 0.21% (2100 g/t) in hole ZIG-23-02), Caesium (peak 480 g/t over 0.45m within interval of 5.00m @ 151 g/t in hole ZIG-23-03), Gallium, and Tantalum (peak 624 g/t over 0.45m within interval of 164g/t over 3.9m in hole ZIG-23-03-03) are potentially a significant ‘credit’ to the metallurgy of any resource identified.
These speciality metals have been classified as 1 & 2 ‘Critical Metals’ by the USA and Canadian Governments, highlighting their significance usage in modern technology due to their crucial role in various electronic, semi-conductor, and military hardware. Currently China dominates world production and supply of all these elements.
Despite the limited market for specialty metals, it is noteworthy that Rubidium has recently demonstrated a strong price performance, with trading prices exceeding $3100 per ounce on the Shanghai Metals Market3. Recognizing the potential economic benefits and value-added by these specialty technology metals, First Class intends to conduct further investigations into their possibilities and explore their impact on the overall value of the project.
3https://www.metal.com/Other-Minor-Metals/202012250003
Ends
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
Novum Securities Limited
(Financial Adviser)
|
David Coffman/ George Duxberry |
www.novumsecurities.com |
(0)20 7399 9400 |
Qualified Person
The technical disclosures contained in this announcement have been drafted in line with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum standards and guidelines and approved by Marc J. Sale, who has more than 30 years in the gold exploration industry and is considered a Qualified person owing to his status as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
#FCM First Class Metals PLC – Zigzag-Further Lithium & Critical Metal trend
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings is pleased to announce the results of a mobile metal ion (MMI) soil sampling programme as well as accompanying rock-grab samples on the Company’s Zigzag Property , (the “Property”) located in the Seymour-Falcon corridor in northwestern Ontario, Canada.
Soil samples were collected along six north-north-west to south-south-east soil sample lines between 100-200m in length, with 12.5m sample station spacing (see Map 1). These included four lines along strike to the west and east of the main 400m ‘core zone’ which was subject to the drilling campaign in December 2023. A further two lines starting ~200m orthogonal to the dominant strike and to the south of the trend of the main zone were sampled. All soil samples were analysed using the Mobile Metal Ion (MMI) method of SGS Labs.
The sample results support the belief that the ‘core 400m zone’ is open along strike. As previously reported, both the most eastern and western holes of the recent drilling programme intersected pegmatite. The soil sample results further confirm the mineralisation is open.
HIGHLIGHTS
· The results from 64 rock-grab and 68 soil samples collected late last year are now available.
· Soil sampling lines to the east west of the core section show anomalous lithium (Li) ratios.
· Results from soil lines 200m to the south of the ‘Main zone’ indicate the probability of a second subparallel structure.
· Grab samples anomalous in Li and other pegmatite associated elements indicate a possible third trend.
· Assay results from the recent drill programme are anticipated in the coming days.
Marc J Sale Chief Executive Officer Commented- “The results from this combined sampling programme validate the belief by FCM that the ‘Main Zone’; is open along strike for a considerable distance. Furthermore, the strong evidence of a second structure to the south with the possibility of a third structure compels FCM to engage in discussions with the First Nations to initiate the application for an Exploration Permit to be able to fully evaluate these new zones”.
 |
Map 1, showing the location of the MMI samples as well as the response ratio (RR) for caesium, (Cs) which overall is the most representative of the anomalism. Note[1]: values are generally considered anomalous when the response ratio is above 5.
RR Response Ratio Highlights from MMI sampling
· Highest lithium (“Li”) response ratio (“RR”) of 11 obtained ~100m along strike to the east of the eastern most DDH from December 2023 (ZIG-23-07).
· Highest caesium (“Cs”) RRs of 15 and 30 obtained at consecutive stations ~100m along strike to the west of the western extent of sampling on the main zone.
· Li RRs up to 10 on the southern lines.
· Multiple MMI anomalies in other elements, especially on the eastern and southern lines, zinc RRs up to 40, silver up to 50, molybdenum up to 51, copper up to 21.
[1] According to SGS Labs, response ratios generally need to be greater than 2-5 to be considered anomalous. https://www.sgs.com/en-ca/-/media/sgscorp/documents/corporate/brochures/sgs-minerals-mmi-tb-23-processing-and-presenting-mmi-geochemical-data.cdn.en-CA.pdf
Grab Samples
· Grab samples of pegmatite at two sites 200-250m across strike to the south of the main zone returned up to: 2600 ppm Li; 4290 ppm Rubidium; 920 ppm Cs (highest value of 2023 sampling); and 686 ppm Tantalum. Sampled dykes could represent offshoots of a parallel zone to the main zone.
· Grab samples of pegmatite ~500m across strike to the south of the eastern extension of the main zone, near the eastern property boundary, returned up to 186 ppm Li; 1240 ppm Rb; 102 ppm Cs, potentially a third structure.
Coleman Robertson, Project Geologist from Emerald Geological Services commented– “There is compelling geochemical evidence to indicate that a second subparallel trend at Zigzag could be present.“
The combined results of both the soil sampling programme and the associated ‘grab’ samples support the belief that the ‘core zone/ Main zone’ that was drilled in December is open to both the west and east.
Furthermore, there is strong geochemical support for a sub parallel trend about 200m to the south of the Main Zone. Additional work is needed to expand and confirm the anomalism identified. As well follow up sampling is required to confirm the presence of a possible third trend currently identified in anomalous rare element results in grab samples.
A significant silver anomaly was identified over the two eastern most MMI lines off the Main Zone. This also requires further investigation.
Ends
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
Novum Securities Limited
(Financial Adviser)
|
David Coffman/ George Duxberry |
www.novumsecurities.com |
(0)20 7399 9400 |
Qualified Person
The technical disclosures contained in this announcement have been drafted in line with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum standards and guidelines and approved by Marc J. Sale, who has more than 30years in the gold exploration industry and is considered a Qualified person owing to his status as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
#SVML Sovereign Metals LTD – Extensions To Rutile & Graphite Mineralisation
EXTENSIONS TO RUTILE & GRAPHITE MINERALISATION AT KASIYA
· Wide-spaced regional reconnaissance drilling, outside the current JORC (2012) compliant Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) area, identifies a 8km extension of mineralisation to the south which remains open along strike and at depth
· Results are testament to the world-class scale of the Kasiya deposit and demonstrate potential for a future increase of the Kasiya’s MRE, which is already the largest natural rutile deposit and second largest flake graphite deposit in the world
· Kasiya’s current MRE of 1.8 Billion tonnes at 1.0% rutile and 1.4% graphite comprises broad and contiguous zones of high-grade rutile and graphite that occur across an area of over 201km2
· Current focus at Kasiya remains the ongoing Optimisation Study alongside strategic investor Rio Tinto and permitting work streams working with the Malawian Interministerial Committee
Sovereign Metals Limited (ASX:SVM; AIM:SVML) (the Company or Sovereign) is pleased to report southern extensions to the mineralised area at Kasiya. Hand-auger drilling has identified a number of zones ranging from ~400m to 2km wide over a strike length of approximately 8km. These results indicate potential to expand the already significant, high-grade rutile and graphite Mineral Resource Estimate at Kasiya.
Results of the Pre Feasibility Study (PFS) released in late 2023 demonstrated Kasiya’s potential to become the world’s largest rutile producer at an average of 222kt per annum and one of the world’s largest natural graphite producers outside of China at an average of 244kt per annum based on an initial 25 year life-of-mine (LOM).
The Kasiya PFS delivered compelling economics with a post-tax NPV8 of US$1.6 Billion and post-tax IRR of 28%. This long-life, multi-generational operation was modelled to initially generate over US$16 Billion of revenue and provide an average annual EBITDA of US$415 Million per annum.
The PFS modelling was limited to only 25 years with an initial Probable Ore Reserves declared of 538Mt, only representing 30% of the total Mineral Resource Estimate.
Managing Director, Frank Eagar commented: “These drilling results re-confirm the significant scale of the Kasiya deposit with the strike now stretching over 37km long. Sovereign continues to test the extent of regional mineralisation via low-cost hand-auger drilling, which has the potential to increase the already very large Kasiya Resource.”
Classification 2.2: This announcement includes Inside Information
ENQUIRIES
|
Frank Eagar (South Africa/Malawi) +61(8) 9322 6322 |
Sam Cordin (Perth) |
Sapan Ghai (London)
|
||
|
Nominated Adviser on AIM and Joint Broker |
|
|
||
|
SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP |
+44 20 3470 0470 |
|
||
|
Ewan Leggat Charlie Bouverat Harry Davies-Ball |
|
|||
|
|
|
|
||
|
Joint Brokers |
|
|
||
|
Berenberg |
+44 20 3207 7800 |
|
||
|
Matthew Armitt |
|
|
||
|
Jennifer Lee |
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
||
|
Buchanan |
+ +44 20 7466 5000 |
|
||
REGIONAL DRILLING PROGRAM
Regional hand-auger drilling south of the Kasiya MRE footprint has identified significant strike extensions of approximately 8km across a number of parallel mineralised zones ranging from 400m to 2km in width.
All newly defined mineralisation remains open at depth, due to the limitations of the hand-auger drilling method but are expected to continue to the saprock boundary normally between 20 and 30m vertical metres from surface. The multiple mineralised zones identified remain open along strike both to the north and south.
Figure 1: Southern newly defined mineralised extensions at Kasiya
Highlight drill results include;
· 14m @ 1.03% incl. 2m @ 1.35% rutile from surface
· 17m @ 1.01% incl. 2m @ 1.42% rutile from surface
· 9m @ 0.93% incl. 2m @1.58% rutile from surface
· 12m @ 1.31% incl. 3m @ 1.97% rutile from surface
· 13m @ 1.02% incl. 3m @ 1.16% rutile from surface
· 12m @ 1.02% rutile & 4.5% graphite incl. 2m @ 1.41% rutile from surface
Competent Person Statement
The information in this report that relates to Exploration Results is based on information compiled by Mr Samuel Moyle, a Competent Person who is a member of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). Mr Moyle is the Exploration Manager of Sovereign Metals Limited and a holder of ordinary shares and unlisted performance rights in Sovereign Metals Limited. Mr Moyle has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’ and as a Qualified Person under the AIM Rules. Mr Moyle consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.
The information in this announcement that relates to the Mineral Resource Estimate is extracted from an announcement dated 5 April 2023 entitled ‘Kasiya Indicated Resource Increased by over 80%’ which is available to view at www.sovereignmetals.com.au and is based on, and fairly represents information compiled by Mr Richard Stockwell, a Competent Person, who is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG). Mr Stockwell is a principal of Placer Consulting Pty Ltd, an independent consulting company. The original announcement is available to view on www.sovereignmetals.com.au. Sovereign confirms that a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement; b) all material assumptions included in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed; and c) the form and context in which the relevant Competent Persons’ findings are presented in this announcement have not been materially changed from the original announcement.
The information in this announcement that relates to Production Targets, Ore Reserves, Processing, Infrastructure and Capital Operating Costs, Metallurgy (rutile and graphite) is extracted from an announcement dated 28 September 2023 entitled ‘Kasiya Pre-Feasibility Study Results’ which is available to view at www.sovereignmetals.com.au. Sovereign confirms that: a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement; b) all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the Production Target, and related forecast financial information derived from the Production Target included in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed; and c) the form and context in which the relevant Competent Persons’ findings are presented in this presentation have not been materially modified from the Announcement.
|
Ore Reserve for the Kasiya Deposit |
|
||||||
|
Classification |
Tonnes |
Rutile Grade |
Contained Rutile |
Graphite Grade (TGC) (%) |
Contained Graphite |
RutEq. Grade* |
|
|
Proved |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
|
|
Probable |
538 |
1.03% |
5.5 |
1.66% |
8.9 |
2.00% |
|
|
Total |
538 |
1.03% |
5.5 |
1.66% |
8.9 |
2.00% |
|
* RutEq. Formula: Rutile Grade x Recovery (100%) x Rutile Price (US$1,484/t) + Graphite Grade x Recovery (67.5%) x Graphite Price (US$1,290/t) / Rutile Price (US$1,484/t). All assumptions are taken from this Study ** Any minor summation inconsistencies are due to rounding
|
Kasiya Total Indicated + Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate at 0.7% rutile cut-off grade |
|||||
|
Classification |
Resource |
Rutile Grade |
Contained Rutile |
Graphite Grade (TGC) (%) |
Contained Graphite |
|
Indicated |
1,200 |
1.0% |
12.2 |
1.5% |
18.0 |
|
Inferred |
609 |
0.9% |
5.7 |
1.1% |
6.5 |
|
Total |
1,809 |
1.0% |
17.9 |
1.4% |
24.4 |
The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (‘MAR’). Upon the publication of this announcement via Regulatory Information Service (‘RIS’), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.
Forward Looking Statement
This release may include forward-looking statements, which may be identified by words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “projects”, “plans”, and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are based on Sovereign’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Sovereign, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Sovereign makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this release, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of that release.
This announcement has been approved and authorised for release by the Company’s Managing Director & CEO, Frank Eagar.
Appendix I – DRILL RESULTS – Table 2
Rutile and graphite drilling results from Kasiya are shown below in Table 2.
|
Hole ID |
Interval Thickness |
Rutile % |
TGC % |
From (m) Downhole |
Hole Type |
|
KYHA1273 |
8.0 |
1.52 |
0.7 |
9.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
5.0 |
2.08 |
0.3 |
12.0 |
|
|
KYHA1274 |
9.0 |
0.93 |
2.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.58 |
0.5 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1275 |
3.0 |
0.96 |
1.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1276 |
6.0 |
0.83 |
0.9 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.25 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1277 |
10.0 |
0.74 |
2.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.32 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1278 |
2.0 |
0.95 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1279 |
7.0 |
0.78 |
0.8 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.02 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1280 |
12.0 |
0.85 |
0.8 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.27 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1281 |
3.0 |
0.78 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1282 |
14.0 |
1.03 |
1.6 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.35 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1283 |
5.0 |
0.80 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.26 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1284 |
2.5 |
0.65 |
4.8 |
7.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.09 |
0.8 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1285 |
2.0 |
1.03 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1286 |
7.0 |
0.73 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.21 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1287 |
10.0 |
0.91 |
3.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.54 |
0.5 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1288 |
2.0 |
1.30 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1289 |
2.0 |
0.67 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1290 |
3.0 |
0.59 |
0.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1291 |
2.0 |
0.70 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1292 |
5.0 |
0.91 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.28 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1293 |
11.0 |
0.71 |
3.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.18 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1294 |
7.0 |
0.74 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.01 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1295 |
3.0 |
0.71 |
0.1 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1296 |
13.0 |
0.76 |
2.7 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1297 |
NSR |
HA |
|||
|
KYHA1298 |
4.0 |
0.84 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.11 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1299 |
4.0 |
0.85 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.15 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1300 |
14.0 |
0.78 |
4.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.00 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1301 |
6.0 |
0.74 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1302 |
4.0 |
0.99 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.30 |
0.1 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1303 |
13.0 |
1.02 |
2.4 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.16 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.22 |
4.1 |
8.0 |
|
|
KYHA1304 |
4.0 |
0.84 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.13 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1305 |
17.0 |
1.01 |
1.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.42 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
incl |
4.0 |
1.43 |
3.2 |
13.0 |
|
|
KYHA1306 |
6.0 |
0.79 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.08 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1307 |
11.0 |
0.77 |
2.7 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.31 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1308 |
12.0 |
0.81 |
0.9 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.27 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1309 |
2.0 |
0.56 |
0.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1310 |
8.0 |
0.86 |
2.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.35 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1311 |
3.0 |
1.07 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.07 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1312 |
NSR |
HA |
|||
|
KYHA1313 |
6.0 |
0.77 |
0.5 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.19 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1314 |
12.0 |
1.02 |
4.5 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.41 |
0.5 |
0.0 |
|
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.05 |
6.9 |
6.0 |
|
|
KYHA1315 |
12.0 |
1.31 |
1.6 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.97 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
|
|
incl |
6.0 |
1.14 |
2.3 |
6.0 |
|
|
KYHA1316 |
6.0 |
1.16 |
1.5 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.49 |
0.3 |
0.0 |
|
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.12 |
3.6 |
4.0 |
|
|
KYHA1317 |
10.0 |
0.75 |
3.2 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.02 |
0.5 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1318 |
10.0 |
0.90 |
0.9 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.75 |
0.2 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1319 |
NSR |
HA |
|||
|
KYHA1320 |
6.0 |
0.94 |
4.2 |
3.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
3.0 |
1.15 |
5.6 |
6.0 |
|
|
KYHA1321 |
2.0 |
0.68 |
0.1 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1322 |
15.0 |
0.66 |
2.0 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1323 |
2.0 |
0.66 |
0.6 |
3.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1324 |
6.0 |
0.92 |
1.1 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
2.0 |
1.35 |
0.6 |
0.0 |
|
|
KYHA1324 |
4.0 |
0.76 |
3.7 |
8.0 |
HA |
|
KYHA1325 |
5.0 |
0.81 |
0.4 |
0.0 |
HA |
|
incl |
5.0 |
1.32 |
0.4 |
12.0 |
|
APPENDIX II: DRILL HOLE COLLAR DATA – TABLE 3
|
Hole ID |
Easting |
Northing |
RL |
Depth |
|
Hole ID |
Easting |
Northing |
RL |
Depth |
|
KYHA1273 |
548398 |
8452800 |
1209 |
17.0 |
KYHA1300 |
549400 |
8457202 |
1207 |
14.0 |
|
|
KYHA1274 |
548397 |
8452407 |
1205 |
9.0 |
KYHA1301 |
541997 |
8463199 |
1151 |
10.0 |
|
|
KYHA1275 |
548798 |
8452405 |
1207 |
12.0 |
KYHA1302 |
542401 |
8463198 |
1158 |
11.0 |
|
|
KYHA1276 |
548796 |
8453205 |
1209 |
13.0 |
KYHA1303 |
542819 |
8463208 |
1159 |
13.0 |
|
|
KYHA1277 |
548799 |
8452800 |
1208 |
10.0 |
KYHA1304 |
548999 |
8457201 |
1210 |
19.0 |
|
|
KYHA1278 |
548399 |
8453201 |
1209 |
13.0 |
KYHA1305 |
548598 |
8457197 |
1207 |
17.0 |
|
|
KYHA1279 |
541598 |
8465602 |
1156 |
12.0 |
KYHA1306 |
548198 |
8457199 |
1198 |
6.0 |
|
|
KYHA1280 |
542001 |
8465598 |
1151 |
12.0 |
KYHA1307 |
542000 |
8462801 |
1151 |
11.0 |
|
|
KYHA1281 |
542402 |
8465601 |
1146 |
12.0 |
KYHA1308 |
542401 |
8462800 |
1158 |
12.0 |
|
|
KYHA1282 |
548800 |
8454400 |
1215 |
15.0 |
KYHA1309 |
542806 |
8462792 |
1158 |
10.0 |
|
|
KYHA1283 |
549201 |
8454401 |
1225 |
11.0 |
KYHA1310 |
542003 |
8462400 |
1149 |
8.0 |
|
|
KYHA1284 |
549603 |
8454397 |
1218 |
9.5 |
KYHA1311 |
542402 |
8462400 |
1153 |
8.0 |
|
|
KYHA1285 |
550004 |
8454400 |
1205 |
12.0 |
KYHA1312 |
542800 |
8462401 |
1154 |
7.0 |
|
|
KYHA1286 |
550000 |
8454801 |
1209 |
15.0 |
KYHA1313 |
546399 |
8463199 |
1182 |
14.0 |
|
|
KYHA1287 |
549597 |
8454801 |
1219 |
10.0 |
KYHA1314 |
546000 |
8462801 |
1183 |
12.0 |
|
|
KYHA1288 |
549198 |
8454801 |
1219 |
17.0 |
KYHA1315 |
546398 |
8462803 |
1184 |
12.0 |
|
|
KYHA1289 |
548799 |
8454801 |
1211 |
13.0 |
KYHA1316 |
546002 |
8463201 |
1183 |
13.0 |
|
|
KYHA1290 |
548800 |
8455196 |
1208 |
13.0 |
KYHA1317 |
545999 |
8462402 |
1182 |
10.0 |
|
|
KYHA1291 |
549199 |
8455199 |
1212 |
16.0 |
KYHA1318 |
546399 |
8462403 |
1185 |
10.0 |
|
|
KYHA1292 |
549601 |
8455199 |
1214 |
16.0 |
KYHA1319 |
543198 |
8462401 |
1156 |
10.0 |
|
|
KYHA1293 |
550005 |
8455196 |
1208 |
15.0 |
KYHA1320 |
543198 |
8462803 |
1155 |
9.0 |
|
|
KYHA1294 |
548200 |
8456800 |
1204 |
14.0 |
KYHA1321 |
543201 |
8463199 |
1154 |
6.0 |
|
|
KYHA1295 |
548600 |
8456801 |
1213 |
12.0 |
KYHA1322 |
542800 |
8465593 |
1141 |
15.0 |
|
|
KYHA1296 |
549003 |
8456803 |
1217 |
13.0 |
KYHA1323 |
543198 |
8465598 |
1138 |
5.0 |
|
|
KYHA1297 |
549399 |
8456797 |
1209 |
14.0 |
KYHA1324 |
541193 |
8465601 |
1160 |
12.0 |
|
|
KYHA1298 |
549800 |
8456801 |
1200 |
12.0 |
KYHA1325 |
548398 |
8452801 |
1209 |
17.0 |
|
|
KYHA1299 |
549800 |
8457199 |
1199 |
11.0 |
Appendix III: JORC Code, 2012 Edition – Table 1
SECTION 1 – SAMPLING TECHNIQUES AND DATA
|
Criteria |
JORC Code explanation |
Commentary |
|
Sampling Techniques |
Nature and quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
|
A total of 53 hand-auger holes for 639m were drilled at the Kasiya Project to obtain samples for quantitative mineralogical determination.
Hand-Auger samples are composited based on regolith boundaries and sample chemistry, generated by hand-held XRF analysis. Each 1m of sample is dried and riffle-split to generate a total sample weight of 3kg for analysis, generally at 1m-4m intervals. This primary sample is then split again to provide a 1.5kg sample for both rutile and graphite analyses.
|
|
Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.
|
Drilling and sampling activities are supervised by a suitably qualified Company geologist who is present at all times. All drill samples are geologically logged by the geologist at the drill site/core yard.
Each sample is sun dried and homogenised. Sub-samples are carefully riffle split to ensure representivity. The 1.5kg composite samples are then processed.
An equivalent mass is taken from each sample to make up the composite. A calibration schedule is in place for laboratory scales, sieves and field XRF equipment.
Placer Consulting Pty Ltd (Placer) Resource Geologists have reviewed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the collection and processing of drill samples and found them to be fit for purpose. The primary composite sample is considered representative for this style of rutile mineralisation.
|
|
|
Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. In cases where ‘industry standard’ work has been done this would be relatively simple (e.g. ‘reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay’). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.
|
Logged mineralogy percentages and lithology information is used to determine compositing intervals. Care is taken to ensure that only samples with similar geological characteristics are composited together. |
|
|
Drilling Techniques |
Drill type (e.g. core, reverse circulation, open‐hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (e.g. core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face‐sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc).
|
A total of 53 hand-auger holes for 639m were drilled at the Kasiya Project to obtain samples for quantitative determination of recoverable rutile and Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC).
Hand-auger drilling with 75mm diameter enclosed spiral bits with 1-metre-long steel rods. Each 1m of drill sample is collected into separate sample bags and set aside. The auger bits and flights are cleaned between each metre of sampling to avoid contamination.
Placer has reviewed SOPs for hand-auger drilling and found them to be fit for purpose and support the resource classifications as applied to the MRE.
|
|
Drill Sample Recovery |
Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.
|
Samples are assessed visually for recoveries. The configuration of drilling and nature of materials encountered results in negligible sample loss or contamination. Samples are assessed visually for recoveries. Overall, recovery is good. Drilling is ceased when recoveries become poor once the water table has been reached. Auger drilling samples are actively assessed by the geologist onsite for recoveries and contamination. |
|
Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.
|
The Company’s trained geologists supervise drilling on a 1 team 1 geologist basis and are responsible for monitoring all aspects of the drilling and sampling process. Hand-auger drilling samples are retrieved and placed into large plastic bags. The bags are clearly labelled and delivered back to the laydown at the end of shift for processing.
|
|
|
Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material.
|
No relationship is believed to exist between grade and sample recovery. The high percentage of silt and absence of hydraulic inflow from groundwater at this deposit results in a sample size that is well within the expected size range.
No bias related to preferential loss or gain of different materials is observed.
|
|
|
Logging |
Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation mining studies and metallurgical studies.
|
Geologically, data is collected in detail, sufficient to aid in Mineral Resource estimation.
All individual 1-metre intervals are geologically logged, recording relevant data to a set log-chief template using company codes. A small representative sample is collected for each 1-metre interval and placed in appropriately labelled chip trays for future reference.
|
|
Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc.) photography.
|
All logging includes lithological features and estimates of basic mineralogy. Logging is generally qualitative.
|
|
|
The total length and percentage of the relevant intersection logged
|
100% of samples are geologically logged. |
|
|
Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation |
If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.
|
N/A
|
|
If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet or dry. |
Hand-auger samples from the 53 holes drilled are dried, riffle split and composited. Samples are collected and homogenised prior to splitting to ensure sample representivity. ~1.5kg composite samples are processed.
An equivalent mass is taken from each primary sample to make up the composite.
The primary composite sample is considered representative for this style of mineralisation and is consistent with industry standard practice.
|
|
|
For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.
|
Techniques for sample preparation are detailed on SOP documents verified by Placer Resource Geologists.
Sample preparation is recorded on a standard flow sheet and detailed QA/QC is undertaken on all samples. Sample preparation techniques and QA/QC protocols are appropriate for mineral determination.
|
|
|
Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.
|
The sampling equipment is cleaned after each sub-sample is taken.
Field duplicate, laboratory replicate and standard sample geostatistical analysis is employed to manage sample precision and analysis accuracy.
|
|
|
Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.
|
Sample size analysis is completed to verify sampling accuracy. Field duplicates are collected for precision analysis of riffle splitting. SOPs consider sample representivity. Results indicate a sufficient level of precision for the resource classification.
|
|
|
Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.
|
The sample size is considered appropriate for the material sampled. |
|
|
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests |
The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total. |
Rutile The Malawi onsite laboratory sample preparation methods are considered quantitative to the point where a non-magnetic mineral concentrate (NM) is generated.
Final results generated are for recovered rutile i.e. the % mass of the sample that is rutile that can be recovered to the non-magnetic component of a HMC.
The HMC is prepared via wet-table, gravity separation at the Lilongwe Laboratory which provides an ideal sample for subsequent magnetic separation and XRF.
All samples (incl. QA) included in this announcement received the following workflow undertaken on-site in Malawi; · Dry sample in oven for 1 hour at 105℃ · Soak in water and lightly agitate · Wet screen at 5mm, 600µm and 45µm to remove oversize and slimes material · Dry +45µm -600mm (sand fraction) in oven for 1 hour at 105℃ · Pass +45µm -600mm (sand fraction) across wet table to generate a heavy mineral concentrate (HMC) · Pan HMC to remove retained light minerals · Dry HMC in oven for 30 minutes at 105℃ · Magnetic separation of the HMC by Carpco magnet @ 16,800G (2.9Amps) into a magnetic (M) and non-magnetic (NM) fraction.
Bag NM fraction and send to Perth, Australia for quantitative chemical and mineralogical determination. · The NM fractions were sent to ALS Metallurgy Perth for quantitative XRF analysis. Samples received XRF_MS.
Graphite All samples are initially checked in and processed to pulp at Intertek-Genalysis Johannesburg. The pulp samples are then dispatched to Intertek-Genalysis Perth where they undergo TGC assay via method C72/CSA. A portion of each test sample is dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid to liberate carbonate carbon. The solution is filtered using a filter paper and the collected residue is the dried to 425°C in a muffle oven to drive off organic carbon. The dried sample is then combusted in a Carbon/ Sulphur analyser to yield total graphitic or elemental carbon (TGC). The graphitic carbon content is determined by eliminating other carbon forms from the total carbon content. The addition of acid to the sample liberates carbon dioxide thus removing carbonate carbon. Soluble organic carbon will also be removed. Insoluble organic carbon is removed by heating the samples at 425°C in an oxidising environment. The “dried” carbon-bearing sample that is analysed in the resistance furnace is considered to contain only graphitic carbon. An Eltra CS-800 induction furnace infra-red CS analyser is then used to determine the remaining carbon which is reported as Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC) as a percentage.
|
|
For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.
|
Acceptable levels of accuracy and precision have been established. No handheld XRF methods are used for quantitative determination. |
|
|
Nature of quality control procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicate, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been established.
|
Sovereign uses internal and externally sourced wet screening reference material inserted into samples batches at a rate of 1 in 20. The externally sourced, certified standard reference material for HM and Slimes assessment is provided by Placer Consulting.
Accuracy monitoring is achieved through submission of certified reference materials (CRM’s). ALS and Intertek both use internal CRMs and duplicates on XRF analyses. Sovereign also inserts CRMs into the sample batches at a rate of 1 in 20.
Analysis of sample duplicates is undertaken by standard geostatistical methodologies (Scatter, Pair Difference and QQ Plots) to test for bias and to ensure that sample splitting is representative. Standards determine assay accuracy performance, monitored on control charts, where failure (beyond 3SD from the mean) may trigger re-assay of the affected batch.
Examination of the QA/QC sample data indicates satisfactory performance of field sampling protocols and assay laboratories providing acceptable levels of precision and accuracy.
Acceptable levels of accuracy and precision are displayed in geostatistical analyses.
|
|
|
Verification of sampling & assaying |
The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel.
|
Results are reviewed in cross-section using Micromine software and any spurious results are investigated. The deposit type and consistency of mineralisation leaves little room for unexplained variance. Extreme high grades are not encountered.
|
|
The use of twinned holes. |
Twinned holes are not reported here.
|
|
|
Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. |
All geological field logging data is collected in LogChief logging software. This data is then imported to Datashed5 and validated automatically and then manually.
Sovereigns’ laboratory data is captured onto paper templates or excel and transferred manually to the database.
|
|
|
Discuss any adjustment to assay data.
|
QEMSCAN of the NM fraction shows dominantly clean and liberated rutile grains and confirms rutile is the only titanium species in the NM fraction.
Recovered rutile is therefore defined and reported here as: TiO2 recovered in the +45 to -600um range to the NM concentrate fraction as a % of the total primary, dry, raw sample mass divided by 95% (to represent an approximation of final product specifications). i.e. recoverable rutile within the whole sample.
|
|
|
Location of data points |
Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation.
|
A Trimble R2 Differential GPS is used to pick up the collars. Daily capture at a registered reference marker ensures equipment remains in calibration. No downhole surveying is completed. Given the vertical nature and shallow depths of the holes, drill hole deviation is not considered to significantly affect the downhole location of samples.
|
|
Specification of the grid system used. |
WGS84 UTM Zone 36 South.
|
|
|
Quality and adequacy of topographic control. |
DGPS pickups are considered to be high quality topographic control measures.
|
|
|
Data spacing & distribution |
Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. |
The hand-auger holes are spaced on a on a regular grid which is deemed to adequately define the mineralisation under investigation.
|
|
Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. |
The drill spacing and distribution is considered to be sufficient to establish a degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for further future Mineral Resource estimation.
|
|
|
Whether sample compositing has been applied. |
Individual 1m intervals have been composited, based on lithology for the 53 hand-auger holes.
|
|
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological structure |
Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known considering the deposit type
|
Sample orientation is vertical and approximately perpendicular to the orientation of the mineralisation, which results in true thickness estimates, limited by the sampling interval as applied. Drilling and sampling are carried out on a regular square grid. There is no apparent bias arising from the orientation of the drill holes with respect to the orientation of the deposit.
|
|
If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material.
|
There is no apparent bias arising from the orientation of the drill holes with respect to the orientation of the deposit. |
|
|
Sample security |
The measures taken to ensure sample security |
Samples are stored in secure storage from the time of drilling, through gathering, compositing and analysis. The samples are sealed as soon as site preparation is complete.
A reputable international transport company with shipment tracking enables a chain of custody to be maintained while the samples move from Malawi to Australia or Malawi to Johannesburg. Samples are again securely stored once they arrive and are processed at Australian laboratories. A reputable domestic courier company manages the movement of samples within Perth, Australia.
At each point of the sample workflow the samples are inspected by a company representative to monitor sample condition. Each laboratory confirms the integrity of the samples upon receipt.
|
|
Audits or reviews |
The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data
|
Richard Stockwell (resource CP) has reviewed and advised on all stages of data collection, sample processing, QA protocol and mineral resource estimation. Methods employed are considered industry best-practice.
Malawi Field and Laboratory visits have been completed by Richard Stockwell in May 2022. A high standard of operation, procedure and personnel was observed and reported.
|
SECTION 2 – REPORTING OF EXPLORATION RESULTS
|
Criteria |
Explanation |
Commentary |
|
Mineral tenement & land tenure status |
Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environment settings. |
The Company owns 100% of the following Exploration Licences (ELs) and Retention Licence (RL) under the Mines and Minerals Act (No 8. of 2019), held in the Company’s wholly-owned, Malawi-registered subsidiaries: EL0609, EL0582, EL0492, EL0528, EL0545, EL0561, and EL0657. A 5% royalty is payable to the government upon mining and a 2% of net profit royalty is payable to the original project vendor. No significant native vegetation or reserves exist in the area. The region is intensively cultivated for agricultural crops. |
|
The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. |
The tenements are in good standing and no known impediments to exploration or mining exist. |
|
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
Acknowledgement and appraisal of exploration by other parties. |
Sovereign Metals Ltd is a first-mover in the discovery and definition of residual rutile and graphite resources in Malawi. No other parties are involved in exploration. |
|
Geology |
Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation |
The rutile deposit type is considered a residual placer formed by the intense weathering of rutile-rich basement paragneisses and variable enrichment by eluvial processes. Rutile occurs in a mostly topographically flat area west of Malawi’s capital, known as the Lilongwe Plain, where a deep tropical weathering profile is preserved. A typical profile from top to base is generally soil (“SOIL” 0-1m) ferruginous pedolith (“FERP”, 1-4m), mottled zone (“MOTT”, 4-7m), pallid saprolite (“PSAP”, 7-9m), saprolite (“SAPL”, 9-25m), saprock (“SAPR”, 25-35m) and fresh rock (“FRESH” >35m). The low-grade graphite mineralisation occurs as multiple bands of graphite gneisses, hosted within a broader Proterozoic paragneiss package. In the Kasiya areas specifically, the preserved weathering profile hosts significant vertical thicknesses from near surface of graphite mineralisation. |
|
Drill hole information |
A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: easting and northings of the drill hole collar; elevation or RL (Reduced Level-elevation above sea level in metres of the drill hole collar); dip and azimuth of the hole; down hole length and interception depth; and hole length |
All collar and composite data are provided in the body and appendices of this report.
|
|
If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case |
No information has been excluded. |
|
|
Data aggregation methods |
In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high-grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated. |
All results reported are of a length-weighted average of in-situ grades. The results reported in the body of the report are on a nominal lower cut-off of 0.5% Rutile and exclude bottom of hole samples where saprock has been geologically logged.
|
|
Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high-grade results and longer lengths of low-grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail. |
No data aggregation was required. |
|
|
The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. |
No metal equivalent values are used in this report. |
|
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths & intercept lengths |
These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results. |
The mineralisation has been released by weathering of the underlying, layered gneissic bedrock that broadly trends NE-SW. It lies in a laterally extensive superficial blanket with high-grade zones reflecting the broad bedrock strike orientation of ~045°. |
|
If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported. |
The mineralisation is laterally extensive where the entire weathering profile is preserved and not significantly eroded. Minor removal of the mineralised profile has occurred in alluvial channels. These areas are adequately defined by the drilling pattern and topographical control. |
|
|
If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (e.g. ‘down hole length, true width not known’. |
Downhole widths approximate true widths limited to the sample intervals applied. Graphite results are approximate true width as defined by the sample interval and typically increase with depth. |
|
|
Diagrams |
Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported. These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of the drill collar locations and appropriate sectional views. |
Refer to figures in the body of this report. |
|
Balanced reporting |
Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high-grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of exploration results. |
All results are included in this report. |
|
Other substantive exploration data |
Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to: geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples – size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. |
Rutile has been determined, by QEMSCAN, to be the major TiO2-bearing mineral at and around several rutile prospects within Sovereign’s ground package. The Company continues to examine areas within the large tenement package for rutile and graphite by-product mineralisation. |
|
Further work |
The nature and scale of planned further work (e.g. test for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). |
No further exploration is planned at this stage. |
|
Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. |
Refer to diagrams in the body of this report. |
#FCM First Class Metals PLC – Sunbeam Property: High-Grade Gold Assay Results
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK metals exploration company seeking large scale metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo Sunbeam and Zigzag land holding is pleased to announce high-grade gold assays from channel sampling undertaken following the recently completed exploration at the Company’s 100% owned Sunbeam property (“the Property”).
The Property contains three subparallel mineralised structures, each identified over 10km traversing the property; these are inferred to continue to the northeast into the recently staked area where prospective structural features are inferred. FCM now commands a district scale land package of over 70km².
The Property hosts several sites of historic mine development and gold mining: the Sunbeam Mine, the Roy Development, and the Pettigrew Development. Multiple other gold occurrences are also known including the Road Zone, AL198 Zone, WN2 Occurrence and the Rubble Occurrence.
Given the discovery of significant gold within the tonalite to diorite porphyry which hosts the main mineralised structures across the property, First Class Metals will be moving swiftly to relog and assay core from previous drilling on the property for its potential gold endowment within any intervals of prospective porphyry which have not previously been assayed.
HIGHLIGHTS
· First Class Metals announced on 14 November 2023 the results from the Company’s recently completed channel sampling programme from the Roy prospect which confirmed high grade gold mineralisation in the vicinity of the old workings.
· Results from the stripping at Roy have confirmed high grade gold assays up to 18.8 g/t gold (Au) / 0.3m channel sample at Roy. Other highlights include:
o 6.27 g/t Au channel / 0.35m in mafic schist with quartz veinlets;
o 4.98 g/t Au channel / 0.5m in sheared porphyry; and
o 5.58g/t Au channel / 0.5m within a quartz vein.
· At Pettigrew channel and grab samples returned significant gold grades, including:
o 13.0 g/t Au grab sample from quartz rubble dug up beside the stripped outcrop.
o 3.5 g/t Au channel / 0.2m in a quartz vein with galena and chalcopyrite;
o 1.82 g/t Au channel / 0.75m in sheared porphyry; and
o 0.32 g/t Au channels / 3.95 m within sheared porphyry.
These results are considered very encouraging and typify this style of mineralisation.
· Mineralisation (up to 4.98 g/t Au over 0.5m) discovered in the porphyry at Roy which hosts the main mineralised structures has the potential to add a wider envelope (10m+) of alteration (silicification and ankeritisation) and gold mineralization. The discovery of gold within the sheared and altered porphyry could add significant upside to what was thought to be predominantly a high grade vein system hosted in mafic schist, from which the known historic production was mined.
· The reported historical drilling at Pettigrew was encouraging, with two holes returning significant gold assays including: Hole 57751: 19.4 g/t Au over 0.63m at 5.33m.
A further announcement will be made once the Company has decided on the most appropriate exploration programme to continue to advance the Company’s knowledge of the mineralisation at the Sunbeam Property. This is anticipated to culminate in drilling at Roy and Pettigrew.
Marc J Sale Chief Executive Officer commented: “Since we optioned Sunbeam in late 2022, we have made quick and significant progress in developing the Property both in terms of understanding the mineralisation and increasing its scale.”
“The channel results from Roy and Pettigrew are most encouraging and have identified drill targets at both locations. The auriferous porphyry hosing the shear zone at Roy and Pettigrew further enhances the significant potential that this Property can deliver.”
“As a result of the encouraging results from the recent stripping programs, FCM has staked 119 contiguous claims, along strike to the northeast I look forward to sharing further information on this Property, including our plans for the 2024 field season, as soon as possible.”
Background & Update
Since the announcement of the Sunbeam acquisition in early October 2022, FCM through Emerald Geological Services (EGS) have been working to advance the Property to drill ready status.
The pre-exploration phase included a review of historic core; however, recent work has identified the potential of the porphyry to host significant gold mineralisation, therefore further review of the Sunbeam (Nuinsco) core is now recommended with additional samples taken if warranted.
The Sunbeam Property is dominated by three mineralised structures, all of which host significant gold anomalism as well as historic development, including the Sunbeam high grade gold mine which operated until 1905 and reportedly produced multi ounce material.
In July 2021, Nuinsco reported grades up to 93.3g/t Au from a drill programme conducted predominantly in the vicinity of the Sunbeam Mine area. Significant results include:
o NS-21-01 – 3.98g/t Au over 0.6m (from 96.0m) within 3.39m of strongly gold anomalous deformation zone.
o NS-21-02 – 13.8g/t Au over 0.15m (from 80.85m) within 2.83m of strongly gold anomalous deformation zone.
o NS-21-03 – 93.3g/t Au over 0.44m (from 99.5m) within 3.19m of strongly anomalous deformation zone.
o NS-21-05 – 2.94g/t Au over 0.5m (from 118.5m) within 7.50m of strongly anomalous deformation zone.
Historical drilling at Pettigrew was also encouraging, with two holes returning significant gold assays including: Hole 57751: 19.4 g/t Au over 0.63m at 5.33m.
The Sunbeam Property contains three subparallel mineralised subparallel structures, each identified over 10km traversing the property; these are inferred to continue to the northeast into the new area of claims where prospective structural features are inferred. FCM now commands a district scale land package of over 70km².
Figure 1 showing the combined Sunbeam and English claims as well as the recent staking.
FCM has undertaken two stripping campaigns and the gold (Au) results from the second campaign at the Pettigrew zone are now available. Most of the samples were 1m in length or less, with a minimum of 0.2m and a maximum of 1.0 m. The Pettigrew results are similar to those from Roy, (previously reported) and have defined a broad zone of shearing, alteration, and mineralization, peaking at 3.5 g/t Au in channel samples and 13.0 g/t Au in grab samples (highest grade at Roy was 18.8 g/t Au).
Visible gold was identified in at least one sample at Roy during the sawn channel programme.
The results indicate the potential for both high-grade gold mineralization hosted in quartz veins and lower-grade gold mineralization hosted in sheared, altered porphyry or chlorite schist. Lithologies hosting the mineralization are often well-sheared and exhibit isoclinal or near-isoclinal folding.
Photo 1 Showing sheared mafic and felsic rocks hosting quartz veining. Note the Pettigrew shaft in the background.
At Roy there were a significant number of results exceeding 1ppm Au that define the anomalous structure over a strike of 100m between the existing shafts which remains open along strike. One sample of sheared porphyry reported 4.98ppm Au over 0.5m – as the porphyry is considered the host this is significant, as the potential mineralised package would be appreciably wider (10m+). FCM now intends to review the historic core again with the intention of sampling more of the porphyry hosting the mineralised shear zone.
At both Pettrigrew and Roy the high-grade gold mineralisation is hosted in quartz veining in sheared ‘mafics’ within a broader envelope of sheared, folded felsic to intermediate porphyry which often exhibits irregular quartz veining, silicification and ankerite alteration associated with up to 1% pyrite, and which also frequently contains anomalous gold concentrations as noted above.
Photo 2 showing quartz veining at Pettigrew containing galena (Pb) and chalcopyrite (Cu). The sample reported 3.5 g/t Au.
Photo 3 showing sheared, silicified and ankeritised porphyry with pyrite and quartz veining, 4.98 g/t Au / 0.5m channel.
Future work will focus on expanding the potential mineralisation with the sampling of any prospective porphyry.
The results from the channel sampling at Roy and Pettigrew, in conjunction with the encouraging geology encountered in the stripping at both locations (as well as the geology / geochemistry at the Sunbeam mine area) validate the Company’s efforts to bring the property to drill ready stage.
The ‘English claims have now been transferred 100% to First Class Metals Canada Inc. The Company now has 100% control of a potential district scale property block with multiple structures, hosting potentially high-grade gold bearing systems, extending over 72km². We believe this gives First Class Metals a true ‘District Scale’ gold project that could potentially host multiple significant gold deposits.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
Novum Securities Limited
(Financial Adviser)
|
David Coffman/ George Duxberry |
www.novumsecurities.com |
(0)20 7399 9400 |
Qualified Person
The technical disclosures contained in this announcement have been drafted in line with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum standards and guidelines and approved by Marc J. Sale, who has more than 30years in the gold exploration industry and is considered a Qualified person owing to his status as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
#GRX GreenX Metals LTD – Quarterly Activities Report December 2023
In July 2023 GreenX entered into an Option Agreement with Greenfields Exploration Limited (Greenfields) to acquire up to 100% of the Eleonore North Gold Project (Eleonore North) in eastern Greenland.
o 2023 field work at Eleonore North was focused on determining the depth of an intrusion within the project area by deployment of an array of seismic nodes. The nodes have been retrieved with the recorded data now being processed by a geophysics specialist consulting firm. Results from the seismic analysis, expected in the March 2024 quarter, will be used in the next phases of the exploration program at Eleonore North.
o During the quarter, GreenX visited the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland in Copenhagen and discussed general co-operation and data sharing in respect of the Eleonore North region. GreenX also met with specialised arctic logistics service providers having extensive experience in East Greenland.
o Eleonore North has the potential to host a “reduced intrusion-related gold system” (RIRGS), analogous to large bulk-tonnage deposit types found in Canada.
· In November 2022, the hearing for the claim against the Republic of Poland under both the Energy Charter Treaty and the Australia-Poland Bilateral Investment Treaty was concluded (Claim).
o Combined arbitration hearing took place in front of the Tribunal in London under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules.
o With completion of the hearing, the Tribunal will render an Award (decision) in due course.
o Damages of up to £737 million (A$1.3 billion / PLN4.0 billion) have been claimed including the assessed value of GreenX’s lost profits and damages related to both the Jan Karski and Debiensko projects, and accrued interest related to any damages.
· Cash balance as at 31 December 2023 was A$9.3 million.
Classification 2.2: This announcement contains inside information
GreenX Metals Limited (ASX:GRX, LSE:GRX) (GreenX or the Company) is pleased to present its Quarterly Activities Report for the period during and subsequent to 31 December 2023.
eleonore north gold project
In July 2023, GreenX entered into an Option Agreement (Agreement) with Greenfields to acquire up to 100% of the Eleonore North gold project in eastern Greenland.
Eleonore North has the potential to host a RIRGS, analogous to large bulk-tonnage deposit types found in Canada including Donlin Creek, Fort Knox and Dublin Gulch.
Gold mineralisation documented at the high-priority Noa Pluton prospect within Eleonore North.
· Geophysical “bullseye” anomaly 6 km wide co-incident with elevated gold mineralisation from historical geochemical sampling.
· Anomalous gold mineralisation associated with quartz veining exposed at surface over a length of up to 15 km.
· Historical sampling includes 4 m chip sample grading 1.93 g/t Au and 1.9% Sb (refer to Appendix 1 of the Company’s announcement on 10 July 2023).
Eleonore North has potential to host large scale, shallow, bulk tonnage gold deposits. Eleonore North remains underexplored, with the existence of a possible RIRGS being a relatively new geological interpretation based on the historical data. Initial field work consists of a seismic survey to determine the depth from surface to the Noa Pluton to aid in drill targeting.
Figure 1: Eleonore North licence area showing the 6km diameter geophysical anomaly co-incident with gold veining visible at surface over some 15km at the high priority Noa Pluton prospect
The Eleonore North license area contains other gold targets as well as copper, antimony and tungsten prospects. At Holmesø there is copper and antimony mineralisation outcropping at surface. Historical mapping and sampling in the 1970s at Holmesø show a prospective horizon between 15 m and 20 m thick, with per cent level grades for both metals.
Eleonore North provides GreenX with gold exposure in Greenland and complements GreenX’s existing exploration prospect in Greenland, the Arctic Rift Copper Project (ARC). There are significant synergies with regards to personnel, logistics and equipment in having multiple exploration projects in Greenland. Field works were conducted during the 2023 field season at Eleonore North, with data collected from the seismic survey presently being analysed to inform follow-on exploration program design.
Greenland is a mining friendly jurisdiction with strong Government support for expanding its mining industry, simple laws and regulations, and a competitive fiscal regime.
The primary target in Eleonore North is the Noa Pluton, followed by the Holmesø prospect and its source intrusion. The Noa Veins provide a near-term drill target, however, the Company’s 2023 field work was focussed on determining the depth of the causative intrusion with greater precision using a passive seismic survey. Once analysed, this information will validate the magnetic interpretation, provide more certainty for a future exploration program, and help identify the size of the intrusion within the well-defined hornfels.
|
|
|
|
Figure 2: Map of Greenland showing GreenX’s ARC and Eleonore North license areas |
Figure 3: Map showing prospects and geological features within the Eleonore North license areas |
ARCTIC RIFT COPPER PROJECT
The ARC project is an exploration joint venture between GreenX and Greenfields. GreenX can earn-in up to 80% of ARC by spending A$10 million by October 2026. ARC is targeting large scale copper in multiple settings across a 5,774 km2 Special Exploration Licence in eastern North Greenland. The area has been historically underexplored yet is prospective for copper, forming part of the newly identified Kiffaanngissuseq metallogenic province.
The results of work program announced last year have demonstrated the high-grade nature of the known copper sulphide mineralisation and wider copper mineralization in fault hosted Black Earth zones and adjacent sandstone units. The exact position of a native copper fissure at the Neergaard Dal prospect was also identified.
Analysis of this information is underway and will be key to future planned work programs.
DISPUTE WITH POLISH GOVERNMENT
In November 2022, the Company reported the conclusion of the Claim against the Republic of Poland under both the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) and the Australia-Poland Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) (together the Treaties). The hearing took place in London in and lasted two weeks.
Following completion of the hearing, the Tribunal will render an Award (i.e., the legal term used for a ‘decision’ by the Tribunal) in due course with no specified date available for the Tribunal decision.
As previously advised, the arbitration and hearing proceedings in relation to the Claim are required to be kept confidential.
Details of the Claim
The Company’s Claim against the Republic of Poland is being prosecuted through an established and enforceable legal framework, with GreenX and Poland agreeing to apply the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law Rules (UNCITRAL) rules to the proceedings. The arbitration claims are being administered through the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague.
The evidentiary hearing phase of the arbitration proceedings has now been completed in front of the Arbitral Tribunal. With completion of the hearing, the Arbitral Tribunal will render an Award in due course. There is no specified date for an Award to be rendered. The Company’s claims for damages against Poland are in the amount of up to £737 million (A$1.3 billion/PLN4.0 billion), which includes a revised assessment of the value of GreenX’s lost profits and damages related to both the Jan Karski and Debiensko projects, and accrued interest related to any damages. The Claim for damages has been assessed by independent external quantum experts appointed by GreenX specifically for the purposes of the Claim.
In July 2020, the Company announced it had executed the LFA for US$12.3 million with LCM. US$10.7 million of the facility has been drawn down to cover legal, tribunal and external expert costs as well as defined operating expenses associated with the Claim. The Company does not anticipate further material drawdowns in relation to the ongoing BIT and ECT Tribunal proceedings. The LFA is a limited recourse loan with LCM that is on a “no win – no fee” basis.
In September 2020, GreenX announced that it had formally commenced with the Claim by serving the Notices of Arbitration against the Republic of Poland. In June 2021, GreenX announced that it had formally lodged its Statement of Claim in the BIT arbitration, including the first assessed claim for compensation. The Company’s Statement of Reply, the last material filing to be made by the Company for the BIT arbitration proceedings, was submitted in July 2021. The Statement of Reply addresses various points raised by the Republic of Poland in their Statement of Defence. The Statement of Reply also contains a re-evaluation of the claim for damages based on responses to Poland’s Statement of Defence.
GreenX’s dispute alleges that the Republic of Poland has breached its obligations under the applicable Treaties through its actions to block the development of the Company’s Jan Karski and Debiensko projects in Poland which effectively deprived GreenX of the entire value of its investments in Poland.
In February 2019, GreenX formally notified the Polish Government that there exists an investment dispute between GreenX and the Polish Government. GreenX’s notification called for prompt negotiations with the Government to amicably resolve the dispute and indicated GreenX’s right to submit the dispute to international arbitration in the event of the dispute not being resolved amicably.
GreenX’s investment dispute with the Republic of Poland is not unique, with international media widely reporting that the political environment and investment climate in Poland has deteriorated since the change in Government in 2015. As a result, there are a significant number of International Arbitration claims being bought against Poland.
CORPORATE
Financial Position
GreenX had cash of A$9.3m as at 31 December 2023.
-ENDS-
The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (‘MAR’). Upon the publication of this announcement via Regulatory Information Service (‘RIS’), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.
Forward Looking Statements
This release may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on GreenX’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of GreenX, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. GreenX makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this release, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of that release.
Competent Persons Statement
The information in this report that relates to exploration results were extracted from the ASX announcement dated 10 July 2023 which is available to view at www.greenxmetals.com.
GreenX confirms that (a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement; (b) all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the content in the relevant announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed; and (c) the form and context in which the Competent Person’s findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original announcement
APPENDIX 1: TENEMENT INFORMATION
As at 31 December 2023, the Company has an interest in the following tenements:
|
Location |
Tenement |
Percentage |
Status |
Tenement Type |
|
Greenland |
Arctic Rift Copper Project (Licence No. 2021-07 MEL-S) |
–1 |
Granted |
Exploration Licence |
|
Greenland |
Eleonore North gold project |
–2 |
Granted |
Exploration Licence |
|
Jan Karski, Poland |
Jan Karski Mine Plan Area (K-4-5, K6-7, K-8 and K-9)2 |
–3 |
In dispute3 |
Exclusive Right to apply for a mining concession3 |
|
Debiensko, Poland |
Debiensko 1 |
–3 |
In dispute3 |
Mining3 |
Notes:
1 In October 2021, the Company announced that it had entered into an Earn-In Agreement (EIA) with Greenfields to acquire an interest of up to 80% in ARC. As at the date of this announcement, the Company held no beneficial interest in ARC, other than through the EIA.
2 In July 2023, the Company announced that it had entered into an Option Agreement with Greenfields to acquire an interest of up to 100% in Eleonore North. As at the date of this announcement, the Company held no beneficial interest in Eleonore North, other than through the Option Agreement.
3 GreenX formally commenced international arbitration claims against the Republic of Poland under both the ECT and the BIT in 2021. GreenX alleges that the Republic of Poland has breached its obligations under the Treaties through its actions to block the development of the Company’s Jan Karski and Debiensko projects in Poland. Refer to discussion of the Claim above. The Company has received notice from the relevant Polish authority that the Debiensko mining licence has been extinguished.
Appendix 2: Related Party Payments
During the quarter ended 31 December 2023, the Company made payments of A$241,000 to related parties and their associates. These payments relate to existing remuneration arrangements (director fees, consulting fees and superannuation of A$146,000 and the provision of a serviced office and company secretarial and administration services of A$95,000).
Appendix 3: Exploration and Mining Expenditure
During the quarter ended 31 December 2023, the Company made the following payments in relation to exploration activities:
|
Activity |
A$000 |
|
Greenland (Eleonore North and ARC) |
|
|
Project Management |
178 |
|
Exploration program, including sampling |
27 |
|
Transport costs (including equipment and fuel) |
5 |
|
Other (field supplies, equipment, fuel, satellite imagery, etc) |
1 |
|
Total as reported in the Appendix 5B (item 2.1(d)) |
211 |
There were no mining or production activities and expenses incurred during the quarter ended 31 December 2023.
Appendix 5B
Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity
quarterly cash flow report
|
Name of entity |
||
|
GreenX Metals Limited |
||
|
ABN |
Quarter ended (“current quarter”) |
|
|
23 008 677 852 |
31 December 2023 |
|
|
Consolidated statement of cash flows |
Current quarter |
Year to date |
|
|
1. |
Cash flows from operating activities |
– |
– |
|
1.1 |
Receipts from customers |
||
|
1.2 |
Payments for |
– |
– |
|
(a) exploration & evaluation |
|||
|
(b) development |
– |
– |
|
|
(c) production |
– |
– |
|
|
(d) staff costs |
(412) |
(787) |
|
|
(e) administration and corporate costs |
(574) |
(937) |
|
|
1.3 |
Dividends received (see note 3) |
– |
– |
|
1.4 |
Interest received |
159 |
252 |
|
1.5 |
Interest and other costs of finance paid |
– |
– |
|
1.6 |
Income taxes paid |
– |
– |
|
1.7 |
Government grants and tax incentives |
– |
– |
|
1.8 |
Other (provide details if material) (a) Business Development (b) Property rental and gas sales (c) Occupancy |
(105) 4 (236) |
(219) 10 (430) |
|
1.9 |
Net cash from / (used in) operating activities |
(1,164) |
(2,111) |
|
2. |
Cash flows from investing activities |
– |
– |
|
2.1 |
Payments to acquire or for: |
||
|
(a) Entities |
|||
|
(b) Tenements |
– |
– |
|
|
(c) property, plant and equipment |
(2) |
(2) |
|
|
(d) exploration & evaluation |
(211) |
(1,253) |
|
|
(e) investments |
– |
– |
|
|
(f) other non-current assets |
– |
– |
|
|
2.2 |
Proceeds from the disposal of: |
– |
– |
|
(a) entities |
|||
|
(b) tenements |
– |
– |
|
|
(c) property, plant and equipment |
– |
– |
|
|
(d) investments |
– |
– |
|
|
(e) other non-current assets |
– |
– |
|
|
2.3 |
Cash flows from loans to other entities |
– |
– |
|
2.4 |
Dividends received (see note 3) |
– |
– |
|
2.5 |
Other (provide details if material) |
– |
– |
|
2.6 |
Net cash from / (used in) investing activities |
(213) |
(1,255) |
|
3. |
Cash flows from financing activities |
– |
4,164 |
|
3.1 |
Proceeds from issues of equity securities (excluding convertible debt securities) |
||
|
3.2 |
Proceeds from issue of convertible debt securities |
– |
– |
|
3.3 |
Proceeds from exercise of options |
– |
– |
|
3.4 |
Transaction costs related to issues of equity securities or convertible debt securities |
(18) |
(154) |
|
3.5 |
Proceeds from borrowings |
– |
– |
|
3.6 |
Repayment of borrowings |
– |
– |
|
3.7 |
Transaction costs related to loans and borrowings |
– |
– |
|
3.8 |
Dividends paid |
– |
– |
|
3.9 |
Other (provide details if material) |
– |
– |
|
3.10 |
Net cash from / (used in) financing activities |
(18) |
4,010 |
|
4. |
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents for the period |
||
|
4.1 |
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period |
10,715 |
8,674 |
|
4.2 |
Net cash from / (used in) operating activities (item 1.9 above) |
(1,164) |
(2,111) |
|
4.3 |
Net cash from / (used in) investing activities (item 2.6 above) |
(213) |
(1,255) |
|
4.4 |
Net cash from / (used in) financing activities (item 3.10 above) |
(18) |
4,010 |
|
4.5 |
Effect of movement in exchange rates on cash held |
(2) |
– |
|
4.6 |
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period |
9,318 |
9,318 |
|
5. |
Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents |
Current quarter |
Previous quarter |
|
5.1 |
Bank balances |
1,818 |
2,715 |
|
5.2 |
Call deposits |
7,500 |
8,000 |
|
5.3 |
Bank overdrafts |
– |
– |
|
5.4 |
Other (provide details) |
– |
– |
|
5.5 |
Cash and cash equivalents at end of quarter (should equal item 4.6 above) |
9,318 |
10,715 |
|
6. |
Payments to related parties of the entity and their associates |
Current quarter |
|
6.1 |
Aggregate amount of payments to related parties and their associates included in item 1 |
(241) |
|
6.2 |
Aggregate amount of payments to related parties and their associates included in item 2 |
– |
|
Note: if any amounts are shown in items 6.1 or 6.2, your quarterly activity report must include a description of, and an explanation for, such payments. |
||
|
7. |
Financing facilities Add notes as necessary for an understanding of the sources of finance available to the entity. |
Total facility amount at quarter end |
|
|
7.1 |
Loan facilities |
18,040* |
15,709 |
|
7.2 |
Credit standby arrangements |
– |
– |
|
7.3 |
Other (please specify) |
– |
– |
|
7.4 |
Total financing facilities |
18,040* |
15,709 |
|
|
|||
|
7.5 |
Unused financing facilities available at quarter end |
2,331 |
|
|
7.6 |
Include in the box below a description of each facility above, including the lender, interest rate, maturity date and whether it is secured or unsecured. If any additional financing facilities have been entered into or are proposed to be entered into after quarter end, include a note providing details of those facilities as well. |
||
|
On 30 June 2020, the Company executed a Litigation Funding Agreement (LFA) for US$12.3 million (*now worth A$18.0 million with the movement of the A$ compared to the $US) with LCM Funding UK Limited a subsidiary of Litigation Capital Management Limited (LCM), to pursue damages claims in relation to the investment dispute between GreenX and the Polish Government that has arisen out of certain measures taken by Poland in breach of the Energy Charter Treaty and the Australia – Poland Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). LCM will provide up to US$12.3million (~A$18.0 million), denominated in US$, in limited recourse financing which is repayable to LCM in the event of a successful Claim or settlement of the Dispute that results in the recovery of any monies. If there is no settlement or award, then LCM is not entitled to any repayment of the financing facility. In return for providing the financing facility, LCM shall be entitled to receive repayment of any funds drawn plus an amount equal to between two and five times the total of any funds drawn from the funding facility during the first five years, depending on the time frame over which funds have remained drawn, and then a 30% interest rate after the fifth year until receipt of damages payments. |
|||
|
8. |
Estimated cash available for future operating activities |
$A’000 |
|
8.1 |
Net cash from / (used in) operating activities (item 1.9) |
(1,164) |
|
8.2 |
(Payments for exploration & evaluation classified as investing activities) (item 2.1(d)) |
(211) |
|
8.3 |
Total relevant outgoings (item 8.1 + item 8.2) |
(1,375) |
|
8.4 |
Cash and cash equivalents at quarter end (item 4.6) |
9,318 |
|
8.5 |
Unused finance facilities available at quarter end (item 7.5) |
2,331 |
|
8.6 |
Total available funding (item 8.4 + item 8.5) |
11,649 |
|
8.7 |
Estimated quarters of funding available (item 8.6 divided by item 8.3) |
8 |
|
Note: if the entity has reported positive relevant outgoings (ie a net cash inflow) in item 8.3, answer item 8.7 as “N/A”. Otherwise, a figure for the estimated quarters of funding available must be included in item 8.7. |
||
|
8.8 |
If item 8.7 is less than 2 quarters, please provide answers to the following questions: |
|
|
8.8.1 Does the entity expect that it will continue to have the current level of net operating cash flows for the time being and, if not, why not? |
||
|
Answer: Not applicable |
||
|
8.8.2 Has the entity taken any steps, or does it propose to take any steps, to raise further cash to fund its operations and, if so, what are those steps and how likely does it believe that they will be successful? |
||
|
Answer: Not applicable |
||
|
8.8.3 Does the entity expect to be able to continue its operations and to meet its business objectives and, if so, on what basis? |
||
|
Answer: Not applicable |
||
|
Note: where item 8.7 is less than 2 quarters, all of questions 8.8.1, 8.8.2 and 8.8.3 above must be answered. |
||
Compliance statement
1 This statement has been prepared in accordance with accounting standards and policies which comply with Listing Rule 19.11A.
2 This statement gives a true and fair view of the matters disclosed.
Date: 31 January 2024
Authorised by: Company Secretary
(Name of body or officer authorising release – see note 4)
Notes
1. This quarterly cash flow report and the accompanying activity report provide a basis for informing the market about the entity’s activities for the past quarter, how they have been financed and the effect this has had on its cash position. An entity that wishes to disclose additional information over and above the minimum required under the Listing Rules is encouraged to do so.
2. If this quarterly cash flow report has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, the definitions in, and provisions of, AASB 6: Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources and AASB 107: Statement of Cash Flows apply to this report. If this quarterly cash flow report has been prepared in accordance with other accounting standards agreed by ASX pursuant to Listing Rule 19.11A, the corresponding equivalent standards apply to this report.
3. Dividends received may be classified either as cash flows from operating activities or cash flows from investing activities, depending on the accounting policy of the entity.
4. If this report has been authorised for release to the market by your board of directors, you can insert here: “By the board”. If it has been authorised for release to the market by a committee of your board of directors, you can insert here: “By the [name of board committee – eg Audit and Risk Committee]”. If it has been authorised for release to the market by a disclosure committee, you can insert here: “By the Disclosure Committee”.
5. If this report has been authorised for release to the market by your board of directors and you wish to hold yourself out as complying with recommendation 4.2 of the ASX Corporate Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations, the board should have received a declaration from its CEO and CFO that, in their opinion, the financial records of the entity have been properly maintained, that this report complies with the appropriate accounting standards and gives a true and fair view of the cash flows of the entity, and that their opinion has been formed on the basis of a sound system of risk management and internal control which is operating effectively.
#FCM First Class Metals PLC – Admission of Shares
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”), the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings, announces that in respect of the 16,373,674 new ordinary shares (“Shares”) issued since the Company’s IPO on 29 July 2022, no applications were made for the Shares to be admitted to trading. This is a result of the Company and its Directors being given incorrect information by its former financial adviser.
In order to correct this position, the Company will now commence applications for the Shares to be admitted to trading on the Official List of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) and to trading on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange. To ensure compliance with the Prospectus Regulation Rules, the Shares will be admitted in four tranches as follows:
i) 13,134,411 Shares will be admitted to trading on or around 23 January 2024;
ii) 2,626,882 Shares will be admitted to trading on or around 26 January 2024;
iii) 525,376 Shares will be admitted to trading on or around 31 January 2024; and
iv) 87,005 Shares will be admitted to trading on or around 5 February 2024.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Company’s issued share capital remains 82,045,729 ordinary shares of 0.1p each, with one vote per share (and no such shares are held in treasury). The total number of voting rights is therefore 82,045,729 and this figure may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations to determine if they have a notifiable interest in the share capital of the Company under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules, or if such interest has changed.
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
Novum Securities Limited
(Financial Adviser)
|
David Coffman/Dan Harris/George Duxberry Novum Securities Limited |
|
(0)20 7399 9400 |
First Class Metals PLC – Background
First Class Metals is focussed on exploration in Ontario, Canada which has a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. Specifically, the Hemlo ‘camp’ is a proven world class address for gold /VMS exploration. This geological terrane has significant production, both base / precious metals and a prolific number of exploration projects and numerous prospector’s ‘showings’.
FCM currently holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 180km² along a 150km strike of the Hemlo-Schreiber-Dayohessarah greenstone belt which also contains the >23M oz shear hosted Hemlo gold mine operated by Barrick Gold. Late last year FCM completed the option to purchase the historical high grade (gold) Sunbeam past producing mine.
The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relate to: ‘nearology’ insomuch that all properties lie close to identified mineral anomalism, for example Palladium One’s RJ and Smoke Lake nickel projects are close to the FCM’s West Pickle Lake drill proven Ni-Cu project. This also demonstrates the second critical asset the properties hold: vector, anomalies, be they geological, geochemical, or geophysical that have demonstrated mineral potential extend on to FCM’s properties.
The inferred shear on the Esa property is being explored by neighbours both to the west and east where it crosses into their properties. Furthermore, the properties have not been extensively explored either historically or more contemporaneously. This is attributable to the overall lack of outcrop. However, modern exploration techniques are better able to ‘see through’ the ground cover and to identify anomalies.
#FCM First Class Metals PLC – 2023 Year-end Shareholder Letter
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings is pleased to announce that a Shareholder Letter has been uploaded to the Company’s website at www.firstclassmetalsplc.com. The letter, a review of the major developments for the Company during 2023 and the outlook for 2024.
Dear Shareholders,
On this the last working day of the year I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on what an excellent year it has been in First Class Metal’s development: we rapidly advanced and completed on our commitment to bring four properties to a ‘Drill Ready Status’ and undertake a drill programme on one property in 2023. A number of key milestones were met during 2023, which are summarised below. I have our highly experienced and dedicated team in Canada and the UK to thank for this significant progress and I am delighted to see their efforts come to fruition, in a positive way, with the results achieved. With further results from a number of programmes still awaited , we are determined to take this momentum through into next year.
2023 Key Milestones
First Nations Agreements and Permitting
At FCM we are committed to working in harmony with the First Nations who have claims to traditional lands in which out properties sit. This open and co-operative attitude has manifested itself in the granting of five Exploration Permits in what has been a relatively short time. Furthermore, Exploration Agreements or MoU’s are in place with four First Nations groups which effectively cover the six Exploration Permits which FCM holds.
Obtaining new Exploration Permits across five properties and securing exploration agreements with support from First Nation partners is a major milestone for our company in 2023.
The successful acquisition of these permits and agreements demonstrates our commitment to responsible exploration practices and building strong relationships with local communities. With these achievements, our portfolio now contains six properties with valid exploration permits, positioning us for further growth and success. We remain dedicated to advancing our exploration activities in a sustainable and mutually beneficial manner.
Exploration Zigzag, Esa, North Hemlo, Sunbeam
In order to efficiently use investor funds for what is the most expensive outlay in exploration : drilling, we have focussed on understanding the geology (geochemistry and structure) of the four primary properties with I believe admirable success. To this end further drilling on the other three properties is more likely to achieve success.
Figure 1- Spodumene rich core from the recent drilling campaign on the Zigzag lithium property.
Figure 2-Summer 2023, First Class Metals CEO Marc Sale at the ‘Dead Otter Trend’ on the North Hemlo Property
James Knowles- Executive Chairmans End of Year Quote
“2023 was a pivotal and transformative year for FCM. We set ambitious operational goals, including advancing four properties to drill ready status and successfully drilling on one. I would like to express my gratitude to Marc and his exceptional ‘in-country team’ for their dedication and achievements in completing this task. On the corporate side despite challenging market conditions, we secured funding twice, a testament to the quality of our properties. I am excited to see this progress continue into 2024 as we have much to look forward to.”
Outlook for 2024
The outlook for First Class in 2024 is expected to mirror the high activity level experienced in 2023. With six permitted properties, including Zigzag, North Hemlo, Esa, and Sunbeam, four of which are now ‘Drill Ready’ or have undergone an initial drill program in the case of Zigzag, we are well-positioned for the year ahead.
Our focus for 2024 will entail a two-pronged approach. Firstly, we aim to enhance our geological understanding and the mineralisation of these properties to further increase their value. Simultaneously, we will explore opportunities to secure third-party investment through ‘earn-ins,’ joint ventures, or potentially even corporate transactions.
As we approach the end of 2023, we are pleased to share that we have received expressions of interest from various sources across our portfolio. These range from junior exploration companies with comparable standing to significant players in the industry. This interest validates the potential and attractiveness of our properties and bodes well for the opportunities that may arise in the coming year.
In addition to the ‘core four’ portfolio, we are strategically preparing a pipeline of projects from within our existing portfolio of assets, to further advance our exploration efforts. Two promising properties within this pipeline are the McKellar polymetallic property near Marathon and the Enable Gold project near Schreiber. Both of these properties have obtained the necessary permits, enabling us to move forward with focused exploration plans. With the planned programmes in 2024, we aim to progress these projects to a ‘Drill Ready’ status. This will keep the momentum building and ensure properties of merit can move up the priority list when required, whilst always remaining cognisant of divestment opportunities.
We are actively seeking potential new mineral properties in Ontario, whether through staking or acquisition, alongside our existing portfolio. Our focus is on identifying properties that have the potential to move ‘up the value curve’ and contribute to our growth strategy. Through thorough research, engagement with industry networks, and strategic partnerships, we aim to acquire promising mineral properties. By continuously evaluating and augmenting our portfolio, we can ensure the ongoing success of our ‘project incubator’ model.
This year has seen First Class take several early ‘green field’ properties up through the value curve and we strongly believe that 2024 will continue on this trend as we enter into a transformative period for the Company. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our shareholders, stakeholders, contractors, and Emerald Geological Services with a personal thanks to their Principle, Bruce A McLaughlin for the continued support of First Class Metals during this exciting period for us and wish you all a happy New Year.
#FCM First Class Metals – Zigzag exploration update – drilling commences
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings is pleased to announce a that drilling has commenced on the Zigzag property which is currently focussed on the lithium (Li), tantalum (Ta) rubidium (Rb) and gallium (Ga) potential.
Highlights:
· An Early Exploration Agreement (EEA) has been signed with Whitesand First Nation (WFN).
· A contract to undertake up to 500m of drilling has been signed with Rodren Drilling a Whitesand FN approved ‘service provider’.
· Channel sample results identify a >1% Li2O zone on the western portion of the ‘core’ 400m zone. Significant number of channel samples returned >1% Li2O, including:
Channel 7 2.36% lithium (Li2O) over 5.5m
· Drill operations have commenced on the Company’s Zigzag hard rock lithium (Ta/ Rb/ Ga) prospect.
Marc J. Sale First Class Metals CEO commented:
“The signing of the EEA with Whitesand exemplifies the positive relationship FCM is building with the First Nations. This agreement has paved the way for FCM’s inaugural drill program, marking an exciting milestone for our company. We are thrilled to begin drilling at Zigzag, making it the first property where FCM will undertake drilling. This demonstrates our commitment to advancing our exploration efforts and emphasizes our dedication to responsible resource development.“
Figure 1 showing the Zigzag property with the recent sampling, both grabs and channels, focussing on the central portion of the claim block, where drilling has commenced.
An Early Exploration Agreement (EEA) has been signed between Whitesand First Nation and First Class Metals. Under the agreement FCM is allowed to undertake activities requiring and Exploration Permit, as awarded by the Province. FCM has agreed to support the Whitesand community.
Whitesand First Nation Economic Development representative commented:
“Whitesand First Nation is looking forward to working with First Class Metals, and the positive relationship that is evolving. We wish them luck on their drilling program and are excited to see what the New Year brings.“
Drilling Plan
The drill programme preparation commenced on Monday with core expected today, this maiden programme will be focussed in the central 400m to explore the areas of high channel sample results, particularly Channel 7.
Initially 7 drillholes of over 50m are planned with the provision for a deeper ‘step-back’ based on visual, encouragement. The basis for the drilling is the encouraging grab samples and channel sample results previously reported. Nine channels were cut with lengths of under 5m to over 10m, channel lengths were usually controlled by overburden and not necessarily by cessation of pegmatite geology.
Figure 2 showing the location of the channels relative to the ‘core 400m’ zone, drilling will extend further to the east of the channel sample area where >1% Li2O grabs samples were collected.
The results from the channels are very encouraging. It must be stressed that only hand stripping of vegetation was undertaken and often, exemplified by channels 5 and 7, the outcrop persisted but the vegetation cover was too onerous to be removed by hand.
The results have not only vindicated the grab samples in respect to the lithium oxide content but also highlighted again the presence of other important, critical minerals such as tantalum, gallium and rubidium.
Photo 2 Rodren equipment being mobilised to the Zigzag property
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
|
|
Ayub Bodi, Executive Director |
07860 598086 |
First Equity Limited
(Financial Adviser & Broker)
|
Jonathan Brown |
0207 3742212 |
|
|
Jason Robertson |
0207 3742212 |
|
First Class Metals PLC – Background
First Class Metals is focussed on exploration in Ontario, Canada which has a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. Specifically, the Hemlo ‘camp’ is a proven world class address for gold /VMS exploration. This geological terrane has significant production, both base / precious metals and a prolific number of exploration projects and numerous prospector’s ‘showings’.
FCM currently holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 180km² along a 150km strike of the Hemlo-Schreiber-Dayohessarah greenstone belt which also contains the >23M oz shear hosted Hemlo gold mine operated by Barrick Gold. Late last year FCM completed the option to purchase the historical high grade (gold) Sunbeam past producing mine
The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relate to: ‘nearology’ insomuch that all properties lie close to identified mineral anomalism, for example Palladium One’s RJ and Smoke Lake nickel projects are close to the FCM’s West Pickle Lake drill proven Ni-Cu project. This also demonstrates the second critical asset the properties hold: vector, anomalies, be they geological, geochemical, or geophysical that have demonstrated mineral potential extend on to FCM’s properties.
The inferred shear on the Esa property is being explored by neighbours both to the west and east where it crosses into their properties. Furthermore, the properties have not been extensively explored either historically or more contemporaneously. This is attributable to the overall lack of outcrop. However, modern exploration techniques are better able to ‘see through’ the ground cover and to identify anomalies.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements which are based on the Company’s expectations, intentions and projections regarding its future performance, anticipated events or trends and other matters that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate only to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements sometimes use words such as ‘aim’, ‘anticipate’, ‘target’, ‘expect’, ‘estimate’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘goal’, ‘believe’, or other words of similar meaning. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of such statements and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
#KAV Kavango Resources PLC – Investment in Pambili Natural Resources TSX-V:PNN
Kavango Resources plc (LSE:KAV), the Southern Africa-focused metals exploration company, is pleased to announce that the Company has completed a strategic investment in gold mining, exploration, and development company Pambili Natural Resources Corporation (“Pambili” or “the Corporation”) (TSX-V:PNN).
Kavango has given notice to Pambili that it wishes to convert a US$250,000 convertible loan (the “Loan”) made to Pambili, along with a Loan Premium of US$75,000 (“Repayment amount”), into common shares in the Corporation (“the Conversion”). Following the Conversion, Kavango will hold 15% of Pambili’s total issued share capital.
Pambili is active in Matabeleland in southern Zimbabwe, having established operations here in 2022.
Kavango has worked with Pambili since March this year, assisting it through a corporate restructure and acquisition of the Golden Valley project, which completed earlier in November 2023 (Pambili’s announcement can be read >>> here).
Golden Valley has a history of high-grade underground mining and gold production. Golden Valley includes a functional gold processing plant and stamp mill, two historic shafts that present prospective exploration targets and near surface exploration potential to target a possible larger-scale deposit. Some small-scale gold production continues at Golden Valley by way of toll-milling third-party ore through an on-site stamp mill.
Pambili’s plan at Golden Valley is to explore the underground potential first, with a view to recommencing mining in Q1 2024. The processing plant is ready to receive ore and plans are being finalised for underground exploration drilling.
In parallel to this, Pambili will conduct surface exploration at Golden Valley using Kavango’s field team.
By taking a strategic interest in Pambili, Kavango is seeking to build on its first-mover advantage in Matabeleland by increasing its exposure to a third, highly prospective greenstone belt. Golden Valley is located on a separate greenstone belt to the one that hosts Kavango’s Hillside and Nara projects and a separate greenstone belt to the one that hosts the Leopard Project (announced >>> 25 July 2023).
In addition, Kavango and Pambili will be able to share operational, exploration and administrative functions. This is expected to provide both companies with significant cost savings and operational efficiencies.
Ben Turney, Chief Executive of Kavango Resources, commented:
“There is immense opportunity in Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland goldfields. Kavango has identified a strong pipeline of opportunities across the region. Our investment in Pambili creates for us an additional outlet for some of these.
We are very pleased to partner with Pambili, as Jon Harris and his team recommence mining at Golden Valley. This is an exciting project that Kavango knows well. It combines excellent potential for near-term revenue generation with untested surface exploration upside.
The greenstone belt that Golden Valley is on is highly prospective for gold with a number of possibilities for further expansion in the area. The processing plant is operational and can be added to as Pambili grows. With what we’ve learned about historic cut-off grades at Golden Valley, underground drilling could deliver a very positive result.
We have been able to secure our investment in Pambili at a low entry point. I expect our ongoing working relationship, supported by the shared operational efficiencies it affords, has already added, and will continue to add, substantially to our balance sheet over time.“
Further information in respect of Kavango and its business interests is provided on the Company’s website at www.kavangoresources.com and on Twitter at #KAV.
For further information please contact:
Kavango Resources plc
Ben Turney
+46 7697 406 06
First Equity (Broker)
Jason Robertson
+44 207 374 2212
Kavango Competent Person Statement
The technical information contained in this announcement pertaining to geology and exploration have been read and approved by Brett Grist BSc(Hons) FAusIMM (CP). Mr Grist is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy with Chartered Professional status. Mr Grist has sufficient experience that is relevant to the exploration programmes and geology of the main styles of mineralisation and deposit types under consideration to act as a Qualified Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’.