Great Western Exploration (ASX:GTE) has completed its maiden reverse circulation drilling program at the Sumo niobium target, part of its 100%-owned Yerrida North Project in Western Australia.
The program comprised 15 vertical holes totalling 992m, testing a 2km x 1km lag soil niobium anomaly located 70km southeast of Sandfire Resources’ DeGrussa Copper-Gold Project.
The Sumo anomaly is supported by coincident pathfinder elements typically associated with carbonatite-hosted niobium systems, indicating strong potential for secondary mineralisation.
Drilling targeted the interface between weathered and fresh rock, where enrichment is often observed in such systems.
The average depth to this interface was 52m, shallower than initially modelled, resulting in fewer metres drilled than originally budgeted.
Geological data from the program is currently being compiled, with full interpretation to follow upon receipt of assay results, expected in June.
At the time of reporting, Great Western Exploration’s share price was $0.020.