Strickland Metals (ASX:STK) has commenced a 10,000m diamond drilling program at the Gradina prospect within its Rogozna Gold and Base Metals Project in Serbia.
The new phase targets near-surface mineralisation above previously identified high-grade gold deposits.
The initiative follows the recent establishment of an access track, facilitating the first drill-testing of shallower zones.
The Gradina prospect has demonstrated high-grade gold deposits across a 1km strike length, with significant intercepts, including 27.5m @ 5.1g/t Au and 32.0m @ 6.8g/t Au.
Managing Director of Strickland Metals, Paul L'Herpiniere, commented on the significance of the project.
"This new program at the Gradina Prospect provides a very exciting opportunity to follow up significant widths of high-grade gold mineralisation previously encountered at depth," said L'Herpiniere.
Four drill rigs are currently in operation across the Rogozna Project, with multiple assay results pending.
Gradina is a key target for a near-term initial mineral resource estimate, contributing to the project's rapid growth.
Strickland Metals is well-funded for this endeavour, with $48.7 million in cash and NST shares as of the end of the June quarter.
Strickland Metals is a mineral exploration company that operates in four projects. Its Rogozna Gold and Base Metals Project is located in the Raska District of southern Serbia covering approximately 184km2 and comprises four exploration licenses.
At the time of reporting, Strickland Metals’ share price was $0.09.