Maximus Resources Ltd (ASX:MXR, OTC:MXRRF) has started a multi-target reverse circulation (RC) drill program at its Eagles Nest and Hilditch gold deposits, near Kambalda, Western Australia.
The program is aimed at infill drilling and resource extension with the objective of enhancing resource confidence and preparing for a mineral resource estimate (MRE) update.
Targeting shallow gold at renowned site
The Eagles Nest program consists of 14 holes, covering 1,100 metres, targeting shallow gold mineralisation within an optimised pit shell.
This initiative is designed to improve the classification of the existing 42,550-ounce resource, which is renowned as the site where Western Australia’s largest gold nugget, 'The Golden Eagle', weighing 1,135 ounces (32.2 kilograms), was discovered in 1931.
The drilling will focus on collecting representative samples from the proposed mining area to conduct further metallurgical tests, including grind size and cyanide leach kinetics, to optimise gold recoveries.
Simultaneously, a six-hole drill program covering around 800 metres at the Hilditch gold deposit is underway to follow up on high-grade mineralisation zones previously identified, including an intersection of 4 metres at 12.4 g/t gold from 47 metres.
The Hilditch deposit, with a resource of 19,500 ounces at 1.3 g/t gold, is conveniently adjacent to the state highway and close to several toll-treating processing plants.
The deposit has demonstrated shallow, high-grade mineralisation, making it an attractive target for further exploration.
Excited to be drilling again
Managing director Tim Wither said: “We are excited to be drilling again at the Eagles Nest Gold Project, with the aim to increase the confidence of the existing 42,550-ounce gold resource, as the company moves towards submission of mining proposals.
“The multi-target RC program is also incorporating several infill holes following up on recent high-grade intersections at the Hilditch gold deposit.
“These drill programs are envisaged to be the final drill programs before commencing a mineral resource update for both Hilditch and Eagles Nest.”
The RC drill program is expected to be completed within two weeks, with assay results anticipated within three to five weeks post-sample submission.
Following the completion of the drill program, Maximus will update the MRE for both the Eagles Nest and Hilditch deposits.
Additionally, a flora and fauna survey is scheduled for September to support mining approval processes at Eagles Nest.
The results from these programs will contribute to the ongoing development and optimisation of Maximus’ gold resources as the company progresses towards its goal of mining and processing the deposits.
Further metallurgical test work is planned to assess gravity recovery, grind size and reagent consumption with results expected in October.