Pilbara Iron Ore Prospects Brighten as ACM Targets Direct Shipping Ore with New Technical Advisor

Exploration Breakthroughs at Shaw and Cooletha

Australian Critical Minerals (ASX: ACM) has delivered a compelling update on its iron ore exploration activities in the Pilbara region for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. The company’s Shaw and Cooletha Projects have yielded high-grade iron assay results, underscoring the potential for premium Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) deposits.

At the Shaw Project, rock chip sampling has returned iron grades as high as 65% Fe, with multiple samples exceeding 60%. The discovery of a >100m wide Banded Iron Formation (BIF) zone extending over 500m, and a confirmed Western BIF Zone stretching more than 7km, marks a significant milestone. Geological mapping has revealed complex structural features and continuity of mineralisation, with a high-priority focus zone covering over 70,000 square meters identified for follow-up drilling.

Cooletha’s Channel Iron Deposits Show Strong Promise

Meanwhile, the Cooletha Project has unveiled extensive Channel Iron Deposits (CIDs) with iron grades up to 62%, based on 200 rock chip samples. These deposits span nearly 8km in strike length and reach widths up to 300m, with notable discoveries at Mesa A and Mesa E. The low phosphorus content (~0.04%) and minimal deleterious elements suggest excellent beneficiation potential, reinforcing Cooletha’s status as a high-quality iron ore resource candidate.

Preparations for drilling are underway, with access track construction and drill pad establishment planned for early 2025, initially targeting the Cooletha West region. This phase aims to validate surface sampling results and delineate resource extents.

Strategic Leadership Boost with Stuart Robinson

In a strategic move to accelerate exploration success, ACM appointed Stuart Robinson as Technical Advisor during the quarter. Robinson brings 18 years of iron ore expertise from Fortescue Metals Group, where he played a pivotal role in transforming FMG into a global iron ore powerhouse. His mineral-systems approach aligns with ACM’s exploration philosophy and is expected to enhance geological interpretations and project evaluations.

Managing Director Dean De Largie expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory, highlighting the enhanced geological understanding and the value-creation opportunities ahead. The proximity of both projects to existing infrastructure, including rail lines operated by major miners, further strengthens their development prospects.

Financial and Operational Overview

Australian Critical Minerals reported a cash position of $1.73 million at quarter-end, with exploration expenditures of approximately $200,000 split between Cooletha and Shaw. The company continues to manage its portfolio actively, relinquishing non-core tenements to focus resources on high-potential Pilbara assets.

While no mining production activities occurred during the quarter, the groundwork laid through mapping, sampling, and preparatory works sets the stage for drilling campaigns in 2025. Investors will be watching closely as ACM transitions from surface exploration to resource definition drilling.